UPS Store
(603) 226-2848
-71.53
43.20
New Hampshire is a state located in the Northeastern United States. Known for its natural beauty, mountainous landscapes, and rich colonial history, New Hampshire is often considered a New England gem. The state offers a blend of vibrant cities, quaint small towns, and outdoor recreation opportunities. It is one of the smallest U.S. states by population and area, yet it has a significant cultural and political influence, particularly due to its role in presidential elections.
Geography and Location
Location: New Hampshire is bordered by:
Maine to the east,
Vermont to the west,
Massachusetts to the south,
Canada (specifically the province of Quebec) to the north.
Size: New Hampshire is one of the smaller states, covering 9,349 square miles (24,214 km ), making it the 5th smallest state in the U.S.
Topography: The state is characterized by a combination of mountain ranges, lakes, and rolling hills:
The White Mountains, part of the Appalachian Mountain Range, dominate the northern part of the state and are home to the state's highest peak, Mount Washington.
The Lake Region is a popular area, particularly around Lake Winnipesaukee, which is the largest lake in the state.
The Seacoast in the southeastern corner is the state's coastal area along the Atlantic Ocean.
Climate
New Hampshire experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons:
Winter: Winters are cold and snowy, especially in the mountainous regions. The average temperature in winter is often below freezing, and snow is common, particularly in the White Mountains, where snow can accumulate heavily. Skiing and snowboarding are popular winter activities in these areas.
Spring: Spring is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 40 F to 60 F (4 C to 15 C). It is a time for wildflowers and the beginning of the leaf-peeping season in the mountains.
Summer: Summers in New Hampshire are relatively warm, with average temperatures ranging from 70 F to 85 F (21 C to 29 C). However, the state's location means that humidity is often moderate compared to other parts of the Northeast. The lakes and mountains make for popular summer vacation destinations.
Fall: Fall is a standout season in New Hampshire, particularly for its leaf-peeping. The state's forests transform into brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Fall temperatures range from 45 F to 65 F (7 C to 18 C).
History and Cultural Heritage
Indigenous Peoples: Before European settlers arrived, New Hampshire was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Abenaki people. They lived off the land, hunting, fishing, and farming.
European Settlement: New Hampshire was first explored by English colonists in the early 1600s, with John Mason and Sir Ferdinando Gorges receiving land grants in the area. The region became part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony until it was established as a separate royal colony in 1741.
Statehood: New Hampshire became the 9th state in the Union on June 21, 1788. It was one of the original thirteen colonies and played a crucial role in the American Revolution and the founding of the United States.
Industrial Development: In the 19th century, New Hampshire became a major manufacturing center, particularly for textiles, shoes, and machinery. Its rivers powered the mills in towns like Manchester and Nashua.
Economy
New Hampshire has a diverse economy with sectors ranging from technology to tourism, and it is notable for its lack of a state income tax, which has made it an attractive place for business and residency.
Manufacturing: The state has a strong manufacturing sector, producing goods such as machinery, computers, electronic equipment, and textiles. Manchester and Nashua are the state's largest cities and major industrial hubs.
Technology: In recent decades, New Hampshire has seen growth in the high-tech industry, especially in biotechnology, computer technology, and software development. The state has become home to many startups and tech companies, especially in the southern part of the state near Boston.
Tourism: The state's natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and historic sites attract millions of visitors each year:
The White Mountains offer some of the best hiking, skiing, and scenic vistas in New England.
Lake Winnipesaukee is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming.
The Seacoast, with cities like Portsmouth, provides coastal charm, history, and arts festivals.
Fall foliage season, with its stunning leaf displays, is a significant tourist draw.
The Mount Washington Auto Road and the Kancamagus Highway are famous scenic drives.
Agriculture: While the state is not as agricultural as some others, New Hampshire has a strong tradition of farming, particularly for apples, maple syrup, dairy, and vegetables. The state also has a notable wine industry.
Major Cities and Regions
Manchester: The largest city in the state, Manchester is located along the Merrimack River and is the economic and industrial center of New Hampshire. It has a rich history in textile manufacturing and is home to Southern New Hampshire University. The city is also known for its art scene and is a gateway to the White Mountains.
Nashua: Located near the Massachusetts border, Nashua is a key city in southern New Hampshire and is part of the Boston metropolitan area. It has a growing high-tech and biotechnology industry, and its proximity to Boston makes it a desirable place to live.
Concord: The state capital, Concord, is located in central New Hampshire. It is a charming small city known for its historical sites, including the New Hampshire State House and Kimball-Jenkins Estate.
Portsmouth: A historic coastal city, Portsmouth is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and seacoast culture. It has a significant maritime heritage and is a gateway to Casco Bay.
Keene: A small but charming city in southwestern New Hampshire, Keene is known for its college-town atmosphere and its annual Keene Pumpkin Festival, which holds the world record for the most jack-o'-lanterns lit at once.
Culture and Attractions
Outdoor Recreation: The state's diverse landscape makes it a hub for outdoor activities, especially:
Skiing and Snowboarding in the White Mountains during the winter months, particularly at resorts like Cannon Mountain and Bretton Woods.
Hiking and backpacking in the White Mountains, including trails like the Appalachian Trail and the Mount Washington Summit.
Water sports on Lake Winnipesaukee, which is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the U.S., offering boating, fishing, and swimming.
Snowmobiling, fishing, and hunting are also popular year-round activities.
History and Heritage: New Hampshire is rich in American history. Key landmarks include:
Portsmouth's Strawbery Banke Museum, a living history museum.
The Old Man of the Mountain (before it collapsed in 2003), a natural rock formation that was one of the state's most iconic landmarks.
The Canterbury Shaker Village, a preserved site that tells the story of the Shaker religious movement.
Arts and Festivals: New Hampshire has a vibrant arts community, particularly in cities like Concord and Portsmouth:
The Colonial Theatre in Keene and The Capitol Center for the Arts in Concord host performances year-round.
The state also celebrates various art festivals, such as the NH Film Festival and the Keene Pumpkin Festival.
Fall Foliage: New Hampshire is famous for its fall foliage, attracting visitors each autumn who come to see the vibrant colors in the forests and mountain landscapes.
Famous Landmarks
Mount Washington: The tallest peak in the Northeastern U.S., at 6,288 feet (1,917 meters). The Mount Washington Observatory offers tours, and the Mount Washington Auto Road lets visitors drive to the summit.
Lake Winnipesaukee: The largest lake in New Hampshire, known for boating, fishing, and vacation homes. The nearby towns, like Meredith and Wolfeboro, offer a quaint New England experience.
The White Mountain National Forest: A vast area covering over 750,000 acres, offering scenic drives, hiking trails, and some of the most picturesque views in New England.