39 minute read
Best Places for shopping, glamping, outdoor theater and more
THE INSIDER’S SCOOP: Super 603s by Gov. Chris Sununu
From the mountains to our lakes and beaches, and all the amazing New Hampshire small businesses in between, the Granite State has everything you could ever need to make a Super 603 Day of your own! FOOD: With pancakes and maple syrup made from scratch, New Hampshire’s local pancake houses can’t be beat. A must-stop to start your day! For lunch, pop into a local diner where the food is always delicious, and there’s always someone new to meet with an interesting story to share. MUST-STOPS: The craft brewery scene has boomed in New Hampshire in the past few years. With hundreds of locations all around the state, you can find one virtually anywhere you go. Pick up some cans, bring them back home, and trade among your friends to keep the good times rolling. HIKING: If it’s early spring, pack up your skis and make the trek up Tuckerman Ravine. Otherwise, check out Mount Major, Mount Moosilauke, Mount Monadnock, Mount Sunapee — with hundreds of spots, the pick of the litter is yours. Hiking in the fall? Nothing beats the views from Table Rock. Need something a bit gentler? Try Cascade Park in Woodstock, Diana’s Baths in the Mount Washington Valley, or the beautiful Wolfeboro Rail Trail.
SWIMMING AND BOATING: Start the day off with some boating on Lake Winnipesaukee, then make your way over to the seacoast and finish the day off with some sunset paddle boarding at Hampton Beach. What better way to wrap up the day than with a celebratory plunge into the Atlantic?
New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu has been named the commencement speaker for New England College’s 2022 graduation ceremonies. In addition, the New England College board of trustees will award New Hampshire’s 82nd governor with an honorary doctorate in recognition of his years of public service to the great state of New Hampshire.
New England College will celebrate its 76th graduating class of more than 500 students on May 14 at 10 a.m. on the Simon Green at the NEC Campus in Henniker.
Ever thought that you should make more of an effort to shop locally? Here’s a short list to get you started on the right track. The following stores are as local as it gets, selling New Hampshire-made products and supporting local artisans, brewers, winemakers and more.
Hannah Grimes Marketplace – During its 25 years, this Keene hub of all things local — from beer and wine to apparel and jewelry — has welcomed more than 1,000 artisans. You can trace their mission to support small, local businesses and the spirit of entrepreneurship back to local historical figure Hannah Grimes. Grimes was born in Keene in 1776, and while she’s likely not a household name outside of the state (or, really, outside of Keene), she was an advocate for small businesses and well-made, locally sourced goods.
Beyond supporting vendors by offering a place to sell products of all types, the nonprofit, women-run Hannah Grimes Center for Entrepreneurship educates, supports and aids aspiring business owners. The center provides physical needs — such as coworking space and tools — plus assistance through their incubator, workshops (such as the Radically Rural Summit) and connections to useful resources.
Soon you’ll be able to purchase select items online at hannahgrimesmarketplace.com, but make sure to stop by in person. Not only are there many more delightful things to discover in the store, you can also explore the wonderful fine art gallery as you shop.
NH Made – Regular readers of the magazine, and especially our loyal newt spotters, are likely familiar with NH Made. Not only is New Hampshire Magazine a proud member, but these boosters of all things locally made have long supplied our monthly prize for hunting down all four of our red-spotted friends. (Mystified? See page 15 for details on the Spot the Newt contest.)
Their recently overhauled website (nhmade.com) is a convenient place to shop and discover members, but don’t miss the new boutique on Deer Street in Portsmouth. It opened at possibly the worst moment — winter 2020 — but is happily still going strong. You can also visit the New Hampshire Stores at the 1-95 northbound and southbound NH Liquor & Wine Outlets in Hampton.
League member and glassblower Jordana Korsen
League of NH Craftsmen Fine Craft
Galleries – With seven locations — Center Sandwich, Concord, Hooksett, Littleton, Meredith, Nashua and North Conway — there’s ample opportunity to enjoy (and maybe purchase) traditional and contemporary fine crafts made by some of the region’s most talented artisans. Each gallery is different, and they all carry various assortments of décor, jewelry, pottery, fiber arts, glassware, wood furniture, prints and even instruments. If one-stop-shopping is more your style, make plans to attend the 89th Annual Craftsmen’s Fair, August 6-14, at the Mount Sunapee Resort in Newbury. Learn more about League members, this year’s fair or shop online at nhcrafts.org.
WREN Local Works Marketplace –
The Women’s Rural Entrepreneurial Network (WREN) Local Works Marketplace on Main Street in Bethlehem features the work of more than 90 local member artists. They carry natural bath and beauty products, fine art prints, local books, pottery, spice blends, greeting cards, home décor and much more. Founded almost 30 years ago, the nonprofit organization offers more than just a lovely place to shop — they are dedicated to promoting and innovating rural economic development, and providing assistance and resources to local artists and entrepreneurs in the North Country. In addition to the marketplace, make sure to visit the Gallery at WREN, also located on Main Street. Visit wrenworks.org for more information.
