Top 15 Most Interesting Facts About New Hampshire

1. State Motto: "Live Free or Die."
2. State Bird: Purple Finch.
3. State Flower: Purple Lilac.
4. Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeast, is known for some of the world's most extreme weather.
5. The Old Man of the Mountain, a granite rock formation, was a state symbol until it collapsed in 2003.
6. New Hampshire was the first state to establish its own constitution independent of British rule.
7. The first free public library in the United States was established in Peterborough in 1833.
8. New Hampshire has no sales tax or state income tax, making it a unique destination for shoppers and residents.
9. Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire and a popular vacation spot.
10. The state hosts the first presidential primary in the U.S. during election seasons, drawing national attention.
11. The Kancamagus Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., especially during autumn foliage season.
12. The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, established in 1800, is one of the oldest shipyards in the U.S.
13. New Hampshire is one of the smallest states in the U.S., but it has a rich history and lots of outdoor activities.
14. The state's White Mountains are part of the Appalachian Mountain range.
15. New Hampshire is known for maple syrup production and charming covered bridges.

Geography of New Hampshire

New Hampshire's geography ranges from rugged mountains to beautiful lakes and coastal areas. Key features include:

• Highest Point: Mount Washington (6,288 feet).
• Lowest Point: Atlantic Ocean (sea level).
• Major Rivers: Connecticut River, Merrimack River, and Saco River.

A Brief History of New Hampshire

New Hampshire played a key role in America's founding and has a rich colonial history:

• Originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Abenaki.
• Settled by Europeans in 1623, making it one of the earliest colonies in the U.S.
• New Hampshire was the first state to declare independence from England in 1776.
• The state was one of the original 13 colonies and ratified the U.S. Constitution in 1788.

Top 10 Things to Do in New Hampshire

1. Hike or drive up Mount Washington for stunning views and weather extremes.
2. Explore the White Mountains and enjoy hiking, skiing, or camping.
3. Relax on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and take a scenic boat ride.
4. Drive the Kancamagus Highway for incredible views of autumn foliage.
5. Visit the charming town of Portsmouth and explore its historic sites and shops.
6. Tour the New Hampshire State House in Concord, the nation's oldest statehouse in which the legislature still meets.
7. See the remnants of the Old Man of the Mountain at Franconia Notch State Park.
8. Walk along the Atlantic coast at Hampton Beach or Rye Beach.
9. Learn about the state's colonial history at Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth.
10. Enjoy maple syrup season and visit sugarhouses in the spring.

Top 10 Destinations in New Hampshire

1. Mount Washington
2. White Mountains
3. Lake Winnipesaukee
4. Portsmouth
5. Franconia Notch State Park

Plan Your Visit

For more information about New Hampshire, visit the state's official tourism site: Visit New Hampshire