Best of New Hampshire: Top 10 Experiences to Explore in Summer
Top 10 Must-Do Activities When Visiting New Hampshire in the Summer
If you’re planning a summer getaway to the beautiful state of New Hampshire, you’re in for a treat. As a seasoned traveler, a professional travel agent, and a native of New Hampshire, I grew up spending summer vacation enjoying this great state. This state is full of ways of having some summer fun.
My job is to advise people on ways to enjoy their vacations worldwide, but the state I live in and grew up in is and will always be one of my favorite places to spend the summer months.
I have compiled a list of the top 10 activities you can’t miss when exploring the Granite State during the sunny season. So, grab your sunscreen, hiking boots, appetite, and sense of adventure as we dive into the best that New Hampshire has to offer!
1. Explore the White Mountains
A trip to the White Mountains is an absolute must when visiting the state of New Hampshire. Whether you’re an avid hiker looking to conquer Mount Washington or prefer a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, the White Mountains offer something for everyone.
Take the Mt. Washington auto road to the top of Mount Washington. For a genuinely immersive outdoor experience, visit the picturesque Franconia Notch State Park or one of our beautiful rivers, waterfalls, or gorges.
2. Relax by Lake Winnipesaukee
Difficult to pronounce but great to visit, Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire’s largest lake, is a laid-back day destination. Rent a boat, go fishing, soak up the sun on one of the sandy beaches, or take a scenic boat ride on the M/S Mount Washington.
Lake Winnipesaukee is the perfect spot for a leisurely summer day, with plenty of charming lakeside towns to explore and breathtaking views at every turn. When evening comes, head to “The Weirs” (Weirs Beach on Lake Winnipesaukee) for some rather interesting nightlife, especially during bike week.
3. Experience the Thrills at our Amusement Parks
Story Land
Story Land is a quaint, whimsical theme park in Glen, New Hampshire that promises a day filled with laughter, fun rides, and magical memories. From meeting beloved storybook characters to riding the famous Roar-O-Saurus roller coaster, Story Land is a must-visit destination for visitors of all ages. For those of us who grew up in this great state, we treasure our childhood memories of visiting Story Land.
Santa’s Village
Santa’s Village in Jefferson, New Hampshire, is a cherished gem nestled in the White Mountains that has been enchanting visitors for generations.
Growing up, this whimsical park was more than just a holiday-themed amusement park—a magical escape that made every summer feel like Christmas morning. The scent of freshly baked gingerbread from the Gingerbread Bakery, the cheerful jingles of holiday music, and the sight of Santa’s reindeer prancing in their stables created a festive wonderland.
From the thrilling rides like Rudy’s Rapid Transit Coaster to the gentle spins on the Chimney Drop, each visit was an adventure filled with laughter and joy.
The memories made at Santa’s Village are woven into the fabric of my childhood and my children’s childhood, where each corner of the park holds a special moment. Whether it was sharing a peppermint stick after a visit to Elf University or splashing around in the Ho Ho H2O water park on a hot day, every experience was a treasured chapter in the story of my youth.
This is where magic feels real and dreams come to life. Santa’s Village isn’t just a destination; it was a beloved tradition that brought my family together, summer after summer, filling our hearts with the spirit of Christmas long before the first snowfall.
Clark’s Trading Post
Clarks Trading Post in Lincoln, New Hampshire, is a timeless treasure that has bridged generations in my family.
As a child, I marveled at the famous black bear shows, laughed at the antics of the Wolfman, and rode the White Mountain Central Railroad with wide-eyed wonder. Years later, when I brought my children to this beloved park, I saw the same awe and excitement reflected in their faces.
Together, explore the quirky museums filled with Americana, navigate the challenging Merlin’s Mystical Mansion, and enjoy the thrill of the Anaconda Escape Water Raft Ride.
Each visit is a delightful mix of nostalgia and new experiences, creating precious memories that blend my childhood joy with the happiness of seeing my kids fall in love with Clarks Trading Post, just as I did. It is truly an experience like no other.
Canobie Lake Park
Canobie Lake Park in Salem, New Hampshire, is a beloved oasis of fun and nostalgia that has been a staple in the life of New Hampshire children.
Established in 1902, this historic amusement park has gracefully evolved while preserving the charm that has delighted visitors for over a century. As a child, I eagerly anticipated the excitement of rides like the Yankee Cannonball, a classic wooden roller coaster that still thrills me today.
The park’s beautifully landscaped grounds, vibrant games, and live entertainment have always created a wonderland experience that so many families look forward to year after year.
