The Most Underrated Towns In New Hampshire

New Hampshire is home to some of New England’s most celebrated destinations, but tucked between the well-known lakes, mountains, and coastal hotspots are towns that often escape the spotlight. These small communities may not shout for attention, yet they’re filled with history, charm, and experiences that feel uniquely their own.

From quiet riverfront paths and centuries-old museums to scenic hikes, boutique inns, and unexpected cultural treasures, these underrated towns reveal a side of New Hampshire that many travelers overlook. If you’re seeking places with depth, character, and a genuine sense of place, check out this list of the most underrated towns to visit in New Hampshire in 2025.

Exeter

Tucked into New Hampshire’s quiet Seacoast region, Exeter is one of those towns travelers often breeze past—yet it’s easily one of the state’s most charming historic gems. Exeter once served as New Hampshire’s capital during the Revolutionary War, and it still holds surprising treasures from that era. The American Independence Museum, set along Water Street, safeguards a rare early copy of the Declaration of Independence—discovered hidden inside a wall during a renovation in the ’80s. Visitors can tour the Ladd-Gilman House and Folsom Tavern or drop in during the museum’s lively year-round events.

History isn’t tucked away in a corner here; it’s everywhere. Stroll Swasey Parkway for peaceful river views, or wander through the town center where markers and monuments share chapters of Exeter’s past. Founders Park, home to Emile Birch’s striking 350th-anniversary sculpture, honors the town’s original settlers and Native American roots, offering a thoughtful pause right in the middle of downtown.

Enna Chocolate, a beloved local café, tempts visitors with handcrafted chocolate, espresso, and pastries baked fresh each morning. It’s the kind of cozy spot that instantly makes you want to linger. If you’re staying overnight, The Exeter Inn captures the town’s understated elegance. Far from generic hotel chains, this boutique inn blends warmth, old-fashioned hospitality, and a touch of sophistication—reminding guests why small-town stays often feel the most personal.

Littleton

Perched along the Ammonoosuc River, Littleton blends small-town coziness with a surprisingly artsy, playful spirit. For a town its size, Littleton packs in an impressive mix of culture, outdoor adventure, history, and some delicious food.

Start with the Littleton Area Historical Society, now tucked inside the basement of the town’s historic Opera House. After years of being hidden away, local artifacts have been thoughtfully curated into displays that tell the story of Littleton’s industrious past, from the Saranac Glove Company to Norton Pike’s abrasive tools, wartime memorabilia, vintage toys, and quirky relics that reveal how much life has evolved here.

Just down Main Street, you’ll find a place that perfectly captures Littleton’s nostalgic charm: The Littleton Motel. In operation since 1948, it’s New Hampshire’s oldest motel, and stepping inside feels a bit like walking into a cherished family photo album.

Nature lovers will feel instantly at home in Littleton. The town is surrounded by trails and scenic overlooks suited to both casual wanderers and dedicated hikers. The Dells, a peaceful network of wildflower-lined paths hugging a quiet pond, offers the chance to spot herons, mergansers, otters, beavers, and bright flashes of red-winged blackbirds among the cattails.

No visit is complete without crossing the Riverwalk Covered Bridge. Though built in 2004, it blends seamlessly into Littleton’s storybook setting and has quickly become one of the town’s signature landmarks.

North Conway

Resting at the gateway to the White Mountains and the Mount Washington Valley, North Conway may be well-loved by New Englanders. However, it still feels like a pleasantly overlooked retreat to anyone outside the region.

One of the best ways to understand why people return here year after year is to get out and explore. In fall, nothing quite compares to driving the famous Kancamagus Scenic Byway, a 56-kilometer stretch of pure color that cuts through the White Mountain National Forest between North Conway and Lincoln. Stops along the route reveal postcard-worthy spots like the Albany Covered Bridge and the gently cascading pools of Diana’s Baths.

Closer to town, Echo Lake State Park offers the kind of simple outdoor pleasures that make small New Hampshire towns so special. Families come here to swim, picnic, or stroll along the trail that circles the lake. For a bit more adventure, several paths lead to Cathedral Ledge State Park, one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the region.

