Grafton County, New Hampshire Travel Guide

Discover the stunning landscapes, charming towns, and rich history of Grafton County in New Hampshire, where every season offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

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Grafton County

Grafton County, nestled in the heart of New Hampshire, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, this county boasts the White Mountain National Forest, where visitors can hike, camp, and explore miles of scenic trails. The Appalachian Trail also winds through this area, offering some of the most picturesque views in the region. For those who enjoy water activities, the serene lakes and rivers in Grafton County provide ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in New Hampshire, is a popular spot for boating and water sports. In the winter, the county transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Grafton County is not just about outdoor adventures. The charming towns of Hanover and Plymouth offer a glimpse into New England's rich history and culture. Visitors can explore historic sites, local museums, and vibrant arts scenes. Hanover is also home to Dartmouth College, where the campus and its surroundings offer beautiful architecture and cultural events year-round. Food enthusiasts will delight in the local cuisine, which includes fresh farm-to-table offerings and delectable seafood. The region's farmers' markets and local eateries provide a taste of authentic New Hampshire flavors. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Grafton County has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Grafton County.

Visit in the fall for spectacular foliage views across the White Mountain National Forest.
Pack layers if visiting in winter, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the mountains.
Stop by the local farmers' markets for fresh, local produce and artisanal goods.
Check out Dartmouth College's schedule for cultural events, including theater, music, and art exhibitions.
Book accommodations in advance during peak seasons, such as summer and fall.

Top City Travel Guides in Grafton County

The cities of Grafton County, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Hanover

Laconia

Destinations in Grafton County

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

White Mountains National Forest

Franconia Notch State Park

Mount Washington

White Mountains

Central New Hampshire

Explore Grafton County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Grafton County

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

White Mountain National Forest

Explore the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures of White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire, a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

4.9

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Explore the breathtaking views and history of Mount Washington aboard the iconic Cog Railway in New Hampshire's stunning White Mountains.

4.7

Story Land

Experience the magic of Story Land, New Hampshire's premier amusement park, where fairy tales come to life for families and children.

4.5

Ice Castles

Experience the wonder of Ice Castles in North Woodstock, NH, where artistry meets nature in a breathtaking winter spectacle.

4.4

Best restaurants in Grafton County

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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The Common Man Lincoln

Experience delectable American cuisine in Lincoln at The Common Man, where local ingredients meet warm hospitality in a charming setting.

4.6

Gordi's Fish & Steak House

Discover culinary excellence at Gordi's Fish & Steak House - where fresh seafood meets prime steaks in the heart of Lincoln, NH.

4.4

Covered Bridge Farm Table

Experience authentic American flavors with live music at Covered Bridge Farm Table in beautiful Campton, New Hampshire.

4.5

Gypsy Cafe

Experience culinary creativity at Gypsy Cafe in Lincoln NH—where every meal is a delightful journey through global flavors.

4.6

Best bars in Grafton County

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Red Fox Bar and Grille

Discover the taste of American cuisine in a cozy setting at Red Fox Bar and Grille, Jackson's go-to spot for families and food lovers.

4.6

The Common Man Lincoln

Experience the best of American cuisine at The Common Man Lincoln, where local ingredients meet warm hospitality in a cozy setting.

4.6

Schilling Beer Co.

Experience the best of craft brewing at Schilling Beer Co. in Littleton, NH, where every sip tells a story of passion and quality.

4.7

Covered Bridge Farm Table

Experience the taste of New Hampshire at Covered Bridge Farm Table, where hearty American dishes meet delightful ice cream and live music.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Grafton County

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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The Big House

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Big House, Laconia’s premier live music venue with unforgettable performances and a lively atmosphere.

4.4

Bike Week

Join the excitement at Laconia's Bike Week, a vibrant celebration of motorcycle culture amidst stunning New Hampshire scenery.

4.7

Best shops in Grafton County

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Zeb's General Store

Explore Zeb's General Store in North Conway, NH - your one-stop shop for unique gifts, local delicacies, and sweet treats!

4.7

The Old Country Store and Museum

Explore unique gifts, gourmet groceries, and rich history at The Old Country Store and Museum in Moultonborough, NH.

4.7

Danbury Country Store

Discover local flavors and unique finds at Danbury Country Store, a charming stop in the heart of New Hampshire.

4.7

Kancamagus Collectables

Explore Kancamagus Collectables in North Woodstock for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of New Hampshire.

4.5

Explore Grafton County on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Grafton County, mapped for you.

