Table Of Content
Excited to Explore: A Comprehensive List of Free Things To Do in New Hampshire
Are you looking for free things to do in New Hampshire? Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there are plenty of activities that won’t cost you a dime. From exploring the great outdoors to visiting historical sites and museums, New Hampshire has something for everyone.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love the many hiking trails, beaches, and parks that New Hampshire has to offer. Take a scenic drive through the White Mountains or go for a hike on the Appalachian Trail. If you’re looking for something more relaxing, spend a day at the beach or have a picnic in one of the state’s many parks.
For those interested in history and culture, there are many museums and historical sites to explore. Visit the New Hampshire Historical Society or the Canterbury Shaker Village. Learn about the state’s rich history and culture at the American Independence Museum or the Currier Museum of Art.
Key Takeaways
- New Hampshire offers a variety of free activities for locals and tourists alike.
- Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, beaches, and parks.
- History buffs can visit museums and historical sites to learn about the state’s rich history and culture.
Exploring the Great Outdoors
New Hampshire is known for its natural beauty, and there are plenty of free outdoor activities to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to hike, swim, or just relax in nature, there’s something for everyone.
Hiking Trails
New Hampshire is home to some of the best hiking trails in the country. From easy nature walks to challenging mountain hikes, there’s a trail for every skill level. Some popular trails include:
Mount Monadnock
This iconic mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Franconia Notch State Park
This park is home to several hiking trails, including the popular Flume Gorge Trail.
Mount Washington
This challenging hike is not for the faint of heart, but the views from the top are worth it.
State Parks
New Hampshire has many beautiful state parks that are free to visit. Some popular parks include:
White Lake State Park
This park is home to a beautiful lake and several hiking trails.
Pawtuckaway State Park
This park is known for its scenic views and great fishing.
Bear Brook State Park
This park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as a beach for swimming.
Waterfalls
Arethusa Falls
This stunning waterfall is located in Crawford Notch State Park.
Glen Ellis Falls
This waterfall is accessible via a short hike and offers beautiful views.
Sabbaday Falls
This easy hike leads to a beautiful waterfall and swimming hole.
Beaches
New Hampshire may not be known for its beaches, but there are still some great spots to enjoy the ocean. Some popular beaches include:
Jenness State Beach
This beach is known for its clean water and soft sand.
Wallis Sands State Beach
This beach offers great views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby islands.
Hampton Beach
This popular beach is known for its boardwalk and lively atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking to hike, swim, or just enjoy the great outdoors, New Hampshire has something for everyone. With so many free activities to choose from, you can explore the state’s natural beauty without breaking the bank.
Historical Sites and Museums
If you’re interested in history and art, New Hampshire has plenty of free museums and historical sites to explore. Here are some top picks:
Strawbery Banke Museum
Located in Portsmouth, Strawbery Banke Museum is a living history museum that showcases life in the Puddle Dock neighborhood from the 1600s to the 1950s. You can explore over 30 restored buildings, including homes, gardens, and businesses. The museum offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and special events throughout the year.
Currier Museum of Art
The Currier Museum of Art in Manchester is home to a diverse collection of American and European art, including works by Monet, Picasso, and O’Keeffe. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures, and educational programs. Admission is free on the second Saturday of each month from 10am to noon.
Hood Museum of Art
The Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth College in Hanover features a collection of over 65,000 objects from around the world, including ancient Greek pottery, contemporary photography, and Native American art. The museum is currently closed for renovations but will reopen in 2022 with expanded galleries and updated facilities.
Other free museums in New Hampshire include the New Hampshire Historical Society in Concord, the Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves in Woodstock, and the New Hampshire Art Association in Portsmouth.
Whether you’re a history buff or an art enthusiast, these museums and historical sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and present of New Hampshire.
Seasonal Activities
New Hampshire has plenty of free activities to enjoy throughout the year. From fall foliage viewing to winter sports and summer beach fun, there’s something for everyone.
