Drive To 9 Incredible Summer Spots Throughout New Hampshire On This Scenic Weekend Road Trip
By Michelle|Published June 08, 2021
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
We spend all winter looking forward to the warmer months and when they arrive we’re always looking for the best way to maximize our time. Lucky for us, there’s never a shortage of attractions, places to eat, and ways to beat the heat. Day trips are fantastic, but this year we’re looking to have double the fun, and that means hopping in the car for a weekend away. While you might not have a chance to get to everything on this road trip, it sure will be fun to try. Check out the full driving directions here. Remember that you can edit each stop to make this trip your own.
Let's get ready for a fun summer weekend in New Hampshire by heading to Portsmouth! Grab some morning snacks and a beverage before setting off for this beautiful state park on the coast. You can enjoy the sights or take in some education by visiting the Seacoast Science Center. You can learn about both here.
Sure, you can load up on sweet treats any time of year, but we think making your way to Concord for a box of cannoli is the perfect way to kick off this summer journey. Believed to have some of the best around, this place offers a variety of flavors that you'll want to try. Learn more right here.
We love this farm for their 10 varieties of cheese, but it's also a great place to pull over for some farm time. Kids will enjoy meeting the happy, healthy cows that make all things dairy on this farm possible. Check it out here.
One of the most quintessential experiences you can have in New Hampshire is visiting Laconia. Plan on spending about an hour or two here to walk the 1,300-foot boardwalk, pop into the shops, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants. If you love it, you can always plan on making this more of an all-day stop. But we think you'll want to see what else is in store. To learn more about the boardwalk check out this article.
If you didn't hop in the water at your last stop, you'll be glad that this next one offers a fun swimming opportunity. The 25-foot drop keeps the water churning, making for a clear (and cool!) natural pool. You'll find it just off the road, along with picnic benches and restrooms. Learn more about it here.
Just another reminder of the natural wonders that exist here in New Hampshire. This stop, featuring rock smoothed for eons, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. Visiting also means access to the rest of Franconia Notch State Park, so plan on spending some time here. Learn about how it was made and how to visit here.
You can spend the night camping if you reserve a spot in Franconia Notch State Park, or you can cozy up in this lovely bed and breakfast. After seeing the adorable rooms and riding stables, you might actually want to make this an extended stay.
Considered the Grand Canyon of New Hampshire, this massive waterfall is an impressive site to see. You'll need to take a bit of a hike to reach it, but the 140-foot drop will make you forget all about the effort. And, along the way you'll be able to take in a few other beautiful falls. Learn more about the waterfall and the hike here.
Your next stop for the day is another beautiful natural area to take in the best of the state's landscape. Echo Lake is one of the clearest you'll find. The trail circling it is a great way to take it in from multiple vantage points. Check it out here.
Your last stop is one that you might want to enjoy for a while. This small town offers tons of things to do including fun on the lake, restaurants, and even a boating museum. Come without a set plan, and you might be surprised at just how much there is to do. For now, learn more about the boating museum , which should definitely be on your list to check out.
From here, you can head back to where you started or see what else the state has to offer. Whatever you choose you're sure to have had a weekend full of memories.
If you could add anything to this weekend, what would it be? Let us know in the comments!