This Epic Road Trip Leads To 7 Iconic Landmarks In New Hampshire
By Michelle|Published January 21, 2022
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Michelle
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Michelle has lived in many places, but counts Maine as one of the best. In addition to the smell of ocean water in the air on rainy days in Portland, she loves puppies, photography, funny people, the Maine Red Claws, traveling, fresh tomatoes, Cambodia and filling out forms. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
Traveling through New Hampshire means seeing some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you love the short, but lovely coast, or getting lost in the depths of the forests, enjoying the state is an easy thing to do. We love the idea of exploring without any real destination, but if you’re more of a planner here’s a fantastic road trip to take leading to some of the most interesting landmarks in New Hampshire. You can access the full driving directions by clicking here.
Your first stop is one of the most visited historical spots in the state. This "museum" is really more of an experience, complete with actual buildings from the state's first settlement. Visit in the summer to meander through the gardens and in the winter for their annual holiday celebration.
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2. Canterbury Shaker Museum, Canterbury
Canterbury Shaker Village, 288 Shaker Rd, Canterbury, NH 03224, USA
This designate National Historic Site offers another chance to get a peak inside what life was like years ago. A thriving village of Shakers, a simple religious group in New Hampshire, this museum includes buildings and gardens showing how people lived as recently as the 1960s.
3. The Epic of American Civilization, Hanover
Baker-Berry Library, 6025 Main St, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
This is likely to be a quick stop, but one that's definitely worth your time. At the Baker Memorial Library at Dartmouth College, this painting by Jose Clemente Orozco explores societal issues, including immigrations and war.
4. Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park, Cornish
Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park, 139 St Gaudens Rd, Cornish, NH 03745, USA
The state's only National park property feels totally appropriate for New Hampshire. The park was home to sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens and visiting means seeing his studio and meticulously cared for English Gardens. Stick around and enjoy the incredible views of the Connecticut River and Vermont.
5. Franklin Pierce Homestead State Historic Site, Hillsboro
Franklin Pierce Homestead State Historic Site, 301 2nd New Hampshire Turnpike, Hillsboro, NH 03244, USA
America's 14th President, Franklin Pierce, comes from right here in New Hampshire! Your next stop is in Hillsboro where you'll find his home and museum. This is a must-see for those who love both New Hampshire history and the history of the United States.
6. Robert Frost Farm State Historic Site, Derry
Robert Frost Farm State Historic Site, 122 Rockingham Rd, Derry, NH 03038, USA
On a road trip focused on history, the next stop is one that literary history buff will appreciate. The home of beloved America poet, Robert Frost, is a lovely place to spend the afternoon. It offers a chance to learn more about Frost's work and life in New Hampshire in the 1900s.
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7. USS Albacore Museum, Portsmouth
USS Albacore Museum, 569 Submarine Way, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA
And then it's back to where you started with one last stop at a spot that always makes us smile due to its sheer oddity. This submarine is located just off the highway, making it a bit of a surprise. But those who enjoy naval history will appreciate that the USS Albacore was one of the most advanced submarines around during the Cold War.
Have you been to any of these spots? If you have any pointers, or things you’d add, let us know in the comments!
