new hampshire mansions tour

The Pierce Manse

Home of the 14th President of the United States

The Pierce Manse is open for guided tours late May-October each year and by appointment.

The Pierce Manse, Franklin Pierce's Concord home, was saved from demolition by the Pierce Brigade in 1971.

Become a member, volunteer or make a donation to support the legacy of New Hampshire's only President.

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The Pierce Manse is the only home ever owned and lived in by President Franklin Pierce, a New Hampshire native and the 14th President of the United States.

Take a step back in time by touring President Pierce's historic home. Using hands-on objects, primary source documents, and visual clues in the historic house, visitors will learn about what life was like in the mid-19th century for Franklin Pierce, his wife Jane, and their two sons.

The Manse is owned and operated by the volunteer Pierce Brigade, whose mission is to preserve the home and legacy of New Hampshire’s only president.

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The rambling yellow Wentworth Coolidge mansion was built by Royal Governor Benning Wentworth (1696-1770) in the mid-eighteenth century. Benning Wentworth governed New Hampshire from 1741 to 1767 – the longest serving royal governor in British America. His house, both awkward and elegant, was the political and social heart of late colonial New Hampshire.

Domestic Life Relatively little is known about Wentworth’s domestic life. Myths are numerous, facts are few. He hired farmers to cultivate the extensive land around the house, and housekeepers to care for the sprawling mansion. A French-born tavern keeper regularly rode out from Portsmouth to shave the governor and sometimes to cook in a special French kitchen that still survives in the mansion. Wentworth was an advocate of the Anglican Church in a predominantly Calvinist region. He outlived his sons, and his first wife died in 1755. The lonely governor then married Martha Hilton (c. 1737-1805) in 1760. Daughter of a genteel widow, Martha had been serving as housekeeper at the mansion.

The Coolidge Family In 1886 J.Templeman Coolidge of Boston bought the house as a summer home for his family. Coolidge was a Harvard graduate, an accomplished amateur artist, and a recreational sailor, who found the place an ideal summer home. In Boston he promoted arts education, was a trustee of the Museum of Fine Arts and the Boston Athenaeum, and served on many other art boards. He and his artist friends and associates constituted a creative summer colony here at Little Harbor.

Visitors included John Singer Sargent, Edmund Tarbell, and Isabella Stewart Gardner. Over the years Coolidge added a small guest wing at the north-east corner of the house, a low servants’ wing at the north-west corner of the house, and the shingled carriage house at the top of the sloped lawn. A former hen house was converted to a guesthouse. Later this and scattered small parcels were sold to friends and acquaintances for their summerhouses. Coolidge died in 1945, and his widow, Mary Abigail Parsons Coolidge, offered the mansion and remaining property to the State of New Hampshire. Governor Hugh Gregg and the executive council accepted the property in 1954.

In addition to its fifty-eight parks statewide, the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation also maintains thirteen historic sites. They include: the Hannah Dustin Memorial in Boscawan, Endicott Rock in Laconia, Fort Constitution and Fort Stark in New Castle, White Island Lighthouse at the Isles of Shoals, the Robert Frost Farm and the Taylor Sawmill in Derry, the Pierce Homestead in Hillsborough, Tip-Top House on Mount Washington, the Daniel Webster Memorial in Franklin, the John Wingate Weeks Historic Site in Lancaster, the Governor John Wentworth site in Wolfeboro, the Wentworth Coolidge Mansion.

Hours and Contact Information The grounds are open to the public year-round from dawn to dusk. Tours of the mansion are given from mid-May to Labor Day, Wednesday to Sunday; weekends only from September to mid-October. The site may be rented for meetings, weddings and other functions. The Wentworth-Coolidge Commission, supported in part by your membership, operates this site on behalf of and in cooperation with the New Hampshire Parks Department and the Division of Historic Resources. For more information please call the office of the Wentworth-Coolidge Commission at 603-436-6607 or visit the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion web page .  

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Seacoast region offers a view into state's past at historic homes and sites.

Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion State Historic Site

375 Little Harbor Road Portsmouth, NH Phone: 603-436-6607

Strawbery Banke Museum

14 Hancock Street Portsmouth, NH Phone: 603-433-1100

Warner House

150 Daniel Street Portsmouth, NH Phone: 603-436-5909

Rundlet - May House

364 Middle Street Portsmouth, NH Phone: 603-436-3205

American Independence Museum

1 Governor's Lane Exeter, NH, 03833 Phone: 603-772-2262

Woodman Institute Museum

182 Central Avenue Dover, NH, 03820 Phone: 603-742-1038

Moffatt-Ladd House and Gardens

154 Market Street Portsmouth, NH Phone: 603-436-8221

John Paul Jones House and Museum

43 Middle Street Portsmouth, NH Phone: 603-436-8420

Jackson House

76 Northwest Street Portsmouth, NH, 03801 Phone: 603-436-3205

Governor John Langdon House

143 Pleasant Street Portsmouth, NH, 03801 Phone: 603-436-3205

Albacore Park

600 Market Street Portsmouth, NH, 03801 Phone: 603-436-3680

Fort Stark Historic Site

Off Wild Rose Lane New Castle, NH, 03854 Phone: 603-436-1552

Fort Constitution Historic Site

25 Wentworth Road - Off NH Route 1B at US Coast Guard Station New Castle, NH, 03854 Phone: 603-271-3556

Point of Graves Burial Ground

Mechanic Street Portsmouth, NH, 03801 Phone:

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Frank Lloyd Wright at the Currier Museum of Art

About the homes.

