New Hampshire, known as the “Granite State,” is a charming and picturesque destination in the northeastern United States. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and quaint New England towns, New Hampshire attracts visitors year-round.
One of the state’s most iconic features is the White Mountains region, home to majestic peaks, pristine forests, and an extensive network of hiking trails. Visitors can explore popular attractions like Franconia Notch State Park, Crawford Notch State Park, and the scenic Kancamagus Highway, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to its natural splendor, New Hampshire boasts historic towns and villages with charming main streets lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Places like Portsmouth, Concord, and Hanover offer a glimpse into New Hampshire’s rich history and vibrant cultural scene.
The Same
The Family has spent more time in New Hampshire since they still live in the northeast but the DINKS have visited a few times and so there is some overlap in their experiences. Both always indulge in local cuisine and drove the NH Coastal Byway.
The New Hampshire Coastal Byway
The New Hampshire Coastal Byway offers a scenic journey along the state’s stunning coastline, featuring charming towns, beautiful beaches, and picturesque parks. We lvoed this scene drive; stopping along the way to walk our dog on the beaches and take in all the scenery.
- Seabrook Beach: Situated along the shores of Seabrook, New Hampshire, Seabrook Beach is known for its pristine sandy shores and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the refreshing waters, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
- Hampton Beach: Hampton Beach is a popular beach resort town known for its lively atmosphere and bustling boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and browsing the shops and restaurants along the waterfront.
- Odiorne Point State Park: Located in Rye, New Hampshire, Odiorne Point State Park offers stunning views of the rocky coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and a scenic overlook where visitors can spot local wildlife and enjoy panoramic vistas of the ocean.
Local Cuisine
Of course we always try to eat local so there is always overlap when it comes to that. New Hampshire is known for a variety of delicious foods that reflect its rich culinary heritage and local ingredients. To us it seems like they have picked up a few things from neighboring states but hey we enjoyed it in New Hampshire.
- Maple Syrup: New Hampshire is renowned for its high-quality maple syrup, produced from the sap of sugar maple trees. It’s a staple in many local dishes and often used as a sweetener in desserts and breakfast foods.
- Apple Cider and Apple Products: The state’s apple orchards produce fresh apple cider, cider donuts, and various apple-based treats, especially popular during the fall season.
- Seafood: Being part of New England, New Hampshire boasts excellent seafood, including lobster, clams, and especially the iconic New England clam chowder.
- Venison and Game Meats: With a strong tradition of hunting, venison and other game meats are commonly enjoyed, particularly in rural areas.
- Dairy Products: New Hampshire’s local dairies produce excellent cheeses, ice creams, and other dairy products, with many small farms offering unique artisanal varieties.
- Blueberries: Wild blueberries are abundant in New Hampshire and are often used in baking, especially in blueberry pies and muffins.
- Whoopie Pies: While their origin is contested across New England, whoopie pies are beloved in New Hampshire, featuring two chocolate cake-like cookies with a creamy filling.
- Poutine: A nod to its proximity to Canada, poutine has become a popular dish in New Hampshire. This comforting dish consists of fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. (Pictured is Pourtine from Chez Vachon in Manchester, NH.)
The DINKs
We chose to stay in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, nestled along the Piscataqua River, offers a charming blend of historic architecture, cultural attractions, scenic landscapes, and culinary delights.
Portsmouth
Historic Downtown: Explore Portsmouth’s historic downtown area, characterized by cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and centuries-old architecture. Visit Market Square, lined with shops, cafes, and galleries, and stroll along Bow Street to admire the well-preserved colonial buildings.
Portsmouth Brewery – The pub-style setting features cozy seating areas, friendly staff, and a laid-back vibe that encourages relaxation and conversation. It was beautiful out so we chose to sit outside and enjoyed a few beers and some delicious mussels.
The River House is a popular waterfront restaurant known for its stunning views of the Piscataqua River and its diverse menu of New England-inspired cuisine. We stopped by after dinner and enjoyed some drinks with the amazing view.