At Cathedral Ledge, a short auto road climbs nearly 700 feet to the top, where wide-open views stretch across the Saco River Valley and onward to the White Mountains. A new accessible trail makes it easy for visitors of all abilities to reach the overlook. Rock climbers also flock to Cathedral and neighboring White Horse Ledge, which transform into icy climbing playgrounds when winter sets in.

For those looking to unwind after a day in the outdoors, the North Conway Grand Hotel offers a surprisingly luxurious escape for such a modest mountain town. With sweeping mountain views, cozy rooms decorated in warm, woodsy tones, and ample space for couples, families, and adventure seekers, this hotel feels more like a modern resort nestled in a classic New Hampshire setting.

Wolfeboro

Often introduced as “America’s Oldest Summer Resort,” Wolfeboro sits quietly along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, yet many travelers still don’t realize just how special this lakeside town truly is. At the center of everything is Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in New Hampshire and a sprawling 70-square-mile playground for anyone who loves being near the water. Warm months bring boating, fishing, swimming, and endless days spent exploring hidden coves or relaxing on sun-lit docks. When winter settles in, the lake transforms into a whole new world, snowmobilers glide across frozen stretches, anglers set up for ice fishing, and the entire region takes on a crisp, cozy stillness.

The town’s personality shines brightest at the Wolfeboro Town Docks, the heartbeat of its waterfront district. Even if you’re not heading out on the water, it’s worth lingering here for the sweeping views of the mountains and the calm swells of Winnipesaukee. It’s a favorite spot for photos, quiet moments, and watching boats drift in and out throughout the day. Just a short stroll away, the Libby Museum offers a unique kind of adventure. This charming natural history museum gives visitors an intimate glimpse into the wildlife and ecosystems that make the Lakes Region so unique. For an overnight stay, The Wolfeboro Inn is the town’s most beloved landmark. Built in 1812 and beautifully restored, the inn blends old-world character with modern comfort. Many of its 44 rooms and suites feature lake or mountain views, creating a peaceful retreat right on the water’s edge.

Dover

As New Hampshire’s oldest continuously settled community, and one of the oldest in the entire country, Dover carries centuries of history in its streets. Today, Dover is a growing hub filled with cafés, restaurants, breweries, and activities that appeal to visitors of all ages. It’s the kind of place where old meets new in the most natural way. One of Dover’s most cherished institutions is the Woodman Museum, founded in 1916. This classic early 20th-century museum houses an eclectic collection that spans everything from colonial artifacts and intricate mineral displays to mounted wildlife, fine art, antique furnishings, and military memorabilia.

For sweeping views, head to the Garrison Hill Tower, the town’s observatory perched atop one of Dover’s highest points. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Isles of Shoals and the distant outline of the White Mountains. Dover’s natural beauty shows up right downtown thanks to the Cochecho River, which winds its way through the heart of the city. Part of the historic Piscataqua watershed, the river drops more than 700 feet from its headwaters before joining the Salmon Falls River. It offers scenic views and peaceful spots to pause, watch the water, and take in Dover’s gentle blend of nature and urban life. For a comfortable stay in the middle of it all, the Downtown Dover Inn offers a welcoming retreat. Designed with both convenience and relaxation in mind, its rooms cater to business travelers, families, and casual explorers alike. Modern amenities, warm service, and a prime location near shops, restaurants, and top attractions make it an easy choice for anyone wanting to experience Dover’s best.

Portsmouth

Sitting at the mouth of the Piscataqua River, Portsmouth is one of New Hampshire’s most vibrant port towns, full of history, culture, and waterfront charm. History anchors much of Portsmouth’s appeal, and one of the best places to experience it is at the Strawbery Banke Museum. Spread across a neighborhood of preserved homes, some dating back to the city’s earliest days, this living-history museum brings the past to life through costumed interpreters and carefully restored buildings. Elegantly furnished mansions, such as the John Paul Jones House and the Langdon House, offer another glimpse into the lives of both notable Americans and the hardworking merchants who helped shape the city.

