8 Most Eccentric Towns in New Hampshire
New Hampshire typically falls under the radar when New England comes into the spotlight. Venture a bit away from the crowd to discover some of New Hampshire’s lesser-known towns that are bursting with character. Milford’s seasonal and unconventional attractions are an unforgettable way to spend a night or two in the fall and winter. Head over to the coast to Seabrook, a surf town that does not follow the typical New England formula. Before going home, be sure to take a special souvenir, such as a piece of art from Bethlehem or some farm-fresh garlic from Grafton. From corner to corner, New Hampshire boasts many eccentric and otherworldly adventures.
Bethlehem
Bethlehem beholds a rich history dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, when visitors arrived by train seeking relief from hay fever. Today, the quirky town rests in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Celebrate the warmth of the summer with the Vintage Market in the Mountains and take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Nothing beats a classic antique, piece of art, or home decor to forever remember Bethlehem's artistic region. Taking place over a weekend, the Vintage Market in the Mountains is action-packed with live music, food trucks, and a beer garden.
Housing 1,400 acres of marvelous forestry and endless activities, The Rocks is a Bethlehem treasure. During the holidays, mosey around the Christmas Tree Farm and pick out a pine tree to take home for decorating. Also on the property, head to the Visitor Center, a 1884 masterpiece. Once a carriage barn that held horses, cattle, and farming equipment, the Visitor Center now serves as an interactive exhibit that educates guests about the area. Before leaving, the NH Maple Experience is essential. Book a private tour and take a horse-drawn wagon through this incredible property. Discover how to tap sugar maple trees, sample some of the liquid gold, and take a peek inside the working sugar house.
As one of the oldest continuously operated movie theaters in the country, enjoy the show at The Colonial Theatre, a local favorite since 1915. Fitting in with Bethlehem's cultural atmosphere, the theatre gives the best of both worlds. Catch a movie screening or be in awe at a live performance.
Milford
Just a quick 15-minute drive to the Massachusetts border, Milford comes alive with whimsical local gatherings. As New Hampshire turns into a living canvas in the fall, get spooked at The Dark Woods in Trombly Gardens. Take a daring walk through the dark forest with scare actors, lights, and other theatrics. Fearless visitors can test their courage in The Darker Woods, where only a single flashlight lights the path through the darkness. For the younger crowd, a trauma-free event has all the excitement without the frights. Also at Trombly Gardens, come back in the winter for Mr. Dingles’ Holiday Trail. Amid thousands of sparkling lights, a lively crew of eccentric characters shares tales at this heartwarming event.
Home to the Milford Suspension Bridge, this site holds the title of one of just two surviving suspension footbridges in the United States. Walk across this Milford marvel and take in the sights of flourishing greenery, the Souhegan River, and the wildlife nearby. Constructed in 1889, the bridge is a striking piece of Milford’s history.
Seabrook
Seabrook stands out as a coastal surf town, which strays from the typical New England lifestyle. Though not open to the public, it is interesting to note that Seabrook is home to Seabrook Station, one of two nuclear power plants in New England. Yet another aspect that separates Seabrook from the norm.
Learn the ropes or grab some gear to rent from Zapstix's Surf & Skate Shop. From surfboards and wetsuits to paddleboards and skateboards, Zapstix has it all. Afterward, soak up some sun and ride the waves at Seabrook Beach. The beach is less crowded than many nearby spots, making it an ideal place to dive into the crystal-clear waters.
Rye
As one of the oldest towns in the state, Rye is rich in an intriguing and long-standing history. What stands out the most is the Pulpit Rock Tower, a well-preserved World War II watchtower. Although the interior is closed to the public, with Memorial Day being the exception, the tower is still a fascinating piece of New Hampshire history. Continue the step back in time at Odiorne Point State Park. Find the hidden cemetery with gravesites that contain the remains of early settlers in the area. There is a path beside the 1880 Odiorne house and Park Office, which leads to the Old Odiorne Point Cemetery in the Odiorne Point State Park.
Rye is home to another rare oddity known as the “Sunken Forest.” This ancient and drowned forest can be seen at Odiorne Point. These remnants of the Ice Age are occasionally visible during low tide to those fortunate enough to be present. Nearby Jenness Beach also contains a sunken forest that can be accessed by divers.
