6 Bucket-List Small Towns In New Hampshire

Boasting mountains and an ocean coast, albeit the shortest of any other coastal U.S. state at just over 18 miles, this New England state has a concentrated storybook charm. The luxury lies in the uncrowded environment and lush nature, which boasts some of the best fall foliage viewing in the U.S., along with lakes, rivers, and astounding waterfalls.

From Robert Frost's former home in Franconia to the hometown of Eleanor H. Porter, the author of Pollyanna, timelessness, aesthetics, and modern attractions unite in a European-esque atmosphere. These six small towns beckon tourists with bucket-list-worthy landmarks and activities.

Exeter

Exeter's postcard-like appearance and calm temperament enhance every carefree escape 20 minutes from the ocean coast. Bisected by the winding Squamscott River, every bend reveals a new opportunity for photos and relaxation between the sparkling waters and downtown, with brick buildings along Main. Praised for its history, waterfront, and a festive gazebo on the square, tourists enjoy Exeter on foot alongside historic homes, locally owned shops, and upscale restaurants.

Stretch your legs through Henderson-Swasey Town Forest, a stone's throw from Swasey Parkway, for picnics at the heart. The notable American Independence Museum is a must for Revolutionary War fans with period rooms and artifacts in a 1721 house, plus a historic tavern. You can't miss the Art Up Front Street gallery, which matches its decorated yellow clapboard design with a sunny personality, offering a variety of art forms and events to view and enjoy, as well as the opportunity to meet local artists in their studios.

Franconia

Franconia is surrounded by the heaving, foliage-covered White Mountains, sparkling lakes, and waterfalls. As a year-round outdoor hub, activities range from access to the Appalachian Trail to an aerial tram, offering scenic relaxation amidst the views and sounds of Cloudland Falls, one of the most breathtaking Rockwell painting experiences you may ever witness, set against a backdrop of thunderous cloud mist. The Frost Place is a seasonal museum inside Robert Frost's former home, a literal excitement.

No foliage-peeping visit to Franconia Notch State Park is complete without exploring its waterfalls and wildlife trails beneath towering trees and flowing waters, such as the Basin Cascade Trailhead, featuring a unique swimming hole and shimmering cascades. For more outdoor scenery, Artist's Bluff Lookout provides a bird's-eye view of the local Echo Lake, offering canoe and paddleboat rentals on the sandy beach with mountain vistas.

Hanover

Mimicking its historic connection to the U.K. with more than a name, this town epitomizes New England heartland charm, blessed with easy access to many historic covered bridges. The remote vibes bordering Vermont elevate the sense of a real escape, with friendly locals happy to meet a new face. Few can beat Hanover with legendary attractions along just a handful of streets, where Main Street is part of the Appalachian Trail and the ivy-covered Dartmouth College crowns the Hanover Green.

Equal parts bookish and outdoorsy, the Hood Museum of Art is a college showcase featuring 65,000 pieces, including African, African American, and Native American art. The town's stunning Rollins Chapel was designed by a distinguished architect, a student of the great H.H. Richardson. On a different note, Hanover is surrounded by​​ foliage, along the Connecticut River for fishing and boating, as well as the nearby Quechee Gorge Bridge, which is one of the best places for nature viewing.

Littleton

Littleton is loved for its literary endeavors, culinary adventures, and boutiques along the picturesque Main Street, an inviting strip with historic facades and a white church steeple. This town in the White Mountains on Moore Reservoir was home to Eleanor H. Porter, the author of Pollyanna, a 1913 novel about an optimistic orphan girl. Check out her jubilant bronze sculpture across the historic covered bridge. With more history, Thayers Inn, a Greek revival-style building dating from the 19th century, is located here, offering a memorable overnight experience.

Tourists can wake up early for a hike to Kilburn Crags. Similarly, Harmony Park is a hub for the creative to get inspired by the rhythmic sounds of nature. After exploring, curb your sweet tooth at Chutters' World's Longest Candy Counter, with handcrafted candy and fresh-made fudge, or sample brews at one of the local pubs.

Newmarket

Tucked around 15 miles inland from the bustle of Portsmouth near the Maine border, which follows the Piscataqua River, this little town often gets lost in the imposing, lush naturescape. Surrounded by open areas and nature reserves, Packer's Falls makes for a kid- and dog-friendly outing. Even if you're not outdoorsy per se, travelers know Newmarket as an offbeat town that really lets them breathe away from the ordinary, along converted mill buildings lining the riverfront downtown.

Bisected by the Lamprey River, soak up the old-school charm on a leisurely stroll from Crackskull's Coffee & Books to the farmers market and boutique gift shops. Riverworks Restaurant and Tavern occupies a historic building as an informal American pub eatery at the intersection of Main. On a different note, the Stone Church Music Club is a live-music venue featuring craft brews and Mexican food in an 1832 meeting house with a beer garden that’s hosted rock bands like the Avett Brothers.

Wolfeboro

Named one of Travel + Leisure’s best small US towns, Wolfeboro's charm is undeniable and year-round. It only takes a glance from Lake Winnipesaukee's shore to feel immersed in the summer for nature hammocks, protected beaches, and coves you can explore with rented gear from more than a handful of shops in town. Stretch your legs through Sewall Woods to a scenic lunch spot at Cate Park. Accessible by boat, Acorn Point offers island serenity for an intimate sunset viewing.

More into the winter sports or planning an imminent visit? There's a local ski area and the expansive family-friendly Gunstock Mountain Resort minutes away to hit the slopes on skis or snowboard, Nordic terrain, a mountain coaster, and tubing. Lastly, don't miss the charming blue Back Bay Boathouse's best fish and chips.

Must Visit Destinations In New Hampshire

The Granite State, the fifth-smallest state by area, is filled with character, natural beauty, and an abundance of New England charm that visitors often seek in the nation's remote corners. The slower pace and year-round recreation opportunities lend a unique "backyard vibe."

Whether you're after the mountains or the state's largest lake coast, there's no shortage of worthy New Hampshire towns with a strong sense of community and a friendly atmosphere towards tourists. These six deliver immersive experiences with a Rockwellian flair you won't soon forget.