Category: Hampshire Top List USA
Source: https://top-list.co/top-best-small-towns-in-new-hampshire-v1811.html
Hanover
Hanover, New Hampshire is the epitome of a diamond in the rough. Hanover is a rural town located along the Connecticut River, which forms the picturesque border between New Hampshire and Vermont. It is surrounded by beautiful villages, mountains, rivers, and lakes. Hanover, located in the region of New Hampshire and Vermont known as “The Upper Valley”, is the cultural center of a large region. Though its downtown and population are relatively small, with a total population of around 11,000 people, the town has grown and thrived thanks to its main resident: Dartmouth College.
Founded in 1761, the town began as an agricultural community before transitioning and growing as Dartmouth grew in prominence. Today, the distinction between the town and the college is clear, as Wheelock Street almost perfectly separates the two entities, with Dartmouth to the north and Hanover to the south. Despite being geographically separated, with a few overlaps, the relationship between the college and the town is long and important, as neither would be possible without the other. In general, Hanover exists and thrives as a result of Dartmouth and the advantages that an elite educational institution provides.
Apart from the college, Main Street is perhaps the most notable feature of Hanover. Downtown Hanover, with its wide range of shops and restaurants, represents a landscape dominated by consumption. A visit to Lou’s Bakery and Restaurant at 30 Main St reveals the town’s, college’s, and people’s relationships. Inside, the walls are covered with old photographs from the mid-nineteenth century of locals and, presumably, college students. There are numerous entertainment and activity venues available, including shopping, theaters, parks, ski resorts, live college sports games, and museums.
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Portsmouth
Portsmouth, founded in the early 1600s, may be America’s greatest small town. The port town on the Piscataqua River was built solely for the king’s commerce. Workers on the wharves built British ships, which were later used against the colonies during the Revolutionary War. It has never grown to the size of Boston or even Portland, Maine, to the north. Still, there’s lobster and sand, history and theater, the best restaurants in New Hampshire, and plenty of beer. And as you walk through its lively cobbled center, it’s difficult to believe that only 21,000 people live there.
Portsmouth is a wonderful city but knowing that it is also the most walkable in New Hampshire makes it even more appealing. The city is lovely, situated right on the Piscataqua River. It’s also the state’s second most park-dense town, which makes it ideal for exploring. Residents walk to and from work at all times of year, which contributes to the city’s ranking as the most walkable in the state. If you visit during the summer, you can take a stroll through the Portsmouth Farmers’ Market. For a fun way to spend some time in town, go to the Portsmouth Book and Bar. There’s also a lot of history here. The New Hampshire Black Heritage Trail is an excellent way to learn about the state’s true history. The Strawbery Banke Museum also provides background information.
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Exeter
Exeter, New Hampshire is a charming New Hampshire town to visit during the fall season. When you visit this lovely town, it’s as if you’ve stepped right onto a Hallmark movie set. The brick buildings, charming churches, and brightly colored leaves strewn about the trees will have you fantasizing about pumpkin pies and warm sweaters. If you’re looking for a great place to go leaf peeping this fall, head to Exeter, New Hampshire. The entire town appears to be set in a charming fall film. This autumn wonderland is a must-see, with brightly colored trees dotting the streets and beautiful brick buildings covered in reddening ivy. Exeter’s downtown is directly on the Exeter River.
Before the mills were renovated into beautiful apartments, Exeter was a mill town for centuries. Rowing, kayaking, and other activities are available on the river. There are paths throughout town that allow you to explore this lovely area. The Exeter River Trail allows you to walk along the river. This breathtaking 2.1 mile trail even includes a waterfall! There’s so much natural beauty to be found in the area. Downtown is very walkable and full of charming small shops. You’ll walk by brick buildings that house cafes and restaurants, galleries, small retail stores, and even a chocolate shop. There is a lot to see and do in the vibrant downtown area. Phillips Exeter Academy, Exeter’s university preparatory academy, is well-known.
