If you've been in New Hampshire for even a moment, you'll know you're in a truly wonderful place. From the cities to the rural roads, there's just something special about the Granite State. While we know this and while you know this, you might encounter people who believe (gasp!) that there are equal states to visit in America. The next time you find yourself in a discussion regarding the best state, use this list to remind people that some things can only be see right here. These unique places to visit in New Hampshire are worth a visit.
1. Beaver Brook Falls, Colebrook
Head up north for this beautiful, but easily accessed natural wonder. The drop here is more than 80 feet, making it very dramatic. The water speed and amount changes throughout the year, so be sure to visit a few times. The best part is that it's totally accessible without hiking. Pull into the parking lot and you'll see it! You'll find the parking lot at: 432 Route 145 in Colebrook.
2. Moose Alley, Route 3 near Pittsburgh
If spotting a moose is on your New England bucket list, a trip to Moose Alley in New Hampshire should certainly be the plan. This section of land running from Pittsburg to the Canadian border is the best place to find one here. Look extra carefully around ponds and puddles at the sides of the roads. This is where the giant animals tend to congregate.
3. Lost River Gorge, Woodstock
This is another one of those attractions that feel like a real New Hampshire spot. The park offers trails and a boardwalk throughout the gorge, allowing visitors to get within close proximity of impressive waterfalls. There are a number of caves to see here too. It's definitely a tourist attraction, but it's popular for a reason! Check it out at: 1712 Lost River Rd., Route 112 West in Woodstock.
4. Umami, Northwood
Leave it to New Hampshire to create one of the most eco-friendly restaurants in the country. Umami is solar-powered, making it a totally sustainable cafe. They've got great burgers and sandwiches, but everything has a special twist. Try a burger topped with mac and cheese or a Korean fried chicken sandwich with kimchi. They're located at: 284 1st New Hampshire Turnpike in Northwood.
5. The Flume Gorge Trail, Franconia Notch State Park
This attraction might be one of the most well-known in the state. And, there's good reason for it! This is one of the best ways to experience New Hampshire's waterfalls in a unique and safe way. Follow the boardwalk trails through the gorges to see some of the best examples of New Hampshire's natural landscape.
6. Granite State Whale Watch Tours, Rye
The waters off of New Hampshire are some of the best for whale spotting. While you're near the coast, be sure to head to Rye where you can reserve yourself a space on a 4-5 hours Granite State Whale Watch tour. These expeditions have a 99% sighting rate, which means your time will be well spent. The boats head to Jeffrey Ledge, which has a high population of plankton, krill, and other "whale food," making it a great spot for potential sightings.
7. Covered Bridges
Sure, other states have covered bridges. But, no places has more than New Hampshire. More impressively, the Granite State has so many covered bridges that there are 10 on Sullivan County alone! If you want to take a lovely drive through the country to visit these special bridges, this is the state in which you should do it. We especially love the Corbin Covered Bridge in Newport!
8. McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, Concord
New Hampshire may not be known for space exploration, but there is a wonderful hidden-gem museum here devoted to space. Named after two important figures in American space exploration history from New Hampshire, this fun museum allows visitors to interact with space-related things - from the planetarium to spaceship controls - in ways you won't find anywhere else in New England. It's located at: 2 Institute Dr. in Concord.
9. Hart's Turkey Farm, Meredith
In operation since 1954, Hart's Turkey farm specializes in just one thing – turkey. Given the amount of time they've been around and how dedicated they are to one food, it's no surprise that they've perfected it! They're located at: 233 Daniel Webster Hwy in Meredith.
10. The 45th Parallel, Clarksville
Some people report feeling like going to the north part of the state feels like the middle of nowhere. In one particular place, you truly are in the middle! This place is exactly halfway between the Equator and the North Pole!
11. Mt. Washington
You didn't think we'd have a list of New Hampshire attractions that didn't include this beauty, did you? The most stunning mountain in all the state is also a prime destination for adventure seekers from all over the country. You can choose to hike to the summit via a number of different trails. Those who do this will love reading the long list of deaths that have occurred here. Kidding, it's safe! As long as you're careful! Alternatively, you can take the auto road or the train that also head toward the summit.
For more ways to love New Hampshire, make sure you visit this farm this fall. They've got the best apple cider donuts around!
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