Here’s a roundup of the best of the best places to visit in New Hampshire in October 2025—from historic landmarks and scenic train rides to haunted attractions and hidden nature escapes.
Table of Contents
🏛️ Historic & Cultural Experiences
1. Canterbury Shaker Village
Stroll through gardens, peek inside restored homes, and learn about the Shaker way of life.
October weekends often feature harvest-themed programs and seasonal markets.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Stop at local farm cafés in Canterbury for cider and fresh baked goods.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Stay at cozy B&Bs in nearby Concord for a short drive to the village.
2. Castle in the Clouds
This mountaintop mansion in Moultonborough is a dream for both history buffs and foliage lovers.
The 16-room estate offers sweeping views of Lake Winnipesaukee, especially stunning in October when the valley below glows with autumn colors.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Enjoy seasonal meals at the Carriage House restaurant on-site.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Consider lakeside inns around Meredith or Wolfeboro.
3. America’s Stonehenge
This ancient site in Salem features a maze of stone structures and astronomical alignments.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Local coffee shops and bakeries in Salem make for perfect pre- or post-visit snacks.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Stay at boutique hotels near Nashua or Salem.
🚂 Scenic Rides & Cruises
4. M/S Mount Washington Cruise
Nothing says autumn like sailing across Lake Winnipesaukee with the glowing mountains.
The cruise offers daytime sightseeing, dinner, and themed events.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Grab cider and pumpkin treats at Weirs Beach before boarding.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Stay at waterfront resorts in Laconia or Meredith.
5. The Cog Railway
Climb up Mount Washington on the world’s first mountain-climbing train especially in autumn season!
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Warm up with hearty meals at Bretton Woods after your ride.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Luxury stays at Omni Mount Washington Resort are nearby.
6. Conway Scenic Railroad
Board a vintage train in North Conway and wind through valleys, bridges, and mountain passes.
The “Mountaineer” route is particularly stunning during peak foliage.
It’s one of the most photogenic fall activities in the state.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Visit North Conway’s cafés for hot chocolate and pastries before the train.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Stay at charming inns or lodges in North Conway village.
🎃 Fall Festivals & Seasonal Events
7. New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival (Laconia)
This iconic event is known for its towering displays of carved jack-o-lanterns.
Expect live music, food trucks, kids’ activities, and a festive fall vibe.
Perfect for both families and night-time wanderers.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Explore the food truck lineup featuring cider, kettle corn, and pumpkin-flavored treats.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Book hotels in downtown Laconia for easy access.
8. Pumpkin Fest
Smaller than the Laconia event but equally charming, this fest captures the heart of small-town New Hampshire with crafts, seasonal eats, and community fun.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Taste local pies and autumn snacks sold at vendor stalls.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Stay in quaint inns in nearby towns for an authentic small-town vibe.
9. Apple Harvest Day in Dover
A one-day street fair with apple everything—pies, cider, candy apples, and local crafts.
The town comes alive with music and street performances, making it a perfect October outing.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Sample apple cider doughnuts and fresh-pressed cider on the festival streets.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Stay in Dover or Portsmouth for easy access.
10. Haunted Overload
Rated one of the scariest Halloween attractions in America, Haunted Overload in Lee is not for the faint-hearted.
The larger-than-life haunted forest is decorated with creepy props and lit up for maximum effect.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Grab cider and seasonal snacks from local farms in Lee.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Overnight stays in Durham or Exeter give quick access.
🌾 Farms, Orchards & Seasonal Treats
11. Alyson’s Orchard
This orchard in Walpole offers more than just apples—it has ponds, mountain views, and fall events.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Try apple cider slushies and baked goods at the farm store.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Walpole’s countryside inns are ideal for a cozy overnight stay.
12. Meadowstone Farm
A family-run gem in Bethlehem where visitors can enjoy fresh produce, farm animals, and a cozy fall atmosphere.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Check out local cafés in Bethlehem for fall-inspired coffee and pastries.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Stay at rustic B&Bs or cabins in Bethlehem or Littleton.
13. Gould Hill Farm
Located in Contoocook, this farm not only has apples and cider but also one of the most scenic hilltop views in New Hampshire.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Sip fresh cider and enjoy homemade pies from the farm stand.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Concord hotels or B&Bs make a convenient base.
14. Mack’s Apples
An iconic New England orchard with a legacy dating back to 1732. Perfect for family apple-picking days, complete with cider and pumpkin patches.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Enjoy cider doughnuts and caramel apples sold on-site.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Consider cozy inns in Londonderry or Derry.
15. Stonewall Farm
This nonprofit farm in Keene blends agriculture with education. In October, visitors can enjoy hayrides, fresh farm goods, and foliage-covered fields.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Fresh cheese, cider, and baked goods are available at the farm store.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Stay at boutique inns in Keene for a short drive.
16. The Friendly Farm
A hands-on petting farm in Dublin where kids can feed goats, rabbits, and sheep while soaking in the fall countryside charm.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Stop by Dublin General Store for seasonal snacks.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Dublin and Peterborough offer charming inn stays.
17. Cider Bellies Doughnuts
No New Hampshire fall trip is complete without a stop here.
Their warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated cider doughnuts are legendary and taste even better with a cup of fresh apple cider.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Pair your doughnuts with hot cider from nearby orchards.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Stay in Lincoln or North Woodstock for easy access.
🌲 Nature & Outdoor Adventures
18. Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves
Explore boardwalks, caves, and waterfalls hidden in the White Mountains.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Grab cider and warm soup at nearby North Woodstock cafés.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Lincoln’s hotels and lodges are a short drive away.
19. Pawtuckaway State Park
Hike, kayak, or simply leaf-peep in this expansive park. The Pawtuckaway fire tower hike is especially rewarding for panoramic fall views.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Visit local diners in Nottingham for hearty New England meals.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Stay in rustic cabins or lodges nearby.
20. Mount Major
A moderate hike that rewards you with sweeping views of Lake Winnipesaukee framed by October foliage. It’s one of the most popular fall hikes in the state.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Pick up cider and doughnuts in Alton before or after the hike.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Inns around Gilford or Alton Bay are perfect.
21. Silver Lake State Park
A quieter gem where you can walk the shoreline trails or enjoy a reflective afternoon picnic surrounded by foliage.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Try lakeside cafés in Hollis for seasonal eats.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Nearby B&Bs in Nashua or Amherst offer relaxing stays.
22. Squam Lake
Known for its natural beauty and wildlife, Squam is perfect for scenic boat rides in October.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Stop by Holderness restaurants for warm, hearty fall meals.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Lakeside cabins in Holderness are ideal.
23. Dixville Notch State Park
Home to dramatic rock formations and some of the most striking foliage in the state.
The rugged cliffs and valleys here feel like New Hampshire’s hidden wilderness.
- Seasonal food and drink stops near destination: Small cafés in Colebrook offer cozy meals before or after your visit.
- Local lodging recommendations specific to each location: Stay at lodges in Colebrook or northern inns.
🍂 Final Thoughts
From haunted forests and pumpkin festivals to serene lakes and orchard doughnuts, the state knows how to put on the best of fall.
Whether you’re chasing scenic hikes, cozy farm experiences, or cultural landmarks, these 23 destinations guarantee an unforgettable autumn escape.
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