From Mt. Washington’s rocky summit to wave-swept seacoast beaches, this small state consisting of 9,304 square miles (24,000 square kilometers) offers big scenic beauty and plenty of things to do. Outdoor exploring is a year-round pursuit in New Hampshire, whether you’re skiing the White Mountains, canoeing the Lakes Region, spotting free-roaming moose, or soaking up the sun in fun-loving Hampton Beach. In New Hampshire cities, colonial-era heritage abounds. History buffs make a beeline for Portsmouth; its well-preserved mansions, museums, and walkable historic district are among the region’s finest.
New Hampshire is a year-round destination, with weather that varies widely with the seasons. The summer months of June, July, and August bring sunny days and busy beaches, lakes, and hiking trails to match. Fall means cooler nights and bright leaves that peak in September or October. Ski season in the White Mountains’ ski areas generally lasts from mid-November through mid-April, though the most reliable snow arrives in January and February.
Public transit is limited, so you need a car to access most things to do in New Hampshire. Fortunately, the driving is gorgeous: The 34.5-mile (55.5-kilometer) Kancamagus Highway through the White Mountains is among America’s most scenic road trips. If you’re navigating more rural parts of the state, remember that many areas have limited cell service, so it’s a good idea to download directions or carry paper maps.
If you can’t drive or prefer public transit, the state does have 12 local bus systems. And many residents, especially those in the southeastern corner of the state, commute to Boston. New Hampshire cities are easily accessible via interstate buses, so you can arrive by bus from major cities like Boston, New York City, and Philadelphia. Amtrak also has two rail lines that run through New Hampshire. The Downeaster runs through the eastern part of the state. The Vermonter runs through the middle of the state.
Driving the winding Mt. Washington Auto Road to the top of Mt. Washington is a New England rite of passage, but it’s not the only option. Two major hiking trails—the Jewell Trail and Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail—also climb the 6,288-foot (1,917-meter) summit. Or, book a ticket on the Mount Washington Cog Railway, which opened in 1868 and whose biodiesel locomotives run year-round (although winter trains don’t go all the way to the top).
Also, don’t be surprised if you hear French being spoken. New Hampshire state is home to a relatively large population of French-Canadians, most of whom are descendants of the workers who arrived from Quebec and New Brunswick in the 19th century. Finally, New Hampshire is one of few states that does not have a sales tax, so take advantage of the opportunities to get souvenirs for yourself or the folks back home. Most museums and attractions have gift shops, and all of the small towns—especially in the ski resort areas—have boutiques.