The Currier Museum is the only art museum in the world with two Frank Lloyd Wright homes. Accessible by guided tour, they are the only Wright buildings open to the public in New England. Both were built in the 1950s when Wright’s domestic architecture reshaped American home design. The Usonian Automatic and the Zimmerman House express two equally beautiful visions through their closely related designs and contrasting materials.

The 2024 Frank Lloyd Wright tour season opens on April 24, and ends December 31, 2024. Tickets through October are on sale now. November and December tickets will be available in July.

book a tour

All photographs by Sean Dungan except where noted.

The Kalil House: A Usonian Automatic

Designed in 1955, the Kalil House is one of only seven Usonian Automatics ever constructed. Wright termed the style “automatic” because they were intended to be easily and quickly built. Toufic and Mildred Kalil were inspired to commission the house by their close friends and neighbors Isadore and Lucille Zimmerman, who had commissioned a Wright house a few years earlier on the same street.

Experience the magic of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture through a short interactive tour with Currier staff and a special program of Charlie Chronopoulos’s original music.

Watch Video

The Kalils wrote to Wright and said: “Our home will constitute our relaxation. We expect to do a moderate amount of entertaining.” The high-ceilinged great room provides a dramatic, open space which could be easily reconfigured for entertaining or relaxation. The one story, two-bedroom house is 1,400 square feet and has no basement or attic.

The lattice-like walls flood the interior with natural light and frame views of the surrounding woodland. A large fireplace with a sunken hearth is a focal point of the house.

The house has all its original Wright-designed furniture, including built-in benches and shelving, and free-standing chairs. The furniture and large wall panels are made of Philippine mahogany. Chairs and benches retain their original upholstery, some with fabrics Wright designed.

Wright’s Usonian Automatic houses were constructed by stacking interlocking concrete blocks. Ten different block designs with over 200 windows create a dramatic play of light and shadow. To economize, Wright suggested these homes could even be built by their owners. The Kalils told Wright we are “delighted with our Usonian Automatic and only wish we had the time to build it with our own hands!” Photograph: Gerda Peterich

The kitchen is illuminated by a clearstory that tops a fifteen-foot-tall tower. As requested by the clients, Wright included an indoor charcoal burner for grilling and state of the art, built-in stainless steel appliances as they didn’t want “glaring white.”

Wright’s dynamic contrast of large open spaces with compressed transitions can be seen in the narrow hallway that leads from the great room to an office and the two bedrooms. It is lined with bookshelves and storage cabinets.

Wright lined the master bedroom with built-in closets, dressers, and shelves. The master bath on the left has twin sinks and a sunken shower tub lined with matte tiles.   

Wright sought to “break the box” or to disrupt the idea of a house as a series of small boxes. In many of his homes he eliminated vertical corner posts and instead used windows with mitered glass panes to visually unite the interior and exterior. Photograph: Currier Museum of Art

Ceiling light fixtures are recessed into the coffered blocks. The hidden fixtures create square halos across the ceiling – a nighttime counterpoint to the lattice of the window walls.

The Kalils requested a carport for two cars. The carport frames a view of the mountains beyond. It has two storage spaces, one requested by the clients “to take such delivery services as groceries, during the day when we are not home.” Photograph: Gerda Peterich

Zimmerman House

In 1949 Dr. Isadore and Lucille Zimmerman commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright to design a modern home. They stated, “We wish to avoid adding a new antique to the city’s architecture.” Indeed, they intended their house to be a contemporary statement: “I expect our proposed house will have a positive educational role to play in our community.” The Zimmerman House was one of Manchester’s first modern buildings.

The Zimmerman House was commissioned by Isadore and Lucille Zimmerman in 1949. The two-bedroom home embodies Wright’s Usonian architectural concepts. The compact design contrasts narrow passages with dramatic, open spaces that blend different functions, in a manner which predicts today’s open-plan homes. The house is constructed of brick and Georgia cypress, and retains its original furniture and garden, both designed by Wright.

The Zimmerman House is sited diagonally to the street. This was a dramatic departure from standard Manchester building practice in the 1950s. This layout provided more space for the gardens Wright designed in the front and back. ©Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation

The one-story, two-bedroom house is 1,700 square feet and has no basement or attic. The building is set into a low rise on the property which emphasizes the horizontal lines of the design and its integration with the landscape.

Wright’s dynamic contrast of compressed and open spaces can be seen in the narrow hallway that leads to the high-ceilinged garden room. Built-in cabinets and bookshelves provide storage space and display areas for the Zimmerman’s library and art collection, which includes modern sculpture, Japanese screens, and New Hampshire ceramics.

