The Up-And-Coming City in New Hampshire That’s Perfectly Sized

Coming all the way from New Jersey to Boston for an Alan Jackson concert in August, I didn't have too much time, but I was determined to make the most of it. That included a day trip to Salem, New Hampshire, for some quick fun and crossing off some major things from my bucket list.

As I planned my trip, which centered around New Hampshire's biggest amusement park, I was struck by just how much there is to do in Salem, New Hampshire. This small city, with just over 31,000 people, is a great place to live and visit. However, I don't think many people are aware of it, as it often lives in the shadow of the much more famous Salem in Massachusetts. I was only able to visit a few of the places I'm covering here, but I'm already looking forward to a return visit.

Salem is an incredibly beautiful town any time of the year, and some areas feel like a rural paradise despite being less than an hour's drive from Boston. The top reason for history buffs to visit is America's Stonehenge, a stunning historic site featuring some of the most impressive stone landmarks in the country. It spans 30 acres and is over 4,000 years old. The town is also home to the Salem Flea, one of the best spots for bargain hunters in the northeast.

The reason I was here was Canobie Lake Park, a seasonal amusement park that opened in 1902 and is home to some truly unique attractions. I was particularly impressed with Yankee Cannonball, a zippy wooden roller coaster, and The Mine of Lost Souls, one of the creepiest dark rides I've ever been on. These two rides are worth the trip to Salem alone.

But once you're in town, there's so much more to see here! The food scene is great. You can dig into high-end Italian classics at Trattoria Amalfi, which has gained a lot of attention for its delicious pasta sauces. The Copper Door is a particularly popular American spot with locals, great for grabbing burgers or pizza. If you're lucky enough to have an extra day here, The Artisan at Tuscan Village is our pick for the best boutique hotel in town.

Have you visited this charming up-and-coming city? What are your favorite things to do in Salem, New Hampshire? If you're planning a trip, make sure to tell a friend about this article and start planning! And if the hotel we mentioned looks intriguing, head to Booking.com and book your stay at The Artisan at Tuscan Village today! Feeling inspired? Try planning your own New Hampshire trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.