7 Most Overlooked New Hampshire Towns For 2025
For many travelers, New Hampshire is quintessential New England. The state's history extends back to colonial times: New Hampshire is one of the 13 Original Colonies. While the state is popular with vacationers for its mountains, lakes, and short seacoast, many of its smaller towns go overlooked. Beyond larger cities like the state capital, Concord, or historic Manchester, out-of-the-way places in what is known as the "Granite State" for its rocky land, await discovery by the tourist willing to make the effort. The views, local history, and culture will reward his or her effort.
Amherst
Not to be confused with the better-known Massachusetts town of the same name, New Hampshire's Amherst, in the state's south-central zone, is a quiet place rich in small-town interest. The town lies within the Merrimack Valley region, an area beloved by road-trippers and nature-seekers. Take a sip of local flavors at LaBelle Winery, whose rows of vines recall scenes from Italy, or opt for some all-American cooking at Smokehaus, a barbecue place in town.
If Amherst is small, the town's locals and visitors are big on golf. There are three courses to play, including Ponemah Green Family Golf Center, which caters to athletes of all ages and skills. Get a feel for the state's lake scenes at Baboosic Lake, which abuts Amherst Town Beach.
Claremont
In southwest New Hampshire, over the Connecticut River from Vermont, the town of Claremont offers cultural attractions for all tastes. Catch a show at the Claremont Opera House, which puts on everything from comedy to live music. For dinner before or after a performance, head a few steps north to Ramunto's Brick Oven Pizza, which sits on the bank of the Sugar River as it continues through town.
Local festivals include the Claremont Kiwanis Brewfest, a celebration of beer and community held in September. Southwest of town, Moody Park offers green space and the chance to get some fresh air from New Hampshire.
Colebrook
The town of Colebrook, near New Hampshire's northern limits, offers proximity to neighboring Maine, Vermont, and the Canadian province of Quebec, all from within the Great North Woods region. Nature lovers will love this overlooked town: local large species include deer, black bears, and even moose — all of which mean a vacationer should use caution while driving here. The Beaver Brook Falls Wayside, a state park, holds a majestic, multistory waterfall within its borders. At a petite seven acres, the park is also ideal for a leisurely walk and a picnic.
For a taste of truly local flavor, the town's Black Bear Tavern welcomes hungry guests with all-American fare and a few Canadian-themed options, like poutine and waffle fries served with maple syrup. Just west of town, the Coös Brewing Company offers tastings and a view over the Connecticut River, with Vermont on the other side.
Henniker
South-central Henniker is a classic northeast college town west of the state capital. New England College, with about 5,000 students, will celebrate 80 years of educating young minds in 2026. Henniker's other claim to fame is its concentration of historic bridges built with wood and stone. Most visitors rush in to see the Henniker Covered Bridge, a uniquely beautiful sight under wintertime snow. Also in winter, skiers head to the nearby Pats Peak area.
Architecture tourists love the Tucker Free Library, a stately brick structure that has stood here since 1904. A pleasant stroll awaits along the Contoocook River, which shapes downtown Henniker. And to taste some truly local food and drink, Daniel's Restaurant & Pub serves regional staples in a quaint, low-ceilinged atmosphere.
Lincoln
North-central Lincoln is near Interstate 93, allowing easy access in and out of this small town within the White Mountain range. Outdoor attractions here include Flume Gorge, with a series of dramatic walkways along stone cliffs for the daring visitor. Franconia Notch State Park makes for a less stressful outing. The Pemigewasset River Trail provides an easy stroll and sublime waterside scenes.
Lincoln's cultural and food-related draws are no less appealing. Literature buffs may want to head straight to The Frost Place in nearby Franconia, once the home of American poetry giant Robert Frost. The site is now a museum. The Gypsy Cafe has funky decorations and reasonable prices, on top of glorious mountain scenery. Other informal options include Moose on the Run Cafe or White Mountain Bagel. All three restaurants sit along the town's picturesque Main Street.
Pittsburg
Unlike the similarly-named Pennsylvania city, New Hampshire's rural Pittsburg, at the state's northern edge, is an outdoor paradise. With its 40-foot descent, Garfield Falls offers dramatic views and a family-friendly nature option. First Connecticut Lake and Back Lake merit stopping for, particularly in the state's summer season, which brings warmth and long hours of northern daylight. And being not far south of the Canadian border, Pittsburg might be a perfect base for local and international travel.
Other man-made highlights abound. Bacon Road Bridge is worth a detour, offering classic New England scenery and more covered bridges. Pittsburg's First Lake General Store, a local business, sells sweets from the Connecticut Lakes Fudge Factory.
Tamworth
Modest Tamworth, in east-central New Hampshire, blends history and beauty. Established in 1766, the town stands proudly among the state's settlements before the Revolutionary War. Travelers with children tend to like the Remick Country Doctor Museum and Farm, which sheds light on the region's bygone medical and agricultural customs. Tamworth is part of the Lakes Region, a popular holiday area, but the town never gets too crowded. White Lake State Park and Chocorua Lake are worth stopping by in the region, and maybe a quick swim.
Tamworth's Author Fest celebrates local authors, wordsmiths, and readers. Like Lincoln, major literary lights have been used in this town. Novelist Henry James came here, as did the poet E.E. Cummings and Julia Ward Howe, who wrote the "Battle Hymn of the Republic."
Small-Town New Hampshire Shows The State At Its Best
Small towns like these go a long way in suggesting how New Hampshire's out-of-the-way places are too often overlooked. Beyond Concord, Manchester, and other large towns, small places have similarly rich histories and cultures, without the crowds. Amherst is great for foodies and golfers. Claremont and Colebrook provide riverside charm and a few touchpoints in the arts of all kinds. Meanwhile, covered bridges from Henniker to Pittsburg deliver postcard New England images (and a few selfies, too). Lincoln and Tamworth show that the state's small towns have contributed considerably to local and world-famous literature. For New Hampshire's many, diverse, and underappreciated points of interest, small towns should stir plenty of inspiration for a future visit.