In the garden room, natural light from the south floods the interior. In an unusual feature, garden planters on both sides of the windows create a seamless landscape that merges the interior with the exterior. The Wright-designed furniture includes a quartet music stand. The room was designed to accommodate a baby grand piano as the Zimmermans regularly held concerts with friends. Photograph by Ezra Stoller © Esto

The house is anchored by a central hearth. Wright’s expansive, multi-use spaces foreshadowed today’s open-plan homes.

The dining loggia, with an expandable modular table, flows between the garden room and the kitchen. Floor-to-ceiling doors provide daylight and access to the patio. 

The compact kitchen, which Wright called the “workspace,” combines multiple domestic functions. In addition to the expected stove and refrigerator, the space also contained a large freezer, a clothes washer and dryer, and an immense top-loading dishwasher, a new feature in many affluent homes in the early 1950s. The clearstory overhead was designed during construction to let in light and improve ventilation.

The board and batten ceilings of the interior rooms pass through the exterior window walls. In the master bedroom the rhythm of the gabled ceiling projects to the exterior providing a deep eave for shading the sun.

The rear patio functions as a secluded outdoor room. The Zimmermans requested a house “which would allow for privacy and outdoor living.”

The Zimmermans told Wright, “The car port appeals to us as both aesthetic and economical.” Wright incorporated carports in his earliest Usonian designs as it was less expensive than a garage. At the Zimmerman House, the car port forms a picture window for the gardens behind the house.

Never before available for public viewing, the Kalil House, a Frank Lloyd Wright Usonian Automatic acquired by the Currier in late 2019, joins the Zimmerman House, a Usonian home from the 1950s, on a newly created two-house immersive tour. With their different sites and materials, the houses provide intriguing contrasts in experience. These are the only Wright homes in New England open for public tours.

Visits begin at the Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash Street, Manchester, New Hampshire), with access to the houses by Currier van only. Due to their setting in a residential neighborhood, the houses and grounds are only accessible by guided tour. Masks on the van and inside the FLW Houses are welcome but not required. Groups are limited to 10 guests.

Visits begin with a brief introduction and close looking together outdoors, followed by self-guided exploration inside the houses with docents present to answer your questions. A handout has been created to enhance your discoveries. The tour of each house concludes with interactive outdoor viewing and time for questions with Currier staff and docents.

Both the Kalil House and the Zimmerman House are historic structures with original floorplans. Although there are accessible spaces in both houses, there are also narrow hallways, staircases, and uneven terrain. The maximum width for mobility devices is 29 inches (73 centimeters). For more information about accessibility on our house tours, please see our accessibility pag e or contact guest services at 603.518.4908.

The Frank Lloyd Wright houses are open these holiday Mondays: Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Labor Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Veterans Day. The homes are closed on New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, July 4, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.

For more information and regarding public tours, please contact  [email protected]  or call 603.518.4908.

Frank Lloyd Wright Tours

Public tours of the Wright houses last two hours and are offered Wednesday through Sundays at 9:30 am, 12 pm, and 2:30 pm.

Reservations are required .

Public tour prices

$45 for regular admission / seniors $25 for members $20 for children ages 7 to 17 $20 for active military and Veterans $20 for students

Become a Currier Museum member here!

For safety, children under age 7 are not permitted. Payment is non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

Frank Lloyd Wright tour tickets include same-day general admission to the Currier Museum of Art. We invite you to stop by the Currier’s Winter Garden Café for lunch, a light snack, or a glass of wine before or after your tour. Guests touring the houses in the mid-to-late afternoon are encouraged to visit the museum earlier in the day.

Frank Lloyd Wright reciprocal members should call 603.518.4908 during museum hours for tour reservations.

Frank Lloyd Wright private group tours Frank Lloyd Wright private group tours follow the same format as a public tour. Please submit your tour requests early for a higher chance of finding the date and time you are looking for. Private Frank Lloyd Wright group tours are $400 for up to 10 guests. Academic tour groups (high schools and higher education) pay $200 for up to 10 students and 1 faculty member. Please fill in the request below, or for more information call 603.518.4956.

Request a Group Tour

• Reservations are required for all tours. To avoid disappointment, we recommend purchasing tickets well in advance. Frank Lloyd Wright Tour tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.
• For safety reasons, children younger than 7 years old, including infants and toddlers, unfortunately are not permitted on tours.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended.
• For the protection of the Zimmerman and Kalil Houses, food and water bottles, handbags larger than 10x10x3 inches (25x25x8 cm), backpacks, camera bags, and tripods are not permitted.
• Photography is allowed during the tour.
• Restrooms are available at the museum.
• Limited access to restrooms is possible at the Zimmerman and the Kalil Houses during the tour. Please note that wheelchairs will not fit in Wright’s small bathrooms.
• Please visit the  accessibility  page for information about the Frank Lloyd Wright Tour.
• Frank Lloyd Wright Tour tickets include general admission to the Currier Museum of Art.
• Interested in discounted tickets? Become a member

Discover the drama and serenity of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Zimmerman and Kalil Houses by watching the video below and then experience the spaces in person when you reserve your tour.

Architecture Travel Package: From Victorian to Usonian

Book your stay with the Ash Street Inn, located a 3-minute walk from the Currier Museum of Art, and discover two houses designed by famed American architect Frank Lloyd Wright on a special public tour. Find out more about the Frank Lloyd Wright Travel Package here.  