Fall Foliage Viewing
Fall is a beautiful time to visit New Hampshire. The state is known for its stunning fall foliage, which attracts visitors from all over the world. You can take a scenic drive through the White Mountains or hike to the top of a mountain for breathtaking views. Some of the best places to see fall foliage include North Conway, Franconia Notch State Park, and the Kancamagus Highway.
Winter Sports
New Hampshire is a winter wonderland, with plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Many ski resorts offer free or discounted lift tickets for kids, making it a great family activity. Some of the best ski resorts in the state include Cannon Mountain, Loon Mountain, and Bretton Woods. If you’re not into skiing, you can try snowshoeing, ice skating, or sledding.
Summer Beach Fun
New Hampshire has some of the best beaches in the country, and Hampton Beach State Park is a must-visit destination. The park has a beautiful sandy beach, a boardwalk, and plenty of free activities for the whole family. You can swim in the ocean, build sandcastles, or play beach volleyball. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coast. Boating is also a popular activity in New Hampshire, with many lakes and rivers to explore.
Overall, New Hampshire is a great destination for free activities all year round. Whether you’re into fall foliage, winter sports, or summer beach fun, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an exciting adventure in the Live Free state!
Scenic Drives
New Hampshire is known for its beautiful scenery, and one of the best ways to experience it is through a scenic drive. Here are two of the most popular scenic drives in the state:
Kancamagus Highway
The Kancamagus Highway, also known as Route 112, is a 34.5-mile scenic drive through the White Mountains. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves fall foliage, as the trees lining the road turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the autumn months. Along the way, you’ll pass by rivers, ponds, covered bridges, waterfalls, and gorges. Make sure to stop at the various scenic overlooks, such as the Sugar Hill Overlook, for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Franconia Notch
Franconia Notch is a mountain pass located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. It’s a popular destination for hikers, skiers, and nature lovers alike, but even if you’re not up for a strenuous hike, you can still experience the beauty of the area by taking a scenic drive. The Franconia Notch Parkway, which runs through Franconia Notch State Park, offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Make sure to stop at Echo Lake, where you can swim, kayak, or just relax on the beach, and take a ride on the Cog Railway, which will take you to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast.
Both of these scenic drives are easily accessible from popular New Hampshire destinations like Conway and Hampton. Make sure to bring your camera and plenty of snacks, as you’ll want to take your time and soak in the beauty of the Granite State. And don’t forget to drive safely, especially when crossing the many bridges along the way.
Family-Friendly Attractions
New Hampshire is a great destination for families looking for fun activities that won’t break the bank. With plenty of free things to do, you can enjoy quality time with your loved ones without spending a dime. Here are some of the top family-friendly attractions in New Hampshire:
Story Land
If you’re traveling with young children, Story Land is a must-visit attraction. This amusement park features rides and attractions based on classic fairy tales and nursery rhymes. Your little ones can ride on Cinderella’s pumpkin coach, explore Alice’s Wonderland, and meet their favorite storybook characters. Story Land also has a touch tank where kids can interact with marine life and learn about the ocean’s ecosystem.
Mount Washington
For families who love the great outdoors, Mount Washington is a must-see attraction. This mountain is the highest peak in the Northeast, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can take a scenic drive to the summit, or hike up one of the many trails. Mount Washington also has a cog railway that takes you to the top, offering a unique and exciting experience for the whole family.
Funspot
If you’re looking for indoor fun, Funspot is the place to be. This arcade and entertainment center is one of the largest in the world, featuring over 600 games and attractions. You can play classic arcade games like Pac-Man and Space Invaders, or try your luck at the casino-style games. Funspot also has a bowling alley, mini-golf course, and indoor bumper cars.
Other family-friendly attractions in New Hampshire include Boulder Caves, where you can explore underground caves and tunnels, and Mount Liberty, where you can hike to the summit and enjoy panoramic views of the White Mountains. There are also many water parks and outdoor activities available throughout the state, making New Hampshire the perfect destination for families who love adventure and fun.
