Everyone In New Hampshire Should Check Out These 15 Tourist Attractions According To Locals
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Ken MacGray
Author
While I am the one writing this article, I’m also going to take a bit of a break from researching at the same time. This time around let’s let our readers present their ideas for some of the must-see attractions in New Hampshire. I mean, who knows better than the folks who live right here? We asked readers in the Only In New Hampshire Facebook group about one place to put on the must-visit list and here is what they had to recommend.
Very high on the list of reader recommendations was the White Mountain National Forest, and it's hard to disagree. Whether you looking to go on a hike or a scenic drive through the mountains, this region has some of the state's most stunning scenery.
Portsmouth is one of the state's very first settlements, and to this day contains well-preserved historic buildings from its early days. This seaport also played an important role in trade and manufacturing over the centuries.
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New Hampshire's largest body of water attracts thousands for its abundant outdoor activities and the lakeside towns that surround its shores. The lake also contains more than 260 islands and has a maximum depth of 180 feet.
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No trip to the state would be complete without a visit to the highest mountain in the northeast. It's home to some of the world's most dangerous weather but also some of its most spectacular vistas. I'm going to make this one a two-for-one suggestion, as a ride on The Cog is an attractive way to get to the top.
This chain of islands is shared by New Hampshire and Maine, and have been settled for more than 400 years. Star Island, the second largest, is served by a commercial ferry. All of the islands are steeped in the legend and lore of pirates, shipwrecks, and supernatural phenomena.
New Hampshire's northernmost town is where you go to really get away from it all. Bordering Quebec and occupying the entire upper section of the state, you'll find ample moose-watching opportunities here, as well as wild forests for hiking, hunting, and fishing.
This state park is probably one of the most accessible due to its presence along a major interstate highway, but don't let that deter you! There is plenty to see here other than the roadway! Franconia Notch State Park was also home to the iconic Old Man Of The Mountain until his demise in 2003.
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Formerly a private estate, Castle In The Clouds and its grounds are open to the public from late May to early October. Hikers will enjoy using the grounds as a base of operations for hikes up into the Ossipee Mountains.
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Love pancakes? Love maple syrup? Love scenic views from a hilltop village? Then Polly's Pancake Parlor is where you want to be. This classic eatery is known for its delicious breakfast menu that will leave you wanting more.
Beware that this bare mountain is one of the most climbed in the world, so you will likely not be alone here. That said, southern New Hampshire's premier peak is worth the steep and rugged climb to get to the top.
Newfound Lake is considered part of New Hampshire's Lakes Region but is also set apart from the main cluster of lakes in the central region of the state. Newfound is a pristine, spring-fed lake that boats some of the cleanest water in New Hampshire.
Littleton is a classic example of a New Hampshire downtown. Here you will find a Main Street lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, and more, all nestled beside the banks of the Ammonoosuc River.
Home to sandy beaches and a boardwalk-like main drag, Hampton Beach is a summer playground for many locals and tourists alike. Big name entertainers and comedians regularly perform at Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom.
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Santa's Village is a staple of the holiday season here in New Hampshire. It was the creation of Normand and Cecile Dubois in the 1950s. The couple wanted to create something unique for the region that hadn't been done before.
To really get the full flavor of the state, you need to get off the major highways and onto the back roads. Bring your GPS and a full supply of snacks, and just drive and explore. You never know what you might find!
Thanks to our readers who provided such great suggestions! If you have some of your own to add, please leave them in the comments!
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