7 Tiny Towns In New Hampshire That Come Alive In The Summertime
By Michelle|Published July 13, 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.
When the weather gets warms and the sun is shining it’s hard to keep yourself from ditching the responsibilities and exploring the state. There’s always a fun hike or trip to be had, but sometimes simply seeing what’s hiding away in areas other than those you live in make for a great adventure. These small towns to visit in the summer in New Hampshire offer a great way to enjoy your time here.
1. Cornish, Sullivan County
Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge, Cornish, NH 03745, USA
Cornish, located in the western part of the state, offers visitors the kind of small town charm they expect in a state like New Hampshire. Be sure to check out the 156-year-old Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge. Visitors also typically make time for a visit to the former summer home of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, Saint-Gaudens Park, the state's only National Park property.
2. Sutton, Merrimack County
Mount Kearsarge State Forest Park, Warner, NH 03278, USA
Of all the small towns in New Hampshire this one should be the go-to for those who love the great outdoors. Bordering Mount Kearsarge State Forest Park and with access to Gile Pond, Shadow Hill State Forest, Kezar Lake, and Wadleigh State Park visiting this area is a great way to appreciate the natural wonders here.
Lakeside and full of charm, Sunapee and neighboring Newbury are just lovely for a warm, sunny day. Located in the New Hampshire Lakes Region, this is a great place to enjoy Mount Sunapee State Park for boating, swimming and hiking.
Little Peterborough is exactly the kind of quaint New Hampshire town we love. You'll find it in the Monadnock Region right near the Contoocook River. But while we love the nature options, don't forget to fuel up at the local diner while you're here! It's a classic and it's perfect for enjoying a meal outside in the summer.
5. Derry, Rockingham County
Robert Frost Farm State Historic Site, 122 Rockingham Rd, Derry, NH 03038, USA
The small town of Derry, located in the Merrimack Valley offers a lot of outdoor options, as well as some fun history. Be sure to check out the Robert Frost Farm State Historic Site before heading out for some horseback riding. And add a day to your visit for the thrills of Canobie Lake Park
6. Rye, Rockingham County
Odiorne Point State Park, Ocean Boulevard, Rye, NH, USA
Home to beautifully lesser-known Odiorne State Park, Rye is more than just a beach town. With less crowds that Hampton Beach, Rye has the relaxed atmosphere of the quiet towns we love here.
Perhaps not officially one of the smallest towns in the state, Wolfeboro certainly has the kind of charm we look for in a tiny town! With access to the water, this lake region spot is a no-brainer for summertime fun in New Hampshire!
What are some of your go-to places to spend the day during the summer in New Hampshire? Let us know in the comments and we’ll check them out.