GENERAL STORES – From pickles and candy to dry goods and maple syrup, there’s nothing like the old-fashioned concept of buying (pretty much) everything you need at the general store. As a bonus, many include delis, so maybe show up hungry. The Brick Store – This Bath institution is on the National Register of Historic Places, and has been in business since the early 1790s. There’s rich heritage here, not to mention tasty cheese, ice cream, homemade fudge, a deli, spice rubs, smoked meats and much more. thebrickstore.com
Calef’s Country Store – Calef’s in Barring- ton has sold a variety of New England products since 1869, but this charming, historic shop may be best known for its cheese — the Snappy cheddar, specifically, which they age to sharp perfection in their cooler. Need some cheese advice or lunch? Visit the deli for both. calefs.com
Zeb’s General Store – While Zeb’s is much newer to the scene, this North Conway favorite embodies the spirit and experience of the classic general store, from the penny candy counter to nostalgic Moxie gear. Plus, you can’t beat the impressive variety of local and New England goods, including their own line of products. If you’re stumped when it comes to gift-giving, they also specialize in custom and pre-made gift baskets. zebs.com The Old Country Store and Museum – Dating back to the 1700s, this Moultonborough institution has exactly what you’d expect — penny candy, cheese, pickle barrels — plus a huge range of cookware, memorabilia, New Hampshire tchotchkes, toys, hats, plaid shirts, candles ... you name it, it’s probably here. nhcountrystore.com Mont Vernon General Store – Originally opened in 1840, the Mont Vernon General Store briefly closed in 2011 but was quickly revived in 2012. Today, enjoy gourmet sandwiches named for famous Granite Staters, pick up heat-and-eat meals, shop for groceries (including beer and wine) or peruse local products, including honey, dairy, eggs, dip mixes, preserves and more. montvernongeneralstore.com Harrisville General Store – This just might be the quintessential general store and, happily, we’ll likely be able to visit it for many years to come. Opened in 1838, it’s now owned by the nonprofit Historic Harrisville, which is dedicated to the preservation of the town’s mill buildings. The deli serves breakfast and lunch, plus offers themed take-home dinners each Friday (must be ordered in advance). harrisvillegeneralstore.com
THE INSIDER’S SCOOP: Darren Garnick’s Tacky Tourist Photos
Pop culture writer Darren Garnick, a longtime contributor to New Hampshire Magazine, celebrates corny vacation photos from family, friends and strangers on his “Tacky Tourist Photos” Instagram.
His site curates the goofiest travel poses, from olde-time costume booths, interactions with statues, forced perspective shots, souvenir stands, roadside attractions, and offbeat signage around the world — but he also finds plenty of irresistible photo-ops closer to home.
Here are Darren’s six favorite spots in the Granite State to snap “Tacky Tourist Photos,” which are pretty much the visual equivalent of “dad jokes.” “Beach Plum Lobsters (North Hampton/Epping/Portsmouth/Salem) — All locations of this popular ice cream and seafood stand feature a large wooden sculpture of a grinning lobster double-fisting ice cream cones. If you’re feeling macabre, you can pretend to feed him a plate of the Beach Plum’s award-winning lobster roll. Do the Polyanna Wave (Littleton) — Anchoring the lawn of the Littleton Public Library is a bronze statue of children’s book character Polyanna Whittier, an optimistic orphan girl who plays a “glad game” to jumpstart her daily gratitude and positivity. Pollyanna, who was created in 1913 by local author Eleanor H. Porter, now has her own townwide holiday every June. But you can mimic her statue’s “embrace the world” pose yearround. Extra points if you bring your own wide-brimmed hat. The Wolfman’s Hotel (Lincoln) — Perhaps the antithesis of Polyanna, the Wolfman is the surly hermit who chases the train ride through the woods at Clark’s Trading Post theme park. His “hotel,” an open-air cage with a dirt floor, taps into the odd tourist desire to be photographed behind bars. Kiss the Sphinx (Glen) — Story Land amusement park has one of the largest collections of Ancient Egyptian statues and props outside of Cairo or the British museums. It’s all for the ambiance of its “Splash Battle: Pharoah’s Reign” water ride. You can smooch with the Sphinx or do your best hieroglyphic poses with Egyptian royalty. New Hampshire’s Friendlest Rodents (Manchester) — The New Hampshire Fisher Cats, the Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, have not one but two furry rodent mascots roaming the concourse: Fungo and Slider. The team is rebranding itself as the Manchester Chicken Tenders for one game this summer, so perhaps a poultry photo-op is also in the works.
World’s Largest Box of Popcorn (Salem) — One of Canobie Lake Park’s concession stands is appetizingly shaped like movie popcorn. With a low-angle foreground shot, you can make your child appear to be Godzilla at snack time.”
If you’d like to share your tackiest vacation snapshots with Darren, visit instagram.com/tackytouristphotos.
