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About New Hampshire
New Hampshire sits in the heart of New England, bordering Vermont to the west, Maine and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Massachusetts to the south, and Quebec, Canada to the north. Its geography divides into distinct regions: the seacoast (18 miles of Atlantic shoreline), the Merrimack Valley (home to the largest cities), the Lakes Region, the White Mountains, the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee region, the Monadnock region, and the Great North Woods. The state capital is Concord, but Manchester is the largest city and economic hub. Outdoor recreation — hiking, skiing, kayaking, and foliage touring — drives much of the tourism economy.
- Capital
- Concord
- Largest city
- Manchester
- Population
- 1,395,231
- Languages
- English
- Currency
- US Dollar (USD)
- Time zone
- Eastern Time (UTC-5 / UTC-4 DST)
Explore New Hampshire by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in New Hampshire
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Franconia Notch State Park
Lake Winnipesaukee
Portsmouth Historic District
Kancamagus Highway
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day New Hampshire Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in New Hampshire, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic New Hampshire
- Days 1-2New Hampshire city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate New Hampshire
- Days 1-3New Hampshire comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to New Hampshire, departure
Where to stay in New Hampshire
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $70–$155
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $185–$380
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $490–$1430
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Omni Mount Washington Resort
Check rates on Booking.comWentworth by the Sea, A Marriott Hotel & Spa
Check rates on Booking.comMountain View Grand Resort & Spa
Check rates on Booking.comBedford Village Inn
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in New Hampshire
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Black Trumpet Bistro
Row 34
Jumpin' Jay's Fish Cafe
Cotton Restaurant
Red Arrow Diner
Polly's Pancake Parlor
Getting around New Hampshire
New Hampshire is primarily a drive-to destination. Interstate 93 serves as the main north-south corridor through Manchester and Concord into the White Mountains. Interstate 89 links Concord to Vermont, and I-95 runs briefly through the seacoast. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) is the main gateway, with Boston Logan International Airport (BOS, 55 miles south) offering far more flights. Amtrak's Downeaster serves Dover, Durham, and Exeter daily from Boston. Within the state, a personal vehicle or rental car is effectively required for most destinations.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $35–$75 | $100–$200 | $300–$900 |
| Food (per day) | $20–$40 | $40–$80 | $80–$180 |
| Transportation | $10–$20 | $25–$50 | $60–$150 |
| Activities | $5–$20 | $20–$50 | $50–$200 |
| Daily total | $70–$155 | $185–$380 | $490–$1430 |
Best time to visit New Hampshire
Late September to mid-October (fall foliage) and June–August (summer outdoors)
Fall foliage peaks mid-September in the North Country and moves south through mid-October. Ski season runs December–March at resorts like Bretton Woods and Waterville Valley. No sales tax makes shopping year-round appealing.
Essential travel tips
- New Hampshire has no state sales tax or income tax — shopping is cheaper than neighboring states
- Purchase a White Mountains Passport for multiple-site entry savings
- The Kancamagus Highway (NH-112) is free and one of the most scenic drives in the Northeast
- Conway Scenic Railroad (North Conway) offers historic train rides from $24
- Cell coverage is sparse in the White Mountains — download offline maps before hiking
Safety information
Check Mount Washington Observatory weather forecast at mountwashington.org before any summit attempt
Carry the Ten Essentials on any White Mountains hike
Drive cautiously on rural roads at dusk and dawn due to moose crossings
Purchase a White Mountain National Forest recreation pass ($5/day, $20/annual) at fs.usda.gov/whitemountain
Emergency: dial 911; NH State Police: (603) 271-3636
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit New Hampshire?
The best time to visit New Hampshire is Late.
What currency is used in New Hampshire?
The currency in New Hampshire is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in New Hampshire?
The main language(s) spoken in New Hampshire: English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in New Hampshire?
The top attractions in New Hampshire include Mount Washington Summit, Franconia Notch State Park, Lake Winnipesaukee, Portsmouth Historic District, and Kancamagus Highway. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.