Portsmouth

Portsmouth, founded in the early 1600s, may be America's greatest small town. The port town on the Piscataqua River was built solely for the king's commerce. Workers on the wharves built British ships, which were later used against the colonies during the Revolutionary War. It has never grown to the size of Boston or even Portland, Maine, to the north. Still, there's lobster and sand, history and theater, the best restaurants in New Hampshire, and plenty of beer. And as you walk through its lively cobbled center, it's difficult to believe that only 21,000 people live there.

Portsmouth is a wonderful city but knowing that it is also the most walkable in New Hampshire makes it even more appealing. The city is lovely, situated right on the Piscataqua River. It's also the state's second most park-dense town, which makes it ideal for exploring. Residents walk to and from work at all times of year, which contributes to the city's ranking as the most walkable in the state. If you visit during the summer, you can take a stroll through the Portsmouth Farmers' Market. For a fun way to spend some time in town, go to the Portsmouth Book and Bar. There's also a lot of history here. The New Hampshire Black Heritage Trail is an excellent way to learn about the state's true history. The Strawbery Banke Museum also provides background information.