3 Must-See Destinations When Traveling to New Hampshire
by The Fashionable Housewife
Planning a trip to New Hampshire? You're in for a treat. As someone who’s lived here my entire life, I can tell you right now—there’s no shortage of amazing places to explore. Whether you’re heading here with your family, escaping the chaos of the city, or just looking for a peaceful little getaway, these are three spots you absolutely have to check out while you're in the Granite State.
- Story Land – Because the magic is real
If you’re bringing kids, Story Land in Glen, NH should be your first stop. This place has been around for decades and it’s still just as magical as ever. Picture a fairy tale come to life with rides, castles, and characters that’ll have your little ones totally starstruck.
My kids were completely enchanted, and honestly, so was I. From the Polar Coaster to Cinderella’s pumpkin carriage, it’s the kind of place that creates the kind of memories you’ll be talking about for years.
I’ve written all about our trip to Story Land, so if you want the inside scoop, check out my blog post here. We had a blast and I included some tips for making the most of your day there.
- Mount Washington – The view is worth it
If you're up for a little adventure, head to Mount Washington. You can hike it if you're feeling brave, drive it if you're feeling bold, or take the Cog Railway if you're feeling smart. That’s my favorite way to get to the summit. You get all the views and none of the leg cramps.
On a clear day, the view from the top is absolutely unreal. You can see into four or five states and sometimes even into Canada. It’s also known for having some of the wildest weather in the world, so don’t forget to bring a jacket—even in the middle of summer.
And yes, if you drive the auto road, you get a bumper sticker that says "This Car Climbed Mount Washington." It’s cheesy, but it’s tradition. Mine's proudly stuck to the back of my passenger van.
- Lake Winnipesaukee – A summer must
Lake life in New Hampshire is something special, and Lake Winnipesaukee is the heart of it all. Whether you’re into swimming, kayaking, fishing, boating, or just lounging by the water with a cold drink in hand, you’ll find your happy place here.
The lake is huge, with tons of cute towns surrounding it like Meredith, Center Harbor, and my personal favorite – Wolfeboro. You’ll find adorable shops, great food, and enough ice cream to keep everyone sugared up for days. Weirs Beach is a fun spot for families, and if you get the chance, take a cruise on the Mount Washington boat. It's relaxing and a great way to see the lake from a different angle.
You Need To Visit New Hampshire
There are so many beautiful places to visit in New Hampshire, but if you only have time for a few, these three are truly unforgettable. Story Land is perfect for families with young kids, Mount Washington is an epic experience for any traveler, and Lake Winnipesaukee is pure summer bliss.
Grab a sweatshirt (because even in August, it can be chilly in the mornings), toss some snacks in the car, and get ready to fall in love with everything New Hampshire has to offer. Welcome to the Granite State!
