The 10 Most Beautiful Cities in New Hampshire
Nestled on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, Meredith is a quintessential New England town about 45 minutes north of Concord. Walk along the lively Lakeside Path, a scenic boardwalk that offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding mountains. In summer, the town bustles with boating and outdoor festivals, while fall brings a vibrant palette of foliage reflected on the lake’s surface. Meredith’s charming downtown is dotted with historic inns and local shops, making it an inviting base to explore the lake region’s natural beauty and quaint small-town charm.
Portsmouth, located on the Atlantic coast just under an hour’s drive east of Manchester, blends maritime history with bustling urban culture. Stroll through Prescott Park, where manicured gardens overlook the Piscataqua River, or explore the Strawbery Banke Museum, a living history village showcasing centuries of colonial and seafaring life. The city’s brick-lined streets lead to an array of galleries, cafes, and seafood spots that capture the essence of New England’s coastal heritage. Visiting in late spring or summer offers the best chance to enjoy waterfront concerts and harbor cruises.
Farther north, Hanover lies about 20 minutes west of Lebanon and serves as a vibrant college town anchored by Dartmouth College. The Hopkins Center for the Arts presents world-class performances and exhibitions, but the town’s real treasure is the nearby Mink Brook Nature Preserve. This network of gentle trails provides easy hiking through forest and meadow, perfect for a reflective walk amid New Hampshire’s rural landscape. Autumn here is particularly striking, as the countryside transforms with bursts of gold and crimson against the backdrop of the Connecticut River valley.
In the White Mountains region, North Conway sits roughly 60 miles north of Concord and acts as a gateway to endless outdoor adventures. The town’s charming Main Street is a hub for shopping and dining, but the real draw is the nearby Mount Washington Auto Road. Driving or biking up this historic toll road offers unparalleled panoramic views from the summit of the Northeast’s tallest peak, standing at 6,288 feet. For a gentler hike, try the Diana’s Baths trail, a short loop featuring cascading waterfalls and swimming holes that are especially refreshing in summer.
To the west, Keene is a vibrant city within a two-hour drive southwest of Concord, known for its thriving arts scene and historic architecture. The Colonial Theatre hosts classic and contemporary performances in a beautifully restored 1915 venue. Nearby, Pisgah State Park offers extensive trails through one of the largest wilderness areas in southern New Hampshire. The park’s rugged terrain and peaceful ponds provide a serene retreat during the quieter winter months, when snowshoeing reveals a different side of Keene’s natural surroundings.
Closer to the Massachusetts border, Peterborough lies about 30 miles west of Concord and has long attracted artists and writers. The town’s MacDowell Colony offers residencies to creative talents, and visitors can explore its nearby Shaker Village Historic District. This well-preserved site showcases the unique architecture and communal history of the Shaker religious community. Spring and early summer highlight the lush gardens and blooming meadows that surround the village, making it a peaceful spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
In the Lakes Region, Wolfeboro is positioned on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, approximately 50 minutes northeast of Concord. Known as “The Oldest Summer Resort in America,” Wolfeboro charms with its historic downtown and waterfront park. The Lakeside Trail provides a gentle walk along the shoreline, connecting beaches and marinas with views of sailboats and islands. Early autumn is ideal here, when crisp air and colorful leaves create a postcard-perfect scene that perfectly captures New England’s seasonal magic.
On the southern coast, Rye is a small oceanfront town about 15 minutes east of Portsmouth. The Rye Harbor State Park offers rocky beaches and tidal pools, making it a favorite for family outings and nature photography. The Seacoast Science Center provides interactive exhibits on the marine environment and local wildlife. Visitors in late spring or early summer can catch the return of migrating shorebirds, adding to the area’s appeal for birdwatchers and beachgoers seeking a quieter alternative to busier resort towns.
Further inland, Littleton lies around an hour north of Concord, nestled along the Connecticut River and shadowed by the White Mountains. The town’s historic district features charming Victorian homes and specialty shops, but the nearby Franconia Notch State Park steals the show. The Flume Gorge, a natural granite canyon about three miles east of Littleton, offers a 2-mile family-friendly loop trail through waterfalls and glacial potholes. Visiting in late summer allows travelers to experience lush greenery before the arrival of the vibrant fall colors that cascade over the mountainsides.
Lastly, Concord, the state capital located roughly in the center of New Hampshire, deserves mention for its blend of civic history and green spaces. The New Hampshire State House stands as the oldest state capitol in continuous use, surrounded by statues and gardens perfect for a reflective stroll. Nearby, the Merrimack River Greenway Trail offers several miles of walking and biking paths along the river’s edge. Springtime reveals blossoming trees and lively outdoor markets, making Concord a welcoming hub where history and nature intersect beautifully.