Durham
Durham, located along Great Bay at the mouth of the Oyster River, is home to the University of New Hampshire. The Durham census-designated place, which includes the densely populated portion of the town centered on the intersection of New Hampshire Route 108 and Main Street and includes the university that dominates the town, is defined by the US Census Bureau as the primary settlement in the town, where 11,147 people resided at the 2020 census. Durham, formerly known as Oyster River Plantation, grew from a small village of pioneers in the 1600s to a thriving town on the New Hampshire Seacoast. Durham, brimming with academic and cultural riches, takes pride in its history and tradition as a university town. Durham has a plethora of fascinating historical landmarks, including the Whittemore House, a historic home once occupied by the university's founder, and the New Hampshire Historical Society Museum, which expertly displays the state's cultural heritage.
With its colonial-style architecture, quaint shops, and lovely parks, the town's downtown area creates a picturesque atmosphere ideal for a leisurely stroll. The town's perplexing blend of natural beauty and recreational activities will captivate outdoor enthusiasts. Durham offers a plethora of options, from the tranquil forests and rolling hills of the nearby White Mountains to the pristine beaches and stunning coastline of the New Hampshire seacoast, whether one is looking for a challenging mountain climb or a leisurely hike.