A Brief Overview of the 7 Regions of New Hampshire

Like any US state, New Hampshire is more than the sum of its parts; however, if you understand a bit about its regions then you will have a better appreciation for its offerings. New Hampshire’s 7 regions are vast and varied, so let’s take a quick look at what makes each one unique so that your New Hampshire tourism experience will be the best possible..

The Seacoast:
The Seacoast was the state’s first area to be established and was settled by European fisherman and adventures in 1623. It has an 18 mile coastline and is home to many farms, orchards, and vineyards. While there, take some time to visit Portsmouth Light at Fort Constitution, the Great Bay Discovery Center (Greenland), the Fuller Gardens (North Hampton), the Mill Pond Center for the Arts (Durham) and to book a place with the Harbor Cruises.

Merrimack Valley:
The Valley region played an important role in the Industrial Revolution due to its many factories. Today, the state’s 3 largest cities-Manchester, Nashua, and Concord –are located here. It is a region of cultural arts, commerce, industry and a balance of the past and the present. While there, take some time to visit locations such as Palace Theatre (Manchester), the Roswell’s Covered Bridge, the Beach Hill Farm and Ice Cream Barn (Hopkinton), SEE Science Center, Canobie Lake Park (Salem) and the Anheuser Busch Brewery and Gift Shop (Merrimack).

Monadnock:
Here you will find the quintessential New England region. It is home to 8 covered bridges, small towns and backcountry roads. It is the site of 3,165 foot Mt Monadnock, which is America’s most frequently climbed mountain with a view of as much as 100 miles. Regional attractions include Friendly Farm (Dublin), Rhododendron State Park (Fitzwilliam), and taking a walk through Antrim’s South Village.

The Lakes
In central New Hampshire is the region which contains 270 lakes and ponds for a staggering 70,000 acres of waterways and miles of shoreline. While there take some time to visit Wolfeboro Resort, the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center and the Winnipesauke Belle.

Dartmouth:
Small New England towns with country stores, steepled churches and covered bridges balance the past and the present in a warm and inviting manner. Regional attractions include Ruggles Mine, the St. Gauden’s home, the AVA Gallery and Art Center and Charlestown’s Fort at No. 4.

White Mountain:
With 1,200 miles of hiking trails, nearly 8,000 acres of national forest and 5 summits that are higher than 5,000 feet, this is a region full of adventure. While here, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to ride the Conway Scenic Railroad, see the 176 foot Arethusa Falls and several other regional waterfalls, visit the historic Crawford North Depot; spend a day (or more) at Franconia State Park, or visit Mt. Washington’s area attractions which vary by the season.

Great North Woods:
The northern part of the state is home to numerous rivers, valleys, mountains, lakes and more than 3,500 moose. You can spend your time trekking part –or all- of 126 mile long Coho’s Trail, touring Starks Village, boating on Lake Umbagog or exploring (via snow shoe, skis, or on foot) the Balsam’s Wilderness Ski Area.
New Hampshire-it has much to offer for such as small state. You can find an abundance of activities and attractions that are sure to please even the most discriminating traveler. Whether you are looking for quiet mountain getaways or the charm of city streets, you are sure to find just what you desire.