2026 New Hampshire Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

The New Hampshire Ice Castles are an awe-inspiring attraction that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. The Ice Castles are a winter wonderland constructed of thousands of icicles. Established in 2011, this astounding attraction brings smiles to the faces of families from all over the country. The castles were conceived of one winter in Utah, when founder Brent Christensen needed to get his six stir-crazy kids out of the house. His first ice construction was an ice cave in his backyard that chased away his children’s winter blues. Presently, visitors can explore the gorgeous NH Ice Castles all winter long. Typically, the castles open, with the cooperation of Mother Nature, in late December. One of the features of this most delightful castle is the many ice slides that visitors can enjoy. Another popular Ice Castles attraction is the horse-drawn sleigh rides through the woods of NH. Lastly, if you plan to travel through NH in the winter, be sure to give the Ice Castles a spot on your itinerary; it is a truly astounding place to visit. Address: NH, United States

The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is a place for children to learn through play and interactivity. With amazing arts, science, and cultural activities by the dozens, a day at the museum is both educational and amusing. With sprawling exhibit areas and diverse programming, a day at the museum is entertaining for the whole family. A preeminent attraction for children and families, this NH museum is a must-see. Of note, at the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire visitors engage in play-based learning and interesting workshops. Some of the most popular exhibits include a play patio, a build your airplane area, a Dino Detective experience, and a STEAM lab. A visit to the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is both enriching and entertaining. This is an experience parents can feel good about giving their children. Address: 6 Washington St, Dover, NH 03820, United States

Calling all Christmas lovers! This Jefferson, New Hampshire gem is a Christmas-themed amusement park with family-friendly attractions for all to enjoy. Santa’s Village has 23 Christmas and/or winter-themed rides like “Rudy’s Rapid Transit Coaster” and “The Great Humbug Adventure.” What’s best, all of the park’s rides are designed for families with young riders. In addition to these great land rides, Santa’s Village also has a waterpark on-site. Santa’s Waterpark has an awesome splash park, thrilling water slides, a wave pool, and more. In addition to the fabulous rides, Santa’s Village has many other excellent attractions. Elf University, Santa’s Home, and Reindeer Rendezvous are among some of the darling park attractions that bring smiles to faces all year long. Furthermore, the park hosts live shows every day as well as seasonal events. The park has excellent dining and shopping options as well. A visit to Santa’s Village makes every day feel like Christmas day. If you’re looking for unique things to do in New Hampshire, we highly recommend spending a day (or more) at Santa’s Village. Address: 528 Presidential Hwy, Jefferson, NH 03583, United States

One of the top 10 things to do in New Hampshire, Morningside Flight Park makes high-octane adventures accessible to the public. Significantly, Morningside Flight Park is considered one of the most well-rounded flight parks in the country. Situated among the Connecticut River Valley’s rolling hills in NH, Morningside Park adventures are enjoyed with the gorgeous natural landscape as your backdrop. Of note, visitors to the park may choose to hang glide, paraglide, zipline, play outdoor laser tag, camp, and more. With so many offbeat adventures to check out in one localized destination, the options are limitless. With each of the adventures, thrillseekers have the option to ride tandem with a certified instructor or complete a lesson package to become certified him/herself. Each of the thrilling activities includes necessary equipment and gear, but best of all the exhilaration of a lifetime. Lastly, if you wish to make more than one day of your trip to Morningside Flight Park, camping accommodations (cabin or tent) are available for rental. This top vacation spot is highly recommended for adventure-loving thrill-seekers. Address: 357 Morningside Ln, Charlestown, NH 03603, United States

#tripaway here are a few pictures of varies places I've been to through out this summer . #tripaway