Fritz Wetherbee at one of his favorite haunts, the Acworth cemetery
THE INSIDER’S SCOOP: Fritz Wetherbee’s Crazy Love Affair With Odd Tombstones
Fritz has entertained and informed New Hampshire audiences for more than half a century. He has written for newspapers and magazines, done radio commentary and reports, and made films and television shows about his home state. Few people know more about the Granite State. And besides, he is good at what he does. Fritz has been honored with three Emmy Awards. Last year he was given the gold for Outstanding Achievement as On Camera Talent in the whole of New England for his work on “New Hampshire Chronicle.” On top of that, he is a prolific writer on all things New Hampshire. Here Fritz shares his love of gravestones: In the Elm Street Cemetery in Milford, a gravestone tells us that Caroline Cutter, the woman buried there, was “murdered” by the deacons of the local Baptist Church. In Washington, the gravestone of Fred Chase is incised with a communist “hammer and sickle.” In Lebanon, New Hampshire, there are two tombstones with “swastikas” carved on them. Washington also has a tombstone for “Samuel Jones Leg.” Yeah, they had a funeral for a leg.
Also in Washington, there is a large sphere carved from granite. The name carved beneath the sphere is “Ball.”
In the graveyard behind the Surry Town Hall,
there is a stone to “Ichabod Crane.” Not the Sleepy Hollow guy but rather a town selectman who died in 1866. Grabs your eye nonetheless. I moved to Acworth because of an ancient cemetery here. I first came to do a story about a body stolen from the grave there.
The corpse was that of 43-year-old Bezaleel Beckwith, who died on Halloween 1824.
Couple weeks later, a local farmer named James Wilson Jr. disinterred the corpse and drove it across Vermont. There he sold it to the medical school in Castleton.
Acworth folks knew Jimmy Wilson did
the dastardly deed because he was arrested for drunkenness on the streets of Castleton. Everyone in Acworth knew he was too poor to purchase any booze.
Jimmy was brought back to Acworth, but Bezaleel’s body was never recovered. So charges were never filed. However, people avoided Jimmy Wilson for the rest of his life.
Bezaleel Beckwith left a wife, Linda, and a 4-year-old son, Nathaniel. Later, Bezaleel’s friends raised money to erect a tombstone in the Acworth Cemetery. Incised on the marker:
This stone tells the death of Bezaleel Beckwith
Not where his body lies, he died Oct 31, 1824, AE 43
The thirteenth night after his body was stolen from grave … And it concludes:
Erected by the friends of the deceased,
In Acworth in place of one destroyed by some ruthless hand in Apr 1853 That day I first visited Acworth I discovered a property for sale just up from the graveyard. I purchased the house and moved in. Been here 18 years now.
In the same cemetery as the Bezaleel Beckwith stone, you will find the graves of the McCollom family. Four children and the father all died in the spotted fever epidemic of 1812. Only the mother, Jane, survived. Their headstone reads:
Mouldering by their father’s side
Four tender offspring lie.
Entombed in Acworth’s frozen soil
My husband an my children lie
And there to sleep the sleep of death
Til’ Christ the savior bids them rise ...
NOTE: If you love tombstones nearly as much as Fritz Wetherbee, you may enjoy a Tombstone Scavenger Hunt we’ve compiled based upon some of his favorite grave markers, scattered around the Granite State. Visit us at nhmagazine.com for the online version of this story to play and you could win an autographed copy of Fritz’s book “Taken for Granite.”
F“ or my research I need people,” says world-famous author (and N.H. sea coast denizen) Dan Brown. “I use the Internet to figure out who to talk to so, certainly, places like UNH, Dartmouth and Philips Exeter [Academy] have specialists in a lot of different fields that are enormously helpful to me. As for inspiration, I always go to nature. I ‘wrote’ ‘The Da Vinci Code’ in the Gillespie Preserve Woods in Philips Exeter. I would walk every day with my dog and take notes with a Dictaphone. Now I go up and visit my father in the White Mountains and do the same thing. I walk in the woods with a different dog and my Dictaphone. I always laugh and think, if I ever lose this Dictaphone, someone is going to just have a heart attack, because I’m often walking quickly so I’m panting, and I’m saying things like, ‘So, you kill the Cardinal and you chop him to pieces …’ and they’ll think ‘Oh, my god. There’s a serial killer on the loose.’”