To check availability or to reserve, please contact the Ash Street Inn [email protected] or phone 603.668.9908.

Frank Lloyd Wright Homes Fund

The Currier is committed to preserving these mid-century architectural gems and making them accessible for visitors of all ages for years to come. Please consider making a donation to the Currier’s Frank Lloyd Wright Homes Fund today.

• Pay a Ticket
• Make a Donation
• Trails Bureau

Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion

Hours and Fees

Activities and amenities.

About the Park

Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site is the former home of New Hampshire's first royal governor, Benning Wentworth, who served in office from 1741 to 1767. The rambling 40-room mansion which overlooks Little Harbor, is one of the most outstanding homes remaining of the colonial era. Its stateliness and impressive interior and furnishings reflect aristocratic life in Portsmouth in the 1700s.

The Mansion reflects five distinct periods of architecture. The extraordinary skill of New Hampshire's eighteenth century craftsmen is exhibited in the intricate hand-carved mantelpiece. The council chamber and the spy closet reveal details about daily life and government during the colonial period. Purple lilacs, descendants of the first European stock imported by Wentworth, decorate the grounds. 

Are pets allowed at Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion?

Dogs are permitted on the outside grounds of the park and must be on a standard or rectractable leash not greater than 6 feet in length. Animal owners shall clean up any waste eliminated by their animals and place it in a trash can or remove it off-site. See our  NH State Parks Pets Policy  for more information.   

Keep Your Parks Clean 

Through the Carry-In/Carry-Out Program, you can help us keep your parks clean and beautiful by carrying out whatever you carry in. Thank you for your cooperation and remember to recycle.

Access for Persons with Disabilities

Visit our  Accessibilty  page for more information on specific accessibilty needs or questions, please contact the individual park office directly.

Additional Resources/Information

NH State Parks

Explore our 93 properties: parks, campgrounds, beaches, natural areas, waysides, historic sites and recreational trails.

• NH State Parks License Plate
• Commissions and Committees
• Park Proposals & RFPs

wentworth-coolidge mansion

Portsmouth, nh.

Find out the latest activities, events, and news.

What makes the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion special? Learn more about the place and the people who lived here.

Take a guided tour of the Mansion, open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day every year.

The Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Association (WCMA) is a nonprofit group dedicated to supporting the stewardship of the historic Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Most People Don't Know These 8 Castles Are Hiding in New Hampshire

Kelly A. Burch

Kelly Burch is a freelance writer from New Hampshire. She shares stories of travel, adventure and anything else that catches her interest.

More by this Author

Did you know that there are quite a few castles in New Hampshire? That’s right, while the Granite State is known for its natural beauty, there’s also a slew of man-made wonders scattered around the state that will also take your breath away. Curious to know more? Read on to discover the following New Hampshire castles, which range from whimsical to wacky.

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Have you been to any of these impressive castles in New Hampshire? Let us know in the following comment section. If you’d like to cover more than one castle in a day, take a look at this New Hampshire road trip too.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Castles in new hampshire.

Where are some ruins in New Hampshire located?

Along with ruins from castles in New Hampshire, you'll find some ruins in these locations:

• Monson Village , Hollis
• Madame Sherri Forest , Chesterfield
• Airplane Wreckage, Mount Success , Success
• America's Stonehenge , Salem

You'll need to hike to reach these destinations. Take a look at these ruins in New Hampshire to learn more.

What are some popular New Hampshire road trips?

Aside from going on a New Hampshire castle road trip, consider going on the following adventures as well.

• The Ultimate New Hampshire Waterfall Road Trip
• The Terrifying Haunted New Hampshire Road Trip
• The Natural Wonders Road Trip
• Ten Places To Go On One Tank Of Gas In New Hampshire
• The Fall Foliage Road Trip
• The Magical Christmas Lights Road Trip

What are some historical landmarks in New Hampshire? 

In addition to visiting castles in New Hampshire, plan to visit some of these historical landmarks in the state, too:

• Franklin Pierce Homestead, Hillsborough
• USS Albacore, Portsmouth
• Harrisville Historic District, Harrisville
• Mount Washington Hotel, Bretton Woods

This epic New Hampshire road trip  also stops by some of the state's most well-known historical landmarks.

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• My Return Visit To New Hampshire's Pulpit Rock Conservation Area Brought Me Back To The Ice Age
• My Visit To New Hampshire's Joe English Reservation Proves That There Is Always Something New To See
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What was the Gilded Age?

Spectacular settings — exceptional elegance — fascinating families, newport and the gilded age.

The Gilded Age comes alive with engaging audio tours of life in the Newport Mansions. From the soaring marble columns that greet you at Marble House to the platinum wall panels at The Breakers, immerse yourself in these social and architectural landmarks. Hear the fascinating stories of people who lived and worked in these grand houses.

The Gilded Age, approximately 1870-1910, was a period of unprecedented change in America. The expansion of industry and transportation – and the lack of an income tax – gave rise to a new wealthy class of people with names like Vanderbilt, Morgan, Ford, Carnegie and Rockefeller. Massive fortunes were made very quickly and spent on lavish lifestyles.

