Destination attractions things to do in new hampshire

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

"The Granite State" sometimes conjures images of a dry, barren land with lots and lots of rocks. In fact, it sounds pretty dull. Rest assured, this is not the case for the state of New Hampshire; dubbed the Granite State because of the amount of granite mined there. Far beyond rocks, however, this small state also boasts a gorgeous seacoast, rugged mountains, and enough outlet shopping to satisfy the most discerning retail enthusiast.

A ten mile stretch along the southern New Hampshire border spans the coastal towns of Hampton, Rye, New Castle and Portsmouth. Rocky beaches and state parks line the stretch and are a tourist's delight from May through September. Hampton Beach is famous for its boardwalk and live summer entertainment at the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom. Nationally known performers like Hootie and the Blowfish, Weird Al Yankovich, Jewel, and Hansen have performed here. A short stroll from the Casino allows visitors to sample fresh fried dough or fried clams, while watching the waves crash on the mile long stretch of beach.

Rye is home to Odiorne State Park. Just minutes north from Hampton, this park features pristine woods, beach front and a nature and science center filled with information and hands-on activities regarding sea creatures and local wildlife.

Just north of Rye lies New Castle, home of the infamous Wentworth By the Sea ocean side resort. Originally built in the early 1900's, this thoroughly renovated resort is now owned and operated by Marriott. New Castle is also home to New Castle Common, a beautiful beach, playground and picnic area just minutes from the Wentworth. A nominal admission fee is charged per car during peak season, but is well worth the price. A family can spend hours at New Castle Common enjoying the sun, surf, walking trails and gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean. Bathroom facilities are available.

Head north once again--just another few minutes, and you'll find the seacoast city of Portsmouth. Settled in the 1600's, this seaport is rich in history and culture, as well as a haven for fine dining and shopping. Just steps from downtown Portsmouth is the Strawberry Banke Historical Center. Tour homes built in the 1600's and learn about the first settlers in this seacoast region. While at Strawberry Banke inquire about Portsmouth's Black Heritage Trail; a walking tour of some of the black folks who were enslaved and freed during a shaky period in our nation's history. The Prescott Park Arts Festival comes to life each summer and features live performances of the Seacoast Reperatory Theater at Prescott Park along the Piscataqua River.

A couple of hours north of Portsmouth leads visitors into the White Mountain range. Mount Washington is the highest peak in the northeast and features a railway and car roads taking visitors to its summit.

Hiking and camping are prevalent in the White Mountains. Check with the Appalachian Mountain Club for specific trails and information.

This region is a skier's delight during the winter months. Some of the best skiing in New England takes place at New Hampshire ski resorts like Gunstock, Attitash and Black Mountain.

While in the ski resort area, spend a few hours--or even an entire day in North Conway. Known for some of the best outlet shopping in the Northeast, this town boasts eclectic shops as well as nationally recognized outlet stores.

New Hampshire is a gold mine of activities, history, sights and sounds throughout the year. Its convenient location--just an hour north of Boston and an hour south of Portland, Maine, puts it in the center of much activity throughout the northeast. Enjoy the beaches in the summer. Check out the gorgeous mountain foliage in the fall. Ski and shop in the winter, and dine in Portsmouth during the warm spring months. You'll never run out of things to do in the Granite State.