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7 Towns In New Hampshire With The Best Downtown Areas In 2024

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7 Towns In New Hampshire With The Best Downtown Areas In 2024


You may know New Hampshire for its stunning New England foliage, the White Mountains, its ‘Live Free or Die’ motto, or its delicious seafood. But how well do you know the state’s small towns? New Hampshire is packed with welcoming historic and artsy communities with vibrant downtown areas offering a little something for everyone. Take a self-guided tour, relax in leafy parks, and gorge on clams by the waterfront. These downtown areas represent the best of the state.

Keene

The Bandstand in Central Square, Keene, New Hampshire. Editorial credit: Andy Sutherland / Shutterstock.com.

Located in the lush Connecticut River Valley, Keene isn’t just surrounded by natural beauty, it’s also one of the prettiest towns in New Hampshire. Established in 1753, this former railroad town has seen a lot of history – and you can too in its beautifully restored brick mill buildings dotted around town. Stop into the Historical Society of Cheshire County to view exhibits from Keene’s fascinating past and/or join a guided tour of the town’s historic sights.

If you’re exploring solo, don’t miss Keene Central Square in the heart of the historical district. This downtown park features a charming gazebo, fountain, and Keene’s Civil War monument. It’s the ideal spot to take a breather from souvenir-hunting. Just off Main Street, you’ll find another historic gem, the Wyman Tavern. This opened in 1762 as a public house and is now a museum, as well as the venue for the popular Wyman Tavern Brew Fest, which takes place in August 2024.

Exeter

historic town center of Exeter, New Hampshire
Odd Fellows Hall at 115 Water Street in the historic town center of Exeter, New Hampshire. Editorial credit: Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com.

New Hampshire’s Revolutionary War Capital, Exeter, is a charming river town in the southeast of the state. Abraham Lincoln once gave a speech here, visiting Exeter in 1860. The town’s picturesque Main Street winds east towards the Squamscott River, which you can explore up close from the beautiful Robert H Stewart Waterfront Park and the Swasey Parkway, a scenic walkway that hosts concerts and other events through the summer and fall. The Swasey Pavilion (known as ‘the bandstand’ to locals) marks the core of Exeter’s walkable historic district. From here, it’s just a short stroll to the American Independence Museum, the Gilman Garrison House, built in 1709, and the Exeter Historical Society, founded in 1928.

Plymouth

own center of Plymouth, New Hampshire
Thai Smile restaurant in a historic building at 135 Main Street in town center of Plymouth, New Hampshire . Editorial credit: Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Known as the gateway to the lakes region and the White Mountains, Plymouth is a popular destination for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts. It’s also home to Plymouth State University, giving it a lively, college-town feel. Main Street runs along the Pemigewasset River. Plymouth’s beautiful historic district consists of several 1800s civic buildings clustered around the scenic Town Common; these include the town hall, the post office, the Pemigewasset National Bank building, and the old Grafton County Courthouse. For more modern entertainment, visit the Flying Monkey Movie House and Performance Center on Main Street. This iconic venue hosts concerts, comedy shows, movies, and more.

North Conway

Rainbow over the town center of North Conway, New Hampshire
Rainbow over the town center of North Conway, New Hampshire. Editorial credit: Keith J Finks / Shutterstock.com

North Conway, in the Mount Washington Valley, is a scenic mountain town with a reputation for great skiing. Known as North Conway Village, the vibrant downtown area is lined with quaint shops, quirky boutiques, and welcoming watering holes. Stop at the Handcrafters Barn for some genuine made-in-New-England gifts or satisfy your sweet tooth at the old-fashioned candy counter in Zeb’s General Store. Downtown is also where you’ll find the North Conway Scenic Railroad. In operation for over 50 years, this rail route is one of the town’s top attractions. If you have time, the 4.5-hour scenic Mountaineer excursion is well worth the trip, with gorgeous alpine views of forested peaks and rocky gorges.

Wolfeboro

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire
Aerial view of the historic town center of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire.

Wolfeboro, on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, claims the title of ‘America’s oldest summer resort’. It’s easy to see why this New Hampshire gem has been a favorite of visitors down the decades. The waterfront area is a busy hive of activity with boutiques, galleries, cafes, and dining spots – all with a view of the water. The best scenery is in Cate Park, just a block away from the main drag and with plenty of perfect picnic spots overlooking the lake and marina. After watching the boats go by, learn about their history. The New Hampshire Boat Museum traces Wolfeboro’s maritime history through the ages with exhibits on boats of all kinds, from rafts to racers. If all that strolling and sightseeing has made you hungry, grab a bite at the Wolfeboro Dockside Grille. Located right on the water, this classic diner serves up drool-worthy seafood platters. Leave room for dessert – the restaurant also contains a dairy bar offering your choice of ice-cream sundaes.

