Spring flowers at the Hamilton House in South Berwick, ME

There aren't many things more beautiful than New Hampshire in the spring. Make the most of it with these fun spring ideas in and around Dover, NH. 

Go for a Hike

Spring is a great time to get out in nature. Even before there are leaves on the trees, you can spy flowers and fiddleheads poking out of the ground. Plus, you don't have to worry as much about heat and insects as you would in the warmer months. Need some hike inspiration? Check out the Little Harbor Loop Trail, Blue Job Mountain, and Vaughan Woods. 

Paint Flower Pots

Fun, colorful flower pots can add personality to your garden or houseplant collection, but they can get expensive. With some simple supplies and a little creativity, you can paint your own! This guide can get you started.

Explore Historical Landmarks

Now that the snow has melted away, it's a great time to travel back in time with a visit to a historical landmark. Odiorne Point State Park, Fort Stark, and the Strawbery Banke Museum are great places to start!

Stroll Through Botanical Gardens

What says "springtime" better than a garden of blooming flowers? Fuller Gardens in North Hampton opens May 12, and Bedrock Gardens in Lee opens May 14. Not long now!

Enjoy Coastal Views

Spring is a great time to enjoy the beauty of the New England coast before it gets swamped by summer visitors. For breathtaking ocean views, try Marginal Way in Ogunquit, ME, or Little Boar's Head in North Hampton, NH.

Marginal Way in Ogunquit, ME

Visit a Waterfall

There's something breathtaking about the powerful yet relaxing sight of a water fall. With a little road trip, you can see the Brook Walk at Castle in the Clouds, Arethusa Falls, the tallest waterfall in the state, and many more.

Check Out a Farm

Spring is baby animal season at local farms, and many host farm days. For example, the Coppal House Farm in Lee is hosting theirs on April 26.

Sign Up for a Race

With chilly winter weather behind us, runners are ramping up for a busy season. Want to lace up your running shoes? Why not sign up for the Dirty Paws 5K in Concord to support the SPCA , or Red's Race For a Better Community right here in Dover?

Find a Festival

The turn of seasons is a cause for celebration. One event you don't want to miss is Springfest at the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, where you can look forward to baby animals, heirloom gardens, and live demonstrations.

Make Spring Cleaning Fun

Cleaning the house after a long winter doesn't have to be a dreaded chore; get your family involved and make a competition out of it, or put on some fun music. Set a timer and see how much you can get done in that time, or invite a friend over. There are plenty of options to lighten the mood.

Get Your Thrills at an Amusement Park

Another positive about spring: amusement parks open for the season. Are you a thrill seeker, or do you have some in your family? Plan a day trip. Canobie Lake Park in Salem opens May 17, Funtown Splashtown in Saco, ME opens May 26, and Six Flags in Springfield, MA opens April 5. 

Start Your Garden

Whether you're an avid gardener or just trying out a few porch planters, it's just about time to get your hands dirty. For all your gardening needs, check out Wentworth Greenhouses right in Rollinsford — from seedlings to soil to planters, they've got it. 

Wentworth Greenhouses in Rollinsford, NH

Enjoy Outside Dining 

One plus-side of the pandemic was the increase in outdoor seating at many restaurants. Whether you're wanting a homestyle meal at Fogarty's in South Berwick, ME or barbeque with a water view at The Farm in Dover, you can take your pick.

Embrace Your Inner Child 

Outdoor fun like go karts and mini golf aren't just for kids; you can have fun, too. Hilltop Fun Center in Somersworth is one place to do just that. They also have arcade games and laser tag, too. Bring your kids and grandkids, or not!

Read a Book in the Sun

There's not much that's better than warm sun and a relaxing book — unless you add in a hammock, of course! A peaceful reading session outdoors is a perfect way to spend a warm spring afternoon. 

Reading a book outside

Shop at a Farmers Market

As we get closer to summer, you can look forward to strolling through your local farmer's market for fresh food and local goods. Dover, South Berwick, Kittery, York — farmers markets are everywhere, so take your pick!

Go Yard-Saling

April kicks off yard sale season, a fun opportunity for treasure hunters who appreciate a good deal. Whether you want to freshen up your home décor or replace your outdoor furniture, a Saturday morning yard sale adventure may be what you need.