That first date can really make an impression—hopefully a good one. There’s a balance to achieve, however. And the right setting helps to strike that perfect balance of romantic but comfortable and not too over the top. For a memorable affair, check out the 8 first date locations in New Hampshire.
No matter the season, a first date in Prescott Park is going to exude charm. During the summer, the Prescott Park Arts Festival has exceptional live theater performances, concerts and more. The flower gardens in the park are an example of nature’s artistry at its finest. Views of the Piscataqua River—with tugboats and sailboats navigating it—are stunning. Even as the cooler winds blow, a walk through Prescott Park and then a stop for hot chocolate in downtown Portsmouth is sure to lead to date number two.
Hampton Beach is a great place for a first date. Even if you’re not up for stripping down to your swimsuit on the first date, there’s still plenty to do. Walk the boardwalk, play arcade games, eat fried dough, and check out the live music. Visit the website for an entire calendar of events including a sand sculpture contest. Splurge for tickets to the Hampton Beach Casino and enjoy nationally-renown concerts.
Bundle up in your warmest winter clothing and visit the Ice Castles on your first date. These amazing ice structures are awe-inspiring, and you might even be tempted to sneak in a cuddle to keep warm. Follow up the visit with a stop for hot cocoa!
Open from December through April, the Café Lafayette Dinner Train provides an excellent opportunity to get acquainted on that first date. Over dinner, you and your date will ride the train through New Hampshire’s beautiful White Mountains.
Nothing evokes meaningful conversation like viewing stunning works of art. And if you can’t enjoy a meaningful conversation, there shouldn’t be a second date—right? The Currier Museum of Art is home to permanent American and European collections, and also has a café when you want to take a quick break.
Flag Hill Distillery and Winery hosts wine tastings. What could be better for a first date than sipping samples of wine made from grapes grown on the grounds? If you visit before harvest time, you can even stroll in the vineyard.
Visit one of very few remaining Shaker Villages at Canterbury Shaker Village. Stroll among completely restored buildings initially raised by a 300-member self-sustaining community that was created in the 1800s. Have lunch with your date and browse in the gift shop, too.
Go snow-shoeing at Jackson XC. Set out together on clearly marked trails and enjoy some crisp outdoor time in this beautiful New Hampshire region. Jackson XC offers lessons and guided tours, as well as rentals.