Things to Do in New Hampshire
DESTINATION GUIDE

Things to Do in New Hampshire

16 curated spots from New Hampshire itineraries

Activities & Attractions

10 curated experiences

Ahern State Park
Do
morning

Ahern State Park

Walk easy wooded trails that lead to quiet Lake Winnisquam shorelines, with spots to sit, read, or take photos by the water.

2h · Free
Hampton Beach Boardwalk & Shops
Do
afternoon

Hampton Beach Boardwalk & Shops

Stroll the main strip for souvenir shops, saltwater taffy, arcades, and casual photo ops of neon signs and the sea.

1h 30m · Free (shopping extra)
Hampton Beach State Park
Do
morning

Hampton Beach State Park

Spend the morning on the wide sandy beach swimming, walking the shoreline, and taking photos of the waves and dunes.

2h 30m · Parking fee or Free
Hampton Beach Sunset Walk
Do
evening

Hampton Beach Sunset Walk

Finish the day with a slow stroll at dusk along the water, capturing the sky and lights reflecting on the ocean.

1h · Free
Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery
Do
afternoon

Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery

Sample a tasting flight of handcrafted New Hampshire wines and meads in a cozy downtown tasting room near the lake.

1h 15m · $10-15 per person (tasting)
Meredith Sculpture Walk & Docks
Do
evening

Meredith Sculpture Walk & Docks

Follow the free outdoor sculpture walk and wander down to the lakeside docks for golden-hour photos.

1h · Free
Sculptured Rocks Natural Area
Do
morning

Sculptured Rocks Natural Area

Walk a short path down to a narrow gorge where the Cockermouth River has carved striking potholes and rock formations, with clear pools below.

1h 30m · Free
Squam Lake Kayaking
Do
morning

Squam Lake Kayaking

Rent kayaks from a local outfitter in Holderness and paddle the quieter coves of Squam Lake, known for its tranquil scenery and as the filming location for “On Golden Pond.”[2]

2h 30m · $35-60
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
Do
afternoon

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Walk the outdoor exhibit trails to see native New Hampshire wildlife like black bears, river otters, and raptors in spacious, naturalistic enclosures.

2h · $20-25
Weirs Beach Boardwalk
Do
afternoon

Weirs Beach Boardwalk

Explore this classic lakefront strip with its short boardwalk, small beach, arcades, and views out over Lake Winnipesaukee.

2h · Free (parking/arcades extra)

Restaurants & Food

6 local favorites

Casey’s Rib Shack
Eat
evening

Casey’s Rib Shack

Laid-back barbecue joint with shareable platters; split a combo plate or sandwiches to stay within budget.

1h 15m · $12-15 per person
Covered Bridge Farm Table
Eat
evening

Covered Bridge Farm Table

Casual American restaurant overlooking a covered bridge and river, serving burgers, seafood, and salads.

1h 15m · $25-40 per person
Sea Ketch Restaurant
Eat
afternoon

Sea Ketch Restaurant

Oceanfront multi-level spot on the boardwalk; stick to chowder, clam chowder bread bowls, and simple fried baskets to keep it under budget.

1h · $12-15 per person
Squam Lake Marketplace
Eat
afternoon

Squam Lake Marketplace

Small local market and cafe offering sandwiches, baked goods, and picnic supplies just minutes from Squam Lake.

45m · $12-20 per person
Water Street Café
Eat
morning

Water Street Café

Friendly local café with big portions of classic breakfasts—pancakes, omelets, home fries, and good coffee.

50m · $8-13 per person
Wharfside Coffee Shop
Eat
evening

Wharfside Coffee Shop

Tiny, unfussy diner-style spot a block or two off the main drag serving hearty plates, burgers, and breakfast-all-day style comfort food.

1h · $10-14 per person

More on New Hampshire

New Hampshire Travel GuideWhen to Visit New Hampshire

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