Gilded Age pageantry was nowhere more on display than at the spectacular “summer cottages” of the Newport Mansions, where the new millionaires sought to outshine each other at balls, banquets, carriage parades, concerts, sporting events and other entertainments. Constructed at the height of the Gilded Age, The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms and Rosecliff reflect their owners’ obsession with social status and emulation of European aristocracy.

Not everyone was impressed by the newly rich. They were shunned by the “old money” members of New York society, who considered them invaders. It was a battle that would last for years.

Despite tremendous economic growth and the expansion of the workforce, the gap between rich and poor became ever wider during this period. The term “Gilded Age,” coined by Mark Twain, refers to the thin veneer of wealth that covered a less attractive reality. Yet this period marks the beginning of America’s development into a prosperous, growing, innovative, modern nation.

“The Gilded Age” on HBO

“Downton Abbey” creator Julian Fellowes chose the Newport Mansions to provide authentic scenery for his historical drama “The Gilded Age”.

Inside “The Gilded Age” Tour

Fans of HBO’s “The Gilded Age” will love this guide-led tour of locations in four of the Newport Mansions where the show was filmed. Tuesdays and Fridays only, May 17 through June 28. Tickets now available.

Additional Visitor Info

Map & parking info.

Parking is free onsite at all properties except for Hunter House and The Breakers Stable & Carriage House, where street parking is available.

Answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Mansions & Gardens

Explore the 11 properties under the stewardship of the Preservation Society and open as historic house museums.

Partners in Preservation

General Court of NH

Visitor center, quick links.

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Information

Hours of operation:.

Welcome to the NH State House Online Visitor Center

This site is designed to assist visitors to the State House schedule tours , purchase flags, and make online purchases . The Visitor Center staff will be happy to assist you with general information also. Just call or email us and allow us to answer your questions regarding our beautiful state!

Click on the links provided to book a tour, test your NH knowledge , or purchase one of our great NH items!

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13 most romantic getaways in new hampshire.

From Portsmouth to the famous Omni Mount Washington Resort, these are the most romantic getaways in New Hampshire.

Romantic Getaways in New Hampshire

Courtesy of Chesterfield Inn

The Chesterfield Inn offers cozy accommodations for couples.

Couples may be surprised to find that New Hampshire is filled with an array of enchanting destinations. From the majestic White Mountains to the quiet of Squam Lake, this quintessential New England getaway has been capturing the hearts of travelers for generations. Whether your ideal romantic getaway includes winter sleigh rides, an autumn road trip or exploring a seaside town, the Granite State has you covered. Read on to discover the most romantic getaways in New Hampshire.

• Omni Mount Washington Resort
• Church Landing at Mill Falls

North Conway

• Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa
• Wentworth by the Sea
• Adair Country Inn
• Chesterfield Inn
• The Glen House Hotel
• Sugar Hill Inn

Getty Images

This seaside city, situated along the tranquil Piscataqua River, is one of New Hampshire's most popular destinations for couples. Here, twosomes can gaze at period furniture at The Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden or walk hand in hand through sprawling Prescott Park, a waterfront public park boasting manicured gardens and peaceful fountains. Meanwhile, history buffs won't want to miss the Strawbery Banke Museum, where costumed actors reenact what life was like in New England hundreds of years ago. Don't forget to make time for a stroll through Market Square – this quaint downtown area is lined with art galleries, antique shops and historic buildings, the latter of which house restaurants, breweries and more.

Where to stay: After a day of exploring, head back to your cozy digs at The Hotel Portsmouth. Boasting plush bedding, private baths and flat-screen TVs, this charming hotel scores major points thanks to its convenient and walkable location in downtown Portsmouth. To really sweep your partner off their feet, book your stay in The Loft. This bi-level suite comes equipped with a king bed, two bathrooms, a claw-foot soaking tub and a living room. A light breakfast is also included in rates.

Omni Mount Washington Resort: Bretton Woods

Courtesy of Omni Hotels & Resorts

Located in the heart of the White Mountains, the Omni Mount Washington Resort is ideal for couples seeking a luxurious respite in nature. Whether you're lounging by the pool, snuggling up by the fire or basking in stunning views from the seasonal rooftop bar, this grand property is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. For maximum comfort, recent guests recommend opting for a spacious room in the Presidential Wing, which features deluxe bathrooms and private patios or balconies.

In addition to ample amenities and lavish accommodations, this mountain resort offers countless activities for you and your sweetie to enjoy. When you're not challenging your beau to a tennis match or teeing off on Omni Mount Washington's championship golf courses, try soaring above the Presidential Range on a thrilling canopy tour. Or, put your equestrian skills to the test on a guided horseback ride through the White Mountains. An autumn visit allows couples to witness some of New England's best fall foliage , while winter travelers can take advantage of the resort's many cold weather activities, including scenic gondola rides, skiing, tubing, sleigh rides and more.

After a day packed with activities, soothe your aching muscles with a couples massage at the on-site spa before settling in for a romantic dinner for two at Stickney's, a steakhouse featuring a seasonal menu.

Address: 310 Mount Washington Hotel Road, Bretton Woods, NH 03575

Church Landing at Mill Falls: Meredith

Situated on Lake Winnipesaukee's Meredith Bay, this charming lakeside hideaway is one of four properties that make up the village-style resort Mill Falls at the Lake. The Adirondack-style inn is loved by travelers for its homey atmosphere, complete with rustic touches like wood furnishings and stone fireplaces.