They currently have over eighty-six attractions, including a wooden coaster from the 1930s, one of three coasters in the park, eight thrill rides, family rides, children’s rides, and water rides.
Whether you splash in Castaway Island, experience one of their many thrill rides, or enjoy the mesmerizing evening fireworks, Canobie Lake Park is a day filled with excitement.
4. Savor Fresh Seafood at the Seacoast region
Craving some delicious seafood? Head to the historic cities and towns of Portsmouth, Rye, Hampton, and Seabrook, located along the beautiful New Hampshire coastline. Indulge in fresh lobster rolls, savory clam chowder, and other coastal delights at one of the many charming waterfront restaurants.
Experience lobster as fresh as you can get at Markey’s Lobster Pool or Brown’s Lobster Pound, across the street from each other in Seabrook, New Hampshire, and you participate in the decades-long Markey’s or Brown’s debate. According to the NH locals, you are either a “Brown’s Person” or a “Markey’s Person. You can’t be both!
After your meal, stroll along the scenic Portsmouth Harbor Trail for stunning views of the Piscataqua River, or head to Hampton Beach for a friend dough at Blinks or some homemade ice cream at Aloha Ice Cream in Hampton Beach or Lagos Ice Cream in Rye.
5. Visit Hampton Beach
New Hampshire has the shortest ocean coastline of any state in the United States, approximately 18 miles long. Hampton Beach is a 1.35-mile stretch of it.
It is a vibrant destination renowned for its sandy shores, lively boardwalk, and family-friendly atmosphere. This bustling beach town offers an array of activities for visitors, from swimming and sunbathing on its pristine beach to exploring charming shops and eateries along Ocean Boulevard.
Hampton Beach is also famous for its summer events, including outdoor concerts at the Seashell Stage and in the historic Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, which has hosted headlining concerts since opening its doors in 1927.
Other events include the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival and the mesmerizing Sand Sculpting Competition. Whether you’re looking to relax by the ocean or enjoy the festive vibe, Hampton Beach provides a quintessential New England coastal experience.
6. Go on a Scenic Rail Adventure
All aboard! New Hampshire has many scenic and historic trains to choose from.
Mount Washington Cog Railway
Embark on a scenic rail adventure aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad through the picturesque New Hampshire countryside, also called “The Cog.”
Established in 1869, this iconic cog railway was the first of its kind in the world, and it continues to captivate visitors with its scenic and thrilling ascent. As the train climbs the steep slopes, passengers are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding White Mountains and beyond. The dramatic landscape and the Mount Washington Observatory at the summit provide a stunning reward for the adventurous journey. The Cog Railway not only offers a glimpse into innovative engineering but also celebrates the natural beauty and rugged spirit of New Hampshire.
Learn more about it here.
Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train
A ride on the Lafayette Dinner Train offers a unique and memorable dining experience set against the picturesque backdrop of the White Mountains. This excursion lets you step back in time as you travel aboard beautifully restored vintage railcars, enjoying a gourmet meal prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The leisurely pace of the train ride provides ample opportunity to soak in the stunning landscapes, from lush forests to serene rivers. The Lafayette Dinner Train combines fine dining with the charm and nostalgia of train travel, making it a delightful outing in the heart of New Hampshire.
It features a two-hour train ride complete with a five-course dinner aboard 1950s restored vintage rail cars, making it a lifetime dining experience. Learn more about it here.
Conway Scenic Railroad
The Conway Scenic Railway offers an enchanting journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Mount Washington Valley. Passengers aboard this historic train are treated to breathtaking views of the White Mountains, lush forests, and quaint New England towns.
Whether you choose the Valley Train, which winds along the scenic Saco River, or the Notch Train, which traverses the dramatic Crawford Notch, you’re in for a memorable ride filled with nostalgia and natural beauty.
The Conway Scenic Railway also offers themed excursions, such as the popular “Murder Mystery Dinner Train” and “Santa’s Holiday Express,” making it a perfect outing for families, couples, and train enthusiasts alike. With its charming vintage coaches and friendly staff, the Conway Scenic Railway promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of New Hampshire’s scenic beauty and rich railroad history.
Learn more about Conway Scenic Railroad’s three different rail experiences here.
7. Hike the Flume Gorge
Lace up your hiking boots and prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty of the Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park.