Shopping and Dining
New Hampshire is a great destination for shopping and dining, with plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for tax-free shopping, unique local boutiques, or farm-to-table dining experiences, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.
Hampton Shops
Hampton is home to a variety of shops, from small boutiques to larger stores. One of the most popular places to shop in Hampton is the Hampton Beach Village District, which is home to a variety of shops selling everything from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and beach gear. If you’re looking for unique local products, check out the Sea Rose Cottage, which offers a variety of handmade items, including jewelry, home decor, and gifts.
Concord Restaurants
Concord is a great place to dine out, with plenty of options to choose from. If you’re in the mood for Italian food, check out the O Steaks & Seafood restaurant, which offers a variety of pasta dishes, seafood, and steak. For a more casual dining experience, head over to the Red Arrow Diner, which is a local institution known for its classic American diner fare. If you’re looking for a farm-to-table dining experience, check out the Black Forest Cafe, which offers a variety of dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.
Don’t forget that New Hampshire is a tax-free shopping state, which means that you won’t have to pay any sales tax on your purchases. This makes shopping in New Hampshire a great value, especially if you’re looking to save some money. So whether you’re looking to shop or dine out, New Hampshire has plenty of options to choose from.
Unique New Hampshire Experiences
New Hampshire is full of unique experiences that won’t cost you a dime. From covered bridge tours to arcade gaming to fishing adventures, there’s something for everyone.
Covered Bridge Tour
New Hampshire is home to over 50 covered bridges, each with its own unique history and charm. Take a self-guided tour of the state’s covered bridges and marvel at their intricate designs and stunning views. Some of the most popular bridges to visit include the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge, the Haverhill-Bath Covered Bridge, and the Swift River Covered Bridge.
Arcade Gaming
If you’re looking for a fun and unique indoor activity, head to Funspot in Laconia, the largest arcade in the world. With over 600 games, including classic arcade games and modern video games, you’re sure to find something you love. Plus, admission is free, and you only pay for the games you want to play.
Fishing Adventures
New Hampshire is a fisherman’s paradise, with over 4,000 miles of rivers and streams and more than 1,000 lakes and ponds. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there’s no better place to cast your line. Some of the best fishing spots in the state include the Connecticut River, Lake Winnipesaukee, and the Androscoggin River.
No matter what your interests are, New Hampshire has something unique and exciting to offer. So grab a friend, pack a picnic, and get ready for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top free attractions in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has a lot of free attractions that you can explore. Some of the top free attractions in New Hampshire include the Anheuser-Busch Brewery in Merrimack, the Andres Institute of Art in Brookline, and the Lost River Gorge in North Woodstock.
Where can I find free outdoor activities in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is known for its outdoor activities. You can find free outdoor activities in New Hampshire at places like the White Mountain National Forest, the Franconia Notch State Park, and the Mount Monadnock State Park. These places offer hiking, biking, camping, and more.
What are some free events happening in New Hampshire this weekend?
New Hampshire has many free events happening every weekend. Some of the free events happening this weekend include the Concord Farmers Market, the Laconia Motorcycle Week, and the Nashua Farmers Market.
What are the best free museums to visit in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has many free museums that you can visit. Some of the best free museums in New Hampshire include the New Hampshire State House Visitor Center, the American Independence Museum, and the New Hampshire Historical Society Museum.
What are some free things to do in Manchester, NH?
Manchester is the largest city in New Hampshire and has many free things to do. You can visit the Currier Museum of Art, the Millyard Museum, or the Zimmerman House. You can also take a walk in the Livingston Park or the Derryfield Park.
What are some unique and free experiences to have in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has many unique and free experiences that you can have. You can visit the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site, the Sculptured Rocks Natural Area, or the Flume Gorge. You can also take a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway or the White Mountains Trail.
