With so many amazing historical sites, engaging attractions and natural wonders, it’s hard narrowing down a list for the best things to do in New Hampshire. Whether you’re looking for an adventure through nature, a vacation on the sand or to travel back in time, New Hampshire has it (and so much more).
The 6 Best Things to Do in New Hampshire
Glen Ellis Falls
The Glen Ellis Falls is located in Jackson, New Hampshire close to the White Mountain Region. It is known for the turquoise water that comes from the falls. This 64 foot waterfall is one of the easier attractions to get to. There is a well marked parking lot in Pinkham Notch off of Route 16; from the lot, there is a relatively short trail that will lead you under Route 16. The trail will take you past other, lesser cascades so make sure you follow the trail until the end to see the main attraction.
Flume Gorge
Located on the other side of the forest is the Flume Gorge in Lincoln. This gorge runs 800 feet around Mount Liberty. The trip through the gorge is entirely on a boardwalk, but there are many stairs and inclines so bring comfortable shoes. It features fantastic views of the local flora and fauna and steep granite cliffs. Explore the wonders of this naturally-formed canyon; this is something that the whole family is going to enjoy doing together.
The Flume Visitor’s Center is located at 852 Daniel Webster Highway, Lincoln, NH 03251. The season runs from early May until the end of October, 9AM – 5PM. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for children.
Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge
The Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge spans between the towns of Cornish, New Hampshire and Windsor, Vermont and is the second longest covered bridge still standing in the USA. It had an extensive remodel in 1989 and has been open for traffic since then. Covered bridges are an important symbol in New England life which makes this landmark truly one of the best things to do in New Hampshire to experience New England history.
The Brick Store
The Brick Store in Bath, NH is an old time general store that is located right off Route 302. The store has been in business since the 1790’s and is the oldest continuously operated general store in the United States. You are going to feel like you have stepped back in time when you enter into this store. The store is best known for its specialties from England, meats and cheeses that come from a smokehouse, homemade fudge, maple syrup, groceries, and souvenirs.
The Brick Store is located on Route 302 in Bath, NH. They are open Mon – Thurs from 6AM – 7PM, Fri & Sat 6AM – 8PM and Sunday from 8AM – 7PM.
Mount Washington Cog Railway
Take the Mount Washington Cog Railway up to the peak of Mount Washington, the highest point in the Northeast. Opened in 1869, this railway is the world’s first mountain-climbing rail. The ride lasts around 3 hours total, which includes an hour at the summit. Bring a camera, because the views at the top are unlike anything you’ve experienced.
Trains run from April – December with adult tickets costing $62. The station is located at the end of Base Station Road in Bretton Woods, NH 03575.
Hampton Beach
Hampton Beach is the hottest summer vacation spot in all of New Hampshire. It features a beautiful beach and a boardwalk packed with restaurants, bars, shops, arcades and entertainment venues. If you plan early, you can even score one of the cottages located on the island for a great vacation or getaway. Since everything is so close together, Hampton Beach is a very walkable destination.
It is important to note that Hampton Beach is seasonal; during the late fall and winter months, almost everything is closed down. Even in the off season though, it can still make for a great New England getaway.
What are some of your best things to do in New Hampshire?
woh nice picture and good information article, love to visit this place.
New Hampshire is such a beautiful state, I always make a few trips up there every year
We will be in NH mid September, will we see the water falls?
Love your photo!