Portsmouth
Right against the Maine border, Portsmouth is a treasure trove of mystery, haunted happenings, and offbeat attractions. Back in 1873, two women faced an uncanny death on Smuttynose Island. Commonly known as the Smuttynose Murders, their bodies were sent to Portsmouth and were laid to rest in South Cemetery. The graves carry an eerie vibe, but are a spellbinding Portsmouth landmark.
With a town as old as Portsmouth, the area naturally is a magnet for paranormal activity. Embark on a spooky adventure through New England Curiosities. Walk along the historic waterfront, Old York Village, the Point of Graves Cemetery, or to haunted landmarks around the town. Step into the world of Portsmouth’s legends and lore, where supernatural entities are said to still roam the streets.
Beautiful and alluring, take a journey to a section in Portsmouth known as The Hill. Be sure to bring a camera, as the area resembles a scene from a classic film. Walk the streets lined with residences dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. From the Georgian-style John Hart House to the Federal-style bricks of the James Neal House, the historic district is magazine-worthy and not to be missed.
Chesterfield
Sitting a quick 20-minute drive from the Massachusetts border, Chesterfield is a secluded New Hampshire sanctuary with funky spots and out-of-the-ordinary adventures. One of the more prominent landmarks in Chesterfield is the Madame Sherri Forest, specifically the castle ruins. Many photographers flock to the area to take pictures of the stone staircase from the former castle, which was destroyed by fire in 1962. Another photo-worthy blast from the past in town is the Stone House Tavern Museum. Stunning both inside and out, the artifacts include antique furniture, an old cooking hearth, vintage clothing, and a beehive boiler.
Grab a sturdy pair of shoes and hike to the Chesterfield Gorge. From staggering rock canyons and a cascading waterfall, the trail is magnificent in all directions. Bring along a picnic for a wonderful afternoon in Chesterfield. One of the best times to visit the Chesterfield Gorge is in the fall when all of New Hampshire lights up with fiery reds, golden yellows, bright oranges, and warm browns.
Salem
With a cozy spot in the southeastern corner of New Hampshire, Salem is flourishing with peculiar attractions. Bring the kids along, as the town is enchanting for all ages. Spend a day at Canobie Lake Park, a cherished Salem landmark since the early 1900s. The park wore many hats, from a sporting venue to a trolley park, dancehall theatre, and eventually became a beloved amusement park. Hop on vintage rides such as the 1903 Antique Carousel, or have a thrill on more modern ones like the Dragon Coaster.
While not everyone is fortunate enough to travel to England for the real deal, Salem is home to its own masterpiece. Dubbed America’s Stonehenge, this mysterious site awaits visitors on Haverhill Road. Private guided tours are available to see this special Salem oddity. It is believed the stones were used similarly to those in England. For an unforgettable evening, the Stones and Stars event is a top-tier way to appreciate this historical beauty. Take a guided tour and learn all there is to know about these magnificent stones. After, warm up by the campfire and bask under the night sky in Salem.
Grafton
Venture off the beaten path to Grafton, an idyllic rural town in western New Hampshire. Equal parts eccentric and delicious, join the locals for Grafton’s Gargantuan Garlic Gathering. Typically held in October, the event is all about this delectable herb. Warm up with a bowl of homemade garlic soup, then take home some farm-fresh garlic to get inspired in the kitchen.
Ruggles Mine is a rare find, allowing visitors to roam the open-pit mine in search of gems and minerals. Although previously closed, Ruggles Mine regained ownership and is now an unparalleled Grafton experience. Aside from digging, hike in the surrounding area and bask in New Hampshire’s rugged landscapes and expansive forests. Kick it up a notch with a full-on backcountry experience. Ruggles Mine offers campsites available for purchase. Pitch a tent, roast some s'mores, and sleep under the stars in remote New Hampshire.
Embrace New Hampshire's Eccentric Side
From America’s Stonehenge in Salem to haunted happenings in Portsmouth, New Hampshire’s list of peculiar attractions is seemingly endless. Grab the ghost-hunting equipment and a sense of curiosity when heading to the eerily stunning cemeteries in Rye or Portsmouth, with gravestones that date back many years. Visitors seeking to soak up some sun will love Seabrook’s unorthodox atmosphere, with crashing waves ideal for surfing. Cap off the New Hampshire journey with a taste of the sweeter life in Bethlehem. After all, it isn’t a true trip to New England without some maple syrup. All throughout the state, enchanting attractions await eager visitors.