Popovers on the Square is a beloved café and bakery located in the heart of Portsmouth, NH. Known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and delicious baked goods, this spot is famous for its signature popovers – light, airy, and perfectly baked. We didn’t have a ton of time in Portsmouth but we made sure to pick up a couple of these for breakfast before heading out.
Manchester
When heading back from Maine, we passed through NH again. This time we made sure to stop by Chez Vachon in Manchester. It is a well-loved spot for those seeking authentic and delicious poutine. The restaurant is known for its hearty portions and comforting, home-cooked flavors.
The Family
Two places we visited in New Hampshire that we really enjoyed are Hampton Beach and the White Mountains.
Hampton Beach
Hampton Beach, located in Hampton, New Hampshire, is a popular seaside destination known for its beautiful sandy shores and lively atmosphere.
- Sandy Beach: Hampton Beach boasts a wide stretch of sandy shoreline, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The beach is well-maintained and offers designated swimming areas patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months. We loved that the water stayed shallow further out as we had young kids at the time. I am sure that changed daily though.
- Boardwalk: The bustling boardwalk that lines the beach is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy an ice cream cone, or browse for souvenirs at the various stores.
- Seafood Dining: As a coastal town, Hampton Beach is renowned for its fresh seafood. Visitors can dine at seafood restaurants along the boardwalk or enjoy a classic New England lobster roll while taking in views of the ocean.
For more information on the Family’s trip to Hampton Beach as well as other affordable beaches in the Northeast, check out the AffordableFamilyTravel.com blog.
White Mountains
The White Mountains of New Hampshire offer a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its rugged terrain, dense forests, and picturesque peaks, this region is a paradise for hikers, skiers, and adventurers seeking solace in the wilderness. From the iconic Franconia Notch State Park to the breathtaking vistas along the Kancamagus Highway, the White Mountains boast an array of natural wonders waiting to be explored. Visitors can embark on challenging hikes to summit majestic peaks like Mount Washington or opt for leisurely strolls along tranquil trails that wind through pristine forests and alongside cascading waterfalls.
- Crawford Notch State Park – Crawford Notch State Park is renowned for the Mt. Washington Auto Road, a historic route that winds its way up to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern United States. The road provides access to unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a must-visit destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Unfortunately, adverse weather conditions limited our ascent halfway, but we embraced the setback and pressed forward to the Moat Mountain Mineral Site.
- The Basin Cascade Trail is a scenic and moderately challenging hike that offers beautiful views of waterfalls and cascades along the way. Starting at the Basin, a natural rock formation with a deep pool, the trail follows the Cascade Brook and passes by several picturesque waterfalls, including Kinsman Falls and Rocky Glen Falls. This trail is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the White Mountains, with opportunities for photography, picnicking, and enjoying the tranquil sounds of flowing water. The hike is suitable for families and offers a refreshing outdoor adventure in New Hampshire’s rugged landscape.
- At the Moat Mountain Mineral Site, visitors can explore a designated area where various minerals and gemstones can be found embedded within the rocks. With hammers, chisels, and other tools in hand, rockhounds of all ages can sift through the earth and uncover treasures hidden beneath the surface. The site is particularly renowned for its abundance of feldspar crystals, which come in a variety of colors and shapes. Additionally, visitors may discover other minerals such as quartz, mica, and beryl, adding to the excitement of the treasure hunt.
- Scenic drive along Kancamagus Highway – offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. Along the way, we stumbled upon several charming covered bridges, unexpected delights that added an extra layer of charm to our unforgettable journey through the White Mountains.
To Learn more about how The Family made their trip to White Mountains affordable check out AffordableFamilyTravel.com.
Summary
In exploring New Hampshire, both the DINKs and the Family found themselves enchanted by the state’s natural beauty and rich culinary offerings. Traveling along the scenic New Hampshire Coastal Byway, they savored local cuisine that embodies the region’s flavors and traditions. The DINKs immersed themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Portsmouth, discovering its historic charm and culinary delights. Meanwhile, the Family experienced a diverse range of landscapes, from the bustling beaches of Hampton Beach to the serene peaks of the White Mountains. Each journey offered unique perspectives, highlighting New Hampshire’s versatility as a destination that caters to both coastal explorations and mountain adventures.
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