Brown has fans all over the world including another well-known New Hampshire resident: Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler. “Steven has been a friend for a while,” Brown says. “I met him at Bob Craft’s box at a Patriots game. We hit it off. I went to a bunch of his concerts. And I got this hilarious phone call once. I was up in the White Mountains with my dad, and my cell phone rings, and it’s Steven Tyler calling me from a jet, and he says, ‘Hey, the guys and I are landing in Rome. What should I see?’ And I thought, ‘I guess that’s how a rock star does it.’”
in some places, people need dan brown
Dean Merchant’s Best Places to Spot UFOs: They’re Out There
As many UFO enthusiasts already know, New Hampshire is one of the hottest UFO properties in America, historically accruing some of the highest per capita number of sightings yearly. That fact, and the big role of Exeter, New Hampshire, in the history of ufology (look it up if you don’t know) are among the reasons that Dean Merchant and his wife Pamela started the Exeter UFO Festival in 2009. The festival was postponed for the past two years as we dealt with an invasion of MFOs (microscopic flying objects) during the Covid-19 lockdowns. The festival is back (September 3-4) and the UFOs never went away. Merchant provides a number of prime viewing spots in the online version of this story, and he says this about his home town’s appeal:
“Exeter, New Hampshire’s Revolutionary War capitol, with its rich geopolitical history, brings into play the ‘Watering Hole Theory’ when it comes to visitations from out of our world. Since the 1940s, there have been reports of UFOs ranging from soccerball-sized shining orbs to behemoth vessels the size of aircraft carriers that are there one minute, gone the next. The hotspot includes the Court/Front Street area, and the extensive woods and swamplands of Phillips Exeter Academy, extending from Exeter to Kensington, site of the legendary 1965 ‘Incident at Exeter’ UFO sighting.”
New Hampshire has a rich summer theater tradition, including some of the longestrunning and oldest such theaters in the country. All of the many venues are worth a visit (check out our comprehensive guide at nhmagazine.com for suggestions and schedules), but if you’re looking to take in some fresh air along with a performance, here are some outdoor productions.
Opera North
This July, Opera North is celebrating not just the return of its unique Summerfest but a major anniversary — 40 years as the only full-time professional opera company in the tri-state region of New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine. From July 8 to 31, Opera North invites you to visit the extraordinary venue of Blow-Me-Down Farm on the banks of the Connecticut River in Cornish during four different performances.
In 2017, the National Park Service chose Opera North to partner in the creation of a park for the arts at the 46-acre property, which is deeded to the adjacent SaintGaudens National Historic Park. Augustus Saint-Gaudens was one of America’s great sculptors, and he lived seasonally in Cornish starting in 1885 and year-round from 1900 to his death in 1907. The sculptor’s friends — some of the most talented artists, musicians and writers in the country — joined him there, creating what became known as the Cornish Colony. Today, you can visit the gorgeous home and grounds, which is sprinkled with Saint Gaudens’ sculptures.
Opera North is reviving that artistic spirit, and Summerfest is a fantastic opportunity to be a part of the exciting process. Summerfest kicks off with the showpiece “Carnevale,” July 8-10, a blend of high-flying circus aerialists, humor, slapstick and music held under the big tent. This year’s traditional opera performances, sung in Italian with English subtitles, are “Così fan tutte,” July 21-23 and “La Traviata,” July 27-31. Both feature the full Opera North orchestra. Wrapping up the season is “Bette, Babs & Beyond,” July 30, a tribute to Bette Midler, Barbara Streisand, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin and more. This is a special picnic concert on the farm’s lawn. Learn much more about the Cornish Colony and Opera North’s endeavors at Blow-Me-Down Farm in the story “The Cornish Colony Reborn” online at nhmagazine.com/the-cornish-colonyreborn, and visit operanorth.org to purchase Summerfest tickets.
Winnipesaukee Playhouse
Newer to the theater scene, the nonprofit, award-winning Winnipesaukee Playhouse was founded in 2004, and was soon regarded as a cultural gem. While you should definitely check out the beautiful 194-seat theater (housed in a can’t-miss bright-red barn building), there’s something special about catching an outdoor show on a warm summer evening after a day on the lake. This summer and into early September, three shows are planned for the outdoor amphitheater in Meredith: “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised]” from June 29-July 9, “Robin Hood” from August 3-13, and “The Conference of the Birds” from September 7-17. Learn more at winnipesaukeeplayhouse.org Advice to the Players: If the Shakespearean whirlwind at the Winnipesaukee Playhouse piqued your curiosity, Advice to the Players should be your next stop. This nonprofit troupe of professionals, enthusiastic community members and teens brings the challenging yet rewarding words of the Bard to life in a number of ways, but each summer they perform one play outside in Sandwich. This year, the mainstage production is “All’s Well That Ends Well,” running during Sandwich Old Home Week in August. Visit advicetotheplayers.org for more information.
THE INSIDER’S SCOOP: Victoria Arlen’s Take on the Big Lake
Jean’s Playhouse
The nonprofit North Country Center for the Arts at Jean’s Playhouse in Lincoln offers entertainment from Memorial Day through the end of the calendar year, but summer theater is a highlight. This year, the White Mountains will come alive with “The Sound of Music” as the beloved classic is performed outside at Loon’s Pemi Base Camp July 7-9. The area’s natural beauty will serve as backdrop for the musical, which is accompanied by a six-piece band. Find details at jeansplayhouse.com.
