If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path travel destination, consider visiting New Hampshire. This picturesque northeastern state is often overshadowed by its more popular neighbors, Massachusetts and Maine. But what New Hampshire lacks in size, it makes up for in personality. From its wild and wonderful White Mountains to its quaint small towns, New Hampshire is known for many things that make the state special.
What Is New Hampshire Known For?
New Hampshire is known for its stunning natural landscapes, its history as a center of the American Revolution, granite production, and its vibrant arts and culture scene. From the rugged coastline to the soaring White Mountains, this northeastern state is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. And in cities like Manchester and Concord, you’ll find a thriving arts community with galleries, theaters, and music venues.
Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or experience the best of what New Hampshire’s cities have to offer, here are some things that New Hampshire is known for.
Famous Food In New Hampshire
Maple Syrup
New Hampshire is one of the top producers of maple syrup in the United States. The state’s maple industry produces over 100,000 gallons of maple syrup annually, contributing to around 4% of the United State’s maple production.
There are over 300 sugarhouses in operation during the sugaring season. New Hampshire’s maple syrup is used in a variety of food products, including candy, baked goods, and ice cream.
Maple syrup production in New Hampshire typically occurs during the sugaring season, which runs from late February to early April. During this time, the state’s sugarhouses are in operation, collecting sap from maple trees and processing it into syrup.
The Boiled Dinner
The boiled dinner is a New Hampshire tradition that dates back to the early days of the state’s history. The dish is typically made with corned beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, and it is often served with cabbage or other greens.
It is unofficially the state food and can encompass anything that is boiled. The boiled dinner is a popular dish on St. Patrick’s Day, and it is also often served at Thanksgiving and Christmas.
If you ever visit the state, be sure to try out all the famous foods of New Hampshire.
History, Culture, And Traditions
Granite State
New Hampshire is known for being a “Granite State” credit to the abundance of granite formations and quarries in the state. The state has a long history of quarrying and mining granite, and this is reflected in the many granite buildings and structures that can be found across the state.
Granite was used extensively in the construction of the state Capitol building, and it is also a popular material for countertops, flooring, and other home decor items.
Switzerland of America
New Hampshire is often called the “Switzerland of America” because of its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The state is home to the White Mountains, which offer some of the best hiking and skiing in the country.
New Hampshire also has a large number of lakes and ponds, making it a popular destination for fishing, swimming, and boating.
The White Mountains are one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Hampshire, and it’s easy to see why. The mountains offer stunning views, hiking trails of all difficulty levels, and a variety of winter activities.
The Mount Washington auto road and the Cog Railway offer unique ways to experience the mountains, and the mountaintop hotels are a popular destination for weddings and other special occasions.
Shortest Coastline in US
New Hampshire has the shortest coastline of any US state, measuring just 18 miles. Despite its small size, the coastline is home to several popular beaches, including Hampton Beach, Rye Beach, and Wallis Sands Beach. The state also has many freshwater lakes and ponds, which are popular for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Diverse Wildlife
New Hampshire is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including red foxes, Moose, deers, and bobcats. The state’s forests are also home to a variety of birds, including the endangered Northern Goshawk. New Hampshire’s coastal waters are home to seals, dolphins, and a variety of fish species.
Early Presidential Primary
New Hampshire has a long tradition of holding the first presidential primary in the country. This tradition began in 1920 when New Hampshire became the first state to hold a presidential primary.
Since then, New Hampshire has held the first primary in almost every presidential election cycle. The early primary gives voters in New Hampshire a chance to have their voices heard and to influence the outcome of the presidential election.
“Live Free or Die” – Revolutionary War
New Hampshire’s state motto is “Live Free or Die,” a phrase that was made famous by Revolutionary War General John Stark. The motto reflects the independent spirit of the people of New Hampshire, who have a strong tradition of self-reliance and individual liberty. It became the official motto in 1945 and is perhaps one of the most famous state mottos across all the states in the U.S.
Cities And Travel Destinations
Manchester, New Hampshire
Manchester is the largest city in New Hampshire and is known for its diverse population and vibrant downtown.
The city has many art galleries, museums, and theaters. There are countless shops and restaurants to explore and choose from so you will always find something to do.
Manchester is also a popular destination for sports fans, as it is home to the minor league baseball team, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth is a beautiful seaside city in New Hampshire that is known for its historical charm and quaint atmosphere.
The city features a variety of shops, restaurants, and boutiques, as well as several historical sites. Portsmouth is also a popular destination for weddings and other special occasions.
Visitors go to Portsmouth to enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere and to experience its rich history. It is a nice getaway from more bustling cities.
Famous People From New Hampshire
Franklin Pierce
New Hampshire is the birthplace of Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States. Pierce was born in 1804 in a town called Hillsborough. He went on to attend Bowdoin College and then law school, after which he began a successful political career.
Pierce served in the US House of Representatives and the US Senate before being elected President in 1852. He served one term as President, from 1853 to 1857.
Alan Shepard
New Hampshire is also the birthplace of Alan Shepard, the first American astronaut in space. Shepard was born in 1923 in Derry. He attended the United States Naval Academy, where he graduated with distinction.
Shepard then went on to have a successful career as a naval aviator and test pilot. In 1961, he became the first American to travel into space. Shepard went on to have a successful career as an astronaut, completing two space missions. He retired from NASA in 1974.
Architecture And Landmarks
Mount Washington
Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeastern United States, at an elevation of 6,288 feet. The mountain is located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire and is part of the Presidential Range.
Mount Washington is well-known for its extreme weather conditions, and has one of the highest recorded wind spspeedsn the world (231 miles per hour). The mountain is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and skiers.
New Hampshire State House
The New Hampshire State House is the state capitol building of New Hampshire. It is located in Concord, the state capital. The building was constructed in 1819 and is one of the oldest state capitol buildings in the United States that is still in use by the state legislature.
The building is made of granite and features a Greek Revival architecture state, with a standout central dome.
The State House is open to the public for guided tours, and runs at specific timings. Be sure to check that when planning your visit.
The Old Man of the Mountain
The Old Man of the Mountain was a natural rock formation that was located in New Hampshire. The formation was located on Cannon Mountain and resembled the profile of a human face.
The Old Man of the Mountain was a popular tourist destination and was featured on the state’s license plate and quarter. The formation collapsed in 2003, and today there is a memorial to the Old Man of the Mountain located at the site.
Many More Things New Hampshire Is Known And Famous For
These are just a few of the things New Hampshire is known for. From its granite quarries to its early presidential primary, New Hampshire has a long history and a rich cultural heritage to offer visitors.
New Hampshire is a unique and interesting destination. From its diverse wildlife and outdoor recreation to its rich history and independent spirit, there are many things that make New Hampshire a great place to explore.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or cultural experience, you’re bound to discover more things New Hampshire is famous for on your trip.