It was still raining when we left Acadia National Park, but the rain moved east while we drove west. By the time we entered New Hampshire, the rain had stopped and the sky cleared. After the rain, every frame along the way looked like God had spilled his palette! 😭 Quickly save this "scenery + history + food" triple-hit guide! We were worried about the weather when leaving Acadia, but as we drove, the rain stopped and we were greeted by the full embrace of autumn scenery outside the window! 🍂 The trees lining the road were all dyed in colors—deep maple red, warm orange-yellow, and the lingering pine green, layered one on top of another. Sunlight filtered through the branches, shining on the car, and the wind carried the sweet scent of fallen leaves. My son was driving, and I was in the passenger seat snapping photos nonstop, afraid to miss this fleeting autumn special! P1-P6 Finally arriving at the foot of Mount Washington, the first thing that caught my eye was the colorful cog railway train! 💛💚 The macaron-colored carriages slowly climbed the mountain, and the scenery was even more varied than expected—at first, we could see the lake at the mountain’s base shimmering, then as we climbed higher, we entered the mist, hazy and dreamlike like a fairyland. P7-P9 As soon as we reached the summit, we got a "welcome shock"! The wind was so strong after the rain it felt like it could blow everything away, and the temperature dropped several degrees. Even wrapped in all our clothes, we were shivering and had to quickly head to the visitor center to "warm up" 🥶 Just as I was about to complain, the dark clouds above suddenly split open! The moment sunlight streamed through, the distant mountain ranges suddenly became clear—the gray-blue ridges winding under the clouds looked like a natural ink painting. The awe is something you have to see with your own eyes to understand! P10-P13 After descending, we headed straight to the Mount Washington Hotel! Who would have thought this was the place where the Bretton Woods Agreement was signed! 🏛️ Walking into the hotel felt like stepping back in time, with wooden staircases and crystal chandeliers creating a great atmosphere. We made a special visit to the original signing room, where the round table and chairs remain as they were. Old photos on the walls show plaques for Mr. H.H. Kung and images of diplomats from various countries. Standing there, you could almost hear the historic conversations—it instantly made this trip feel so meaningful! P14-P18 In the evening, we had to check out the hotel’s steakhouse! Although we waited in line for half an hour, sitting in the vintage-decorated restaurant and ordering a 20oz thick-cut steak 🥩 was worth it. The crust was perfectly crispy and charred, and when cut, the inside was a tender medium-rare pink. The juices dripped down the knife and fork, and one bite brought an explosion of happiness! This Mount Washington trip was truly worth it! With healing autumn scenery, tangible history, and unforgettable food, it felt like all the fatigue was cured. Friends, if you come to the northeastern US in autumn, be sure to add this place to your list!

1. Santa's Village (Jefferson, New Hampshire) Santa's Village is full of joy and an ideal destination for family fun. During the holiday season, this beloved attraction takes on a special charm. Millions of twinkling lights decorate Santa's Village, adding sparkle to your nighttime visit. Additionally, there are Christmas carols, holiday-themed rides, and warm treats to immerse you in the festive spirit. The 2025 event dates are November 22-23, November 28-30, December 6-7, December 13-14, and December 20-21. 2. Cranmore Mountain Resort (North Conway, New Hampshire) Take the night gondola up to Meister Hut on the mountain top—an enchanting Christmas party awaits you! Cranmore Mountain Resort invites Santa Claus to join you for cookies, hot cocoa, and Christmas stories. If you're lucky, you might even see Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive in a unique SnowCat! The 2025 event dates are December 20-22, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. 3. Conway Scenic Railroad (North Conway, New Hampshire) The Santa Holiday Express on the Conway Scenic Railroad is a seasonal themed round trip lasting one and a half hours, offering views of the winter scenery in the Mount Washington Valley. Upon arrival in Conway, little guests can enjoy cookies and hot chocolate and finally meet Santa Claus. The 2025 operating dates are November 28-30, December 4, December 6-7, December 13-14, December 17, and December 20-21. 4. Granite State Railroad (Lincoln, New Hampshire) Welcome aboard this scenic holiday train! If you want to meet Santa Claus and receive a special gift, book the Santa Express with Granite State Railroad. This beloved holiday tradition is perfect for families; during the more than 60-minute magical journey, you will enjoy snowy views of the Pemigewasset River, delicious snacks, and a warm festive atmosphere. The 2025 event dates are November 28-30, December 6-7, December 13-14, and December 20-22. 5. Mount Washington Cog Railway (Marshfield Station, New Hampshire) Riding the Mount Washington Cog Railway to Waumbek Station is one of our favorite winter traditions. This year, we plan to make the trip even more festive with Santa-themed activities. Have you heard that Santa will appear at Marshfield Station? He will be handing out gifts made on-site by the Cog Railway elves and taking photos with everyone. The 2025 event dates are November 28-30, December 6-7, December 13-14, December 20-21, and December 24.

