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About New Hampshire

New Hampshire, the 'Granite State,' offers a quintessential New England experience with its rugged natural beauty, charming historic towns, and vibrant seasonal attractions. The White Mountains dominate the northern landscape, providing world-class hiking along the Appalachian Trail, scenic drives on the Kancamagus Highway, and winter skiing at resorts like Bretton Woods and Loon Mountain. The Lakes Region, centered around Lake Winnipesaukee, offers boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation. History buffs will appreciate Portsmouth's colonial seaport charm, Strawbery Banke Museum, and the state's pivotal role in early American politics. New Hampshire's cultural identity shines through its covered bridges, classic village greens, and the iconic Mount Washington Cog Railway—the world's first mountain-climbing cog train. The state's motto, 'Live Free or Die,' reflects its independent spirit, evident in its lack of sales tax and first-in-the-nation presidential primary. From autumn leaf peeping along scenic byways to summer festivals and winter sports, New Hampshire delivers authentic New England charm across four distinct seasons.

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Travel Tips for New Hampshire

Getting Around

A car is essential for exploring beyond major towns. Rental agencies are available at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport and other hubs. Limited public transit includes Amtrak's Downeaster (Boston to Exeter/Dover) and Concord Coach Lines buses connecting cities. Ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) operate in urban areas. For scenic travel, the White Mountain National Forest has well-maintained roads like the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112). Apps like AllTrails for hiking and Waze for navigation are useful.

Best Time To Visit

Late September to October for spectacular fall foliage; December to March for skiing and winter sports; June to August for warm weather, lake activities, and festivals like the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival. Spring (April-May) can be muddy but offers fewer crowds.

Local Customs

Respect 'No Trespassing' signs on private land. Dress is generally casual, but nicer restaurants may require smart-casual attire. Tipping 15-20% at restaurants and for services is standard. New Hampshirites value privacy and independence; polite but reserved interactions are common. Remove shoes when entering homes. Support local businesses—farmers' markets and craft fairs are popular. During winter, clear snow from your car roof before driving.

Safety Information

New Hampshire is generally very safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in cities like Manchester and Nashua. When hiking in the White Mountains, weather can change rapidly—check forecasts, carry proper gear, and inform others of your plans. Be cautious of moose on rural roads, especially at dawn and dusk. Avoid unmarked trails and respect private property. Scams are rare, but be wary of unsolicited offers. During winter, roads may be icy; use winter tires or chains if necessary. Wildlife encounters (bears, moose) require keeping a safe distance.

Health Information

New Hampshire has excellent medical facilities, including Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon and Concord Hospital. No special vaccinations are required for travel. Tick-borne illnesses (Lyme disease, anaplasmosis) are prevalent in wooded areas—use insect repellent and check for ticks after outdoor activities. Winter visitors should be prepared for cold-weather hazards like frostbite and hypothermia. Healthcare is privatized; travel insurance is recommended for non-residents. Pharmacies are widely available in towns and cities. For remote hiking in the White Mountains, carry a first-aid kit and know emergency procedures.

Languages Spoken

English

Quick Facts

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)
$

Timezone

America/New_York -05:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

Electricity

Type A, B; 120V, 60Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

1.4 million

Area

24214 km²

Government

State government within a federal republic, with an executive governor and bicameral legislature

About New Hampshire

Things to do in New Hampshire

Oyster Tasting and Kayak Tour

Superman Zipline Tour in Morningside

Mountain Top Zipline Tour in Morningside Flight Park

Pedal, Paddle & Hike New Hampshire

Colonial Flintlock Musket Experience

WW2 Small Arms Experience

Concord Downtown Self Guided Walking Tour

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Benson Park, Hudson, NH

Lively Laconia Scavenger Hunt

Cycling New Hampshire's Covered Bridges

Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Concord NH

Unbelievable Parasailing with Fantastic Sights

Inspiring Art Making Session at Aplomb Cafe

Pontoon Boat Charters on Lake Winnipesaukee

Travel Tips for New Hampshire

Getting Around

Best Time To Visit

Local Customs

Safety Information

Health Information

Languages Spoken

Quick Facts

Currency

Timezone

Calling Code

Electricity

Driving Side

Population

Area

Government

ISO Code

Emergency Contacts

Police

Ambulance

Fire

Tourist Police

Frequently Asked Questions