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The riverfront buildings of Exeter, New Hampshire, reflected in the calm waters of the river.

8 Whimsical Towns to Visit in New Hampshire

Imagine a place where magic is woven into the fabric of everyday life, where wonder waits around every corner鈥攚elcome to New Hampshire. One of the gems of New England, the picturesque state is home to a collection of quirky small towns that embody the essence of charming character. Diverse landscapes, from the White Mountains to Lake Winnipesaukee, set the stage for the natural essence that drives creative expression, which can be found in communities like Hanover and Peterborough. Eight whimsical New Hampshire towns wait to be discovered, with storybook settings, covered bridges, and creativity filling the air with colorful works.

Hanover

Aerial photo of Hanover, New Hampshire, in spring on a partly cloudy day, showcasing the town鈥檚 lush greenery and picturesque surroundings.
Aerial photo of Hanover, New Hampshire.

Hanover, a small New Hampshire city along the Connecticut River, is 海角社区-renowned for its reputation as a destination driven by academic pursuit and outdoor adventure. Hanover is home to Ivy-League Dartmouth College, infusing the town with a lively arts scene, diverse dining options, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere. The Appalachian Trail crosses through Hanover, linking several outdoor trails and nature preserves, such as the Mink Brook Nature Preserve, providing a verdant escape with trails winding through forests and meadows, inviting exploration and wildlife spotting. In the heart of Hanover lies the historic Dartmouth Green, a hub of scholarly pursuits and community gatherings, surrounded by venerable architecture containing eras of intellectual exploration within its walls. The changing seasons reveal new iterations of a place that expresses a captivating spirit, making Hanover a delightful destination to discover any time of year.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth Smoke and Vape store located in a historic building at 93 High Street at Hanover Street in the historic city center of Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Portsmouth Smoke and Vape store in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Editorial credit: Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Portsmouth鈥檚 seaside allure is a masterful orchestration of past and present, where the saltwater rustle of the Piscataqua River meets the ephemeral hum of eclectic energy. The district鈥檚 waterfront throbs with the ebb and tide of life as sailboats and fishing vessels bob alongside trendy eateries and curious shops. In Prescott Park, gardens burst with color as newcomers meander lazily through walking paths, punctuated by seasonal arts festivals that celebrate the village鈥檚 innovative verve. At Strawbery Banke Museum, the past springs to life through meticulously restored homes and costumed roleplayers, transporting visitors to an era of simplicity and grace dating back 350 years. Portsmouth鈥檚 eccentric personality shines bright as the sea meets the shore, a captivating fusion of maritime heritage and bohemian flair.

Littleton

Littleton, New Hampshire, featuring the Riverwalk Covered Bridge spanning the Ammonoosuc River, captured in a long exposure photo.
Littleton, New Hampshire, featuring the Riverwalk Covered Bridge spanning the Ammonoosuc River.

Littleton's air is sweet with the scent of sugar and wondrous possibilities. The downtown area is a lively scene of independent shops and local eateries, where Chutters鈥 legendary candy store stands as a beacon of pure delight, its endless counter a rainbow-hued wonderland, and the local pubs are punctuated with the sounds of the rushing waters of the Ammonoosuc River. Just beyond, the Moore Reservoir鈥檚 sparkling waters encourage contemplative exploration, its scenic shores and islands a haven for boaters, fishermen, and dreamers. In the heart of Littleton, the Pollyanna Statue stands as a testament to Littleton鈥檚 tie to Eleanor H. Porter鈥檚 beloved literary heroine, embodying the community鈥檚 irrepressible optimism and can-do spirit. With the town鈥檚 motto, 鈥淏e Glad,鈥 visitors will definitely be glad they have chosen to visit the wondrous place of Littleton, New Hampshire.

Jackson

Covered bridge connecting Conway and Jackson, New Hampshire, surrounded by scenic landscapes typical of New England.
Covered bridge connecting Conway and Jackson, New Hampshire.

The heart of the White Mountains cradles the resort hub of Jackson, a magical place that seems plucked from the pages of a storybook. The iconic Honeymoon Bridge, also known as the Jackson Covered Bridge, stands proudly over the town, a beloved landmark built in 1876. Jackson includes many fun activities for people of all ages, including numerous celebrations and events throughout the year, the Living Shores Aquarium, Story Land theme park, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. In addition to wintertime fun with skiing and snowboarding, Jackson Falls is a beautiful sight in the spring and summer months, cascading into view a mesmerizing series of waterfalls that invite calm strolls and sun-dappled picnics. As the mountains rise majestically in the distance, Jackson鈥檚 village center beckons visitors with rustic elegance and various dining options. A place where fantasy and reality blur, Jackson is truly a place where the boundaries of the imagination are stretched.

