New Hampshire

8 Adorable Small Towns in New Hampshire to Visit in 2024

Published

2 years ago

July 7, 2024

8 Adorable Small Towns in New Hampshire to Visit in 2024

Few other states that comprise New England truly embody the British Isles than New Hampshire. Dozens of towns in New Hampshire are closely named after actual locations in England, such as Portsmouth, Exeter, Hanover, and many more. Although some of these towns rebelled against the British Empire during the American Revolution, they have since prospered into some of the most adorable small towns in New Hampshire for you to explore in 2024. You will be awed by Peterborough’s contributions to several nation-defining wars. You will be enamored by Amherst’s bucolic sceneries and landscapes. You might even be swept off your feet—quite literally—by the strong winds coming from North Conway. Either way, 2024’s most adorable small towns in New Hampshire should not be missed.

Portsmouth

View of Market Square, the main economic and commercial center of the city of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, via quiggyt4 / Shutterstock.com

About an hour north of Boston, Massachusetts, you will find the enticing town of Portsmouth at the mouth of the Piscataqua River. Although the Piscataqua River serves as a good avenue for ferries and tugboats to go to and from the Atlantic Ocean, it also delineates the state borders of New Hampshire and Maine. People coming from both states and more can enjoy Portsmouth’s well-preserved 17th- and 18th-century houses. The ones specifically within the Strawbery Banke Museum are great places to immerse yourself into a time when Portsmouth was the first capital of New Hampshire and where costumed staff showcase traditional crafts from the second oldest settlement in the state since 1623.

The USS Albacore Museum, on the other hand, features a decommissioned Albacore submarine for those curious to see the inside of an underwater vehicle. Other historical sites include the Fort Stark State Historic Site, which was a pivotal fortress during the American Revolution and Civil War, and the St. John’s Church with its pipe organ from 1708. For more modern amenities, you can stroll through the verdant and flowery paradise of Prescott Park. You can also embrace the ocean breeze at the Odiorne Point State Park, which also contains the Seacoast Science Center for those who are enthusiastic about marine biology. There are dozens more historic and natural charms to relish in Portsmouth, and among them are the pristine lodgings you can afford, such as Wentworth by the Sea, Martin Hill Inn, or Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside.

Hanover

On the banks of the Connecticut River—which marks the borders between New Hampshire and Vermont—lies the humble town of Hanover. As home to the prestigious Dartmouth College—an Ivy League school first founded in 1769—Hanover has served as a place of enlightenment and inspiration for numerous individuals, locals and visitors alike. Dartmouth College’s Baker Library on the campus green contains the frescoes of José Clemente Orozco, a renowned artist from Mexico. Additionally, the Montshire Museum of Science from across the Connecticut River provides a number of interactive exhibits, an aquarium, and a few science parks for individuals who are eager to unlock more of the universe’s mysteries. Some of you might be more invested in touring the homely estate of a sculptor named Augustus Saint-Gaudens or seeing engineering marvels like the Wilder Dam or Boston Lot Lake. Whichever destination you go to first, you ought to at least rest a while at either the Hanover Inn Dartmouth or Six South St. Hotel.

Sugar Hill

Approximately 55 minutes away from Hanover, the delightful town of Sugar Hill will leave you ecstatic and excited to see more. As one of the smallest towns in New Hampshire—with a population less than 650 people—Sugar Hill is named after the many large groves of sugar maples in the immediate area. It is a pleasant and soothing settlement for those wanting peace and quiet in the countryside, with fantastic views of the Presidential, Franconia, Kinsman, and Dalton ranges in the grand White Mountains. June is a particularly good time to visit Sugar Hill, as its fields and hills blossom with pink and purple lupine flowers. Savor some exquisite homemade pancakes at Polly’s Pancake Parlor or cheese at Harmen’s Cheese Store. Most of all, give yourself a much-needed sleep at The Sunset Hill House, Franconia Inn, Lovett’s Inn & Restaurant, or Sugar Hill Inn.

Exeter

Exeter, with its location on Squamscott River and Exeter River, was a patriot stronghold for American soldiers during the American Revolutionary War. Before then—in the period of 1675 to 1725 when a group of religious exiles from the Massachusetts Bay colony first founded the town—Exeter fell victim to several severe Native American raids. It eventually stabilized into a thriving community with several historic structures such as the Gilman Garrison House (c. 1690), the Congregational Church (1798), and the Ladd-Gilman House (c. 1721). The latter, specifically, can be found at the American Independence Museum which also illustrates the history of years following the first Independence Day. You can always enjoy a brisk walk and hike through the Henderson-Swasey Town Forest. Less than 20 minutes from Portsmouth, you can entrust your belongings at the illustrious Exeter Inn or Inn by the Bandstand.