Great North Woods Center for the Arts
This nonprofit center in Columbia is an indoor and outdoor performance space that hosts concerts, plays, art shows, arts and crafts activities, community events and even overnight accommodations for visiting artists and performers. It’s also the home of two other North Country groups, the Connecticut River Artisan Group and the Carriage Lane Players. As of press time, plans were still underway for the 2022 season, but expect a wide range of entertainment the whole family can enjoy. Keep an eye out for the calendar at gnwca.org.
Victoria Arlen’s life drastically changed in 2006 at the tender age of 11 when she developed two rare conditions that left her paralyzed from the waist down. The Exeter native went on to defy the odds and not only recovered but has since become an accomplished motivational speaker, television host and swimmer. Her swimming resume includes three silvers and a gold medal from the London 2012 Paralympic Games as well as multiple world, American and pan-American records. Then in 2015, Arlen made the transition from athlete to sportscaster and joined ESPN as one of the youngest on-air talents. A year later, after spending nearly a decade in a wheelchair, she learned to walk again — and then some. In 2017, she stepped up her dance skills as a contestant on “Dancing With the Stars.”
Now, when back home in New Hampshire, her must-do list includes spending as much time in the Lakes Region as she can. Here are four of her favorites. “If you are an avid skier and hiker, I recommend Gunstock Mountain because it gives you the best of both worlds. Each season has different outdoor adventures to embark on. Lake Winnipesaukee is my favorite place in New Hampshire. You can never go wrong with a day on Lake Winni. There are plenty of swimming spots and towns you can dock at and explore. Some of my favorite spots on the lake are downtown Wolfeboro and Meredith. One of the best crêpe cafés I have ever been to is 48 Main Cafe & Creperie in Meredith. I always get an almond milk vanilla latte and a honey butter and lemon gluten-free crêpe. (Although, if I’m being honest, all of their items are delicious!) Don’t forget to stop at Bayberry Juice Bar in Wolfeboro for a yummy smoothie or juice, and catch a show at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford for a fun night out.”
Prescott Park Arts Festival
Held on the banks of the Piscataqua River in historic downtown Portsmouth, this 10-week-long family-friendly celebration of the arts includes everything from film and concerts to dance and theater. The annual musical is the festival’s centerpiece, and while as of press time this year’s play had not been announced, past selections include “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “Peter Pan.” With more than 30 performances, you’ll have plenty of chances to spread your blanket on the grass MORE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT to take in the spectacle under the stars. See prescottpark.org for more information. Northlands Music & Arts Festival Milford Drive-in Theater This outdoor music festival is held on the Admission is $30 per car (up to six people). Cheshire Fairgrounds in Swanzey from June Milford, milforddrivein.com 24-25. See northlandslive.com for more details, including information on camping Weirs Drive-in Theater and other accommodations. Admission is $30 per car (up to four people, $5 per each additional person). Laconia, SoulFest weirsdrivein.com New England’s largest Christian music festival takes place on the beautiful grounds at Gunstock Mountain Resort in Gilford from August 4-6. Visit thesoulfest.com for the 2022 lineup, information on camping, tickets and more.
Northfield Drive-in
Admission is $12 for adults, $7 for children under 12, or add a dollar to each for the triple feature (cash only). Hinsdale, northfielddrivein.com
Jordan TW and Jim Prendergast, his cohost for Irish night at the Stone Church since 2012
COURTESY PHOTO
Putting a fresh spin on traditional Irish music, the Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki Trio delivers a dynamic show full of foot-stompin’ fiddle tunes and classic sing-alongs. Fiddler Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki is joined by fellow New Hampshire natives Matt Jensen on guitar and Chris Noyes on upright bass. Their shows blend traditional Celtic music with their own original material, drawing on multiple genres to produce a unique sound.
Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki shares his views on why the Stone Church is one of his favorite places to play and to hear live music: “When you mention The Stone Church in Newmarket to just about anyone, you tend to get the same reaction: ‘Oh, I love that place! I have such great memories there!’
It was already a legend long before I first crossed the threshold on a Tuesday night in the mid-2000s, stumbling upon an epic bluegrass jam. In the years since, I’ve been lucky enough to perform nearly 500 shows there. I’ve played with rock bands, funk bands, jam bands and country bands and Grateful Dead cover bands. And, of course, there was the weekly Irish Night that I hosted with my good friend Jim Prendergast for nearly eight years until the pandemic. Within those stone walls, I forged new friendships, fell in love, and introduced my children to the joys of live music.
What continues to make the place so special is the way the owners and staff really seem to care about what they have there. They’ve worked incredibly hard to keep their unique venue alive during the dark days of the pandemic, adapting to the circumstances and seizing opportunities to expand and upgrade so they can continue to offer quality music and good food to their many loyal patrons. The Stone Church is now going stronger than ever! Next time you find yourself on the seacoast, do yourself a favor and make your way up Zion Hill to check it out. No matter what your musical taste, you’ll be glad you did.”
THE INSIDER’S SCOOP: Greg Kretschmar’s Picture-perfect N.H.
