Celebrating 603 Day: The 10 Things That Feel Most Like New Hampshire to Me

Happy 603 Day, New Hampshire!

If you're wondering why June 3 is called 603 Day, it's actually pretty simple. The Granite State has just one area code: 603. Unlike many states that have multiple area codes, New Hampshire has kept the same one since 1947.

Over the years, June 3 (6/03) has become an unofficial holiday celebrating everything that makes New Hampshire special.

As someone who absolutely LOVES this state, I started thinking about the places and experiences that feel the most "New Hampshire" to me.

Here's my personal Top 10 list for 603 Day:

1. Hiking Mount Major. If you're looking for a hike with a huge payoff, this is one of my favorites. It's relatively manageable for most hikers, and the view overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee never gets old.

Speaking of Lake Winnipesaukee...

2. Kayaking on Lake Winni is a must. One of my favorite parts is getting out on the water early in the morning or later in the evening when it's quiet enough to hear the loons calling across the water.

Honestly, floating on the lake (whether a kayak or boat) makes my heart very happy.

3. I also can't celebrate 603 Day without giving a nod to 603 Brewery. Grabbing a local beer with friends feels about as New Hampshire as it gets. My personal fav? Their Irish Hello Stout. It's the perfect hang out with friends or family. Plus, they have a killer menu.

4. Spending a day (or even an overnight) at the historic Omni Mount Washington Resort. Whether you're enjoying a Bloody Mary on the back porch or treating yourself to a massage, it's one of the most beautiful spots in the state.

You can't beat that view!

5. I also LOVE going for a run on New Hampshire's back roads. You can get the entire nature experience which is what the state is known for, right in your neighborhood. Some of my favs include: the sun on your face, birch trees, brooks, and even the wild life. Yes, I've turned into my grandparents and I actually love bird watching!

If I ever get my motorcycle license, I have a feeling cruising those same roads with the wind in my hair would be equally relaxing.

6. For a little nostalgia, grab some tokens and spend an afternoon playing arcade games at Weirs Beach. Then stick around for a movie under the stars at the iconic Weirs Drive-In Theatre. I have been going to Weirs Beach since I was 4 years old, and I still enjoy the sights and sounds of it to this day.

7. Camping is another Granite State tradition! I've camped at several state parks over the years, but Bear Brook State Park remains my personal favorite. Explore thousands of acres full of trails you can walk, bike or hike OR take a dip in Beaver Pond. It's a great way to reconnect with nature and let your family unplug for a while.

8. Portsmouth is one of my favorite places in New Hampshire- really, any part of it. I love spending the day wandering through the local shops, grabbing lunch by the water, and soaking in the city's charm. If I had to pick one favorite spot, it would be Prescott Park.

The waterfront views are hard to beat, and there's something relaxing about watching the boats pass along the Piscataqua River. It's especially beautiful at sunset, when the colors reflect off the water and make the entire shoreline look like a postcard.

9. Every autumn (my favorite season), I try to make time for a gondola ride at Gunstock. The trip to the summit offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and Lake Winnipesaukee. On a clear day, the sea of colorful fall foliage seems to stretch on forever, reminding me why New Hampshire is one of the best places in the country to experience autumn.

10. If you've never had a mudslide at the NazBar, put it on your summer bucket list. There's something special about sitting in a beach chair right in the water, listening to live music, and soaking up the lake views. Plus, the whole restaurant is covered in sand!

The truth is, there are hundreds of ways to celebrate 603 Day. That's part of what makes New Hampshire so special. Whether you're hiking a mountain, spending the day on the lake, enjoying local food and beer, or simply watching the sunset, there's something here for everyone.

READ MORE: Reconnect With Nature At This Charming Dog-Friendly NH Log Cabin Getaway

So, what's your favorite New Hampshire thing to do? Or maybe an even better question: What feels most like New Hampshire to you?