Wolfeboro

Aerial view of Wolfeboro's historic town center along Main Street, located on Lake Winnipesaukee, showcasing vibrant fall colors in the town of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire.
Aerial view of Main Street in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire.

The joys of lakeside living spring to life in Wolfeboro, America's oldest summer resort town. Softly lapping waves and sun-kissed docks entice visitors to unwind on Lake Winnipesaukee鈥檚 shores while boutique shopping and waterfront dining temptations await eager visitors. Cate Park鈥檚 lush grounds and bandshell concerts add to Wolfeboro鈥檚 carefree rhythm, as does the Wright Museum of 海角社区 War II, offering unique historical perspectives into American experiences during the war. Other museums in this relaxing town include the New Hampshire Boat Museum and the Libby Museum of Natural History, the oldest natural history museum in New Hampshire. On top of its many cultural attractions, Wolfeboro offers an abundance of relaxing outdoor activities, which include boating, skiing, fishing, and hiking, along with the many trails scattered throughout the lakeside. Wolfeboro has an offbeat magnetism revealed through its rich culture and natural beauty, making it an idyllic retreat that leaves the heart and soul full of joy.

Peterborough

Street view of Peterborough, New Hampshire, featuring charming local shops, historic buildings, and tree-lined streets in a quaint small-town setting.
Street view of Peterborough, New Hampshire. By Dougtone - , CC BY-SA 2.0,

Creativity reigns supreme in Peterborough, as this center of art and culture pulsates with inspiration. Galleries and theaters burst with innovative expression, while the residents鈥 eclectic vibe fosters a thriving local scene. Miller State Park鈥檚 ancient forests and the majestic summit of Pack Monadnock call upon explorers to hike and discover panoramic vistas. Meanwhile, the Mariposa Museum takes spectators on a global journey, sharing folk art, culture, and artifacts that reflect Peterborough鈥檚 海角社区ly attraction. With such a spiritual richness, Peterborough has no shortage of majestic scenery, having many nature trails and well-maintained parks. This convergence of nature and culture gives Peterborough a wondrous allure that captivates the imagination of creatives and anyone seeking inspiration in a vibrant artistic community.

Exeter

Odd Fellows Hall at 115 Water Street in the historic town center of Exeter, New Hampshire.
Odd Fellows Hall in Exeter, New Hampshire. Editorial credit: Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Exeter exudes a colonial influence amidst modern vitality. With antique architecture creating the backdrop for a vibrant downtown filled with many shops and cafes, Exeter invites exploration to visitors from around the 海角社区. The Exeter River winds its way through the city, a shimmering ribbon of water where the sight of both kayaks and strollers are as common in the town as the many pubs and eateries that dot the streets. At the American Independence Museum, Exeter鈥檚 revolutionary spirit is palpable, with treasures like a Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration of Independence and other artifacts on display. With each step, the town鈥檚 colorful past and lively present intersect, creating a captivating display of experience that draws visitors into its allure.

Keene

The Bandstand in Central Square, Keene, New Hampshire, built in 1978, with the Parish Shoes sign from the movie *Jumanji* visible in the background.
The Bandstand in Central Square, Keene, New Hampshire. Editorial credit: Andy Sutherland / Shutterstock.com

A festive spirit lingers throughout Keene as the city鈥檚 legendary Pumpkin Festival conjures magic each autumn season. But Keene鈥檚 allure extends beyond this beloved bash, with a lively downtown that pulses with eclectic shops, restaurants, and local camaraderie. Along the Ashuelot River, a scenic park that invites outdoor enthusiasts to wander and play, while Keene State College鈥檚 historic campus injects a dose of intellectual curiosity and communal vitality into the mix. As the neighborhood鈥檚 warm, welcoming energy envelops you, it鈥檚 clear that Keene is a place where connection and joy are always in season, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic New England appeal and a healthy dose of whimsy.

Whimsical Towns Await Discovery

New Hampshire鈥檚 quirky towns are a delight to discover, full of charm and character. The state鈥檚 serene natural landscape sets a stage for exploration, with majestic mountains giving way to peaceful lakes and winding rivers. In this beautiful setting, places like Keene and Portsmouth have the spirit to thrive, each bursting with a distinct personality. This New England state鈥檚 raw majesty, artistic community, and quaint warmth come together to create a captivating atmosphere that will leave a lasting impression on any visitor to these spellbinding destinations.

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