New Hampshire, in the New England region, is defined by its stunning scenery and singular towns. The small communities have a classic New England ambiance framed by gorgeous foliage, significantly when the leaves change colors in the Fall. There are vast expanses of forest, such as White Mountain National Forest and Mount Washington, popular among winter sports enthusiasts.

Amid all this beauty are nine towns that are New Hampshire’s best-kept secrets. The towns are noteworthy for their small communities, charming houses, and interesting districts worthy of a long weekend of strolling and discovering New England’s charms. You will find local and national history and more than enough outdoor adventures here.

Jackson

Jackson is a small resort town in the White Mountains. The town slogan is “Where You Should Be,” judging by the scenery, it is easy to see why. It is a four-season town that is part of the classic White Mountains Villages, a short drive from bigger cities but with a fraction of the hustle and bustle. A lot of its charm can be seen in the Jackson “Honeymoon” covered bridge, which was built in 1876, and in its beautiful waterfalls.

The red-covered bridge is a must-see location and ideal for romantic photo opportunities. Iconic white steeple churches, such as the Little White Church, complete the cozy surroundings. Several elegant lodging options will complete the Jackson experience. Offerings include the Swiss Chalet Village Inn, Lodge at Jackson Village, and Nordic Village Inn.

Meredith

In the Lakes Region, the scenic resort town of Meredith is one of New Hampshire’s best-kept secrets. It has a remarkable downtown area framed by a tranquil setting. The best way to soak in the town’s beauty is by exploring Meridith’s Sculpture Walk. The sculpture’s path leads you through manicured lawns and gardens along picturesque roads.

An ideal way to end a day of exploring Meredith’s beauty is a stop at Hermit Woods on Main Street. The quirky winery is “proud to be contrarian.” It has an incredible backstory to match its carefully crafted wines made from the unique New Hampshire terroir. Numerous lake-front lodging options, such as Center Harbor Inn, are within walking distance of fine attractions and restaurants. And, of course, nearby Lake Winnipesaukee remains an attraction in all seasons.

Littleton

Littleton, in the White Mountains, is a classic New England town with traditional brick commercial buildings and a white steeple church as the area’s hallmark. The town’s motto, “Be Glad,” came from Pollyanna, and there is a bronze statue commemorating her. Main Street has local shops, restaurants, and the historic Thayers Inn.

Thayers Inn is a landmark New England hotel with modern comforts. The historic hotel was finished in 1850 and became prominent when the railroad came to town in 1852. It has been operating ever since. The inn is within walking distance of notable shops and attractions such as the League of NH Craftsmen, Littleton Historical Museum, and the Littleton Opera House. Then there’s the rustic Grist Mill on the river, a look back in time if ever there was one.

Hollis

Hollis is a traditional New England town that is fun to explore, especially for those who love history. The Hollis Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places and has nearly 100 buildings, with Monument Square as its focal point. The town became a popular summer haven in the 1800s, and there are preserved summer residences.

Notable architectural structures are the 1935 Neo-Classical Marion Nichols Summer Home and the 1910 Hollis Social Library, which has splendid white columns. Over 90 commercial buildings and residences are explored, each revealing a piece of Hollis’s history. Another example is the Always Ready Engine House, built in 1859, which displays the quintessential New England clapboard siding.

Sugar Hill

Sugar Hill overlooks White Mountain National Forest and provides a romantic setting. You can learn about its history at the Sugar Hill Historical Museum or from the locals at the ever-popular Polly’s Pancake Parlor. Before leaving town, take home gourmet cheese from Herman’s Cheese and Country Store, one of the most visited shops in town. Visitors also enjoy seeing the iconic St. Matthews Chapel.

Several audio tours are available for a scenic drive through the dramatic White Mountains, an ideal way to soak in the area’s beauty and charm. Booking a room at the Sugar Hill Inn completes the romantic ambiance of the town. It offers views of the White Mountains, five-star dining, and luxurious rooms that will make you want to stay longer in Sugar Hill.

Harrisville

The mill village of Harrisville was incorporated in 1870 by the Harris family and, 100 years later, closed New England’s last textile mill, Cheshire Mills. The town grew around this unique atmosphere, and many of the historic commercial properties and residences have been preserved. It is in the Monadnock region, framed by ten lakes and ponds and a restored brick and granite mill in the historic district.

Audio tours are available for the historic district, which comprises elegant red brick commercial structures, white steeple churches, and homes, all carefully preserved for their historic value. Some notable buildings are the 1832 Harris Storehouse, the 1840 Vestry/Library, and the 1851 Cheshire Mills Boarding House. The elegant structures are quintessential New England architecture and will transport you to another era.

Hillsborough

Hillsborough is most famous for its Franklin Pierce Homestead, home to the 14th president of the United States. Today, it comprises four distinct villages: Hillsborough Bridge Village (downtown), Hillsborough Center, Hillsborough Upper Village, and Hillsborough Lower Village. Downtown is a unique place along the Contoocook River with quaint inns and boutiques.

The Stonewall Farm Bed and Breakfast is ideal for a relaxing stay. The country inn offers many activities, like fishing, within walking distance of the attractive restaurants. August is an excellent time to visit when the community hosts its Living History exhibit. Attendees are encouraged to join the fun and learn how to make maple syrup and cook on a wood-fired stove.

Seabrook

Seabrook is a charming coastal village near the Massachusetts border. It has many cultural and educational attractions, such as the Science and Nature Center and the Owascoag Nature Trail. Seabrook Beach, near the Massachusetts border, is popular for those looking for a less crowded day at the beach.

Several restaurants embrace the spirit of this area, like Ernie’s Seafood and Brown’s Lobster Pound, perfect for a relaxing evening. Smoky Quartz Distillery is a veteran-owned distillery producing rum and other craft spirits, so you can bring something home from Seabrook. The town is attractive for its friendly community and relaxing atmosphere and is only a short drive from larger metropolises.

Plymouth

Plymouth is known for its lakes, ski resorts, and as a retail hub. Newfound Lake has over 4,500 acres and is famous for its clear water. Tenney Mountain Resort is family-owned and known for its 1,500 vertical drop and a host to the World Pro Ski Tour.

The town is famous for being a shopping mecca, with shops like the Gallery at Red Gate and many others. A landmark cultural attraction is the Museum of the White Mountains. The museum features rotating exhibits and paintings dedicated to the White Mountains and the surrounding region. Though Plymouth is famous as a winter sports destination, it has plenty of attractions with little to no crowds throughout the year.

New Hampshire has some of the most dramatic natural scenery in the country. Spring brings temperate conditions, Fall brings terrific colors, and winter provides the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts. It is also a fun state for a road trip and finding little towns not heavily populated but full of culture and points of interest.

These towns are New Hampshire’s best-kept secret, but the small communities are warm and welcoming to visitors. Many of these nine towns are resort towns for the White Mountains. The dining and lodging options are superb, and there is much to see and do in these sparsely populated areas.