New Hampshire's history is undeniably fascinating, but it's definitely a bit dry when you only experience it through history books. To really get inside the ways in which the Granite State shaped the United States, you need to step inside the spaces that have stood through the decades and centuries and allow you to imagine life in eras ranging from the colonial to the present day.

1. Lamie's Inn, Hampton

This inn dates back to 1740 when it was built as a family home, and over the centuries it became an essential stop for presidential candidates on the New Hampshire campaign trail. It's still a gorgeous place to visit, near the beaches and with the incredible Old Salt Restaurant on site. Check it out at 490 Lafayette Rd, Hampton, NH 03842 and learn more on their website.

2. Stonehurst Manor, North Conway

Pretend to be a wealthy Victorian landowner for a weekend at this stunning estate, built for Erastus Bigelow, the inventor of the power loom in 1872. Today, the manor house retains plenty of old-fashioned elegance, and its guests are treated like royalty. Find it at 3351 White Mountain Hwy, North Conway, NH 03860, and learn more on their website.

3. Bedford Village Inn, Bedford

This inn started out as a farmhouse in the 18th century, and it remained a farm for many years before turning into an inn and restaurant in the 1980s. It's absolutely stunning, and you'll love wandering the gorgeously landscaped grounds. Check it out at 2 Olde Bedford Way, Bedford, NH 03110, or visit their website.

4. The Wentworth Inn, Jackson

With 61 rooms, the Wentworth is a larger inn, but it still retains all the cozy charm you could desire. At the turn of the 20th century, it was a grand hotel, complete with its own casino, and home to numerous balls. It's nestled beautifully among the mountains, and provides the perfect combination of natural beauty and luxurious amenities. Find it at 1 Carter Notch Rd, Jackson, NH 03846, and learn more on their website.

5. The Hotel Portsmouth, Portsmouth

This 135-year-old building is perfectly located in downtown Portsmouth, close to all of the restaurants and shopping your heart could desire. Built in 1881 as a home for a wealthy family, the inn is a stunning example of Queen Anne Victorian architecture. See it for yourself at 40 Court Street, Portsmouth NH 03801, and learn more on their website.

6. Three Chimneys Inn, Durham

The historic home that became Three Chimneys Inn was built in 1649, making it one of the oldest homes in the Granite State. Its tasteful decorations and delightful onsite restaurant, the Ffrost Sawyer Tavern, make it the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Visit at 17 Newmarket Rd, Durham, NH, and learn more on their website.

7. Hancock Inn, Hancock

The oldest continuously operating inn in New Hampshire, the Hancock certainly deserves a spot on our list! Founded in 1789, it's still decorated in the colonial style, with antique and reproduction furnishings and art. Despite the inn's history, the rooms have AC and many have jacuzzis – so you'll be going back in time in style. It's located at 33 Main St, Hancock, NH 03449, and you can learn more on their website.

Looking for more ways to step back in time? Visit these amazing living history museums.