New Hampshire, known affectionately as the Granite State, offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty, rich history, and quintessential New England charm. From the picturesque seacoast to the majestic White Mountains, this compact state presents an ideal destination for a memorable weekend getaway.
This guide will take you through a carefully curated itinerary to experience the best of New Hampshire in just a few days.
Begin in Portsmouth
Commence your New Hampshire sojourn in the vibrant coastal city of Portsmouth. This historic seaport masterfully balances its colonial heritage with contemporary energy, offering visitors a unique glimpse into both past and present.
Explore Market Square
Market Square serves as the heart of Portsmouth and merits thorough exploration. The iconic North Church stands as a centerpiece, its white steeple a beacon visible throughout the city.
The surrounding area brims with local boutiques and artisanal shops, each offering a taste of local culture and craftsmanship.
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Visit Strawbery Banke Museum
Immerse yourself in history at the Strawbery Banke Museum, an open-air time capsule spanning three centuries of American life. As you traverse the restored houses and engage with costumed interpreters, the rich tapestry of New Hampshire’s past unfolds before you.
Dine at Row 34
Conclude your day in Portsmouth with a meal at Row 34, where the bounty of New Hampshire’s coast is on full display. Their selection of fresh oysters and thoughtfully curated craft beers provides a fitting end to a day of coastal exploration.
Journey to the White Mountains
The following morning, set your course northward to the White Mountains. The drive itself is a visual feast, as the landscape transitions from coastal lowlands to rolling hills and eventually to the impressive peaks of the mountain range.
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Ascend via the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway
Experience the majesty of the White Mountains from above with a ride on the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway. The panoramic views from the summit offer a breathtaking perspective on the raw beauty of New Hampshire’s mountainous terrain.
Explore Franconia Notch State Park
Franconia Notch State Park presents a natural wonderland ripe for exploration. The Flume Gorge trail, with its ingenious system of walkways, allows visitors to experience the park’s dramatic geology up close, regardless of their hiking expertise.
Marvel at the Basin
Take time to appreciate the Basin, a remarkable granite pothole formed by glacial action. The swirling waters create a mesmerizing display, offering a moment of tranquility amidst your adventures.
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Lodge at the Omni Mount Washington Resort
For your mountain accommodation, consider the historic Omni Mount Washington Resort. This grand hotel, with its storied past and stunning architecture, provides a luxurious base for your White Mountain explorations.
Embark on a Morning Hike
Begin your day with an invigorating hike in the White Mountain National Forest. The Welch-Dickey Loop trail offers a perfect introduction to the area’s natural beauty, combining moderate exertion with rewarding vistas.
Travel the Kancamagus Highway
Journey along the Kancamagus Highway, a 34.5-mile scenic byway that winds through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest. This drive showcases some of New Hampshire’s most spectacular scenery, with numerous viewpoints worthy of prolonged stops.
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Pause at Rocky Gorge
Break your journey at Rocky Gorge, a picturesque spot along the Swift River. The rushing waters and pristine natural setting make it an ideal location for a restful interlude or a scenic picnic.
Discover North Conway
Explore the charming town of North Conway, where New England character meets mountain village ambiance. While known for its shopping opportunities, the town’s real allure lies in its stunning mountain backdrop and quaint downtown area.
Board the Conway Scenic Railroad
Embark on a journey through time and terrain aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad. This excursion offers a unique perspective on the Mount Washington Valley, combining nostalgia with natural beauty.
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Proceed to the Lakes Region
As you journey southward to the Lakes Region, observe the gradual softening of the landscape. Lake Winnipesaukee, the crown jewel of New Hampshire’s lakes, serves as the centerpiece of this picturesque area.
Cruise Lake Winnipesaukee
Experience the grandeur of Lake Winnipesaukee on a cruise aboard the M/S Mount Washington. This voyage not only showcases the lake’s beauty but also provides fascinating insights into its history and ecology.
Wander through Wolfeboro
Known as ‘The Oldest Summer Resort in America,’ Wolfeboro exudes timeless charm. A stroll along its lakefront promenade, punctuated perhaps by a stop for ice cream, epitomizes the Lake Winnipesaukee experience.
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Dine at Wolfeboro Inn
For an elegant dinner with a view, consider the 1812 Room at the Wolfeboro Inn. Here, fine cuisine is complemented by panoramic lake vistas, creating a truly memorable dining experience.
Retire at Mill Falls at the Lake
Spend the night at Mill Falls at the Lake in Meredith. This lakeside resort offers comfortable accommodations and amenities, all underscored by the soothing sounds of lapping waves.
Tour the Loon Center
Begin your final day with a visit to the Loon Center in Moultonborough. This educational facility offers fascinating insights into these iconic New Hampshire birds and the conservation efforts surrounding them.
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Ascend to Castle in the Clouds
A short but rewarding hike at Castle in the Clouds provides some of New Hampshire’s most spectacular views. While the 1914 mansion is impressive, it’s the vistas of Lake Winnipesaukee and the Ossipee Mountains that truly captivate visitors.
Sample Wines at Hermit Woods Winery
Hermit Woods Winery in Meredith offers a unique tasting experience featuring fruit and honey wines. This stop provides an opportunity to experience New Hampshire’s burgeoning wine scene and perhaps select a bottle as a memento of your trip.
Travel to Concord
As you make your way to Concord, the state capital, note the transition to a more urban landscape. Despite this shift, Concord retains a small-city charm that is immediately apparent and deeply appealing.
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Tour the State House
A visit to the New Hampshire State House offers a glimpse into the state’s political heritage. As the oldest state capitol, where the legislature still occupies its original chambers, it stands as a living monument to New Hampshire’s democratic traditions.
Conclude at The Common Man
Round out your New Hampshire weekend with a meal at The Common Man, a beloved local institution. Their menu of comfort foods served in a cozy atmosphere provides a fitting conclusion to your Granite State adventure.
Feel the Magic of New Hampshire
A weekend in New Hampshire invariably leaves visitors with lasting impressions and, often, a desire to return for further exploration. As you embark on your journey, prepare to be captivated by the unique magic of the Granite State.
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