Greg Kretschmar is best known in New Hampshire as the host of the radio show “Greg and The Morning Buzz,” but he’s also an accomplished photographer. A lifelong New Hampshire resident, he started taking photos as a hobby in 2008. Today, he’s built a portfolio of images that capture the beauty of New England and the Granite State.
TAMWORTH: “Tamworth is one of the most beautiful towns in N.H., and it has such a laid-back country vibe that you can feel once you’re there. Mt. Chocorua looms over her and turns every season into a classic New England picturesque setting. Whenever I travel up Route 16, I make it a point to veer off to find roads I haven’t traveled there, and each time Tamworth shows me something new that is well worth the journey.” PORTSMOUTH: “I could write a book about what I love about Portsmouth. It’s one of the true gems of New England, let alone New Hampshire. It’s rich in history. So much so, you can feel it when you walk down the streets, or through Strawbery Banke. And as rooted as the city is in history, it’s also a vibrant, entertaining place to live. And as beautiful as she is in the daytime, Portsmouth comes alive at night. It’s a beautiful place for a nighttime walk with plenty of great restaurants and watering holes that make for a perfect summer night. Portsmouth is my second home town, and I love her.” NEW CASTLE: “What New Castle lacks in size, it makes up for in charm and beauty. This little island is the perfect place to watch the sunrise over Portsmouth Harbor Light, or watch the fishing and lobster boats head out to sea from the New Castle Commons. I have taken hundreds of photographs in and around it, and each time I go there, New Castle gives me something special.” SUGAR HILL: “As a lifelong resident of N.H., and someone who loves to photograph her, I can tell you that there are few places that you can actually ‘feel,’ and Sugar Hill is one of them. As soon as you pass through Franconia and get off I-93, you can sense the vibe of this beautiful little town. It has a soul you can feel. And while it’s famous for the Lupine Festival and Polly’s Pancakes (rightfully so, by the way), she is beautiful in every season (and the folks who live there are nice as well!). Even at 17 degrees below zero, as when this photo was taken [below, right]. Sugar Hill is one of my favorite towns in all of N.H.”
You can visit Greg’s website at kretchy.com to see these photos in detail, along with more of his work. You can also purchase prints of his photos there as well.
Erin Fehlau and her family atop West Rattlesnake Mountain
THE INSIDER’S SCOOP: Favorite Picks for Family Hikes by Erin Fehlau
Hosting “New Hampshire Chronicle” on WMUR-TV for the past decade has given me the opportunity to travel all around the state. There are so many wonderful places to visit in the 603. Some of my favorite spots can’t be reached by car. You’ve got to take a hike! Hitting the trails is a great way connect with the natural beauty of the Granite State. As a mom of three, I’ve also found that there is no better way to get kids to disconnect from their devices and connect with you than to lace up the sneaks and tackle a trail or conquer a mountain. Not to worry, you don’t have to be an expert. These are some easy, family-friendly hikes with the most amazing views ... small hikes with a big payoff! Mt. Kearsarge – This is the perfect hike for beginners. If you take the auto road from Rollins State Park in Warner, your car does most of the work. The short half-mile trek takes you past a frog pond, through the woods and ends with incredible views of the Lake Sunapee Region. The auto road reopens in the spring. My kids will never let me forget the time we showed up when the gate was still down. You can still hike the 3.5-mile road to the top — so that’s what we did — making for a memorable adventure. Make a day of it by stopping at the New Hampshire Telephone Museum in Warner. Your kids will be amazed to see the extensive collection of phones, from the very first ones to the trendy ones we’ve dialed through the decades. West Rattlesnake Mountain – The trailhead is near the entrance to RockywoldDeephaven Camps in Holderness. The two-mile trail takes you over some bridges and up a number of steps through the woods. At the top you’re in for breathtaking views of Squam Lake. This was our pup Zuzu the Shih Tzu’s very first hike. Artists Bluff and Bald Mountain – Do one of these short hikes (or both) by following the 1.5-mile loop. From the top of each one you can marvel at the stunning views of Franconia Notch and Cannon Mountain. When we’re up here, we like to stop by to see the waterfalls at The Basin, which is a fun spot to explore at all times of the year. Mt. Major – This hike near Alton Bay is a family favorite. When taking the 3.7-mile loop, we make a day of it. At the top, check out the gorgeous views of Lake Winnipesaukee that make the trek worth every step. You never know who you’ll run into up here. One time we discovered a fiddler serenading people at the summit. Only in New Hampshire! Arethusa, Coliseum and Bemis Brook Falls –Waterfalls, waterfalls and more waterfalls! The Arethusa Falls trail in Crawford Notch starts out very easy. It takes you by Coliseum Falls and Bemis Brook Falls. From there it gets much more challenging. If you’re up for it and power through, you won’t be disappointed when you make it to the spectacular Arethusa falls. So be safe, pack a lunch, and please — take a hike!
