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When it comes to relaxation destinations, the state of New Hampshire is hard to beat. A part of the New England region of the northeast United States, the "Granite State," so-called for the abundant rock in the area's soil, has helped define local American traditions and the forms of leisure that go with them. From the state's central Lakes Region, which is ever-popular in summer, to the White Mountains that attract skiers all winter long, New Hampshire's diverse attractions have long offered the chance to relax in beautiful, natural, and history-rich surroundings.

Wolfeboro

Wolfeboro is, for many, the best of New Hampshire's charming lakeside villages. Set on the eastern shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, the town offers an all-American Main Street like something out of an old movie. Travelers and fun-seekers can pull up a chair at any one of Wolfeboro's downtown clutch of cafes and restaurant patios. Others might enjoy a turn on the water, especially aboard the Mount Washington — Winnepesaukee's largest boat.

History lovers should stop in at the Wright Museum, which focuses on º£½ÇÉçÇø War II and features artifacts from local veterans. For a relaxing treat, the Yum Yum Shop has sold baked goods and sugared treats here since 1948.

Seabrook

Seabrook sits in New Hampshire's southeast corner, along the state's short but dynamic Atlantic Sea coast. A surprising surf scene has emerged here in recent years, and wave riders and spectators can take in the spectacle from the town's sandy beaches. For a jaunt through nature, visitors can check out Seabrook Black Dunes or Harborside Dunes, both featuring natural sand formations.

Seabrook offers a variety of food options. The hungry visitor can sample the all-American fare at Master McGrath's Restaurant or choose from local seafood, like the menus of Markey's Lobster Pound or Castaways Seafood & Grille. The town has an Amtrak station, making car-less visiting a possibility.

Rye

The seaside town of Rye has a modest population of 5,600 and offers both travelers and residents another look at New Hampshire's Atlantic coast, this time from the most northerly beaches in the state. As a residential location, the town stays pretty quiet, which may be part of its appeal for those seeking relaxation.

Rye Harbor is a natural gathering place for visitors who enjoy the natural sciences and local wildlife, as suggested by the town's Seacoast Science Center, an interactive museum for students and families. Rye Harbor State Park makes the New Hampshire coast accessible to everyone. For a little action and a kid-pleasing time out, the Rye Airfield, a skatepark, makes a great place to catch some air or watch the daredevils from the safety of the sidelines.

Meredith

Another Lake Winnipesaukee town, the town of Meredith, blooms in summer when diners arrive by car and boat to sample the place's numerous high-quality restaurants. Try Lago for a classy evening with Italian food or the Lakehouse Grille for lobster, steak, and other delicacies in a waterside setting.

Culture buffs can browse their way to the Innisfree Bookshop, while more active types will pass through the own known as the "gateway to the White Mountains" on their way to skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and other outdoor fun. Aficionados of old-time train travel can sign up for a ride on the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, also available here.

Harrisville

For a combination of culture and the outdoors, the tiny town of Harrisville, with fewer than 1,000 people, makes for a worthwhile destination that most visitors miss. The local heritage society, Historic Harrisville, has since 1971 celebrated the town's uncommon architecture, which has inspired the moniker "Red Brick Village" after the crimson building blocks that seem to be everywhere.

Families looking for outdoor options can take in the town's hiking and walking trails or opt for Sunset Beach, which lies along Harrisville Pond at the north end of town. Bed and Breakfasts like the Harrisville Inn invite travelers seeking to arrive, unwind, and see a New Hampshire town that too few know.

Pittsburg

The map-dot town of Pittsburg, unlike the Pennsylvania city of the same name, is a quiet destination with a front seat to New Hampshire's natural splendor. Lake Francis State Park puts green surroundings within reach of this northern destination, while Back Lake and First Connecticut Lake also lie within an easy drive.

The Bacon Road Bridge warrants a detour, given its status as a fine example of the local architecture of covered bridges. Much of the town's activity happens in summertime and centers on seasonal cabins, summer camps, and other visitors seeking relaxation. Beyond Pittsburg, international travel awaits: the Canadian border is just a few miles north of town.

Lincoln

The north-central town of Lincoln sits along the I-95 highway, making access easy. Nature lovers will appreciate Lincoln's proximity to a wide variety of outdoor choices, like Franconia Notch State Park or Flume Gorge, which has dramatic walkways built along stone cliff faces.

Loon Mountain Resort, just east of town, is a popular ski spot in colder weather. As in Rye, skaters can find their bliss at the Lin-Wood Skate Park on Lincoln's northwest. For some affordable lunch, the Gypsy Cafe serves reasonably priced meals — and a side amazing mountain scenery for no charge at all.

New Hampshire's Smallest Towns Are Often Its Most Relaxing

As these small towns suggest, New Hampshire's modest-sized places more than make up for their size with natural, historical, and cultural richness. Wolfeboro's lakeside beauty draws visitors and pleasure-seekers each summer. Atlantic coastal towns like Seabrook and Rye offer something salty and quiet for a New England seaside escape. Harrisville's red brick buildings and abundant preservation efforts keep the place ready to satisfy tourists year-round. And mountain villages, such as Pittsburg and Lincoln, combine fresh air, lovely lakes, and a refreshing sense of disconnection. No matter what kind of relaxation a traveler is seeking, New Hampshire can deliver it, from its White Mountains to its Atlantic sea beaches.