As a resident of New Hampshire, I realize that tourism is an essential component of the state's economy. Last I heard, it was the number two industry in the state (timber harvesting was number one). And it's no wonder a lot of people visit the state; we have lots of cool things to do and see! But if you're like me, you might want to shy away from the popular spots to see and do things that are a little more under the radar. Here are a few things to do in New Hampshire where you can avoid the tourist crowds.

1. Take A Guided Kayaking Tour

Let the expert guides at North Country Kayak in Littleton introduce you to the beautiful waterways of Northern New Hampshire. All necessary gear is provided and all you need to bring is your sense of adventure. To learn more, visit North Country Kayak.

2. Celebrate Autumn At Muster Field Farm Museum's Harvest Day

Celebrate the arrival of autumn and enjoy the benefits of the growing season at this annual event in Sutton. Fresh produce will be on sale and you can enjoy fine food while listening to great live music. Local artists will also be exhibiting and selling their finest arts and crafts. To learn more, visit Muster Field Farm Museum.

3. Enjoy A Performance By The Peterborough Players

The Peterborough Players have been entertaining audiences since 1933 with their professional theatre productions, which has earned them a reputation as being one of the best in the business. All performances are held in the intimate setting of a converted 18th-century barn in Peterborough. To learn more, visit The Peterborough Players.

4. Tour Frank Lloyd Wright's Zimmerman House

In 1949, Isadore J. Zimmerman & his wife Lucille of Manchester commissioned noted architect Frank Lloyd Wright to build their dream house to match their values and personal way of life. The Zimmermans would live in the house for the next 36 years and now the public is welcome to visit this iconic home. To learn more, visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.

5. Stroll The Campus Of Phillips Exeter Academy

This coeducational university preparatory private school in Exeter serves students in grades nine through 12 and has been doing so since 1781, making it one of the oldest boarding schools in the United States. Its campus features more modern buildings along with structures that date back to the institution's founding, making it of great interest to fans of early New England architecture. To learn more, visit Phillips Exeter Academy.

6. Attend The New Hampshire Sheep And Wool Festival

Put this one on your spring to-do list as a fun Mother's Day event! Join the New Hampshire Sheep and Wool Growers Association for their annual festival at Deerfield Fairground in Deerfield. It's two days packed with craftsmanship, fiber vendors, sheep shows, workshops, delicious food, and so much more. To learn more, visit the New Hampshire Sheep and Wool Growers Association.

7. Visit Historic Harrisville

The small town of Harrisville in the Monadnock Region is one of many significant mill towns in the state that developed around manufacturing. Today, the town is still much the same as it was in the 19th century, and its mills, boarding houses, and other buildings are currently occupied by businesses, restaurants, and shops. As such, Harrisville was designated as a National Historic Landmark by the Department of Interior in 1977. To learn more, visit Historic Harrisville.

Looking for some other off-the-beaten-path things to check out in New Hampshire? Check out our guide to 12 more hidden gems to discover.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-hampshire/12-hidden-gems-to-discover-this-year-nh/