10 Most Charming Town Squares In New Hampshire
New Hampshire's fascinating blend of rich New England charm, immersive historical heritage, and unique cultural identity manifests across its many small towns. At the heart of these pleasant communities lie picturesque, walkable centers that reflect the spirit of the Granite State. From colonial-era structures and manicured park spaces to brick storefronts and quiet plazas filled with Mom ‘n’ Pop shops, each square tells a story of place and pride.
Together, they provide a popular gathering spot and the perfect jump-off base for newcomers planning to explore the town. History lingers, traditions thrive, and locals come together to celebrate community life in an upbeat atmosphere. Whether drawn to the active art scene in Meredith or the rustic heritage of Dover, these towns have the best town squares in New Hampshire.
Portsmouth
This picturesque port city on the banks of the Piscataqua River is known for its vibrant market square, where preserved historical landmarks, popular performance hubs, and waterfront diners attract scores of tourists. The neighborhood is perfect for exploring on foot, with noteworthy landmarks like the Strawbery Banke Museum providing an absorbing journey through time. This rustic complex preserves over 350 years of local history, chronicling one of the oldest neighborhoods in New Hampshire. The red-brick Warner House is another iconic landmark in the area. Built in 1716, it stands out for its dazzling Georgian architecture.
Crowds also flock to Seacoast Repertory Theatre to watch an array of live performances, from musicals and plays to films, in a regional hub where the old and young find a common ground. Downtown Portsmouth also allows you to escape the crowds and breathe some fresh air at Prescott Park, a scenic garden with brick walks, lush trees, and beautiful fountains.
Wolfeboro
Wolfeboro is a resort community on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee with a relaxed downtown district known for its network of iconic museums and idyllic natural spaces. Walking down the main thoroughfare, you will encounter the Clark House Museum Complex, where three historic structures transport guests back to the late 18th century. Elsewhere, the Wright Museum of World War II displays a remarkable collection of military artifacts, from tanks and pamphlets to related objects, used during the Second World War.
Beyond the history, a thriving craft brewery scene promises first-timers unmissable tasting opportunities at quaint local establishments like Burnt Timber Brewing & Tavern. This microbrewery delights patrons with bold flavors in its creative crafts. Meanwhile, those who tend towards nature can be in their element at Front Bay Park, where quiet hiking trails offer a break from the downtown buzz.
Keene
Keene is a vibrant college community in Cheshire County with a site-rich Main Street, where the region's history and culture seamlessly blend. Community gathers around the bandstand at the town's center, where the laid-back New England vibe is strong. It is also an excellent place for history buffs to familiarize themselves with the region's past at the History Society of Cheshire County. This contemporary hub is responsible for connecting the community with history, culture, and art through the years. Travelers with kids will have a more appropriate fun time at the Cheshire Children's Museum, whose interactive exhibits and themed play areas are designed to educate while entertaining the young minds.
Art is big in Keene, and the townspeople often converge inside the Thorne Sagendorph Art Gallery to view pieces by revered 19th-century artists and the Colonial Theatre to catch a variety of live stage productions and movie screenings in a restored 1924 venue.
Peterborough
Peterborough's adorable town square is surrounded by the calm waters of the Contoocook River, providing a pedestrian-friendly waterfront where guests can slowly explore a unique interaction between history, culture, and commerce. The Monadnock Center for History and Culture connects visitors with the colorful history of Portsmouth and the surrounding region through artifact exhibitions, events, lectures, and educational programs. Meanwhile, art connoisseurs are called upon to inspect 18th and 19th-century artworks from Europe, America, and Asia at the New England Art Exchange.
While there are multiple entertainment centers in the area, townsfolk often camp at the Peterborough Community Theatre to watch first-run films. After an entertaining session at the movies, you can stop by Harlow's Pub & Restaurant to savor delicious American comfort food in a relaxed setting.
Littleton
Popularly known as the "Glad Town," Littleton is a close-knit community in Grafton County with a warm personality that newcomers can experience through cordial interactions with locals throughout the inviting town square. The community's heritage dates back over two centuries, and this is evident from notable historical landmarks like the Riverwalk Covered Bridge. This rustic bridge spans the Ammonoosuc River and rewards walkers with terrific river views. At Just L Modern Antiques, souvenir lovers will relish browsing mid-century decor items, furnishings, and vintage treasures.