Ah, camping: crisp mountain air, pristine lakes — and, you know, sleeping on the ground and using a tree as a bathroom. If you want a sleepover in the great outdoors this summer without a great headache, one of New Hampshire’s glamping outfits (that’s “glamorous camping” for the uninitiated) might be for you. Here are our favorite spots for a not-so-rustic retreat.
Alpine Garden Camping Village & Winery, Bartlett
The Goff family are no strangers to the camping business, having run the Glen Ellis Campground for over 40 years. Now they’re pursuing a new family business endeavor, Alpine Garden Camping Village & Winery set to open in Bartlett on May 13. “My entire family grew up in Bartlett, so it’s sweet to be back in the same town doing what we know and love again together,” says managing partner Bri Classen. “My brother, Ryan, has been making his own natural wines and ciders on our family property for 13 years. I’m excited to be a part of the third generation and bring glamping to the onsite winery this year.”
Alpine Garden Glamping will be open from May through midNovember and includes four pods, three cabins, a treehouse (with another being built this fall), and even an onsite heated pool. Each pod and cabin will have its own full bathroom complete with a shower, sink and toilet, a queen-size bed, combined AC and heat unit, fire pit, standing charcoal grill, record player, linens and sheets, parking spot and mini bar stocked with their own wine and cider. The first tree house, which will be completed in June, features two stories and a front porch. There will be accommodations on the first and second floor with a master bedroom area, sleeping nook, back porch and paneless window views that overlook Bear Brook that runs through the property. While there is plenty to enjoy right there, including tours of the winery on weekends, there are also plenty of opportunities for adventure in the surrounding area.
“We are roughly two miles from Attitash Mountain Resort, which offers summer activities like an alpine slide and horseback riding, and we are 15 minutes to the heart of downtown North Conway and its abundance of shopping and restaurants,” says Classen. “Our property is also surrounded by thousands of miles of hiking as we are adjacent to the Kancamagus Highway, and we are close to other local attractions like the Saco River, Crawford Notch, Conway Scenic Railroad, Story Land and more.”
It will be tough to run out of things to do and sights to see when you visit Alpine Garden, and the Goff family is looking forward to sharing a piece of their home and hometown with you. “We can’t wait to see people’s reactions to what we’ve created here,” says Classen. “It’s so rewarding to see our dreams and visions come to life, and we can’t wait to welcome guests into them.” alpinegardenglamping.com, @alpinegardenglamping continued
Lodging at Hub North includes yurts and canvas tents with real beds, community kitchens, and easy access to hiking and biking trails.
Hub North
Glamping lovers and adventure seekers need to know about Hub North in Gorham. It has everything you need, including glamping sites, a cozy lodge, communal kitchens, serene spirit and location that is minutes away from hiking trailheads in the northern Presidential Range of the White Mountains. Each yurt or canvas bell tent has real beds, full kitchens, glam showers, and an opportunity to bike in and bike out (not to mention a sky full of endless stars). hubnorthnh.com
Getaway Blake Brook
Our stay-at-home lives were paradoxically both isolating and over-connected. As many turned to screens big and small to work and talk to family and friends, unplugging became even more difficult. Getaway Blake Brook in Epsom has the solution. Amenities and features at these fully furnished tiny cabins include a huge picture window, two queen beds, shower, drinking water, AC and heat, electric toilet, mini kitchen, fire pit and, crucially, a lockbox for your cell phone. If you do crack and bust out a device, you won’t find any Wi-Fi. Campers can enjoy the restorative aspects of nature in comfort and without any electronic interruptions. Cabins are situated 50 to 100 feet apart on 20 acres of Bear Brook State Park, so human interaction is kept at a minimum. However, should you find yourself craving a little company, the excellent Blasty Bough Brewing is within walking distance. theoutbound.com/lodging/ getaway-blake-brook
Huttopia, White Mountains
This 61-site campground offers New Hampshire’s truest glamping experience. Accommodations range from modest two-person tents to two-bedroom chalets, but the best option is their Trappeurs. These luxury tents each have a personal fire pit, separate sleeping and living spaces, a modest kitchen and, best of all, indoor plumbing. Many tents and cabins sit directly on the shores of Iona Lake, where you can take the campground’s canoes and paddleboards for a spin if you’ve tired of the onsite pool. Other amenities include a canteen stocked with everything from s’mores supplies to French wine and a hip Airstream trailer that dishes out crêpes at breakfast and wood-fired pizzas at dinner. canada-usa.huttopia.com
Huttopia offers two-bedroom chalets or luxury tents, with a modest kitchen and indoor plumbing.