Meredith

historic town center of Meredith, New Hampshire
Hermit Woods Winery and Deli at 72 Main Street in historic town center of Meredith, New Hampshire. CaptionEditorial credit: Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com.

The small town of Meredith is in the heart of New Hampshire lake country and central to some of the state’s biggest lakes, including Winnipesaukee, Squam, and Winnisquam. Meredith got its start in the early 1800s as a prosperous mill town and is now known as a family-oriented community perfect for a relaxing summer break. Check out the Waukewan Town Beach for stunning views over Lake Winnipesaukee or hire a boat at Meredith Marina to spend the day on the water fishing. Back in town, stop by the Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery, a small boutique winery in the heart of downtown. Featured in USA Today, this foodie favorite crafts its wine from local fruits, pairing it with a delicious farm-to-table menu. You’ll find other great dining at the Mills Falls Marketplace, a waterfront boardwalk and open-air shopping venue featuring flower gardens, a 40 ft waterfall, and a sculpture walk.

Harrisville

A historic mill in Harrisville, New Hampshire
A historic mill in Harrisville, New Hampshire. Editorial credit: Nathan Bickel / Shutterstock.com

Historic Harrisville is a beautiful little mill town in southwest New Hampshire. This charming storybook village, designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977, is a history-lover’s dream. Its small downtown, curved around Harrisville Pond, is extremely easy to navigate and a pleasant stroll past red brick mill homes and stunning examples of Greek Revival architecture. Highlights include the Harrisville General Store, which has been in operation since 1838 and is now a grocery store and cafe. The Cheshire Mills complex, built in the 1840s and consisting of a granite mill and a cluster of workers’ cottages, is also well worth a visit. After all that walking, pick up a snack at a different sort of town landmark — the Brown House Bakery. Serving customers for almost two decades, this popular eatery is where locals go to satisfy their cravings for freshly made muffins, donuts, biscuits, sandwiches, and more.

Dynamic Downtowns

Visit New Hampshire’s fascinating and scenic small towns and you’ll be walking in the footsteps of revolutionary war heroes, founding fathers, and past presidents. The granite state has had a front row seat for the many turbulent eras of American history and that rich heritage is evident today in the historic streets and lively atmosphere of New Hampshire’s picturesque communities. Well-preserved, well-maintained, and well-loved, these dynamic downtowns are the perfect venue for your next vacation.

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New Hampshire

Man crashed stolen car, ran naked across NH highway, police say

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Man crashed stolen car, ran naked across NH highway, police say


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Shawn P. Weiner Sr., 35, was arrested after running naked through travel lanes on a New Hampshire highway.

A New Hampshire man is facing a slew of charges after allegedly crashing a stolen car and running naked across travel lanes. 

Shawn P. Weiner Sr., 35, of Somersworth, was arrested on March 9 after multiple passing drivers called police to report a nude man traveling on foot on Route 16 in Dover just after 3:15 p.m. Officials said the incident caused an “interruption to traffic” on the busy travel lanes.

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State troopers arrived at the scene and quickly arrested Weiner. Before the incident, Weiner allegedly crashed a car on Varney Road in Dover after the vehicle had been reported stolen in Somersworth, according to investigators.

Police said Weiner allegedly left the scene of the crash on foot and while fleeing, discarded his clothing on the shoulder of the highway before crossing all lanes. Investigators did not release information as to why Weiner removed his clothing.

Weiner was transported to an area hospital for treatment of minor injuries suffered in the crash.

Weiner was charged with indecent exposure and lewdness, reckless conduct, two counts of disorderly conduct, and littering.  Dover police also filed separate charges related to the crash.

The reported theft of the vehicle involved in the crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information can contact Sgt. Matthew Locke at [email protected]

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Notable New Hampshire Deaths: Goffstown Historian, UNH Track Standout

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Notable New Hampshire Deaths: Goffstown Historian, UNH Track Standout


InDepthNH.org scans the websites of New Hampshire funeral homes each week and selects at random some of our friends, relatives and neighbors to feature in this column. The people listed here passed away during the previous weeks and have some public or charitable connection to their community. InDepthNH.org is now offering obituaries through the Legacy.com service. We view this as part of our public service mission. Click here or on the Obituaries tab at the top of our home page to learn more. And if you know of someone from New Hampshire who should be featured in this column, please send your suggestions to NancyWestNews@gmail.com.