Amherst

Around 23 miles from Peterborough, travelers will fall in love with the lackadaisical and simplistic charms of Amherst. With its position in the Merrimack Valley and the eastern edge of the Monadnock region, Amherst is a utopian destination for those wanting the rural countryside of America. Biologists and other animal enthusiasts can find all sorts of unique creatures at the Ponemah Bog Wildlife Sanctuary. The Minot J. Ross Memorial Bird Sanctuary is also a perfect spot for birdwatchers and other avian lovers. Trekkers, hikers, and campers can seek their adventures at the Hodgman State Forest and the Joe English Reservation. Meanwhile, Baboosic Lake is open to individuals who are interested in swimming, boating, and fishing. There are many other secrets and possibilities to uncover in Amherst, so consider choosing this secluded small town as an adorable getaway from your big city troubles.

Peterborough

Peterborough is a lovable town filled with deep historic ties to prior American conflicts. During the French and Indian War, the first settlers of Peterborough fought for the English King’s army in spite of their initial mistrust of the Old World government. Then in the American Revolution, its willing townspeople fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775. Many of these Revolutionary heroes are now interred in Peterborough’s Old Street Road Cemetery including the drummer boy of Lexington, William Diamond.

Peterborough proved its valor once again in the War of 1812, when its native son James Miller (1776-1858) became the Hero of the Battle of Lundy’s Lane. He was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 1814 for defending a crucial site that would one day become Miller State Park, New Hampshire’s oldest state park. Indeed, Miller was such a hero that American author Nathaniel Hawthorne, in his introduction to The Scarlett Letter, described Miller as “New England’s most distinguished soldier.” There are several more attractions to admire in Peterborough, like Monadnock State Park and the MacDowell Colony (now known simply as ‘MacDowell’), the largest artist colony in America since 1907. And if you are in need of accommodations, look no further than to the Riverhouse.

Meredith

When it comes to relaxation and reprieve, Meredith provides innumerable opportunities for everyone wanting the laidback luxuries of rural New Hampshire. One can feel like they are at sea while strolling along the multitude of shorelines of Lake Winnipesaukee. Among these splendid shores are the Lovejoy Sands that serve as a launching point to the sublime Bear Islands, home to some of New Hampshire’s magnificent wildlife and plant life and one of several lush islands in Lake Winnepesaukee. You can also see more of New Hampshire’s wilderness at the Hamlin-Eames-Smyth Recreation and Conservation Area. Additional swimming, fishing, and kayaking opportunities can be earned at the much smaller Lake Winnisquam, Lake Waukewan, and Squam Lake. No need to worry about where you have to stay in the chilly evenings, because welcoming lodgings like The Oliver Lodge, The Nutmeg Inn, and Mill Falls at the Lake will keep you safe and sound in Meredith.

North Conway

Set within the White Mountains and near the state border between Maine and New Hampshire, North Conway is the first stepping stone towards the sublime summits of Mount Washington. Only about 50 miles from Sugar Hill, visitors can revel and rejoice in the many ski resorts in North Conway, such as the snowy adventures of the Cranmore Mountain Resort and the rollercoaster rides of the Attitash Mountain Resort. Traipse through the thick thickets of Merriman State Forest—Gawk at the alluring cascades of Diana’s Baths. Seek out one of the swimming holes along Saco River, or barter for great deals at one of the 100 big-name factory outlet stores at Settlers Green.

Visitors can get a picture-perfect vantage of North Conway and its surrounding environment from atop the Cathedral Ledge Lookout. And if you wish to know more about the extreme weather and harsh winds around Mount Washington and in the White Mountains, you can head over to the Mount Washington Observatory Offices for reliable forecasts. So put North Conway in your list of destinations to visit in New Hampshire, and consider The Colonial Motel, North Conway Grand Hotel, and School House Inn as options for your temporary place of residence in the mountain village.

In Conclusion

Skiing opportunities in the mountains? Check. Vibrant lakes and verdant forests? Check. And a deep historic association with several wars and conflicts that shaped the United States? Definitely. New Hampshire’s most adorable small towns fulfill these criteria for a fulfilling destination, and more. Take care when traversing the White Mountains and Mount Washington, specifically, in case the rapid winds that blow down to the town of North Conway are too much. Have fun when exploring Portsmouth for its seaside amenities and New England culture. Kayak through lakes such as Lake Winnipesaukee in Meredith to see some of the flora and fauna of the state. But most importantly, remember to great memories and experiences in your jolly journey through New Hampshire this 2024.