One autumn, I traveled to the White Mountains in New Hampshire with a friend who drove us there. The fall foliage was breathtakingly beautiful. The entire forest was painted in shades of golden yellow, fiery orange, and deep red, creating a layered masterpiece like a canvas. When sunlight streamed through, it added a warm and radiant glow. Among the trails, I walked the Lincoln Woods Trail, a gentle and tranquil path. Along the way, there were babbling streams and dancing tree shadows, making it an excellent choice for leaf peeping and hiking.

Boston & Augusta hit different in the fall 🍁— crisp air, dazzling autumn colors everywhere, and a deep dive into art at the iconic Museum of Fine Arts, Boston! Top Spots To Visit: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (465 Huntington Ave, Boston) If you’re an art and culture fan, you can't skip the MFA! Plan your visit between 10:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30) on Mon, Wed, Sat, or Sun—or snag the later hours till 22:00 on Thurs and Fri. Closed on Tuesdays, so don’t get caught out! Tips for a Perfect Autumn Adventure: Fall is prime time: Boston’s trees explode in color, so walk or bike around just to soak up the vibes before or after your museum visit. Augusta’s parks and nature trails are epic for leaf-peeping too—bring a camera! How To Get Around: Boston’s subway (the ‘T’) gets you almost everywhere, and there’s a stop right near the MFA! In Augusta, renting a car or using local buses is best, especially for those out-the-way fall foliage spots. Food Rec: Near MFA, hit up local cafés for New England classics—clam chowder and cider donuts are a must! In Augusta, there’s cozy diners perfect for warming up after those brisk autumn strolls. Key Tips: Buy your museum tickets ahead on trip.com for smooth entry. Dress in layers—New England fall weather swings from sunny to chilly fast. If you’re budgeting, look for museum free days or discounts. Go enjoy art AND autumn! 🍂 #BostonArt #FallFoliage #MuseumTips #AutumnTravel #TripLondon

Every year, New Hampshire's autumn foliage season attracts a large number of visitors. Driving along forest trails, I admired the mesmerizing scenery of intertwined red, yellow, and orange hues. Quaint towns like Portsmouth preserve their charming historic architecture, with quiet streets full of a sense of history. Local farms and markets offer fresh produce and handmade crafts. The cool autumn weather makes hiking and picnicking the perfect ways to enjoy nature. Autumn here is poetic and an ideal choice for escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.

Many people take a road trip through the beautiful state of New Hampshire during its famous fall season however an alternative to the crowds when the area is still looking as stunning is during the winter. Some of the place to head to include Lake Winnipesaukee and the shoreline town of Meredith which provide beautiful views in the winter across both the lake and around the picturesque town itself. Located in the White Mountains the ski resort of Loon is one of the best on the entire east coast with over 70 runs available for all abilities. The nearby towns of Woodstock and Lincoln provide a beautiful setting for the winter and the Woodstock Inn and Brewery is a great stop for food and drink #getgoing2025 #winter #roadtrips

#TravelAmerica #100TravelWays 🍀White Mountain New Hampshire is a mountain range in New Hampshire, United States. This mountain range is part of the Appalachia Mountains. It has a beautiful view. Even the trees along the road are beautiful. It makes driving between the mountains enjoyable. At this time, the leaves are changing color beautifully. This place is often a tourist destination because it is close to Boston, York City, and Montreal. #FollowTheLifeOfLittleGirls #LifeAddictedToTripReviews #NaturalAttractions

