Looking for the best things to do with kids in Seacoast NH? Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the Seacoast region offers plenty of family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and hands-on experiences. From beaches and parks to museums and wildlife encounters, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
Here’s a guide to some of the best kid-friendly activities in Seacoast NH that will make your family outing fun and memorable.
1. Spend a Day at the Beach
Seacoast NH is home to some of the most beautiful family-friendly beaches, perfect for a day of swimming, sandcastle building, and exploring tide pools.
Hampton Beach
- One of the most popular beaches in New Hampshire.
- Features a kid-friendly boardwalk with arcades and ice cream shops.
- Live entertainment, fireworks, and family-friendly events during the summer.
Jenness Beach
- A quieter, more relaxed beach with gentle waves and soft sand.
- Great for young children and families who prefer a peaceful environment.
Wallis Sands State Beach
- Offers picnic areas, lifeguards, and clean facilities.
- Ideal for family gatherings and playing in the water.
A beach day is one of the best outdoor activities for kids in Seacoast NH!
2. Visit the Seacoast Science Center
Located in Odiorne Point State Park (Rye, NH), the Seacoast Science Center is a must-visit educational attraction for kids.
What Kids Will Love
- Interactive exhibits about marine life and ocean conservation.
- Touch tanks where kids can feel starfish, crabs, and sea urchins.
- Fun programs, guided tours, and live animal presentations.
This is a great place to spark curiosity about the ocean and nature while having fun!
3. Explore the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire
Located in Dover, NH, the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is a wonderland of interactive exhibits designed for kids of all ages.
Top Attractions
- Dinosaur exploration area with fossil digs and hands-on exhibits.
- STEAM-based activities including a build-your-own bridge section.
- Kid-sized grocery store, veterinary clinic, and post office for imaginative play.
This museum is perfect for a rainy day activity in Seacoast NH.
4. Go on a Wildlife Adventure at Charmingfare Farm
If your kids love animals, take them to Charmingfare Farm in Candia, NH for an up-close experience with farm animals and wildlife.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Meet and feed goats, sheep, alpacas, and cows.
- See black bears, deer, and bobcats in their natural habitats.
- Enjoy wagon rides, pony rides, and seasonal events.
Charmingfare Farm is one of the best outdoor activities for kids in Seacoast NH!
5. Take a Pirate Cruise with the Piscataqua River Pirates
For an unforgettable adventure on the water, hop aboard the Piscataqua River Pirates cruise in Portsmouth, NH.
Why Kids Love It
- A real pirate-themed boat ride with interactive storytelling.
- Kids get to dress up as pirates and search for hidden treasure.
- Fun games, water cannon battles, and music.
This is a great activity for kids who love adventure and imagination!
6. Explore Prescott Park in Portsmouth
Prescott Park is a beautiful waterfront park in Portsmouth, NH, perfect for a relaxing family outing.
Things to Do
- Walk through the gardens and enjoy a family picnic.
- Let kids play in the splash pad and open green spaces.
- Catch a live theater performance or outdoor movie in the summer.
A visit to Prescott Park is a great way to enjoy nature and entertainment at the same time.
7. Take a Family-Friendly Hike
New Hampshire is full of easy hiking trails that are great for kids.
Best Kid-Friendly Trails
- Odiorne Point State Park (Rye, NH) – A scenic walk with ocean views and tide pools.
- Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge (Newington, NH) – A peaceful nature trail with birdwatching opportunities.
- Stratham Hill Park (Stratham, NH) – A short hike with a fire tower and picnic area.
Hiking is a great way for kids to get fresh air and explore nature.
8. Visit the USS Albacore Museum
For kids who love submarines and history, the USS Albacore Museum in Portsmouth, NH is a must-see.
What to Expect
- Explore a real-life naval submarine.
- Learn about submarine technology and life underwater.
- Interactive displays that make history come alive for kids.
This is a great way to introduce kids to military history and engineering in a hands-on way.
9. Go Whale Watching
Take your family on a whale watching tour for an unforgettable experience.
Granite State Whale Watch (Rye, NH)
- See humpback whales, dolphins, and seals in their natural habitat.
- Learn about marine life from expert guides.
- A fun and educational experience for the whole family.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that kids will never forget!
10. Try Mini Golf and Ice Cream
Mini golf is a classic family activity, and Seacoast NH has plenty of great spots.
Best Mini Golf Courses
- Captain’s Cove Adventure Golf (Hampton, NH) – A pirate-themed mini golf course.
- Sagamore Golf Center (North Hampton, NH) – Fun obstacles and a relaxed atmosphere.
After mini golf, stop by a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat!
11. Visit a Local Farm and Pick Your Own Fruit
Many farms in Seacoast NH offer pick-your-own fruit experiences, perfect for families.
Top Farms for Kids
- Applecrest Farm (Hampton Falls, NH) – Pick apples, strawberries, and pumpkins.
- Butternut Farm (Farmington, NH) – Seasonal fruit picking with farm animals to visit.
This is a fun and delicious way to spend time outdoors.
12. Enjoy a Family-Friendly Boat Tour
Popular Boat Rides
- Portsmouth Harbor Cruises – A scenic tour of the harbor and surrounding islands.
- Gundalow Company Cruises – A historical sailing experience on a traditional wooden boat.
A boat tour is a relaxing way to explore the Seacoast with kids.
There are so many fun things to do with kids in Seacoast NH! Whether you’re looking for beach days, interactive museums, outdoor adventures, or unique experiences, this region has something for every family.
From exploring tide pools and hiking nature trails to riding pirate ships and visiting farms, your kids will have an unforgettable time in Seacoast NH.
Plan your trip today and create amazing family memories in this beautiful coastal region!