Begin your morning with a relaxing outdoor yoga session, then get out on Lake Winnipesaukee on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Couples can also use the resort's complimentary bikes to explore nearby Main Street, which is dotted with restaurants, local boutiques and antique stores.

If you'd rather spend your romantic getaway being pampered, opt instead for an indulgent massage or hydrating facial at Cascade Spa. In the evening, feast on lobster rolls and ribeye at Church Landing's cozy Lakehouse Grille before roasting marshmallows over the outside fire pit. When it's time to hit the hay, twosomes will enjoy perks like luxurious down bedding, lakefront views, and patios or balconies in all guest rooms.

Address: 281 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, NH 03253

North Conway is especially popular in winter, thanks in large part to its abundance of great ski areas . However, couples will find plenty of things to do year-round. Top activities include hiking to the Diana's Baths waterfalls, driving the famous Kancamagus Highway, and riding the Conway Scenic Railroad through Mount Washington Valley and Crawford Notch. Just don't leave without picking up some delicious treats from the Bavarian Chocolate Haus, an old-fashioned chocolate shop selling house-made truffles, fudge, nonpareils and more.

Where to stay: Bed down at White Mountain Hotel & Resort , a family-owned and -operated establishment that boasts a heated outdoor pool, a nine-hole golf course and Finnish saunas. The resort is adjacent to Echo Lake State Park, so couples can explore the region's hiking trails after filling up on creative New England cuisine at Ledges Restaurant.

Another top-notch lodging option is Stonehurst Manor . In addition to elegant 19th-century furnishings, guest rooms include details like opulent four-poster beds, fireplaces and whirlpool baths. For added ambiance, plan your trip for January to experience the hotel's annual Ice Bar, a full-size outdoor bar that is carved entirely out of ice.

Read: The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire

Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa: Whitefield

Courtesy of Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa

Overlooking New Hampshire's spectacular White Mountain National Forest, the historic Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa is one of New England's premier destinations for couples. Equipped with both an outdoor and an indoor pool, clay tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course, an ax-throwing arena and a working farm, Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa has no shortage of fun activities for you and your other half to enjoy. When you're not shooting pool in the game room, snuggle up at the on-site movie theater for a romantic date night – there are more than 500 titles to choose from.

Couples can savor delicious farm-to-table fare at the Harvest Tavern, or reserve a table at the 1865 Wine Cellar for a one-of-a-kind fine dining experience. After filling up on specialties like seared quail and veal tenderloin, retreat to one of the resort's elegantly appointed guest rooms, all of which boast plush bedding and flat-screen TVs. For the best views of Mount Lafayette and Cannon Mountain, book a southern-facing room.

Address: 101 Mountain View Road, Whitefield, NH 03598

Filled with countless activities and several top-notch hotels, the town of Lincoln fits the bill for a romantic getaway in New Hampshire. Head to Franconia Notch State Park to explore the spectacular Flume Gorge, a natural gorge extending along the base of Mount Liberty, or soar over the treetops on a scenic gondola ride. There are myriad ways to spend your time in Lincoln, but couples would be remiss to skip the premier Ice Castles, a unique frozen experience that features crawl tunnels, slides, a bar and more – built entirely out of ice.

Where to stay: After exploring the region's top attractions, snuggle up at one of Lincoln's high-end hotels. RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain is loved by travelers for its lagoon-style swimming pool – which transforms into an ice skating rink come winter – and on-site Italian restaurant, not to mention the property's Seven Birches Winery.

If you're looking for something more intimate, consider staying at Red Sleigh Inn. This five-bedroom lodge receives glowing reviews from visitors thanks to its unmatched hospitality, clean accommodations and contactless check-in process.

Wentworth by the Sea, A Marriott Hotel & Spa: New Castle

Courtesy of Wentworth by the Sea, A Marriott Hotel & Spa

Couples looking to celebrate their love in style should look no further than Wentworth by the Sea, a Marriott Hotel & Spa . Boasting stellar ocean views and steeped in old-world charm, this 19th-century hotel on New Castle Island was made for twosomes seeking time alone in a scenic seaside setting.

Not only were recent guests blown away by the beautiful grounds, but they raved over the friendly staff and well-appointed guest rooms (which feature marble bathrooms, large windows, minifridges and flat-screen TVs). For further amenities like a fireplace, a kitchenette, a whirlpool bathtub, a balcony and additional living space, couples can splurge on a waterfront Marina Suite. In addition to cushy accommodations, the hotel boasts a full-service spa, three hot tubs and two heated pools. In the evening, lovebirds can dine on flavorful entrees (think: grilled mahi-mahi and crab-stuffed haddock) at SALT Kitchen & Bar while sampling vino from the extensive wine list.

