From Mt. Washington’s rocky summit to wave-swept seacoast beaches, this small state offers big scenic beauty and things to do. Outdoor exploring is a year-round pursuit in New Hampshire, whether you’re skiing the White Mountains, canoeing the Lakes Region, spotting free-roaming moose, or soaking up the sun in fun-loving Hampton Beach. In New Hampshire cities, colonial-era heritage abounds. History buffs make a beeline for Portsmouth; its well-preserved mansions, museums, and walkable historic district are among the region’s finest.
New Hampshire is a year-round destination, with weather that varies widely with the seasons. The summer months of June, July, and August bring sunny days and busy beaches, lakes, and hiking trails to match. Fall means cooler nights and bright leaves that peak in September or October. Ski season in the White Mountains generally lasts from mid-November through mid-April, though the most reliable snow arrives in January and February.
Most visitors get around New Hampshire by car, as public transit is limited. Fortunately, the driving is gorgeous: The 34.5-mile (55.5-kilometer) Kancamagus Highway through the White Mountains is among America’s most scenic road trips. If you’re navigating more rural parts of the state, remember that many areas have limited cell service, so it’s a good idea to download directions or carry paper maps.
Driving the winding Mt. Washington Auto Road to the top of Mt. Washington is a New England rite of passage, but it’s not the only option. Two major hiking trails—the Jewell Trail and Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail—also climb the 6,288-foot (1,917-meter) summit. Or, book a ticket on the Mount Washington Cog Railway, which opened in 1868 and whose biodiesel locomotives run year-round (although winter trains don’t go all the way to the top).
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone EDT (UTC -5) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 9 | Tours 34 | Reviews 484 |
Head to the White Mountains for some of New England’s most dramatic scenery. It’s a year-round destination, from summer hiking to winter skiing at resorts like Cannon Mountain. In fall, autumn colors peak sometime in late September or early October, adding extra pop to the scenic landscape.
...MoreNew Hampshire is called the Granite State for good reason. Granite formations are visible throughout the mountains, with top sites including Flume Gorge, Cathedral Ledge, and Elephant’s Head. The most famous rock formation, Old Man of the Mountain, collapsed in 2003 but can still be spotted on the state quarter.
...MoreMt. Monadnock is one of New Hampshire’s most visited places, and is often called one of the world’s most climbed mountains. The 3,165-foot (965-meter) mountain in Monadnock State Park has great views of the surrounding landscape, but it’s also a challenging route that takes most visitors around three hours.
...MoreYes, New Hampshire is worth visiting. The state combines a beach-lined seacoast with lakes, vibrant cities, and soaring mountains. Outdoor pursuits include hiking, skiing, canoeing, wildlife-watching, and cycling. For history-lovers a top highlight is Portsmouth, which is home to some of the best-preserved colonial-era architecture in New England.
...MoreFall foliage in New Hampshire peaks in early to mid-October, making this one of the best times to visit the state. Autumn’s warm days are great for exploring and are followed by pleasantly cool nights. October activities include apple picking, corn mazes, and gondola rides in the White Mountains.
...MoreNew Hampshire draws everyone from adventure travelers to history buffs. Outdoorsy visitors head for the Lakes Region, White Mountains, and seacoast beaches. The top destination for urban explorers is Portsmouth, a former maritime hub that was founded in 1653 and has well-preserved architecture dating back to the colonial era.
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