The 12 Best Hidden Gems In New Hampshire To Visit, One For Each Month Of The Year

Every year, folks are looking for places to explore throughout the state that they've never seen before. Most typically start with a list that grows longer and longer as each week goes by. Eventually, it becomes so long that making plans becomes overwhelming and they simply visit and revisit the same old places. But if you dig long and hard enough, you can still find some wonderful hidden gems in New Hampshire. The places on this list will guide you every step of the way.

1. JANUARY: Milan Hill State Park Fire Tower Hike

What a way to start the year! Fill your lungs with fresh New Hampshire winter air by heading out on a hike along the Milan Hill State Park Fire Tower Hike. This 1.1-mile looped trail is rated as easy, and it's a lovely way to get to the well-known feature of this state park. Additionally, if you want to stay overnight you can rent a yurt!

2. FEBRUARY: Three Chimneys Inn & Frost Sawyer Tavern, Durham

Some of the most cozy, winter vibes can be found by visiting the Three Chimneys Inn & Frost Sawyer Tavern in Durham. This cute inn, which is also home to one of the oldest restaurants in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, is perfect under a blanket of snow. Plan on spending a relaxing weekend here enjoying a staycation in your favorite state.

3. MARCH: North Country Family Restaurant, Groveton

As far as New Hampshire hidden gems go, they don't always have to be natural attractions. There are plenty of spots in the state that may be a bit lesser-known, but still worthy of attention. This breakfast spot is one of them! Enjoy a huge menu that includes (among other things) poutine! It'll warm you right up!

4. APRIL: Pillsbury State Park, Washington

As we all know, April doesn't always mean spring in New Hampshire. Many times there's just as much snow in the early part of the season as there is in the early part of the year. If that's the case this year, consider a visit to Pillsbury State Park in Washington which is arguably even more fun in the snow! Snowmobiling and snowshoeing are just a few of the many activities you can enjoy here.

5. MAY: Beede Falls, Center Sandwich

As the weather begins to feel a bit more like the warmer springs that folks in the state love, hit your first hiking trail of the season to this beautiful Beede Falls waterfall in Center Sandwich. The out-and-back hike is less than one mile and has little elevation gain. But best of all it leads straight to one of the most overlooked waterfalls in the state. Don't forget to bring your camera - the views are spectacular!

6. JUNE: Kezar Lake, Wadleigh State Park, Suttton

Summer is just about here and so is the warm weather! This is the time of year to hone in on your favorite spots to cool down. You can head to the coast, but don't forget just how great the inland lakes are, too. Kezar Lake at Wadleigh State Park in Suttton is definitely a favorite spot.

7. JULY: Odiorne Point State Park, Rye

Now that you've enjoyed some solid lake time, it's time to head to the coast to Odiorne Point State Park in Rye. This section of New Hampshire's small coastline offers history, a fun little nature center museum, and lots of beautiful views over the water. Depending on what time of day you visit, you may have the place to yourself.

8. AUGUST: Saint-Gaudens National Historical Site, Cornish

If you're the type that enjoys their hidden gems with lots of local beauty, look no further than the Saint-Gaudens National Historical Site in Cornish. The gardens were once home to American sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. This is also where he had his studio so you can imagine just how much inspiration he drew from his surroundings.

9. SEPTEMBER: Hart's Location, Carroll County

The smallest municipality in the state has just 41 residents, but it's also one of the most lovely places for a drive in the fall. Make your visit more interesting but swinging by for a visit to Crawford Notch State Park to see the start of fall foliage season. You'll also find an astounding 4,000 miles of trails!

10. OCTOBER: An Intimate Bed and Breakfast Inn

Fall is a wonderful time to spend some time at a local bed and breakfast inn. No matter which one you chose, plan on spending your romantic weekend getaway exploring the area, people, food, and just getting lost in the beauty of autumn in New Hampshire.

11. NOVEMBER: Smoke Shack Southern BBQ, Boscawen

Editor’s Note: After many, many wonderful years in the community, Smoke Shack Southern BBQ is unfortunately permanently closed.

As we get closer to Thanksgiving we've got meat on the brain and no one does it better than this spot in Boscawen. The meat is smoked to perfection and the location is lovely.

12. DECEMBER: Stark, Coos County

It doesn't get much more quaint for the holidays than in each and every one of the state's small towns. This one, located in Coos County, is known best for their covered bridge and the decorations that bring it to life each season! As one of the many little known places in New Hampshire, Stark has a very sobering, yet interesting World War II history.

What are some of your favorite hidden gems in New Hampshire? Let us know in the comments!