Road Trips in New Hampshire | Day Trips in New Hampshire
What New Hampshire is Known For: Scenic beauty, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities.
New Hampshire‘s Nickname: The Granite State
New Hampshire‘s Official Hobby: Hiking
New Hampshire‘s Most Popular State Park: Franconia Notch State Park | Franconia, New Hampshire
The granite state offers a variety of opportunities for New Hampshire road trips, from its picturesque small towns and historic sites to its stunning natural landscapes and scenic byways. Whether you’re exploring its natural beauty, rich history, or unique culture, New Hampshire promises a delightful and memorable journey.
Start your journey in Concord, the state’s capital known for its historic charm and cultural attractions. Visit the New Hampshire State House, explore the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, and stroll through the beautiful Prescott Park. Don’t miss the New Hampshire Historical Society Museum.
Drive to the historic town of Portsmouth, known for its vibrant arts scene and maritime history. Explore the Strawbery Banke Museum, visit the USS Albacore Museum, and enjoy a meal at The Friendly Toast, a beloved local eatery. Stroll along the Prescott Park for scenic views of the Piscataqua River.
Head to the picturesque town of North Conway, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. Visit the Conway Scenic Railroad, explore the charming downtown area filled with shops and restaurants, and enjoy a meal at Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing Co., a local favorite. Don’t miss the stunning views from Cathedral Ledge.
Don’t miss the scenic beauty of Franconia Notch State Park, known for its striking mountain views and outdoor recreation opportunities. Explore the park’s numerous trails, take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, and visit the nearby town of Franconia for its quaint shops and restaurants. Stay at the historic Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa for a unique experience.
New Hampshire’s scenic byways, such as the White Mountain Trail, provide breathtaking views and lead to quaint small towns like Lincoln and Littleton. In Lincoln, visit the Loon Mountain Resort and enjoy outdoor activities. In Littleton, explore the Littleton Coin Company and the charming downtown area.
New Hampshire Road Trip Checklist
Before you go on any road trip or day trip its advised you prepare and get the items you need including a phone charging cable, fix-a-flat tire repair, a cozzy neck pillow and more. This all inclusive guide is a day trip checklist to make sure if your road trip goes a little too long you are still covered. Make sure to check it out!
- 60+ Items list long
- Free Shipping with Amazon Prime
- Made specifically for New Hampshire Road Trips!
Top Road Trip Routes in New Hampshire
1. The Capital to Coast Route
Route: I-93, US-4
Cities: Concord, Portsmouth, Dover
Attractions: New Hampshire State House, Strawbery Banke Museum, Children’s Museum of New Hampshire
2. The White Mountains Adventure
Route: I-93, NH-16
Cities: Lincoln, North Conway, Jackson
Attractions: Franconia Notch State Park, Conway Scenic Railroad, Mt. Washington Auto Road
3. The Lakes Region Drive
Route: US-3, NH-25
Cities: Laconia, Meredith, Wolfeboro
Attractions: Weirs Beach, Lake Winnipesaukee, Castle in the Clouds
4. The Scenic Byways Tour
Route: Kancamagus Highway, NH-112
Cities: Lincoln, Conway, Gorham
Attractions: Kancamagus Highway, Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves, Mt. Washington Cog Railway
Best Times to Visit
New Hampshire experiences four distinct seasons, offering unique opportunities throughout the year.
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for enjoying mild weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities.
- Summer (June to August): Perfect for exploring state parks, attending festivals, and enjoying lake activities, though it can be busy.
- Fall (September to November): Offers cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, especially in the White Mountains and along scenic byways.
- Winter (December to February): Best for winter sports, including skiing and snowboarding, and enjoying indoor cultural activities.
Local Cuisine
New Hampshire’s culinary scene features fresh seafood, hearty New England fare, and delicious regional specialties. Here are some must-try foods and restaurant recommendations in smaller towns:
- Lobster Roll: Try this New England classic at BG’s Boathouse Restaurant & Marina in Portsmouth.
- Maple Syrup: Enjoy pancakes with fresh maple syrup at Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill.
- Apple Cider Donuts: Savor these sweet treats at Mack’s Apples in Londonderry.
- Clam Chowder: Visit Petey’s Summertime Seafood in Rye for a delicious bowl of clam chowder.
- Blueberry Pie: Try this local favorite at The Pie Guy in Conway.
Most Unique Stays in New Hampshire
- Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa
- Location: Whitefield, New Hampshire
- What makes it unique?: A historic resort offering luxurious accommodations, a full-service spa, and stunning views of the White Mountains.
- Omni Mount Washington Resort
- Location: Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
- What makes it unique?: A grand historic hotel offering elegant rooms, fine dining, and a variety of outdoor activities.
- The Wentworth
- Location: Jackson, New Hampshire
- What makes it unique?: A charming inn offering cozy accommodations, a fine dining restaurant, and a prime location in the heart of the White Mountains.
- The Inn at Thorn Hill & Spa
- Location: Jackson, New Hampshire
- What makes it unique?: A luxurious inn offering elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
- The Notchland Inn
- Location: Hart’s Location, New Hampshire
- What makes it unique?: A romantic inn offering cozy accommodations, beautiful gardens, and a peaceful retreat in the heart of the White Mountains.
Travel Tips
- Explore Local Festivals: New Hampshire hosts numerous festivals, such as the Pumpkin Festival in Laconia and the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival. Plan your trip around these events for a unique experience.
- Scenic Byways: Take advantage of New Hampshire’s scenic byways for a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes and charming small towns.
- Historic Sites: Many of New Hampshire’s historic sites offer guided tours. Check the schedules and book in advance to make the most of your visit.
- Weather Preparedness: New Hampshire weather can vary greatly. Pack layers and be prepared for changing conditions, especially if traveling through different regions of the state.