The Most Picturesque Towns In New Hampshire
New Hampshire might be small, but it's jam-packed with some of the most attractive towns in the country. From seaside villages to cozy mountain hamlets, the "Granite State" has a pretty spot for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for a place to ski, swim, or just stroll down a historic main street, you'll find it here. These towns look like they've been pulled straight from a postcard, providing incredible views and fun activities year-round. Imagine taking a train ride through the mountains of North Conway or seeing the historic harbor in Portsmouth. These towns aren't just pretty faces; they're full of activity. So get your camera ready and prepare to be wowed by the landscapes and quintessential New England appeal of these incredible destinations.
North Conway
Located in the heart of the White Mountains, North Conway has a classic mountain town feel with a cozy, adventurous aesthetic. It's surrounded by peaks and forests, making it incredibly appealing no matter the season. The town itself is full of cute shops and restaurants, great for wandering after a day of activity.
What makes it so nice? For starters, Echo Lake State Park provides amazing views of the Saco River Valley and a great lake for swimming with a backdrop of Cathedral Ledge. If you're a fan of waterfalls, you can hike to Diana's Baths, a series of small waterfalls and pools that are great for cooling off in the summer. To soak in the scenery without the sweat, you can take in the valley views from the Conway Scenic Railroad on a vintage train. Or, if you prefer, play a round of golf at North Conway Golf Course, which is known for its amazing mountain vistas from the greens.
Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a historic port city on the Piscataqua River, known for its colonial architecture and lively waterfront. The vibe is a cool mix of old and new, with cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and a bustling downtown full of shops and cafes. It’s a city that feels like a small town, with a friendly, maritime aesthetic that makes you want to see every corner.
To see the city from the water, hop aboard Portsmouth Harbor Cruises. These boat tours give great commentary on local history and landmarks as you cruise the harbor. For a dose of history on land, visit the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion, an 18th-century home with a lovely trail along the water, and keep your eyes peeled for other historic homes as you stroll through town. For another outing, cruise out to the Isles of Shoals with the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company. Back on shore, you can relax waterside at Prescott Park, a pretty space with flower gardens, fountains, and walkways meant for a quiet stroll.
Meredith
Situated on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, Meredith is the definition of a photogenic lakeside town. It has a relaxed, resort-town feel, with an appealing aesthetic centered around its waterfront and historic mills. It's a place where you can get out on the water, browse shops, and soak in the slow, pretty pace of life.
One of the best ways to see the area is on the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, which presents lake views from a vintage train. For a more hands-on water activity, you can kayak or SUP on Lake Waukewan by renting a boat from the EKAL Activity Center. If you're visiting in the fall, a trip to Moulton Farm is a must for its bakery, corn maze, and pumpkin patch. For the ultimate Meredith stay, dine, shop, and stay at Mill Falls at the Lake. This marketplace and resort is built around a 40-foot waterfall, and its Palmer Inn even sits right on top of it!
Lincoln
Lincoln is a bustling town located in the heart of the White Mountains, right at the entrance to the famous Kancamagus Highway. It has an energetic, outdoorsy vibe and an aesthetic that is all about mountain recreation. Whether it's winter or summer, Lincoln is a hub for accessing some of New Hampshire's most dramatic and impressive landscapes.
The town is right next to Franconia Notch State Park, where you can check out the Franconia Falls and swim in Echo Lake. A can't-miss attraction is the Flume Gorge, with its natural gorge and towering walls, as well as a waterfall and a classic covered bridge. For another great hike, find your way to Georgiana Falls, a series of cascades that are especially nice. In the winter, you can ski at Loon Mountain Resort, which is just as much fun in the summer when you can ride the gondola to the summit for incredible views, go for a hike, or fly through the trees on a zipline.
Jackson
Jackson is a tranquil, appealing village tucked away in the White Mountains, famous for its iconic red covered bridge. The vibe is quiet and romantic, with a classic New England country aesthetic. It feels a bit like stepping back in time, making it a great spot for a relaxing and pleasant getaway.