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New Hampshire

N.H. woman accused of civil rights violation after allegedly shooting at lost man because he was Black

Published

8 hours ago

March 4, 2026

Press Room

N.H. woman accused of civil rights violation after allegedly shooting at lost man because he was Black

Local News

Diane Durgin, 67, is accused of shooting at a Black man who inadvertently drove to her property after a prearranged truck part sale, prosecutors said.

A New Hampshire woman is accused of violating the state’s Civil Rights Act four times after she allegedly shot at a man because he was Black, prosecutors said.

Diane Durgin, 67, of Weare, N.H. could face up to a $5,000 fine for each violation she is found to have committed, the office of New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella said in a press release Tuesday.

Durgin is also charged with criminal threatening against a person with a deadly weapon and attempted first degree assault with a deadly weapon, Michael Garrity, a media representative for the New Hampshire Attorney General, said in an emailed statement to Boston.com.

Durgin had a final pre-trial conference last week, Garrity said.

In a civil complaint filed Tuesday, Durgin is accused of threatening physical force against the victim, the AG said. Prosecutors asked the court to issue a preliminary injunction barring Durgin from repeating her alleged behavior and from contacting the victim and his family.

During the morning hours of Oct. 20, 2024, the victim claims, he “mistakenly” drove to Durgin’s home after a prearranged purchase of a truck part with a seller online, prosecutors wrote as part of their request for an injunction.

When the man — whom prosecutors identified in court documents as X.G. — arrived, Durgin allegedly stepped out of her home and approached his car with a gun “holstered by her waist,” prosecutors wrote.

Upon noticing that X.G. was Black, Durgin allegedly “removed her gun and pointed it at X.G.,” prosecutors said in the injunction request.

While X.G. explained that he was lost, Durgin called the victim a “Black mother[expletive],” and threatened to “kill him,” prosecutors allege.

As the victim attempted to drive away, Durgin allegedly took her gun and fired two shots at the fleeing man’s car, missing both times, the AG’s office said.

While on the phone with a dispatcher, Durgin allegedly said she shot the man’s car because the victim is Black, the AG said.

“The guy is Black. And he, he…he says he’s meeting someone here and I think he’s coming here to steal,” Durgin allegedly said.

Police located X.G. and brought him to the Weare Police Department, stopping along the way at the correct seller’s home to complete the truck part purchase, prosecutors wrote in court documents.

To prove a violation of the New Hampshire Civil Rights Act, the AG must show that Durgin “interfered or attempted to interfere with the rights of the victim to engage in lawful activities by threatening to engage in or actually engage in physical force or violence, when such actual or threatening conduct was motivated by race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity, or disability,” prosecutors said.

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New Hampshire

Up to 4 inches of snow expected in NH tonight. See latest forecast

Published

20 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Press Room

Up to 4 inches of snow expected in NH tonight. See latest forecast

It may be March, but winter in New Hampshire is far from over. Just one week after a blizzard tore through the state with heavy snow and high winds, the state is getting another round of snowfall.

The state will get three to five inches during the evening and night of Tuesday, March 3, says the National Weather Service (NWS) of Gray, Maine. While the accumulation will not be significant, the snowfall may cause dangerous road conditions and a layer of ice on the ground in certain parts of the state.

Here’s what to know before tonight’s snow in New Hampshire, including snow totals and timing.

When will it snow in NH tonight?

According to the NWS, it will start snowing in New Hampshire during mid-afternoon or early evening and continue through the night. Specifically, snow will arrive to the southern part of the state around 2-3 p.m., spreading northwards through the rest of New Hampshire by 5 p.m.

Rain or freezing rain will mix in later this evening across southern New Hampshire, creating a wintry mix. All precipitation should move out of the state by midnight.

Due to the timing of today’s snowfall, the Tuesday evening commute will be affected, with the NWS warning to slow down and exercise caution while driving.

How much snow will NH get tonight?

New Hampshire will get one to four inches of snow tonight, with one to two inches in northern New Hampshire, two to three inches in southern New Hampshire and three to four inches in the center of the state, with the possibility for five inches in localized areas.

In the Seacoast specifically, Portsmouth, Rye, Hampton and York are expected to get between two to three inches of snow, while Dover, Exeter and Rochester may get up to four.

The wintry mix may also cause a light glaze of ice across southern New Hampshire.

NH weather watches and warnings

The NWS has issued a winter weather advisory for the state of New Hampshire, in effect from 1 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3 through 4 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4.