10 Places Where You Can Still Experience Old New Hampshire
By Michelle|Published March 01, 2019
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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.
There are so many wonderful things to do and experience in New Hampshire from winter to spring to summer to fall. Whether you love getting outside, visiting restaurants or taking advantage of some of the bars and amusement parks there are plenty of ways to remember how much you love the Granite State. But, do you ever miss the old days? Things may have felt more simple then, but we have good news. You can totally relive the best of old New Hampshire today. Start with these spots!
So, this spot might not actually be from the 50s but we love that it will take you back in time. Things here are simple — just like they were back in the 50s after school eating burgers and fries with your buds. Visit them at 61 Laconia Rd., Tilton / 603-286-2204.
Canobie Lake Park will definitely take you right back to your childhood. While much of it is new, there are still some old throwbacks including the Yankee Cannonball which has been at the park since 1936.
Dating back to the 1800s, Chutters on Main Street in Littleton has been delighting patrons for as long as sugar rushes were a thing. There's a good chance that most of the people you know have been here to visit the longest candy counter in the world. They're located at 43 Main St., Littleton / 603-444-5787.
One of the best ways to experience old New Hampshire is by shopping for some relics of the past. This Lakes Region favorite is a great place to spend the day if you're dealing with rain or bad weather. It's open year-round so cold weather isn't an issue. A visit means exploring 22,000 square feet of floor space, full of more than 200 dealers offering their wares. They're located at 601 Main St., State Route 106, Laconia / 603-524-9484.
This old-fashioned country store in Barrington is more than just a fun place to visit — it's actual state history! It's been around since 1869 and it's been providing local goods from small businesses for more than a century. Visit them at 606 Franklin Pierce Hwy., Barrington / 603- 664-2231.
Going to Weirs Beach as a kid always included a trip to this hot spot! The arcade is the largest in the world and has been in operation since 1952! We also love the additional throwback aspect of the American Classic Arcade Museum, which is housed here too.
There are diners all over the state, but this one has been in operation since the 1940s. They've been in the same Portsmouth location since the 1970s and the food has only been made better. Head in for a hot dog or hamburger. They're located at 175 Fleet St., Portsmouth / 603-
This country store is so vintage, they actually call themselves a museum! The store dates back to 1781, making it 228 years old! Records show that the original piece of land was first sold by General Jonathan Moulton to Samuel Burnham in 1777. The only thing included was a "barn frame thereon." Later it was sold in 1779 to George Freese, who records indicate was a "trader." At this point, it's believed that the store was the only building located in this part of town. Come by and shop around to experience what it might have been like in the actual old days. They're located at 1011 Whittier Highway, Moultonborough / 603-476-5750.
While there are now 4 locations of this iconic diner, the first one opened in Manchester back in 1922. Today they still serve some of the best breakfasts in the state. Visit them at 61 Lowell St., Manchester / 603-626-1118.
Generations of New Hampshirites have been thrilled and awed by the state's Christmas-themed amusement park. It's been around since 1954, so there's a good chance most people in your life love it! Check it out at 528 Presidential Hwy., / 603-586-4445.
While you’re exploring the state, consider taking a road trip on just one tank of gas. These trips are easy, fun and might just remind you that the New Hampshire of today is pretty darn great.
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