A string of joints in the downtown district calls for genuine encounters with the locals. You can enjoy tasty, home-cooked New England specials at the Littleton Diner, accompanied by genuine hospitality from the staff. Alternatively, hang out with bubbly characters at the Schilling Beer Company and engage in an authentic conversation over refreshing craft brews.
Hanover
Hanover is the home of Dartmouth College and lies along the Connecticut River. It has a youthful and infectious vibe, with a lively arts community that dominates the town square. Art enthusiasts can always look forward to something interesting, from admiring a world-class collection of African, Native American, and African-American art inside the Hood Museum of Art to watching a professional musical or play inside the Hopkins Center for the Arts. Food enthusiasts will relish sampling local flavors at the multiple restaurants in downtown, starting with fresh burgers and handcrafted cocktails at Dunk's Sports Grill.
However, those who prefer the open spaces can head to Nathan's Garden and enjoy being one with nature. This peaceful oasis presents an ideal break from the crowds, allowing guests to enjoy some fresh air and stretch their legs along gentle trails with a breathtaking display of sweet-scented flowers and lush vegetation.
Jaffrey
A blend of small-town flair and New England charm dominates the quaint streets of downtown Jaffrey, along with a line of inviting local attractions that keep the square buzzing with activity. Strolling through the main drag, visitors can encounter captivating live performances at the Park Theatre, ranging from dance, lectures, magic, and debates to kids' shows. The same avenue is also home to the Jaffrey Civic Center, which invites the public to browse artistic, historical, and educational collections associated with the Monadnock region.
Downtown Jaffrey is also a good stop for culinary connoisseurs, with a chance to treat their taste buds to luscious Mexican flavors, such as salsas, fajitas, tacos, and margaritas at La Piñata Mexican Grill. Meanwhile, outdoor lovers can take a breather and be one with nature at the tranquil Howard Memorial Park during a picnic or a lazy stroll.
Exeter
Exeter arguably hosts one of the most charming town squares in New Hampshire, thanks to its invigorating collision of the old world and the new world, which plays out along the lively downtown corridor. With a heritage dating back to the 1600s, the town's colorful backstory is extensively documented at the Exeter Historical Society, which showcases artifacts accumulated throughout the years. Meanwhile, first-timers can get a more vivid glimpse of Exeter at the turn of the 18th century via a tour of the historic Gilman Garrison House.
More than 200 local artists display their creations at the Seacoast Artists Association, where guests can find inspiration in browsing a diverse collection of paintings, prints, sculptures, and more. Finally, leaving downtown, a casual shopping opportunity beckons at Exeter Commons, which boasts 92,000 square feet of shopping space.
Dover
An hour from Concord, Dover's timeless history spans over four decades, and you can tell this from the rows of historical markers around its downtown district. There is something for everyone, regardless of age or preference, with families finding the perfect pursuit inside the Children's Museum of New Hampshire. Inside, kids get to explore science, culture, art, and other captivating subjects through interactive activities with their peers. Also, the Woodman Museum takes a unique look into the areas of art, history, and nature inside a 20th-century museum complex.
Those after entertainment can sample the local wine and dine scene at Endzone Bar & Grill, where patrons meet to share great food, refreshing drinks, and endless laughs in a down-home sports bar. Lastly, fans of the open spaces can make the most of the amenities provided by Henry Law Park, including picnic spots, walking paths, and a pristine pond, among others.
Meredith
Meredith is a popular resort town on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, known for its arts, entertainment, and scenic beauty, which all come to the fore along the downtown corridor. Newcomers are always quick to board the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad for a fun sightseeing train excursion exploring the beauty in the chill backcountry. The Winnipesaukee Playhouse reveals the community's artistic personality with a lineup of compelling performances throughout the year, from plays and musicals, designed to connect the community with the arts.
There are plenty of entertainment centers in downtown Meredith, which invite movie enthusiasts to get updated on the newest films from Hollywood at the BarnZ's Meredith Cinema. Also, social butterflies can feel in their element while mingling with locals and other visitors alike at Hermit Woods Winery & Sweet Mercy Kitchen.
Charming Downtowns in New Hampshire
From the youthful vibe in Hanover to the rustic heritage in Wolfeboro, these beautiful town squares in New Hampshire offer a charming mix of history, culture, and community spirit. Each square reflects the unique identity of its town, inviting visitors to explore local shops, enjoy seasonal events, and connect with friendly locals in the United States. Whether you're seeking small-town nostalgia or vibrant college energy, these lively squares are perfect places to relax, discover, and experience the heart of the Granite State.