Address: 588 Wentworth Road, New Castle, NH 03854

Adair Country Inn: Bethlehem

Courtesy of Adair Country Inn & Restaurant

Once a private residence located less than 3 miles from the town of Littleton, this quaint property was converted into an inn in 1992. While some rooms feature modern furnishings like granite countertops and jetted tubs, others have maintained their rustic charm. Book your stay in the Bickford room for details like a four-poster bed, wingback chair and dormer windows, or enjoy perks like a private patio and cathedral ceilings in the Sinclair Suite. Recent travelers raved over the excellent service and well-kept grounds, saying a romantic stroll through the property's fairytale gardens is a can't-miss.

For further pampering, opt for the "Romantic Getaway" special, which includes extras like fresh flowers, candles and sparkling wine. Later, retreat to the dining room, where you can taste specialties like venison-stuffed mushroom caps and sauteed scallops.

Address: 80 Guider Lane, Bethlehem, NH 03574

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Chesterfield Inn: West Chesterfield

This classic New England B&B beckons to couples seeking a romantic getaway off the beaten path. The property boasts three buildings where twosomes can stay: The Main Inn, The Cottage and the Johanna Wetherby Building. No matter which residence you choose, you will be treated to modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and spacious private baths; past guests especially loved the comfortable beds and beautiful mountain views. Plus, many accommodations offer jetted tubs, private entrances, balconies or patios, and fireplaces.

Up the romance factor even further with the "Date Your Mate Package," which includes a three-course dinner, a bottle of prosecco and breakfast in bed. For couples with a sweet tooth, the "Death by Chocolate" package comes with decadent treats like chocolate-covered strawberries and L.A. Burdick hot chocolate.

If you can tear yourself away from your elegant digs, head off campus to one of the region's numerous apple orchards or sugarhouses for a maple syrup tasting. Time your visit for fall to explore nearby Pisgah State Park's vibrant foliage, or travel during the colder months to see the inn transform into a winter wonderland.

Address: 20 Cross Road, West Chesterfield, NH 03466

Jackson attracts couples who are looking for a classic New England mountain getaway. Snap a photo under the covered Honeymoon Bridge, hike to Glen Ellis Falls or arrive in winter to enjoy an Austrian sleigh ride with your honey at Nestlenook Farm.

Where to stay: After an exhausting day of activities, bed down at the Inn at Ellis River. Many guest rooms here come with balconies, jetted tubs and fireplaces; all are decorated with antique period furnishings. Time your visit for December, when the property hosts its annual Inn-to-Inn Holiday Cookie Tour, an event that anyone with a sweet tooth will love. Another great place to hang your hat in Jackson is The Inn at Thorn Hill & Spa, a regal property with a wine cellar and a library. For the most impressive views of Mount Washington, opt for the Presidential Suite, which comes outfitted with a king bed, gas fireplace, a deep soaking tub and two wingback chairs.

The Glen House Hotel: Gorham

Courtesy of The Glen House Hotel

Nestled in New Hampshire's White Mountains, this four-season property is the perfect place for lovebirds to rekindle their romance. In summer, you and your beau can rent bikes to explore nearby Great Glen Trails, or get out on the Androscoggin River in a kayak. In winter, enjoy thrilling activities like cross-country skiing , tubing and snowshoeing, or hop on the Mt. Washington SnowCoach for a narrated adventure tour of the region. Meanwhile, couples who visit between late May and late October will be able to drive the legendary Mt. Washington Auto Road to the mountain's summit – the highest peak in the Northeast.

No matter what time of year you visit The Glen House Hotel, recent visitors say the property's spacious and clean accommodations won't disappoint. Each of the hotel's nearly 70 guest rooms come outfitted with full-length armoires, vanity mirrors and flat-screen TVs; for extra perks like a balcony and picturesque mountain views, consider splurging on one of the property's premium rooms. Explore beyond your luxury digs to find an indoor saltwater pool, a panoramic deck with a fire pit and The Notch Grille, the on-site restaurant serving up everything from sumptuous burgers and lobster rolls to filet mignon.

Address: 979 state Route 16, Gorham, NH 03581

To enjoy the unspoiled natural beauty of New Hampshire's Lakes Region away from the crowds, head to Squam Lake. This quiet getaway northwest of Lake Winnipesaukee is cherished by travelers for its peaceful atmosphere and abundant wildlife. While you're here, keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, loons and great blue herons, and don't forget to visit the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center to hike the live animal exhibit trail.

Where to stay: Twosomes will want to book their stay at The Manor on Golden Pond , which offers amenities like a relaxing spa and afternoon tea, as well as thoughtfully appointed accommodations with wood-burning fireplaces and secluded decks.

Another top lodging option, The Inn on Golden Pond, grants access to outdoor fire pits, a private beach and more.

Sugar Hill Inn: Sugar Hill

Built in the 18th century as a quaint family farmhouse, this quintessential New England B&B is now a sanctuary for lovebirds. In addition to the historic main building's eight cozy rooms and suites, Sugar Hill Inn has expanded to include several small vacation cottages featuring luxurious amenities. These secluded residences boast private baths, gas fireplaces, a porch and original artwork; some even come equipped with double whirlpool tubs, saunas and rain showers. All accommodations include a daily breakfast and a variety of small afternoon bites.

