New Hampshire might be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to charm and uniqueness. After leaving the Granite State, you might find yourself unexpectedly missing these small but significant parts of life in New Hampshire. Here are 11 things you never expected to miss after leaving:
1. The Mountains
The White Mountains are stunning, whether you’re hiking, skiing, or just driving through. The crisp mountain air, breathtaking views, and tranquility are hard to find elsewhere. The Mount Washington experience, with its unpredictable weather and panoramic views, is something you’ll never forget.
2. The Change of Seasons
Sure, many places experience seasonal changes, but New Hampshire does it in a way that feels unique. The fall foliage in October is world-renowned, the winters are picture-perfect for snow lovers, and spring and summer are surprisingly beautiful with lush landscapes and outdoor activities galore.
3. No Sales Tax
You didn’t realize how much you loved shopping in a state without sales tax until you move somewhere that charges you extra at the register. Whether you’re picking up a coffee or buying a new TV, that absence of extra costs is something you start to miss!
4. The Quiet
New Hampshire is often known for its peaceful, rural vibe, especially outside of cities like Manchester. That calm, slower pace of life is something you don’t realize you miss until you find yourself surrounded by constant noise and hustle in a bigger city.
5. Lakeside Living
Lake Winnipesaukee is just one of the many gorgeous lakes in the state. Whether you were boating, fishing, or just relaxing on the shore, the peacefulness of New Hampshire’s lakes will likely make you long for those quiet lakeside moments.
6. The Local Maple Syrup
The state’s maple syrup is a thing of legend, and you’ll quickly find out that other places just don’t measure up. Whether on pancakes or as a sweet gift for visitors, New Hampshire maple syrup is top-tier, and you’ll miss its richness and authenticity.
7. Covered Bridges
New Hampshire has its fair share of historic covered bridges, often tucked in scenic, rural settings. These iconic structures make for a cozy, nostalgic trip down memory lane every time you cross one—and you might find yourself searching for similar ones elsewhere and coming up short.
8. The Friendly Locals
The Granite State’s residents might seem reserved at first, but there’s something about New Hampshire folks. They are incredibly down-to-earth, practical, and warm in their own understated way. You might not realize how much you miss the no-nonsense friendliness until you’re somewhere else.
9. The Local Diners
The New Hampshire diner culture is alive and well, offering delicious, hearty breakfasts and lunch menus that locals swear by. The experience of grabbing a classic meal at a local diner with a cup of hot coffee is something that feels uniquely New Hampshire.
10. The Lack of Crowds
Whether you’re hiking, driving, or just spending a day out, New Hampshire generally feels like a peaceful oasis. While other parts of the country have overwhelming crowds, New Hampshire is often quiet and uncrowded, making it easier to enjoy nature and life without the hustle and bustle of more populated areas.
11. The Sense of Community
New Hampshire towns are often tightly-knit communities, and whether it’s the local farmers’ market, a town fair, or just knowing your neighbors, there’s a sense of community that can be hard to replicate in larger cities. After leaving, you’ll likely miss the feeling of being part of something smaller, simpler, and more genuine.
If you’ve left New Hampshire, these little gems may just keep tugging at your heart, reminding you of the things you didn’t realize you’d miss about this special state.
SOURCES
[1] https://wokq.com/what-people-miss-most-about-new-hampshire/
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/newhampshire/comments/wprvnq/people_that_moved_from_nh_what_do_you_miss/
[3] https://shark1053.com/10-things-that-every-person-from-nh-knows/
[4] https://949whom.com/things-you-would-miss-if-you-leave-new-england/
[5] https://seacoastcurrent.com/12-things-that-shock-people-after-moving-to-new-hampshire/
