Looking for the best things to do in New Hampshire? From mountain peaks and scenic drives to quaint lake towns, fall foliage, and seaside charm, this curated and easy-to-use New Hampshire itinerary helps you explore the very best of the Granite State.
Whether you’re chasing peak leaves on the Kancamagus Highway, snowboarding down Mount Washington’s slopes, or exploring historic Portsmouth’s cobblestone streets, this guide features the best New Hampshire attractions for your ultimate New England vacation.
- White Mountains: The crown jewel of New Hampshire—hike the Presidential Range, ride the Cog Railway, or just leaf-peep your way through fall magic.
- Mount Washington: Home to the “worst weather in the world”—drive, hike, or ride the railway to the summit for sky-high views.
- Lake Winnipesaukee: Boating, beaches, and lakeside living in a classic New England summer paradise.
- North Conway: A perfect mountain base town with outlet shopping, scenic railways, and easy access to epic hiking.
- Portsmouth: Seaside charm with colonial history, boutique shops, and fresh seafood in a walkable waterfront setting.
- Franconia Notch State Park: Waterfalls, hiking trails, and iconic views—home to the Flume Gorge and aerial tram rides to Cannon Mountain.
- Concord: New Hampshire’s small but mighty capital offers historic sites, local eats, and a down-to-earth vibe.
- Hanover: Ivy League charm, quaint downtown shops, and access to the Appalachian Trail—all home to Dartmouth College.
- Kancamagus Highway: One of New England’s most scenic drives—especially in fall, with postcard-perfect foliage around every curve.
- Hampton Beach: Classic boardwalk fun with arcades, fried dough, and Atlantic breezes along NH’s short but lively coast.
- Jackson: A romantic, quiet mountain village with covered bridges, waterfalls, and cozy inns perfect for leaf-peeping or snowshoeing.
- Lincoln: Gateway to the White Mountains with family-friendly fun, trailheads galore, and nearby ski slopes.
- Keene: A charming college town with vibrant arts, historic architecture, and a classic New England green.
- Monadnock Region: Named for Mount Monadnock—one of the most hiked mountains in the world—this region offers small-town serenity and nature everywhere.
- Laconia: Home to Motorcycle Week and lakeside festivals—this city brings summer energy to the Lakes Region.
📅 New Hampshire Calendar
- Lincoln Woods Ice Castles (January–March, Lincoln): A magical frozen attraction with tunnels, slides, and lights
- New Hampshire Maple Weekend (March, Statewide): Sugar shacks open for syrup tastings and pancakes
- Prescott Park Arts Festival (Summer, Portsmouth): Outdoor theater and concerts on the water
- Motorcycle Week (June, Laconia): A century-old gathering of bikers and enthusiasts by the lakes
- Market Days Festival (June, Concord): Downtown street fair with live music, vendors, and family activities
- Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic (June, Hampton Beach): World-class sand creations and fireworks
- White Mountains Highland Games (September, Lincoln): Bagpipes, kilts, and Scottish competitions
- Fall Foliage Season (Late September–October, Statewide): Stunning leaf-peeping drives, especially along the Kancamagus Highway
- New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival (October, Laconia): Thousands of lit pumpkins and fall food
- Portsmouth Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting (December, Portsmouth): Festive cheer in the historic downtown