Terri Taylor August, 94, of Keene, died March 8, 2025. For nearly 50 years, she and her family nurtured a small farm and colonial homestead on Tibbetts Hill Road in Goffstown known as Timberstone Acres. She was a 4-H leader of the Goffstown Gallopers and a long-time member of the Goffstown Garden Club, serving as president and vice president for many years. She was a master gardener and was a judge at many state and regional flower shows. She served on the Goffstown Historic District Commission, serving as vice chairman in 1995. She led projects including the preservation of the Grasmere Schoolhouse No. 9, designation of town hall to the National Register of Historic Places, creation of a historic walking tour of Main Street, and the installation of informational markers at significant landmarks in town. (French and Rising Funeral Home)

Pierrette Clermont, 75, of Lincoln, died March 10, 2025. She was an integral part of the Clermont family business, including the Beacon Resort in Lincoln. She ran the Beacon North front desk and was a tour guide. She and her husband purchased the Chalet Restaurant in 1986. (Legacy.com)

James H. Green, 81, of Londonderry, died March 7, 2025. A U.S. Army veteran, he also served 18 years with the Army Reserves. He was employed by the Coast Guard at the Research and Development Center as resource director for many years. He was past president of the Democratic Party in Londonderry, president of the Senior Resource Committee, Trustee of the Trust Fund and past president and secretary of the Sugarplum Community. (Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium)

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Russell L. Marcum, 78, of Hollis, died March 12, 2025. He was a U.S. Army veteran and was a Nashua building inspector for 27 years. (Farwell Funeral Home)

William Phillips, 77, of Milford, died March 9, 2025. The owner and sole operator of the trucking company Diamond Transportation, he excelled in football and baseball at Exeter High and helped lead the football team to two state championship titles. He also was a track team member who won the N.H. Decathlon in 1965 and still holds the school’s javelin record. He was inducted into the NHIAA Hall of Fame in 2020. He was a member of the UNH football team that won their first Yankee Conference Championship in 1968. He was a UNH track team member and in 1969 received the Paul Sweet Trophy for Outstanding Member of UNH Track & Field Team. He was inducted into the UNH Hall of Fame in 1987. He then coached the UNH Track & Field team from 1970-1973. He competed in the Masters division on the NORBA and EFTA racing circuits. (Smith & Heald Funeral Home)

Terje Reinertsen, 87, of Contoocook, died March 3, 2025. A native of Norway, he moved to Dunbarton in 1968 and worked at the N.H. State Hospital as a clinical child psychologist. He was a therapist at Central N.H. Community Mental Health (now Riverbend) and served as its director for 25 years. He collaborated with Concord Hospital to establish emergency services and began residential therapy homes. (Legacy.com)

Arthur George Stavros, 99, of Canterbury, died March 7, 2025, a day after celebrating his birthday. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps and started as a claims adjuster for an insurance company, becoming a copywriter for an advertising agency. In 1955 he took sole ownership of Orr, Pope, and Moulton, which he ran for 52 years. He was director and vice president of the chamber of commerce, president of the YMCA from 1976-78, president of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church twice, as well as vice president and secretary. (Bennett Funeral Home)

WORDS OF WISDOM: “I’ve known people that the world has thrown everything at to discourage them … to break their spirit. And yet something about them retains a dignity. They face life and don’t ask quarters.” – Albert Horton Foote Jr., American screenwriter whose adaptation of Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” won an Academy Award. He won another for “Tender Mercies.” Foote lived in New Boston for a time. (His birthday today, March 14, 1916, to March 4, 2009)

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This article first appeared on InDepthNH.org and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.



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Cross-country storm to arrive in NH this weekend. Here’s the latest forecast

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Cross-country storm to arrive in NH this weekend. Here’s the latest forecast


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Over the past week, a monster storm has marched its way across the United States, and it’s coming to New Hampshire this weekend.

Starting on Tuesday, the storm has swept through the country from west to east with various types of extreme weather, including blizzards, wildfires, tornadoes and extreme thunderstorms, according to AccuWeather.

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Now, the storm is approaching the East Coast for the weekend as a rainstorm, bringing the possibility of heavy rain, severe winds and flooding. Here’s how New Hampshire will be impacted.

Rain in New Hampshire this weekend

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) of Gray, Maine, this week’s storm will hit New Hampshire the most on Sunday night.

While drizzles and showers are possible on Saturday night and Sunday day, the majority of the rainfall will take place on Sunday night, stretching overnight until Monday. The heaviest rainfall should stop around 8 a.m. on Monday, but lingering showers are possible throughout the day.

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Currently, the NWS predicts around an inch of total precipitation throughout the state, with the highest amount rainfall expected on the south-facing slopes of the White Mountains.

Though the volume of rain expected is not high, there is still risk for flooding due to the melting of leftover snow, especially in the mountains. Melted snow can raise the water levels in rivers, leading to an elevated risk for ice jam flooding, or a downstream flood caused by ice blockages in rivers.

The NWS has issued a hazardous weather outlook for flooding for the entire state of New Hampshire.



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