#freehotelstay

This National Historic Landmark in Portsmouth, New Hampshire is rich in history and a perfect destination for sightseeing in The Granite State. The Moffatt-Ladd House and Garden is essentially a museum house that preserves the history of William Whipple, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Built in the mid-1700s, the house was occupied by the same wealthy family for more than 150 years. The Gregorian-style home sits upon the Piscataqua River and has sweeping waterfront views. Touring the home offers insight into historical architecture, furnishings, and aesthetics. The marvelous antiques within the walls of the Moffatt-Ladd House and Garden are breathtaking and highly interesting. Beyond the house, the property’s gardens are another magnificent sight to behold. Formal gardens, terraces, and flower beds set the scene for romantic musings on this most delightful of historical properties. Address: 154 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801, United States

Gunstock Mountain Resort is an all-weather resort that’s opened seasonally for summer and winter adventures. Situated amid Gilford, NH and within the Belknap Mountain Range, Gunstock Mountain Resort is the range’s second highest peak with an elevation of nearly 2,500 feet. During the summer months, the resort emerges as Adventure Park, a place where visitors come from far and wide to engage in a litany of amazing outdoor adventures. For instance, at Adventure Park, visitors can zipline, take scenic lift rides, partake in Segway tours, check out an aerial obstacle course, ride an epic mountain coaster, hike, fish, swim, and so much more. Winter at Gunstock Mountain is made for snow sports. Thrill-seekers come from all over the East Coast to ski, snowboard, snow tube, race, take on terrain parks, and enjoy awesome night sessions. Moreover, during both the Summer and Winter seasons, camping is available at the resort. Finally, the resort’s premier restaurant, The Patio Restaurant at Gunstock, is a delightful little gem to patronize all year long. Address: 719 Cherry Valley Rd, Gilford, NH 03249, United States

This charming and old-time candy store has been a presence in Littleton, New Hampshire since the 1800s. Rich in history and family appeal, the store is named after its original owner, a congressional minister, and a well-loved community member. More than 100 years following its establishment, Chutters Candy Store is still renowned for its hospitality and the amazing assortment of delightful treats. With four NH locations dispersed throughout the state, you can likely find a location no matter where in the state you’re traveling to. Within the store, there are more than 500 candy varieties to taste and purchase. From homemade fudge and chocolates to jelly beans and gummy bears to everything in between, children and adults alike are drawn to this epic sweets shop. No matter what your poison, you can scoop candy by the pound into bags that you can tailor to suit your fancy. Address: 43 Main St, Littleton, NH 03561, United States

Extending through many of the New England states and Canada, the Northern Forest Canoe Trail is an epic 740-mile marked canoe trail that passes through 22 rivers and streams. A significant stretch of the trail passes through parts of New Hampshire, making it one of many wondrous places to visit in The Granite State. In NH, the trail, in Errol-Berlin Corridor, runs through the Androscoggin River and passes many glorious sites. During your New Hampshire leg of the canoe trail, you can hope to experience the remoteness of wilderness at its finest. You may spot moose and other magnificent wildlife as well as rustic lodgings along the way. If you’re planning to canoe some of this legendary, multi-state trail, be sure to check out the attraction’s website for trail maps and planning guides germane to the NH stretch. A wonderful experience to take on, you’d be remiss to not visit the Northern Forest Canoe Trail. Address: Errol, NH 03579, United States

Founded in 1954, this New Hampshire amusement park is an institution. Founded on the vision of Bob and Ruth Morrell to bring storybook characters to life, Story Land has always been a place where families could come to delight in rides and attractions centered around their favorite stories. Since its humble beginnings, the park has grown to include live shows, character experiences, dining, and more. With more than 30 awesome attractions for the whole family to enjoy, a day trip to Story Land should be on your itinerary. Story Land is home to many dry rides like multiple roller coasters, swings, a train ride, and many others. Additionally, Story Land has some truly wonderful attractions like an interactive lab, a nursery rhyme area, a playground, and even live animals. Finally, there are carnival games that you can play for sweet prizes. Lastly, the park has lovely dining options, amusing shows, and a great gift shop too. One of many family-friendly New Hampshire attractions, Story Land is worth a spot on your travel list. Address: 850 NH-16, Glen, NH 03838, United States