11 Things to Do in New Hampshire When You Thought You’ve Done Everything

Discover unique and fun activities to do in New Hampshire, from historical sites to scenic drives and quirky attractions.

We all know what it's like. You're sitting at home, you've got two days off ahead of you, and... absolutely no idea how to properly fill them. Or, maybe you're lucky and have retired to the great state of New Hampshire and find that every single day is one you get to fill with fun things to do. Whatever it is that allows you some free time, be sure you're spending it wisely. To help you plan, we've gathered up some unique things to do in New Hampshire. So, what are you waiting for? Try them out and then pass them on!

1. Canterbury Shaker Village in Canterbury

The only Shaker village in New Hampshire, Canterbury, has been a museum since 1992. The visit is well worth it, considering they've got some of the best intact examples of Shaker life in America. Today, you can see the many buildings that are still here and imagine what life might have been like when things were hustling and bustling. Visit the Canterbury Shaker Village website to plan your visit.

2. Explore the Sunapee Loop

You might think the best driving route in the state is the Kanc, but consider doing something different with this fun drive. It's a biggie at 140 miles, but it will take you through the Dartmouth/Lake Sunapee Region for views of some of the most unique places in New Hampshire.

3. Funspot in Laconia

With more than 600 games, this place is one of the largest arcades and a great adventure if you need something to occupy you all day long. It's even better on a day when the weather is bad. But, spend the day here in the summer and enjoy all the outdoor attractions as well. You can learn exactly why we think this is one of the most unique things to do in New Hampshire in our previous coverage.

4. Chutters in Littleton

There are worse ways to spend the day than hyped up on sugar, and this famous New Hampshire candy store might just be the best place to get that way! They've got the longest candy counter in the world, which means you might want to schedule a few hours here. You can find them in both Littleton and Lincoln. Visit the Chutters website to see what goodies await!

5. Redstone Rocket in Warren

Drive through this small New Hampshire town's downtown area, and you'll find the Redstone Rocket, a Cold War-era rocket sitting beside the road. It's quite a fascinating attraction that's worth a detour to see in person.

6. Take in history at the U.S.S. Albacore in Portsmouth

Head to the city of Portsmouth to see this submarine... out of the water. It's sitting in a ditch, but you can take a look around just before heading to the museum. It's just weird enough to be considered one of the most unique things in New Hampshire.

7. Take an adventure to Thompson Falls in Gorham

This beauty located in the White Mountains is reachable via the easy 1.2-mile Thompson Falls Trail. The out-and-back route leads through lots of beautiful forests and it's great for all skill levels. Hence, it's one of the best things to do in New Hampshire.

8. Uncle Sam's House in Mason

If you're a history buff, make a point to stop by Uncle Sam's house. He was a real guy and his name was Samuel Wilson. Today you can visit his home, one of the unique places in New Hampshire.

9. Upside Down Covered Bridge in Franklin Falls

This bridge was once used for the rails of the Maine Boston and Maine Railroad and gets its name from the sulfur it once carried to the paper and pulp mills. This bridge is known as a deck-covered bridge, and it's the only one remaining in the United States. There's a lot more to learn about this bridge, and seeing it in person is one of the best things to do in New Hampshire.

10. Explore Lakes of the Clouds in Sargent's Purchase

Located between Mount Washington and Mount Monroe, this network of lakes is worth the 5,000-foot trip above sea level it will take to visit! It's beautiful, fun but will tucker you out! Take a look at this piece about the best things to do in New Hampshire.

11. Skip the now and enjoy the indoor beach at Kahuna Laguna Indoor Water Park North Conway in North Conway

A 25-person hot tub? A beach that makes you feel as if you've gone to the actual beach? A way to keep the kids occupied all day? Yep, it's real and it's right here in the Granite State. Kahuna Laguna Indoor Water Park is so much fun, we can't contain ourselves. Visit the Kahuna Laguna website to plan your visit to one of the most unique places in New Hampshire today.

What do you think of all these fun and unique things to do in New Hampshire? Once you're done with these we recommend hopping in the car and taking these 10 incredible road trips in New Hampshire. They aren't long and you can do most of them in a day. Enjoy!

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