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Durham
Durham, located along Great Bay at the mouth of the Oyster River, is home to the University of New Hampshire. The Durham census-designated place, which includes the densely populated portion of the town centered on the intersection of New Hampshire Route 108 and Main Street and includes the university that dominates the town, is defined by the US Census Bureau as the primary settlement in the town, where 11,147 people resided at the 2020 census. Durham, formerly known as Oyster River Plantation, grew from a small village of pioneers in the 1600s to a thriving town on the New Hampshire Seacoast. Durham, brimming with academic and cultural riches, takes pride in its history and tradition as a university town. Durham has a plethora of fascinating historical landmarks, including the Whittemore House, a historic home once occupied by the university’s founder, and the New Hampshire Historical Society Museum, which expertly displays the state’s cultural heritage.
With its colonial-style architecture, quaint shops, and lovely parks, the town’s downtown area creates a picturesque atmosphere ideal for a leisurely stroll. The town’s perplexing blend of natural beauty and recreational activities will captivate outdoor enthusiasts. Durham offers a plethora of options, from the tranquil forests and rolling hills of the nearby White Mountains to the pristine beaches and stunning coastline of the New Hampshire seacoast, whether one is looking for a challenging mountain climb or a leisurely hike.
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Keene
Keene, in Cheshire County, provides a wide range of activities for people of all ages and interests. The town dates back to 1735, when Colonial Governor Jonathan Belcher granted 63 different settlers land in the area. Over the years, the town has become a popular weekend getaway for people looking for a lovely place to settle down as well as have fun. Aside from being a lovely place to stroll, there is a lot to do and see! Make a point of visiting The First Church, which was built in 1786 before being relocated and renovated in the nineteenth century. It’s now on the National Register of Historic Places, where it was added in 1982, and it’s a great place for photos.
Keene was also once home to the country’s largest Jack O’ Lantern festival. Even though the event is no longer held, there is still a wonderful Halloween and autumn spirit here. Check out the Cheshire Rail Trail if you’re looking for ways to enjoy the outdoors in Keene. The 20-mile trail can be enjoyed all year. You can start or end your section of the trail in Keene, but make sure to leave time for a meal! Especially if it includes a meal at The Pub! This is Keene’s oldest family restaurant, and their years of experience shine through in every dish.
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Sugar Hill
Sugar Hill, in Grafton County, is a charming small town that overlooks the White Mountain National Forest. While its origins date back much further, it was incorporated as a town in 1962, making it the most recent town in New Hampshire to be separated from another. This tiny village is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. And, because there are only about 500 people who live here, you won’t have to worry about crowds, especially during the off season. Sugar Hill is known as New Hampshire’s best kept secret. Locals, on the other hand, are well aware of its allure. The following is a list of things to do in your spare time. What is it now? Sugar Hill was a fashionable Victorian resort town that drew artists, wealthy businessmen, and their families from other New England cities in the nineteenth century.
Nowadays, there are plenty of small-town amenities here, such as enticing little mom and pop shops. Harman’s Cheese & Country Store sells the natural, premium grade white cheddar made in New York that helped put this location on the map. For good reason, Polly’a Pancake Parlor is the most popular restaurant in the area. Polly’s famous pancakes, made from scratch and always topped with fresh New Hampshire maple syrup, draw visitors from all over New England. Breakfast (or brunch) at Polly’s Pancakes is unlike any other.
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Hancock
As one of the original 13 colonies, New Hampshire is steeped in history, and there are numerous towns in the Granite State that have played significant roles in shaping the United States as people know it today. Hancock has a population of just under 1,700 people, but its history is extensive. It is named after John Hancock, a local landowner who went on to become a member of the Constitutional Congress, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and Massachusetts’ first governor.
