The Architecture Lover’s Guide to New Hampshire
In Portsmouth, just a short drive east of Manchester, architecture enthusiasts find a charming blend of colonial and Federal-style buildings that trace the city’s rich maritime history. Wandering through the Strawbery Banke Museum, an open-air history museum nestled along the Piscataqua River, visitors can step inside restored homes dating back to the 17th century. The museum’s well-preserved structures, including a classic 1710 saltbox and a Georgian-style mansion, offer a tangible glimpse into early New England life. Visiting in spring or early fall adds to the experience when the gardens bloom and the softer light accentuates the weathered wood and delicate trim of these historic homes.
Heading north to the state capital of Concord, the New Hampshire State House stands out as one of the oldest state capitols in the nation still in regular legislative use. About an hour’s drive north from Manchester, this Greek Revival building, completed in 1819, impresses with its gleaming gold dome and stately columns. Inside, the ornate chambers feature intricate woodwork and historic portraits, presenting a refined yet accessible example of civic architecture. The setting is particularly striking during winter when snow blankets the surrounding parks, turning the State House into a serene, photo-worthy scene.
In the heart of the Lakes Region, Meredith offers a different architectural appeal about 45 minutes northwest of Concord. The town’s downtown waterfront area is renowned for its charming mix of Victorian-era cottages and summer homes, many lining the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. Strolling along the lakefront promenade, visitors can admire the detailed gingerbread trim and colorful shingles that distinguish these historic vacation homes. A summer visit captures the lively boating culture and bright blue lake reflections, while the fall foliage season adds a fiery backdrop that turns the lakeside into a postcard-perfect setting.
Venturing west toward the White Mountains, the Mount Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods, roughly 90 minutes north of Concord, is an architectural masterpiece of the grand resort era. Opened in 1902, this grand hotel showcases a blend of Victorian and Colonial Revival styles, characterized by its immense porch, elaborate woodwork, and panoramic mountain views. Inside, the décor reflects early 20th-century elegance with period furnishings and intricate moldings. Autumn is the best time to savor the hotel’s sweeping views, when crisp air and a tapestry of reds and golds stretch across the surrounding peaks.
Further west near Keene, the Cheshire County Courthouse offers a fascinating glimpse into Greek Revival civic architecture. About two hours southwest of Concord, this courthouse commands attention with its imposing white columns and pedimented façade. Built in the mid-19th century, the structure remains an active judicial building, blending historical charm with ongoing civic function. Visiting during the warm months allows for comfortable exploration of the surrounding district, where quaint townhouses and period public buildings enhance the historic ambiance.
In Peterborough, about 70 miles southwest of Manchester, the MacDowell Colony’s historic buildings embody rustic charm combined with artistic heritage. The colony’s early 20th-century lodges and studios, set within a peaceful woodland area, reflect Shingle Style architecture infused with creative ingenuity. Visitors can appreciate the simplicity and natural materials that inspired generations of artists, poets, and composers who retreated here. Spring and summer visits highlight blooming gardens and the tranquil forest setting, ideal for soaking in the artistry of space and structure.
On the Seacoast near Dover, the Woodman Institute Museum provides a well-curated look at local history through architecture and artifacts. The museum complex includes a Federal-style mansion and a Victorian carriage house, offering a layered narrative of regional development from the 18th to 19th centuries. Exhibits focus on the intersection of natural history and human craftsmanship, with architectural details like intricate moldings and period wood trims on full display. Late afternoon light filters beautifully through the tall windows, making this a peaceful spot for reflective exploration after a day of coastal sightseeing.
Finally, those looking to experience New Hampshire’s vernacular architecture can find a treasure trove along the Kancamagus Highway, a scenic byway running east-west through the White Mountains about 90 minutes north of Concord. While primarily known for its natural beauty, the route also features historic covered bridges like the Albany Covered Bridge, showcasing practical and picturesque 19th-century engineering. Exploring the highway in early fall, when the foliage reaches peak colors, not only offers breathtaking landscapes but also highlights the enduring craftsmanship of these wooden structures amidst a fiery, natural backdrop.