The Common Man in Plymouth is a perfect place to start your New Hampshire adventure. This restaurant is well-known for its pleasant ambiance and delicious meals. You are sure to enjoy some of the notable dishes like smoked salmon eggs benedict, traditional French toast, buttermilk pancakes, and many more. After the meal, you can explore the scenic surroundings and capture some great photographs.
Next on the list is the Polar Caves Park, a stunning natural attraction known for its distinctive glacial caves and unique geological features. You can take a guided tour to navigate the complex and icy caves or walk along the trails to appreciate the scenic beauty. The trail is not too challenging, so it's perfect for families with young children.
The Castle in the Clouds is a must-see attraction with incredible views and well-maintained gardens. The castle itself is large and elegantly designed with numerous antique furniture, fixtures, and décor, making for a fascinating trip back in time. You can take a guided tour of the castle, stroll through the gardens, or have a delightful meal in the restaurant while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
The White Mountains National Forest is a scenic and historic forest reserve that offers breathtaking views from its numerous hiking trails. You can take the Mount Washington Auto Road up the mountain or take the Cog Railway. The historic Flume Gorge is also at the forest's edge and has a beautiful waterfall and gorge you are sure to love.
Finally, head to Portsmouth, a lovely coastal town, and the perfect location to wind down your trip. Stroll along the charming waterfront, wander through the historic downtown and visit the unique shops and galleries, and enjoy a scrumptious seafood dinner at one of the many excellent seafood restaurants.
It's best to rent a car to enjoy the scenic route and flexibility to explore the attractions. The estimated car rental cost is $50-$100 for the two days, and the total driving distance covering all the attractions is about 260 miles. Be sure to check the weather conditions before setting out on your trip.
If you have an additional day, try exploring Mount Monadnock or the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth. If you're short on time, you can skip Castle in the Clouds, as it does take quite a bit of time. Be sure to dress appropriately according to the weather conditions and carry enough water and snacks for the trip. You are sure to love this beautiful location, so have fun and take a lot of pictures!
New Hampshire has three main airports, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), Portsmouth International Airport at Pease (PSM), and the Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB). Manchester-Boston Regional Airport is the largest and nearest airport to most of the tourist attractions, located approximately 56 miles from Plymouth.