Grafton County Essentials

Grafton County is located in the northern part of New Hampshire. The closest major airport is Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB), approximately 20 miles from the county's center. For international travelers, Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is about a 2.5-hour drive. From either airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or use regional bus services like Greyhound or Dartmouth Coach to reach Grafton County.
Grafton County offers various transportation options. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the region, especially if you plan to visit multiple towns and natural attractions. Public transportation is available, but limited, with bus services connecting major towns. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in more populated areas. Biking is popular for short distances, particularly in towns with dedicated bike paths.
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit rural areas or smaller towns where card facilities might not be available. ATMs are readily available throughout the county.
Grafton County is generally very safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, taking basic precautions is advisable. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in your vehicle and be cautious when exploring remote areas alone. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists, but staying aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The county has several medical facilities, including Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, which is a top-rated hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in most towns for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual and comfortable clothing is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly in religious sites. Remove hats and speak softly. Public Transport: Do be patient, as public transport can be infrequent. Don't rely solely on public transport for getting around remote areas. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. It's common to say 'hello' or 'hi' to strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like maple syrup, cheese, and craft beer. Don't forget to tip your servers, typically 15-20%.
To experience Grafton County like a local, visit the farmers' markets, especially in summer and fall, for fresh produce and homemade goods. Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and skiing, depending on the season. Don't miss the chance to visit local breweries and eateries that offer a taste of regional flavors. If you're in for some history, the town of Plymouth and the city of Lebanon have charming historic sites and museums. Lastly, take time to enjoy the scenic drives, especially the Kancamagus Highway, known for its breathtaking landscapes.

When is the best time to visit Grafton County?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Grafton County

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Grafton County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHiya
  [hiyah]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
- YesYep
  [yehp]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomeNo problem
  [noh proh-blem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thangs]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [par-dun mee]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yah doin'?]
- Fine. And you?Good. And you?
  [gud. and yah?]
- Do you speak English?You speakin' English?
  [you speekin' ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [kan I see the men-yoo?]
- I don't eat meatI ain't eatin' meat
  [I ain't eatin' meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay, please?
  [kan I pay, pleez?]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [get a doc-tor]
- I'm lostI’m turned around
  [I’m turned around]
- I'm illI’m not feelin' well
  [I’m not feelin' wel]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
  [I want to buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brow-zing]
- How much is it?What’s it cost?
  [whats it cost?]
- That's too expensiveThat's way too pricey
  [thats way too pry-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya drop the price?
  [kan yah drop the pryce?]
- What time is it?What time ya got?
  [what time yah got?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mor-nin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [ee-venin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the ad-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me on the map?
  [kan yah show me on the map?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [when's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [a ticket to...]

History of Grafton County

Established in 1769 and named after Augustus FitzRoy, the 3rd Duke of Grafton, Grafton County has played a significant role in the history of New Hampshire. Its early settlers were primarily of English descent, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources.
Constructed in 1829, the Haverhill-Bath Covered Bridge is one of the surviving 19th-century covered bridges in New Hampshire. The bridge spans the Ammonoosuc River and serves as a historical artifact of early American engineering and transportation.
The Old Man of the Mountain, a series of five granite cliff ledges on Cannon Mountain that resembled the profile of an old man's face, was a symbol of New Hampshire. Although it collapsed in 2003, the site remains a place of historical significance and continues to attract visitors.
Founded in 1769 by Eleazar Wheelock, Dartmouth College is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States. Located in Hanover, it has been a cornerstone of education and culture in Grafton County, influencing the intellectual landscape of the region.
Although the Battle of Bennington was fought primarily in Vermont, many of the soldiers who participated were from Grafton County. The battle was a significant turning point in the American Revolution, and the contributions of Grafton County residents were pivotal in the American victory.
Located in Franconia, The Frost Place is the historic home of poet Robert Frost. This site offers a glimpse into the life and work of one of America's most beloved poets, who lived and wrote here during the early 20th century.
Founded in 1995 in North Woodstock, the Woodstock Inn Brewery is a testament to the local craft beer movement. It has become a cultural landmark in Grafton County, offering a taste of the region's brewing heritage.
Once a bustling mill town, Livermore Falls is now a historical site that offers a glimpse into the industrial past of Grafton County. The remnants of the mills and the beauty of the falls provide an evocative setting for understanding the county's economic history.
Grafton County is traversed by a significant portion of the Appalachian Trail. This historic trail has been a route for hikers and explorers for decades, offering stunning views and a connection to the natural beauty and history of the region.
Established in 1871 as Plymouth Normal School, Plymouth State University has evolved into a comprehensive institution offering a variety of academic programs. Located in Plymouth, it has been an educational and cultural hub in Grafton County for over a century.