Take This Hidden Gems Road Trip When You Want To See Some Little-Known Places In New Hampshire
By Michelle|Updated on November 14, 2022(Originally published November 09, 2022)
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
One of our favorite things about New Hampshire is hopping in the car to explore areas we’ve never seen before. Along the way, there are always fun attractions and things to see that we never knew existed. From restaurants to hiking trails to farms and shops, some of the best hidden gems in New Hampshire are right under your nose. Check them out on this road trip! You can find full driving directions to each stop with our handy map that we made you. If you are short on time, or you want to spend less time on the road, we made a shorter version so make sure to check out the shorter driving map. Either way, you are sure to have an amazing time exploring these hidden gems.
We'll start our journey exploring a beautiful garden that often falls under the radar of people looking to explore this part of the state. While other people are headed to the water, explore this turn-of-the-century estate garden. This isn't just a typical house garden this is the Fuller Gardens, lush greens and beautiful flowers abound. For more information make sure to go to the Fuller Gardens website to plan your trip.
Not far from here is our next stop at Odiorne State Park. Head to the back to find a lovely little bit of sandy beach between the Gulf of Maine and a beautiful small harbor. You'll be here at the start of your journey, but it's a great place to see the sunset the next time you're in the area. Even if you have to reverse the road trip or come back another day, the sunset is well worth it. For more about Frost Point and all that you can do there, make sure to visit the Odiorne State Park website.
At first glance you might wonder why we're sending you to see a rock. But this isn't just any rock! At 23 feet tall, 37 feet wide and 85 feet long, the Madison Boulder is believed to be the largest boulder moved by a glacier in North America. Even more impressive is that it weighs a whopping 12 million pounds! The Madison Boulder is located in Madison Boulder State Park; make sure to visit the website for more information. Learn more about this geological wonder we have here in New Hampshire.
4. Shelburne Moriah Mountain, Shelburne
Shelburne Moriah Mountain, Shelburne, NH 03581, USA
Next up is a little more nature. This stop is best for those who love being active as the hike to the top is about 10 miles. If that's not your thing, just keep driving. But we promise this view over both New Hampshire and Maine is truly gorgeous.
Milan Hill State Park might be on your radar, but did you know there are yurts that are perfect for an overnight stay? This is a great spot to break up the trip with some extra time surrounded by nature. We promise staying in the yurts is purely magical; waking up to the sound of birds all around you and the smell of pine trees should be enough to convince you. For more information and to book your night in one of the yurts, head on over to the Milan Hill State Park website.
Located in the heart of the White Mountains, this spot is often overlooked by people who visit. You're likely to have the area to yourself, which makes it even more special. It is so hidden you may just need to learn more about it before you go. Check out why this is a must-see hidden gem.
7. Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, Warner
Mt Kearsarge Indian Museum, 18 Highlawn Rd, Warner, NH 03278, USA
You can learn more about New Hampshire's original residents with a visit to this museum. While it's not open year-round, it's a great stop if you plan your trip for the summer or fall. Plan your trip ahead of time and visit the Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum website for any more information.
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8. Saint-Gaudens National Historical Site, Cornish
Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park, 139 St Gaudens Rd, Cornish, NH 03745, USA
Another stop, another beautiful garden area to see. The last spot to visit on our road trip is this natural area, which is the result of hard work by a husband and wife team. The property looks like a professionally curated garden and also has tons of wildlife. Open to the public just once a month, you'll want to plan your trip by going to the Distant Hill Gardens website to make sure you can visit. Be sure to also look into why this is such a beautiful place to explore.
What do you consider the best hidden gems in New Hampshire? Let us know in the comments!
