As is the lot of many small states, New Hampshire is sometimes misjudged as geographically and culturally unvaried. Even open-minded and adventurous visitors who know that the Granite State is worthy of a visit sometimes have trouble choosing one destination over another. Throw bringing Rover along into the mix and some assistance might be in order. Here is one native's take on where you must go, whether or not you have already discovered New Hampshire, especially when dog-friendly accommodations are a must.
Often called New Hampshire's "cultural capital", Portsmouth is simply a must-see. You will not easily tire of this waterfront city's many shops, restaurants, historic venues and pretty jaunts. Staying in Portsmouth means you are within a 20 minute drive of all of the state's other coastal towns and within literal spitting distance of Maine.
Overlooking the Piscataqua River and perched on the edge of the "Fashion District", the dog-friendly Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel is walkable to all downtown hot spots. Starting at $159 a night for double occupancy (2010 rates), the Harborside offers parking, a spa, a restaurant and lounge and free Wi-Fi, among other amenities. There is no extra pet charge but guests are limited to having one dog up to 80 lbs. and all pets must be attended at all times
The Lakes Region is a swath of picturesque land (and water) cutting through the heart of New Hampshire. Nestled in the southern part of this region is Wolfeboro, "America's oldest summer resort". Wolfeboro offers hiking, skiing and beautiful lakefront vistas, and is not as far of a drive north as are the White Mountains. A short walk to the charming village of Wolfeboro Center, the dog-friendly Lake Motel is on Crescent Lake, has a beach and tennis courts and is handy to golf. The motel offers standard rooms or efficiencies with a kitchen, but their "Lake House" is off-limits to pets. Open year round, the Lake Motel's 2010 rates start at $79 nightly with no pet fee.
Once a thriving mill city, Manchester is still an important hub of the Granite State. Home to New Hampshire's only international airport, Manchester forged a downtown renaissance and now offers big city options in dining, shopping and entertainment. The dog-friendly Radisson, located on one of the Queen City's most popular streets, is close to many attractions, including the Verizon Wireless Arena.
The Radisson offers shuttle service to Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, as well as an in-house restaurant, fitness center and indoor pool. The hotel is also touted as the largest U.S. convention hotel north of Boston. The Radisson's 2010 room rates begin at $134 and there is a $25 pet fee per stay.
