9 Storybook Towns In New Hampshire
New Hampshire, part of the New England region, is home to many small towns that feel as if they belong in a storybook. Jackson feels especially enchanting with the Honeymoon Covered Bridge and the mountain views around Wildcat Mountain. Littleton has its own fairy-tale appeal through the River Walk Covered Bridge and the famously old-fashioned Chutters Candy Store. So plan your next trip to the Northeastern United States and choose the lovely state of New Hampshire to truly see firsthand what has made this destination such a beloved part of so many people’s American holidays.
Littleton
Bounded by the Connecticut River and the White Mountains, Littleton is a very pretty town that is perfect for a weekend getaway full of historic intrigue and natural delight. Established in the 1780s and now home to just over 6,000 residents, Littleton offers a rich history, and history enthusiasts can certainly appreciate its ambiance, where many preserved landmarks continue to awe visitors. Spanning the 18th to 19th centuries, amongst the properties of note here include the Edward Lane House (1830), Thayer’s Hotel (1843), and the Littleton Opera House (1893), also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Meanwhile, the natural environment here adds to the town’s idyllic charm, and time spent near the aforementioned Connecticut River and the smaller Ammonoosuc River is a great way to relax. Enjoy a climate known for warm summers and mild winters, as gorgeous mountain vistas and rich greenery create quite a picturesque landscape. Add in some cute businesses like the Freehouse Taproom & Eatery and the Purple Peacock antique store, and the Americana New England style really shines through. And of course, one cannot forget about the Chutters Candy Store, a sweet destination that has been serving the public for more than 120 years.
Claremont
Along the path of the Sugar River in the Connecticut River Valley, the town of Claremont welcomes visitors looking for a relaxing New Hampshire holiday. A nice place to discover some American history amidst some of the state’s most pleasing natural environments, Claremont certainly delivers a safe and fun getaway for all ages. Home to a modern population of nearly 13,000, this historic community can trace its roots to the 1760s, and a stroll through the town center reveals an assortment of well-preserved landmarks that span several centuries. From the Opera House (1895) to the David Dexter House (1790), these and other properties on the National Register of Historic Places help create a very unique sense of time and place. And be sure to visit the Lower Village Historic District and its old mill buildings that will make for some special photos and videos.
In addition, the nature inclined guest will enjoy afternoons at the Arrowhead Recreation Area, offering some awesome hiking, biking, and skiing trails. A year-round delight, warm summers and cool winters make Claremont simply a nice place to enjoy New Hampshire, no matter what the season. Finish your day with a great meal at such local eateries as Taverne on the Square and the Common Man Restaurant, and see why this town is always ready to charm its guests.
Hanover
Hanover is also located along the Connecticut River, and like many towns in the state of New Hampshire, was founded in the 18th century. Today, some 12,000 residents call this historic center home, which continues to shine as an awesome weekend vacation spot. Visit the campus of the famed Dartmouth College (1769), an Ivy League school, and enjoy a peaceful setting amidst scenic greenery and a welcoming ambiance. Add in a climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters, and there is definitely pleasure to be outside in Hanover throughout the year. Trek along some of the White Mountains and a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail that crosses town, or simply stroll along the River; great panoramas are never in short supply here.
There are also plenty of cultural events to enjoy in town, ensuring a vacation always has something memorable for all ages. Amongst the festivities of note are the summer Ice Cream Social, the Trick or Treat on Allen Street, and special Fourth of July events, to name a few. Then browse through the town’s nice collection of local businesses and restaurants like Molly’s Restaurant & Bar and Dartmouth Co-Op Clothing Store, and be glad to have spent some time in Hanover.
Meredith
Located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, the town of Meredith is picturesque, and a vacation here will definitely not be short on opportunities for scenic memories. Just over 6,600 people reside in this historic place established in the 1760s, and between historic intrigue and natural beauty, Meredith certainly will not be forgotten any time soon. Offering cool winter and warm summer temperatures, guests can enjoy time along a number of stunning lakes, including Winnipesaukee, Wicwas, and Waukewan, where activities like boating, swimming, paddleboarding, and even skating are always in demand.
Furthermore, learn more about Meredith’s past at the Main Street Museum and admire its impressive collection of items, photographs, and other artifacts that span several centuries. Meanwhile, those who love live performance will not want to miss out on a show at the Winnipesaukee Playhouse. Here great regional theatre in a spacious barn design awaits, sure to please the young and old alike. And finally, you cannot visit Meredith and miss out on the famed Hart’s Turkey Farm Restaurant. Open since 1954, this delectable eatery offers guests fresh and savory homestyle cooking in a charming New England ambiance, which will no doubt have you coming back for more!
North Conway
Just over 2,000 inhabitants call the charming town of North Conway home that is stunningly located near the White Mountain National Forest. With easy access to the Black Cap Hiking Trail and Echo Lake State Park, outdoor adventure is not hard to come by in North Conway, where summers are hot and winters are cool. Go biking, hiking, and rock climbing in the areas, while at the popular Cranmore Mountain Resort, awesome ski and snowboard slopes challenge beginners and professionals alike.
