New Hampshire, though quaint in size, is packed with fun and romantic attractions. Whether you’re exploring the nightlife in downtown Manchester or hiking in the White Mountains, you’re going to delight in New England’s distinct charm. As for accommodations, the Granite State offers plenty of vacation rental options, which range from cozy cabins in the woods to decadent luxury homes. Many of the best New Hampshire vacation rentals are situated just minutes from the state’s best attractions. Here are seven of the most popular getaway spots in New Hampshire for Valentine’s Day.
1. Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a lovely coastal city that’s known for its historical architecture, exceptional restaurants and breweries, and vibrant downtown area. For the perfect romantic night out, start by checking out a live performance at The Music Hall, a gorgeous theater with a rich history that dates back to 1878. After the show, get a table at Ristorante Massimo, one of the city’s best upscale Italian restaurants that features a warm, welcoming ambiance. For a more casual dining experience, you can’t go wrong with Surf. Portsmouth is famous for its fresh, local seafood, and Surf has some of the best in town.
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2. North Conway
Nestled in the beautiful White Mountains, North Conway is one of the best places to look for a rustic, romantic vacation rental in the woods. The area is pure New Hampshire, featuring stunning natural beauty as far as the eyes can see. If you’re not sure what to do in North Conway when you arrive, why not start with a horse-drawn sleigh ride? Fireside Sleigh Rides goes all out, providing blankets, hot apple cider, and a trip to a campfire complete with marshmallows for toasting. North Conway has some of the best winter hiking in the state, including trails that lead to enchanting waterfalls such as Diana’s Baths, Glen Ellis Falls, and Arethusa Falls. For dinner, go to Ledges Restaurant, where you can enjoy exquisite American cuisine in a beautifully decorated dining room that features many large windows overlooking the picturesque White Mountains.
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3. Manchester
Once a historical mill town, Manchester has become one of New Hampshire’s main attractions. It’s the largest city north of Boston, and the downtown area is packed with outstanding restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Enjoy a leisurely hand-in-hand stroll through the Currier Museum of Art, where you’ll see a huge range of incredible European and American artwork. After you’re done there, head to Manchester’s Historic Millyard District for a mouthwatering dinner at Cotton. Bon Appetit Magazine called Cotton one of the 10 best neighborhood restaurants in the Northeast, and for good reason; the atmosphere is elegant yet casual, and the food is delicious. The Hanover Street Chophouse is another wonderful dining option, especially if you’re in the mood for a perfectly cooked steak.
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4. Meredith
Nestled next to the picturesque Lake Winnipesaukee, Meredith is a great place to look for a waterfront vacation rental. While you won’t be doing much swimming or boating in February, the breathtaking views alone are worth it. While in Meredith, enjoy a romantic train ride. The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad will take you on a scenic two-hour ride in a charming old-fashioned locomotive. When you get hungry, go to Lavinia’s. The restaurant is located in a 1820s building that served as an underground railroad stop during the slavery era. The menu consists of classic New England fare made from fresh, local ingredients.
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5. Sugar Hill
With roughly 500 permanent residents, Sugar Hill is the best place to look for a vacation rental if you and your sweetheart really want to get away from it all this Valentine’s Day. It’s a delightfully quaint town that’s located on the edge of White Mountain National Forest. It’s a fantastic place to stay if you want to do some skiing or snowboarding, as it is just a quick drive away from multiple resorts. You’re also just a stone’s throw from popular White Mountains attractions, such as the Flume Gorge and the Basin. Make sure you stop by the Sugar Hill Inn for dinner while you’re there. The restaurant takes a European approach to dining, allowing you to enjoy the table for as long as you please. Candle and fireplace lighting adds a warm, romantic glow to the evening.
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6. Peterborough
Peterborough is a small, welcoming community situated by the Contoocook River. The town is known for its rich arts and culture, and it is home to a famous artists’ retreat called The MacDowell Colony, as well as two local theater groups. Chocolate and Valentine’s Day are a match made in heaven, so make sure you stop by Vicuna Chocolate for a decadent experience. It’s an Artisan bean-to-bar chocolate factory and cafe, meaning that the cacao beans are processed into rich, mouthwatering chocolate in-house. After you’ve satisfied your sweet tooth cravings, take a stroll through Depot Square, where you’ll find a variety of eclectic shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.
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7. Littleton
Another wonderful town in the White Mountains, Littleton is known as “The Main Street of the Mountains.” The town is located along the banks of the Ammonoosuc and Connecticut rivers, and there are plenty of places to go hiking or snowshoeing in the local mountains. The downtown area’s Riverwalk is one of the most popular attractions. There are many one-of-a-kind businesses to check out, including a 115-year old opera house, a vintage diner, an independent bookshop, and an herb store, among many others. New Hampshire is known for its rustic covered bridges, and Littleton has three exceptionally charming versions for you to use to cross the river: the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge, the Riverwalk Covered Bridge, and the 1902 Suspension Bridge. When you’ve built up an appetite from walking around, head to The Beal House for an upscale take on classic American tavern fare in an elegant yet comfortable setting.
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