Prescott Park is a beautiful riverside space created thanks to the generosity of the Prescott sisters in the mid-20th century. Today, the park is renowned for its vibrant flowerbeds, expansive lawns, and the ever-popular Prescott Park Arts Festival, which enlivens summer evenings with outdoor theater and live music. Another essential experience in Portsmouth is exploring the city’s Black history through the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire. Their guided and self-guided tours illuminate the stories of African Americans who contributed to the state’s history, from early settlement through modern times. If you’re looking for a quiet place to unwind after a day of exploring, hop just across the river to Kittery, Maine, where the Water Street Inn offers a peaceful waterfront stay. Originally a historic home, it reopened in 2018 as a charming boutique inn blending old New England character with contemporary comfort.

Gorham

Tucked into the Androscoggin Valley and framed by the towering Presidential Range, Gorham is one of those New Hampshire towns that quietly surprises visitors. A great place to begin is the Gorham Historical Society & Railroad Museum, housed inside the beautifully preserved 1907 Grand Trunk Railway station. Train enthusiasts and history lovers alike will appreciate the vintage locomotives and cars on display, as well as the impressive Quinn-Crocket collection of steam-era artifacts.

Just outside Gorham, at the base of Mount Washington, stands The Glen House, a modern hotel with a long and storied lineage. This fifth iteration of the historic inn, reborn in 2018, combines timeless New England architecture with sleek, energy-efficient design. Golfers will find their own slice of paradise at the Androscoggin Valley Country Club, set within the scenic Great North Woods. This member-owned, publicly accessible course boasts beautifully maintained fairways and greens that challenge players while remaining enjoyable. Its location just off Route 2 makes it easy to pair a round of golf with nearby dining and lodging. Speaking of lodging, Top Notch Inn offers a convenient and stylish base for exploring the region. Newly renovated inside and out, the inn features modern décor and is situated just minutes from major attractions, including Santa’s Village, Story Land, and the renowned Mount Washington Auto Road. Adventure seekers will love its proximity to the extensive ATV trail network, which spans over 1,400 miles of interconnected routes.

Rochester

Nicknamed the Lilac City, Rochester sits in southeastern New Hampshire and often surprises first-time visitors. One of the city’s most treasured landmarks is the Rochester Opera House, a beautifully restored 1908 theater built inside City Hall. As a nonprofit performing arts venue, it hosts a full season of shows for audiences of all ages. What makes it truly one-of-a-kind is its extraordinary mechanical floor, the only remaining theater in the world where the orchestra level can tilt upward for amphitheater seating or flatten completely for dances and special events.

For outdoor fun, locals and visitors head to Hanson Pines, a sprawling recreational area tucked behind Spaulding High School. Here you’ll find an outdoor pool, playgrounds, picnic areas, a skateboard park, basketball courts, and a network of wooded walking trails.

If you’re staying overnight, the Independence Inn offers an intimate, historic escape. This colonial-era property features six charming guest rooms, including a cozy two-room suite perfect for families. Each room is designed with comfort in mind, featuring private bathrooms, soft bedding, and convenient amenities such as a mini fridge and coffee maker.

Rochester also has a playful side, especially for those who love disc golf. The city is home to several courses, including the Squamanagonic Disc Golf Course in Gonic and the Salmon Falls Disc Golf Course near Bernard Road. Whether you’re trying the sport for the first time or already hooked, these courses add a fun, active twist to a day in town.

New Hampshire’s lesser-known towns may not appear on every travel brochure, but that’s precisely what makes them so special. They offer a slower, richer kind of discovery, where historic streets, family-run cafes, scenic walking trails, and welcoming locals create moments that linger long after you leave. Whether you’re drawn to mountain towns wrapped in outdoor adventure, riverfront communities steeped in history, or lakeside villages full of timeless beauty, each of these underrated destinations proves that the Granite State’s charm goes far beyond its most famous spots. Explore them with curiosity, and you’ll uncover a New Hampshire that many visitors never get the chance to see.