The history of the Revolutionary War does not end there! The historic meetinghouse in town houses a bell made by Paul Revere himself. Its hourly charms remind residents every day of their town’s incredible history. Some of the most beautiful homes you’ve ever seen can be found in the downtown Hancock Village Historic District, and many of them are also on the National Register of Historic Places. Walking past these houses, you can’t help but wonder about the lives of the generations of New Hampshire residents who lived in them. The town is not only rich in history; it is also stunning in its natural setting.
Hancock’s border with Greenfield, in fact, is marked by one of the most beautiful covered bridges in the Granite State. Of course, no day trip is complete without a delicious meal! You’re in luck if you’re visiting Hancock. The Hancock Inn, the Granite State’s oldest inn and tavern, is located in town. If you eat at the tavern, you’ll understand why it’s lasted so long – the food is fantastic! 
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Franconia
Franconia, New Hampshire, is a small town in the White Mountains. The northern half of Franconia Notch State Park is located in Franconia. In Franconia Notch, you can ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway to see the surrounding mountains, see where the Old Man of the Mountain once stood, and visit the Flume Gorge, which has rocky walls and an 800-foot gorge. Franconia also has a plethora of recreational opportunities. Hike to Bridal Veil Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in the White Mountains. During the summer, take advantage of Echo Lake by renting a canoe or paddleboat or simply relaxing on the sandy beach with a view of the mountains.
Discover all that nature has to offer with towering trees, flowing water, and the sound of wildlife by taking the path less traveled through Franconia Notch State Park. The rich history of The Frost Place, poet Robert Frost’s former home, and the New England Ski Museum provide excellent learning opportunities for people of all ages. The New England Ski Museum displays a timeline of skiing’s development as well as the five Olympic medals won by local native and US Ski Team member Bode Miller. This small town has so much historical significance that you won’t want to miss it!
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Littleton
New Hampshire’s small towns are as charming as they come. The term “celebration” refers to the act of bringing together a group of people to celebrate a special occasion. Littleton is the Platonic ideal of a small New Hampshire town. This weekend itinerary for exploring charming Littleton, New Hampshire has been put together by us. Littleton is a small town in New Hampshire that you won’t want to leave, whether you’re strolling down its Hallmark movie-level Main Street or hiking scenic trails in the White Mountains. Littleton, located in Northern New Hampshire, is overshadowed by its more well-known neighbors, such as Franconia, but this charming New Hampshire town is a true hidden gem.
Thayers Inn is the place to stay in Littleton. Thayers Inn is a historic landmark hotel that combines modern conveniences and comforts with old-world charm. It’s in the heart of Downtown Littleton, just a short walk from the town’s must-see attractions. Dress up and head to The Beal House Inn, which is located in the heart of Downtown Littleton. The Beal House Inn is a traditional New England restaurant and inn that serves traditional American tavern fare. Clam chowder is a must-have when visiting New England. The following morning, grab a coffee from The InkWell Coffee & Teahouse and walk down Littleton’s Main Street. The downtown area of Littleton is classic New England.
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North Conway
North Conway is one of New Hampshire’s walkable communities, and it’s always buzzing with things to do and see. Because of its abundance of outdoor activities, dining, and shopping, this all-season town attracts visitors from all over. The main thoroughfare through town is New Hampshire Route 16, also known as the White Mountain Highway. Here are a few highlights that you can see on foot along this road. Breakfast at Peach’s Restaurant is a great way to start the day. Peach’s Restaurant is the ideal place to start the day. For a delicious breakfast, try their crepes, breakfast burritos, omelettes, or pancakes.
White Birch Books is a great place to look for new reading material. Zeb’s General Store continues to embody that spirit and nostalgia. There are over 5,000 items available here, and the old-fashioned candy counter is not to be missed. The Met has long been a popular downtown destination in North Conway for both locals and visitors. Stop in for a latte, lunch, or one of their delectable desserts. The cafe also has artwork by local artists on display. The Naked Bohemian sells one-of-a-kind gifts and art. You’ll most likely be drawn right into The Naked Bohemian from the sidewalk. This one-of-a-kind boutique sells gifts and artistic pieces that will add a creative flair to any space.
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