We all know that New Hampshire is gorgeous, but it often gets overlooked as a coastal state. While the area of land that touches the ocean here is the smallest in the country, it’s big on beauty and lovely to see. You can certainly make a beach trip during the summer, but you’ll be facing crowds and tough parking. So, instead, we recommend this road trip, which is one of the best scenic drives in New Hampshire! It’s short, easy, and will let you see some of the most picturesque parts of the state! Click here for full directions and an interactive map!
You’ll be starting your 22-mile journey in Portsmouth heading towards Brown’s Lobster Pound in Seabrook. Some of the best road trips in New England include Route 1 and this one is no different. You’ll be exploring Routes 1A and 1B.
Google Maps
First, make your way to Portsmouth where you’ll have the chance to explore centuries of state history. When you’re ready, head to Route 1B and make your way over the causeway towards New Castle.
petitspapiers / Flickr
If you love seeing historic homes and landmarks, you’ll love this portion of the drive. Circle Great Island Common and then head off the island, continuing on Route 1B until it connects to Route 1A. Then, head south!
laughtercrystal / Flickr
Next up, is a drive through Rye. Here, you’ll have the chance to stop at Odiorne State Park for some great ocean views and even a secret beach.
florence it / Google
It’s now time to make your way to Wallis State Park. This area is lovely in the summer, but it’s got an extra-special feel when it’s quiet during the off-season.
Jay Parker / Flickr
This part of the drive will also take you along Rye Harbor, one of the most picturesque destinations in the area.
jaymac3 / Flickr
Next up is Jenness State Beach, which provides some of the best views in New Hampshire. Leave your shoes in the car as you enjoy the sand while you stretch your legs.
aehdeschaine / Flickr
Continue driving in the same direction and you’ll hit the state’s most popular beach — Hampton Beach. Here, you can get out and enjoy the shops and restaurants, or just keep going towards Seabrook.
galfred / Flickr
At the end of your drive, you’ll turn off Route 1A and into Seabrook. This is where you’ll definitely want to get out of the car and enjoy a meal at Markey’s Lobster Pool.
Jon Richards / Google
It might seem like a roundabout way to fill your belly, but what could be better than a road trip that ends in lobster?
Y Thomas / Google
Do you have a road trip route you love? Share it with us so we can add it to our list of must-do drives this summer! And while you’re exploring the state by car, how about checking out one of our favorite natural features? New Hampshire’s scenic waterfall loop will take you to nine different waterfalls!
Google Maps
petitspapiers / Flickr
laughtercrystal / Flickr
florence it / Google
Jay Parker / Flickr
jaymac3 / Flickr
aehdeschaine / Flickr
galfred / Flickr
Jon Richards / Google
Y Thomas / Google
If you’ve been searching for more “scenic drives near me,” then check out this list of the best backroads in New Hampshire for a scenic drive.
What do you think are some of the prettiest places in New Hampshire? We would love to hear your feedback. Let us know by leaving a comment.
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Address: Brown’s Lobster Pound, 407 NH-286, Seabrook, NH 03874, USAAddress: Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
best scenic drives in New Hampshire April 05, 2022 Luke What are the most well-known State Parks in New Hampshire? New Hampshire is a wonderful place for natural beauty and outdoor adventures. There are many state parks and areas of interest throughout the state. Some of the most well-known state parks in New Hampshire are Crawford Notch State Park, Pawtuckaway State Park, and Franconia Notch State Park. Each offers something different and unique. If you’re interested in learning more, then check out this list of the 8 best state parks in New Hampshire. What are the most beautiful hikes in New Hampshire? New Hampshire is an amazing destination for every adventure seeker and with so many incredible hiking trails, it’s no wonder. Whether you prefer short-and-sweet hikes or long, but rewarding treks, you’ll find something that fits your fancy in New Hampshire. Here’s our list of the most beautiful hikes in New Hampshire: 1) Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop; 2) Mount Willard Trail; 3) The Flume Gorge Trail; 4) Mount Major and Brook Trail Loop; 5) Lonesome Lake Trail. What are the best outdoor adventures in New Hampshire? In New Hampshire, you are not limited to outdoor adventures. You could hike a mountain, explore the wilderness on foot or a mountain bike, and many other things. Some of our favorite outdoor adventures include a visit to Beaver Brook Falls, hiking to the top of Mount Washington, a road trip along the Kancamagus Highway, exploring the lower falls in Albany, and whale watching on the coastline. It’s time for an adventure!
The OIYS Visitor Center
best scenic drives in New Hampshire
April 05, 2022
Luke
What are the most well-known State Parks in New Hampshire? New Hampshire is a wonderful place for natural beauty and outdoor adventures. There are many state parks and areas of interest throughout the state. Some of the most well-known state parks in New Hampshire are Crawford Notch State Park, Pawtuckaway State Park, and Franconia Notch State Park. Each offers something different and unique. If you’re interested in learning more, then check out this list of the 8 best state parks in New Hampshire. What are the most beautiful hikes in New Hampshire? New Hampshire is an amazing destination for every adventure seeker and with so many incredible hiking trails, it’s no wonder. Whether you prefer short-and-sweet hikes or long, but rewarding treks, you’ll find something that fits your fancy in New Hampshire. Here’s our list of the most beautiful hikes in New Hampshire: 1) Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop; 2) Mount Willard Trail; 3) The Flume Gorge Trail; 4) Mount Major and Brook Trail Loop; 5) Lonesome Lake Trail. What are the best outdoor adventures in New Hampshire? In New Hampshire, you are not limited to outdoor adventures. You could hike a mountain, explore the wilderness on foot or a mountain bike, and many other things. Some of our favorite outdoor adventures include a visit to Beaver Brook Falls, hiking to the top of Mount Washington, a road trip along the Kancamagus Highway, exploring the lower falls in Albany, and whale watching on the coastline. It’s time for an adventure!
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
New Hampshire is a wonderful place for natural beauty and outdoor adventures. There are many state parks and areas of interest throughout the state. Some of the most well-known state parks in New Hampshire are Crawford Notch State Park, Pawtuckaway State Park, and Franconia Notch State Park. Each offers something different and unique. If you’re interested in learning more, then check out this list of the 8 best state parks in New Hampshire.
What are the most beautiful hikes in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is an amazing destination for every adventure seeker and with so many incredible hiking trails, it’s no wonder. Whether you prefer short-and-sweet hikes or long, but rewarding treks, you’ll find something that fits your fancy in New Hampshire. Here’s our list of the most beautiful hikes in New Hampshire: 1) Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop; 2) Mount Willard Trail; 3) The Flume Gorge Trail; 4) Mount Major and Brook Trail Loop; 5) Lonesome Lake Trail.
What are the best outdoor adventures in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, you are not limited to outdoor adventures. You could hike a mountain, explore the wilderness on foot or a mountain bike, and many other things. Some of our favorite outdoor adventures include a visit to Beaver Brook Falls, hiking to the top of Mount Washington, a road trip along the Kancamagus Highway, exploring the lower falls in Albany, and whale watching on the coastline. It’s time for an adventure!