Nestled within the heart of New Hampshire’s Franconia Notch State Park, the Flume Gorge stands as a testament to the state’s natural wonders. Carved over millions of years by the forces of water and ice, this awe-inspiring chasm draws visitors from far and wide to marvel at its towering granite walls, cascading waterfalls, and lush forest scenery. A stroll along the Flume Gorge trail offers an immersive journey into the heart of this geological marvel, with wooden walkways winding through moss-covered boulders and beneath swaying hemlock trees. From the iconic covered bridge to the thundering Avalanche Falls, every twist and turn reveals a new wonder, making the Flume Gorge a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
8. Sample Local Flavors at our Craft Breweries
Calling all beer enthusiasts! New Hampshire has a thriving craft beer scene, with breweries scattered all over the state. Take a brewery tour to sample a variety of local brews, learn about the beer-making process, and meet the passionate brewers behind the scenes. You can find a list of New Hampshire breweries on the NH beer map!
Another option is to tour multiple breweries with companies like ManchVegas Brew Bus in Manchester or New Hampshire Brews Cruise for seacoast area brews.
Cheers to good times and great beer in the Granite State!
9. Take a Drive along the Kancamagus highway
Drive “The Kank” as it is lovingly called by locals.
The Kancamagus Highway is a 34.5-mile scenic drive along NH’s Rt. 112 in northern New Hampshire. It is well known as one of the country’s best Fall Foliage viewing areas. It has been designated an American Scenic Byway for its rich history, aesthetic beauty, and culture.
Although you can’t deny its beauty during foliage season, it is the perfect summer drive.
The Kancamagus Scenic Byway takes you through a path cut through the White Mountain National Forest with breathtaking views of the White Mountains and the Swift River. Along the way, hike to the beautiful Sabbadkay Falls, cool off by taking a dip in Lower Falls, or stop at a beautiful rocky gorge. The Kanc takes you to just under 3,000 feet at its highest point at Kancamagus Pass on the flank of Mt. Kancamagus near Lincoln, NH.
The drive along the Kancamagus Highway takes you back in time as you drive through a forest that offers no comforts of the modern world. No gas stations, restaurants, hotels, or other businesses have pierced into the heart of the Kancamagus Highway. Those luxuries are left behind at both ends of the scenic byway but within reach when needed.
If this is your first time experiencing this scenic drive, you may benefit from a Scenic Byway Audio Driving Tour, which can be found here. This easy-to-use self-guided audio tour has a great narrator who entertains you with tales and history and informs you about places to stop. It includes offline access, as the area can have limited cellular service.
10. Take in a Show
Catch a Concert at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion
Who would have thought New Hampshire would be a hot spot for attending a concert? Attending a concert at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, formerly Meadowbrook in Gilford, is a blast! This outdoor amphitheater hosts a variety of live music performances throughout the summer, featuring top artists across different genres.
This fantastic concert venue has hosted Chris Stapleton, Jelly Roll, Dave Matthews, ZZ-Top, Def Leopard, and Snoop Dog!
It has been nominated several times as “Music Venue of the Year” by the Academy of Country Music. Grab your tickets, bring a blanket or lawn chair, and prepare for an unforgettable night of music under the stars. Don’t forget to grab some ice cream at Sawyers Dairy Bar on your way in!
The Cake Theater by Recycled Percussion
Emerging from small-town roots, New Hampshire’s Recycled Percussion gained national fame after appearing on “America’s Got Talent,” where they captivated audiences with their creative use of everyday objects as instruments and went on to a residency in Las Vegas and performances worldwide. They have never forgotten their roots. Their New Hampshire heritage inspires their performances, infusing a sense of local pride and authenticity into their eclectic shows.
Recycled Percussion then created “Chaos and Kindness,” a television show that debuted in 2017. The show blends the band’s characteristic high-energy chaos with acts of kindness, showcasing their efforts to positively impact communities.
The Cake Theater, located in Laconia, New Hampshire, is where Recycled Percussion was transformed into a performance and community space. Originally a historic building, the band renovated it to serve as a hub for their creative endeavors and to provide a unique experience for their fans. The Cake Theater hosts various events, including live shows by Recycled Percussion, community events, and other performances. Purchase show tickets here.
The venue was reimagined in the spring of 2024 and will feature a brand new “Chaos and Kindness Experience.” The venue reflects the band’s commitment to their local roots and their desire to contribute to the cultural landscape of New Hampshire.
New Hampshire has something for every traveler, from scenic mountain vistas to charming coastal towns to crystal clear lakes. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the Granite State this summer.
Happy travels!
Stay informed and travel smart with our latest travel hacks and information at TheVacay.org. For more travel tips and updates, subscribe to our blog here and never miss out on essential travel information!
This page contains affiliate links, and we may earn a commission. For more information, please see our affiliate policy HERE.
