Hampton Area Highlights
Who ever thought New Hampshire could be so wild!
in Things to Do by
It’s crazy how much there is to do in Hampton, Hampton Beach, Hampton Falls, Seabrook, Seabrook Beach, Rye and beyond. Whether indoors or out, alone or with family or friends, in a car or by foot, on the beach or in the water–well, you get the idea–you have much to choose from in this part of New Hampshire.
Plus, there’s a seemingly endless variety of places of lodging and dining that fit almost every budget, so do your research in advance to line up the stay that best suits you. But be sure to leave something for spontaneity once you’ve arrived. Always!
Located in Hampton, Lamie’s Inn & The Old Salt Restaurant stand out as a great place to start whether you’re actually checking into this historic inn or stopping by for lunch. Built in 1740, this family-owned and operated establishment exudes the warmth and charm of New England. Decorated with a flourish of Old World furnishings and outfitted with today’s modern conveniences, their well-appointed guest rooms guarantee a glorious stay, especially for those looking for a romantic getaway. Lunch or dinner at The Old Salt Restaurant is for memory-making as well whether you’re inside by the fire or outside on the patio. Specialties include boiled lobster, New England clambake dinners, golden-fried seafood, award-winning clam chowder, choice steaks and more.
Not far away at Hayseed Restaurant, you can enjoy homestyle food and fun. If you’re into beer, take a tour of their Smuttynose Brewing Company and make time for a tasting and some disc golf. Or, you can just sip one of their brewskies served at the restaurant. Or do both. Isn’t that what vacation time is all about? (Incidentally the namesake of Smuttynose Brewing Company is Smuttynose Island, one of the Isles of Shoals, just off the coast of New Hampshire. It was named by some fishermen that thought the island looked like the smutty nose of a big sea animal! The island is also known for the murder of two Norwegian women that occurred there in 1873. Certainly makes for a great name for a beer, don’t you think?)
Throwback Brewery in North Hampton is a must for those passionate about farm-fresh beer and food. Brewed on the premises, the beer is largely crafted from locally-grown ingredients by a team that holds terroir, or sense of region, as the cornerstone of their vision. The same can be said for their food, which is sourced from local farms (including theirs) and purveyors; it’s served casually at community tables within their gastropub inside or outside within their country setting. The farm to table experience here is not only endearing but also one of the most heartwarming in the state.
There isn’t enough space here to include all of the wonderful restaurants, bars, eateries and food shops in this part of New Hampshire but know that there’s a great selection of all kinds of cuisine.
It’s time for a stroll. And aside from the beach, one of the best places to do it is Fuller Gardens, a public botanical garden located oceanside in North Hampton. Commissioned during the late 1920s by Massachusetts governor Alvan T. Fuller to accompany his summer estate, the formal rose gardens here make you feel as though you’re stepping back in time. Indeed, you don’t see many rose gardens like this around. Oh, the fragrance of the roses during their long bloom cycle from late June through October. And the colors! For even bolder punches of hues, step into the dahlia garden. Support this treasure by making a donation or a purchase at their gift shop. Here gardeners, bird lovers and just those in search of a unique gift delight in the array of items sold within this boutique.
The Science & Nature Center at Seabrook Station offers a more down-to-earth connection with nature. Take a walk on their boardwalk nature trail to view all kinds of birdlife, wildlife and flora in their natural habitat. It wends through woods and marshlands and not surprisingly, it’s a great way to unwind. Be sure to visit their learning center and marine aquarium where you can learn about and touch all kinds of sea critters. You’ll also find exhibits on renewable, clean energy including nuclear. (The Seabrook Nuclear Power Plant, also known as Seabrook Station, began operating here in 1990. It is the second biggest nuclear power plant in New England.)
For much bigger wildlife, drive northwest out of Hampton to visit York’s Wild Kingdom Zoo & Amusement Park. Plan to spend the whole day here to take it all in.
Who ever thought New Hampshire could be so wild!