Start your trip by heading to Portsmouth, a charming coastal town in New Hampshire. In the morning, visit the Strawbery Banke Museum, an outdoor history museum that showcases the city's colonial past. Explore the beautifully preserved houses and learn about local history. For lunch, head to Market Square, where you can find a variety of family-friendly restaurants serving delicious seafood and other regional specialties. In the afternoon, take a scenic harbor cruise and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline. As the evening approaches, visit Prescott Park, a waterfront park known for its gardens and outdoor performances. Enjoy a picnic dinner while watching a live show.
On day two, venture into the scenic White Mountains region. Begin your day by visiting the Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park. Take a leisurely walk through the gorge and marvel at the stunning waterfalls and towering granite walls. Afterward, drive to the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway and ride to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the scenery. In the afternoon, head to the Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves for an adventurous hike through caves and along elevated walkways. End the day by visiting Clark's Trading Post, a family-friendly attraction featuring live bear shows and a steam-powered train ride.
On your final day, head to Lake Winnipesaukee, a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains. Start with a relaxing morning boat cruise on the lake, taking in the serene beauty of the surroundings. Afterward, visit Funspot, the largest arcade in the world, located in Weirs Beach. Spend the afternoon playing classic arcade games and enjoying various attractions like mini-golf and go-karts. For a sweet treat, indulge in some homemade ice cream from a local shop. As the day comes to an end, take a scenic drive along the Lake Winnipesaukee Loop, stopping at viewpoints to capture stunning sunset photos.
In addition to the main attractions, New Hampshire offers some hidden gems and local favorites that are perfect for families. Consider visiting Story Land, a theme park in Glen that brings classic fairy tales to life with rides and shows suitable for children. Another great option is the Mount Washington Cog Railway, where you can take a scenic train ride to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast. Families with animal lovers may enjoy a visit to the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, featuring live animal exhibits and interactive educational programs.
For a relaxing outdoor experience, explore the Flume Cascade Trail in Franconia Notch State Park, which leads to a beautiful waterfall. Families can also spend time at Lake Wentworth in Wolfeboro, known for its calm waters and sandy beaches, perfect for swimming and picnicking. Lastly, don't miss the opportunity to sample New Hampshire's famous maple syrup by visiting a local sugarhouse for a tour and tasting.
Start planning your trip by checking hotel and flight prices.