New Hampshire packs mountain peaks, scenic drives, historic coastal towns and blue lakes into a small, hugely varied state. Whether you’re chasing fall foliage, summiting Mount Washington, cruising Lake Winnipesaukee, or sunning at Hampton Beach, this guide walks you through the top 10 attractions, practical travel tips, and local must-dos. (Best for road-trippers, outdoor lovers, families, and New England culture seekers.)
1. White Mountain National Forest (White Mountains)
Why go: The White Mountains are the outdoor heart of New Hampshire — offering hiking, scenic byways (including the famous Kancamagus Highway), waterfalls, ski resorts and iconic vistas. The forest spans alpine peaks, notch passes and miles of trails for all levels. US Forest Service
Tips: Drive the Kancamagus Highway for sweeping views (Lincoln ⇄ Conway). Pack layers — alpine weather changes fast. Spring and fall are popular; fall foliage is spectacular.
Best time: Late September–mid-October for foliage; summer for hiking; winter for skiing.
Nearby: Franconia Notch, Cannon Mountain, Mount Washington area.
2. Mount Washington (Presidential Range)
Why go: Mount Washington is New England’s tallest peak and famous for wild weather and panoramic views. Visitors can hike, drive the Mount Washington Auto Road, or ride the historic Cog Railway to the summit for dramatic vistas. (Note: summit conditions can be extreme — check conditions before you travel.) US Forest Service
Tips: If you’re not an experienced hiker, take the Cog Railway or Auto Road. Bring windproof layers and check weather updates before heading up.
Best time: Summer and early fall for easier access; winter for experienced mountaineers.
3. Franconia Notch State Park (Flume Gorge & Cannon Mountain)
Why go: Home to the dramatic Flume Gorge, the Old Man of the Mountain historic sites (memorials and viewpoints), and Cannon Mountain (skiing, tramway, rock climbing), Franconia Notch is a compact area with waterfalls, lakes, and family-friendly trails. It’s a must-stop when touring the White Mountains. visitwhitemountains.com
Tips: Walk the Flume boardwalk early in the day to avoid crowds. Ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway for panoramic views without a strenuous hike.
Best time: Year-round — summer for hiking, fall for colors, winter for skiing.
4. Lake Winnipesaukee and the Lakes Region
Why go: New Hampshire’s largest lake covers about 72 square miles with 253 islands, offering boating, swimming, dinner cruises, fishing and lakeside towns (Meredith, Wolfeboro, Weirs Beach). It’s the Lakes Region’s crown jewel. visit-newhampshire.com
Tips: Rent a boat or hop a scenic cruise. Summer weekends are busy — book lodging early. Try ice fishing or winter festivals if visiting off-season.
Best time: June–September for warm-weather recreation; special charm in late spring and fall.
5. Kancamagus Highway (Scenic Byway)
Why go: Often simply called “the Kanc,” this 34-mile scenic byway between Lincoln and Conway is legendary for waterfalls, overlooks, picnic areas and unbeatable fall foliage. It’s one of New England’s top scenic drives. visit-newhampshire.com
Tips: Drive slowly and stop at overlooks. Weekends during peak foliage get crowded — consider weekday travel.
Best time: Mid-September through mid-October for peak colors.
6. Portsmouth (Historic Seaport & Culture)
Why go: Portsmouth on the Seacoast blends colonial history, boutique shopping, farm-to-table dining and waterfront charm. Explore Strawbery Banke Museum, Prescott Park, and the vibrant downtown arts and food scene. Visit NH
Tips: Walk along Market Square, try a harbor cruise, and reserve table at a popular local restaurant in advance during summer.
Best time: Late spring–early fall for festivals and harbor activities.
7. Hampton Beach State Park & The Seacoast
Why go: Hampton Beach is New Hampshire’s most famous Atlantic coastline beach — lively boardwalk, summer concerts, kid-friendly activities and state-park amenities. It’s a classic New England beach day destination. NH State Parks
Tips: Parking fills fast in summer; arrive early or use public transit when available. Enjoy evening fireworks and summer concerts on the boardwalk.
Best time: June–August for beach weather and boardwalk events.
8. Mount Monadnock (Monadnock Region)
Why go: One of the most-climbed mountains in the world, Mount Monadnock offers several well-marked trails with rewarding summit views. It’s accessible and popular for day hikes. (Great for first-time summit hikers.) visit-newhampshire.com
Tips: Wear sturdy shoes — trails can be rocky. Expect more hikers on weekends; bring water and sun protection.
Best time: Spring through fall; October for foliage views.
9. The Hampton-Seacoast & Odiorne Point / Rye
Why go: Beyond Hampton Beach, the Seacoast region includes quieter natural areas like Odiorne Point State Park (coastal trails, tidepools, Seacoast Science Center) and charming towns like Rye and New Castle. Great for families and nature lovers. NH State Parks
Tips: Combine a day at Odiorne Point with Portsmouth’s historic attractions for a full coastal day trip.
Best time: Spring–fall for tidepooling and coastal walks.
10. Historic Small Towns & Cultural Stops (Wolfeboro, Hanover, Concord)
Why go: New Hampshire’s small towns make great day trips — Wolfeboro on Lake Winnipesaukee, Hanover (home to Dartmouth College), and Concord (the state capital) all offer museums, local shops, and regional flavor. These towns are ideal for slowing down after outdoor adventures. NH Lakes Region Tourism Association
Tips: Check local event calendars (college town events, summer festivals) for unique experiences. Sample local breweries, bakeries and farm stands.
How to Plan Your New Hampshire Trip (Quick Practical Tips)
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Getting there: NH is drivable from Boston and parts of New York/New Jersey. Logan Airport (Boston) and Manchester–Boston Regional Airport serve as air gateways. Rent a car for flexibility. Visit NH
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Driving & seasons: Fall foliage draws crowds (plan and book early). Winter travel requires chains or winter-ready vehicles in mountain passes.
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Where to stay: Base yourself in Conway/Lincoln for White Mountains, Meredith/Wolfeboro for the Lakes Region, Portsmouth for the Seacoast.
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Safety: Mountain weather changes quickly — always check conditions for Mount Washington and White Mountain trails. US Forest Service
Sample 4–Day New Hampshire Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Portsmouth — explore historic downtown and harbor.
Day 2: Drive up the coast to Hampton Beach, then head inland to the Lakes Region (overnight near Lake Winnipesaukee).
Day 3: Full day on the lake (boat cruise, island hop) then drive toward the White Mountains.
Day 4: Kancamagus Highway → Franconia Notch (Flume Gorge, Cannon Mountain) → Mount Washington area.
FAQ (short)
Do I need a car? Yes — most top attractions are best reached by car.
When is peak season? Summer and fall (especially late Sep–Oct for foliage).
Are attractions family-friendly? Yes — many parks, lakes, beaches and railways are excellent for kids.
Sources & further reading
For official travel planning and park details, check New Hampshire’s tourism and park pages and the White Mountain National Forest visitor site. NH Lakes Region Tourism Association
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