Snug Life Camping
“The snuggle is real” at this secluded Wilton campsite. Available for private rental, the site is outfitted with a large 10' x 12' canvas tent set on a raised platform with screening underneath to keep pests and insects at bay, and a front porch area that overlooks the Souhegan River. Inside the tent, there is a bunk bed with two queen air mattresses, matching end tables with storage space, and a wood-burning stove to help take the edge off of chilly spring or summer morning. The Snug Life also offers a camp “loo” that has been placed in a single-person privacy tent, and is set back 15 feet from the tent itself. Sit back in your Adirondack chairs and enjoy a fire in your raised fire pit while listening to the sounds of the river rushing by. snug-lifecamping.business.site
Sanbornton Glamping Tent
The internet’s favorite vacation rental service is teeming with options for outdoor-adjacent escapes, from sprawling Winnipesaukee lakehouses to earthy yurts. One of our favorites? An all-seasons tent on an isolated plot in Sanbornton boasting décor straight out of Kinfolk (linen, succulents and dreamcatchers, oh, my). Check out airbnb.com to read more about this site and others that are scattered throughout the Granite State.
THE INSIDER’S SCOOP: Spectacular Spooky Spots by J.W. Ocker
My family likes to sojourn through the spooky spots of the state, the places that are full of the ghostly and the dead and the strange, the Halloween side of New Hampshire: eerie ghost towns, ghastly graveyards, creepy bogs.
The state has a few 18th- and 19thcentury ghost towns that you don’t need to hack your way through unexplored forest clutching old, faded maps to find (important if you’re visiting with small goblins). In the ghost town of Monson in Hillsborough County, the first ancient cellar hole to see is mere steps from a parking lot. Livermore in Grafton County is just off the side of a road. Thornton Gore, also in Grafton County, is less than a mile ramble through an easy forest trail to get to its graveyard, mill ruins and small waterfall.
And while a graveyard in a ghost town might seem the apex of ooky, New Hampshire has some absolutely creeptastic old graveyards.
Forest Hill Cemetery in Derry is a favorite of ours, with its weathered tombstones covered in ancient morbid art (skulls that look like Jack Skellington!). Old North Cemetery in Concord is good enough for Franklin Pierce and good enough for us. And Point of Graves and South Street Cemetery, both in Portsmouth, make me want to be buried by the sea. But just about any old graveyard in the state will do. While within their ominous gates, we make games of finding the oldest stone or the grave of a famous person, we place bets on which funerary statue is haunted, and try to find the strangest epitaph (which so far might be in Central Cemetery in New Ipswich, where we learned that “Mr. Gilman Spaulding was kill’d with an ax by an Insane Brother”). We treat these graveyards like town parks, except it’s only ever crowded six feet beneath. But more than old stones will tempt us outside. The promise of carnivorous plants will do it too. To see those, we hit the bog trails — no waders required. The Fosaith Forest Nature Trail in Chester and the Ponomah Bog Trail in Amherst employ a path of narrow planks laid over the swamp so that you can walk out as dry as Jesus on the ocean and see turtles, water birds and three different varieties of meat-eating plants: pitcher plants, sundews and bladderworts. Of course, it’s not Halloween without treats, so after hours spent among the ruined and the dead and the flesh-eating fauna, we love a good specialty sweet shop. Like the castle of candy that is Lickee’s & Chewy’s Candies & Creamery in Dover. Or North Conway’s Tricks and Treats, a Halloween-themed ice cream shop. There’s Chutters in Littleton, with its 112-foot-long candy counter (a Guiness World Record!) or Pearls Candy & Nuts in Salem, which is full of delectables from decades past. But, honestly, with all that nature, all that history, all those gummy worms, you don’t have to be the Addams Family (or the Ocker Family) to have a blast at these places.
Da ddy, don ’t be scared. Close your eyes .
Forrest Hill Cemetery in Derry
J.W. Ocker is the award-winning author of nonfiction travelogues, including “The New England Grimpendium,” “Cursed Objects” and the upcoming “The United States of Cryptids.” They say there’s fun and adventure in every direction in New Hampshire. Sean McDonald of WMUR’s nightly magazine program “New Hampshire Chronicle” may even be the person who said it. Here are his favorite places — in all four directions: “One of the best parts of the working on ‘Chronicle’ is getting to experience different parts of the state and then sharing them with my own family. Go West: One of my favorite activities is similar to so many. I love tackling the White Dot Trail on Mount Monadnock. Fun fact: I followed up a hiker who held a record for the hiking Monadnock. With his speed. Keeping up left me sore for days. Travel East: One of my favorite things to do is enjoying the sandbars at Hampton Beach State Park. I’ve spent several days charging my way through the channels of water brought in by high tide. This one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever visited. Of course, we always go for a fried clams or ice cream too. Head North: There are so many natural playgrounds in the mountains of N.H. I love. I’ve only tackled a couple 4,000-footers, but stay tuned — they are all my my bucket list. We’ve taken many trips to Santa’s Village and Story Land over the years. As a way to cool off, my kids always love checking out the waterfalls in Jackson and at Diana’s Baths. Go South: There is nothing better than getting outside on a warm summer afternoon to unwind. We love grabbing a pizza from a local shop and having a picnic by Lake Massabesic. There are countless walking and biking trails we can tackle afterwards to burn off our meal. Not mention the birding at the nearby Audubon is fantastic.” NH