The most famous landmark is the Historic Honeymoon Covered Bridge, an impressive structure from the 1800s that you can walk across, and a popular spot for photos. Another spectacular backdrop is Glen Ellis Falls, a 64-foot waterfall located in the White Mountain National Forest. On a hot day, there's no better place to be than swimming at Jackson Falls, a series of cascades and pools right in the middle of town. For a truly magical time, visit Nestlenook Farm, where you can enjoy ice skating and take a sleigh ride through the snow-covered forest in winter, then warm up with s'mores afterward.
New Castle
New Castle is a tiny, attractive island town connected to the mainland by a bridge, just a stone's throw from Portsmouth. It's the only town in New Hampshire entirely on islands and has a quiet, coastal vibe with a historic, maritime aesthetic. Lined with old homes and surrounded by water, it's a serene place with fantastic ocean views.
You can spend a day at the beach at either Great Island Common or New Castle Beach. Both boast amazing views of the coast and lighthouses. History buffs will enjoy delving into military history at Fort Stark State Historic Site, an old fort that once protected the harbor. Just across the water, you can see the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, a photogenic cast-iron lighthouse built in 1878 that adds to the area's appeal. However you choose to explore, New Castle is the perfect town for a pleasant drive, a bike ride, or a quiet walk by the sea.
Wolfeboro
Wolfeboro, often called the "Oldest Summer Resort in America," is on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee. It presents a classic, sophisticated town atmosphere with a lakeside feel. The lively downtown hosts many shops and galleries, and the entire town focuses on waterside recreation.
A great way to spend a summer day is by swimming in Lake Wentworth at Allen Albee Beach, a pleasant public beach ripe for relaxation. For an exceptional evening, consider a cruise and dinner with the New Hampshire Boat Museum, which provides tours on historic boats. To move around and see the town's older homes, take a ride with the Wolfeboro Trolley Company. For those seeking more daring pursuits, discover what lies beneath the lake's surface and scuba dive with Dive Winnipesaukee, which provides lessons and guided trips to underwater sites.
Sugar Hill
Sugar Hill is a small, idyllic town in the White Mountains, known for its expansive vistas and fields of lupines. The atmosphere is very tranquil and rural, with a storybook appearance that feels almost magical. It's a location to slow down, take in the crisp mountain air, and appreciate simple, lovely things.
In June, don't miss the lupine festival, when fields and hillsides burst with purple, pink, and white flowers. Grab a selection of cheeses from Harman's Cheese & Country Store and spread out in a field of wildflowers for a wonderful picnic with an unbeatable panorama. The Sunset Hill Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Center is excellent for winter recreation, but is also a prime spot to view the lupines in summer. Remember to visit the modest and striking St. Matthew's Chapel, a small white church that stands out against the mountain backdrop.
Littleton
Situated along the Ammonoosuc River, Littleton is a lively town with one of the nation's most celebrated Main Streets. It possesses an eccentric, artistic character and an aesthetic that blends historical buildings with a fun, creative spirit. The town is recognized as the birthplace of the author of Pollyanna, and the immortalized character's relentless optimism remains present here today.
A necessary activity is the Littleton Riverwalk, a scenic path that crosses a covered bridge and follows the river. For grand views, hike Kilburn Crags, a short but gratifying path that overlooks the town and even provides a glimpse of Mount Washington on a clear day. Be sure to capture a photo with the renowned Pollyanna statue in front of the library, a tribute to the town's most beloved fictional resident, and if you wish to be out on the water, you can rent a kayak with North Country Kayak and paddle the local waterways, seeing the surroundings from a different angle.
From the lakeside appeal of Meredith to the mountain grandeur of Jackson, New Hampshire's towns are undeniably attractive. Each one presents a distinct piece of New England life, enveloped in remarkable natural surroundings. Whether you're drawn to the sound of waves on a rocky shore or the quiet whisper of wind in the pine trees, there’s a fitting small town waiting for you to find.
So, the next time you're arranging a trip, think about visiting these hidden localities. You can spend your days hiking to waterfalls, walking through old streets, or simply appreciating the view from a cozy café. New Hampshire shows that you don't need to travel far to find yourself in a place that feels like it’s right out of a painting. Pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with the most appealing towns in the Granite State.