Another great outing offering some of New Hampshire’s best panoramic views is a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad, a veritable treat for all. Hop aboard restored caboose cars and travel along the area’s breathtaking mountainscapes in an excursion that makes everyone smile. Back in town proper, find the perfect gift at the Settlers Green Outlet Village, while such great local restaurants like Barley & Salt Tap House and Kitchen, and the Moat Mountain Brewing Company invite you to some tasty American-style dishes in an ambiance of New England camaraderie.
Jackson
Also situated within the White Mountains, Jackson is a most alluring place for a New Hampshire vacation, combining historic intrigue and natural splendor. A resort town established in 1800, today just over 1,000 residents call this cute community home, which is known for cool winters and warm summers. Enjoy afternoons at the Ellis River and Wildcat Brook for great boating and fishing, and take in some wonderful waterfalls in the area for photographic memories. There is also the popular Wildcat Mountain, which challenges hikers in the summer, while great alpine ski slopes attract guests in the winter.
Additionally, for the history-inclined tourist, Jackson does not disappoint, and its collection of landmarks makes it a fascinating place to explore. See such attractions as the Inn at Ellis River (1893) and the Honeymoon Covered Bridge (1876), listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and get a glimpse of life in the 19th century. Finally, end (or start) your day with tasty meals at any of the town’s proudly run local restaurants like the Alpine Tavern at the Wentworth and the Wildcat Inn and Tavern, and feel at home in an ambiance that is never short on picturesque beauty.
Bartlett
Incorporated in 1790, Bartlett is another White Mountains settlement ideal for a scenic getaway that is both picturesque and quiet. And with a population of just over 3,200 inhabitants, one can feel a most cozy feeling here while exploring some of New Hampshire’s most gorgeous natural playgrounds. Explore the White Mountain National Forest and enjoy great camping opportunities, breathtaking vistas, and chances to see wildlife in action like bald eagles, beavers, black bears, coyotes, and more. And of course, do not forget about the waterfalls within, like Diana’s Baths, sights that will impress any intrepid traveler of any age. There is also the famed Attitash Mountain Resort to enjoy when visiting in the winter, and that offers upwards of 60 ski runs!
Or simply just browse through Barlett’s charming center, where a nice assortment of local shops and eateries welcome everyone. From the seasonal displays at the Covered Bridge Gift Shoppe to the treats at Bart’s Deli and General Store, the spirit of small-town New England really shines when in this town. Then naturally, the kids (and the kids in spirit) will not want to pass by the Story Land theme park, which transports you to the land of make-believe with games, rides, food, and tons of fun!
Dover
Dover lies along the Piscataqua River and was founded by colonists way back in the 1620s. Today, this seat of Strafford County is home to just under 34,000, and guests can enjoy plenty of cultural charm and natural beauty. Featuring warm summers and cool winters, spending time outdoors is always popular in Dover, and attractions like the Garrison Hill Park and the Dover Community Trail are ideal for afternoon outings. At the former, climb atop the observation tower at 76 feet tall and enjoy some great panoramas, while the latter has over 4 miles of treks for cycling and hiking, along with awesome river views.
Then learn more about natural history, the region’s past, and the fine arts at the all-encompassing Woodman Museum. Add in some great businesses in the historic downtown, like The Farm Bar and Grille and the My Country Story, and all will be happy to have stopped in Dover. And do not forget about the fun Fall Apple Harvest Day that celebrates with tasty food, live music, and plenty of souvenir vendors.
Exeter
A cannot miss destination for those who love American history, the town of Exeter indeed excites with its stories of colonial America and the birth of the nation. Incorporated back in 1638, just over 16,000 residents call Exeter home today, which was named for the city in England. An important center during the Revolutionary War (1775-1783), guests can visit the immersive American Independence Museum that features great exhibits, costumed interpreters, and preserved artifacts like one of the many copies of the original Declaration of Independence. There are also other great historic landmarks to explore in town, including the Congregational Church (1638), the Powder House (1771), and the Gilman Garrison House (1709), amongst others.
From there, spend tranquil days at the Robert H. Stewart Waterfront Park, popular for its walking and cycling trails and calming kayak rides along the Exeter River. And do not forget about such great events and festivals like the Arts and Music Fest, the UFO Festival, and the Great Bay Food Truck Festival, sure to delight all ages with warm community spirit.
New Hampshire may not be a big state, but it shines brilliantly as one of New England’s most fascinating and welcoming places. Historically intriguing and naturally stunning, guests in the northeastern United States will certainly not want to pass by New Hampshire and its storybook towns that offer some truly special holiday experiences. There is the history of Exeter and Claremont, and the scenic wonder of Jackson and Meredith. No matter which of these towns one chooses to visit, an amazing sojourn is sure to follow. Wait no more than and come see firsthand the charm and allure that is New Hampshire, where, no matter what one’s age, memories to last a lifetime will certainly be made.