While you're here, say goodbye to stress with a relaxing hot stone massage, then join a guided hike or rock climbing experience with one of Sugar Hill Inn's trusted vendors. When your stomach starts to rumble, previous guests highly recommend the property's dining room, where you can savor delicious entrees made with fresh local produce and herbs grown in the on-site garden. If you're really looking to wow your significant other, book the inn's "Romantic Getaway" package, which includes Champagne and chocolates upon arrival, handmade souvenir mugs, and two four-course dinners.

Address: 116 state Route 117, Sugar Hill Road, Sugar Hill, NH 03586

You might also be interested in:

• The Most Romantic Getaways in Maine
• The Most Romantic Getaways in Vermont
• The Most Charming B&Bs in the U.S.

Tags: Travel , Couples Vacations , New England Vacations , US Vacations

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Hampton Mansion Tour

Hampton National Historic Site Tours

Select a date to see a list of times

Need to Know

Hampton’s buildings and visitor services are open 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Thursday-Sunday. Park grounds are open sunrise to sunset 7 days a week.

Tours of the Hampton Mansion are available year-round, Thursdays-Sundays. Visitors may book reservations beginning 3 months in advance until midnight the day before the tour.

Tickets are free. However, a nonrefundable $1.00 advance reservation service fee applies to each ticket.

The National Park Service may close the mansion or park due to inclement weather, safety concerns, or other unforeseen events. All fees are nonrefundable. To re-schedule, you must make a new reservation (which includes a new reservation fee).

The park strongly recommends reservations. If a tour has not been completely filled the day of a visit, visitors can get remaining tickets on a first come, first serve basis. There is no guarantee that tours will have tickets available the day of the visit.

All visitors must pick up tour tickets in the visitor center prior to the tour.

Tours start promptly at the specified time at the visitor entrance of mansion (atop the accessibility ramp). Visitors should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to tour time to allow for introduction and restroom stops. Visitors may not join the tour after it has entered the Hampton Mansion.

Food and drink (including water and gum), backpacks and large bags, selfie sticks and other photography equipment are not permitted in the historic mansion. Pets (non-service animals) are not permitted in any of the park buildings.

The mansion is made accessible via a lift in the entrance room. Let your tour leader know ahead of time that you will require use of the lift to enter the house. Some parts of the house are not accessible, and tour leaders will adjust their tours accordingly based on accessibility needs. Visitors should be aware that tours last 45-60 minutes of standing and walking.

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Former teacher at new hampshire youth detention center testifies about bruised teens.

Holly Ramer

Associated Press

BRENTWOOD, N.H. – A former teacher at New Hampshire’s youth detention center testified Monday that she reported suspicious bruises on at least half a dozen teenage boys in the 1990s, including the former resident who filed a landmark lawsuit against the state.

Brenda Wouters, who taught social studies at the Sununu Youth Services Center for 35 years, was the final witness called by David Meehan, who is seeking to hold the state accountable for physical, sexual and emotional abuse he says he suffered as a teen. Since he went to police in 2017, 11 former state workers have been arrested , and more than 1,100 former residents of the Manchester facility have filed lawsuits alleging six decades of abuse.

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Wouters, who retired in 2022, said during the civil trial that she remembered Meehan growing sullen and withdrawn during his three years at what was then called the Youth Development Center. He had a black eye twice, she said. Another time, she asked him to lift up his shirt after she caught a glimpse of bruising and saw a “rainbow” of bruises along his torso.

Other teens showed up to school with marks on their necks and arms, Wouters said. The whites of one boy’s eyes were “beet red,” she said.

“The reddest eyes I’ve ever seen short of watching a Dracula film,” she said.

Wouters also described teens telling her about being forced to fight. Staff pitted stronger kids against more fragile ones.

“Then they would encourage those kids to go ahead and fight with each other almost to the death until whomever was being the loser would then comply with whatever the staff wanted,” she said.

Wouters said when she approached residential staff, they brushed her off. She said she told her boss, and on multiple occasions, called the state Division of Children, Youth and Families, but there was no follow-up that she saw.

Under questioning from the state’s attorney, however, Wouters acknowledged that she never witnessed abuse, nor did she file any written complaints. Shown progress reports from the 1990s, she also acknowledged that Meehan was only in her class during the spring of 1996, a time when he does not allege abuse. But she said she would’ve still interacted with him after that.

Lawyers for the state will begin presenting their side on Tuesday, the trial's 15th day. In opening arguments earlier this month, they argued the state is not liable for the actions of “rogue” employees, and in questioning Meehan’s witnesses, suggested he is lying to get money. The state also contends he waited too long to file his lawsuit. The statute of limitations for such lawsuits is three years from the date of injury, though there are exceptions in cases when victims were not aware of its link to the wrongful party.

After the jury was dismissed for the day Monday, Assistant Attorney General Brandon Chase asked the judge to issue a verdict in the state’s favor based on the statute of limitations argument.

Judge Andrew Schulman denied that request, saying the jury will decide. Though he said it might be a “close call” as to when Meehan realized as an adult he might have a claim against the state, he said it was unreasonable to believe he made that connection while at the facility or soon after. Schulman said when he visited the facility with jurors at the start of the trial, he spent some time in Meehan’s former room, looking out the window.

“It occurred to me while I was there, this is the kid’s eye view,” he said. “You don’t have a very wide view of the world.”

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.