Here Are 8 Unique Day Trips in New Hampshire That Are an Absolute Must-Do

There are so many unique day trips in New Hampshire that it can be tricky to decide on just one! We've set out to find some of the very best day trips you can take here in the Granite State. From cruises to hikes and just about everything in between, this list offers something for everyone. Now's the perfect time to pack up your favorite people and take advantage of the great day trips that New Hampshire has to offer. Here are a few of our favorite New Hampshire day trips:

1. Cruise to the Isles of Shoals

This rocky outcrop of islands off the New Hampshire coast is a charming seaside village where you can get a taste of maritime life. The Isles of Shoals Steamship Company has cruises that depart from Portsmouth and will give you plenty of time on the islands. One of the best day trips in New Hampshire is a journey to the Isles of Shoals!

2. Sugar Hill

Sugar Hill just might be the most beautiful town in New Hampshire, especially when the lupines are blooming in early summer. As an added bonus, Sugar Hill is also home to Polly's Pancake Parlor, where you can get some of the best pancakes in the state!

3. Peterborough

Peterborough is nestled in the Monadnock Valley, so part of the day trip fun is the drive. Of course, the town has plenty to offer, from darling dining to a local theater troupe!

4. Explore Lost River Gorge

Another beautiful gem in New Hampshire is the Lost River Gorge. If you are looking for day trips from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, this one will take about two hours to reach. Lost River Gorge is a natural oasis, just waiting to be explored. Plus, the nearby towns of Woodstock and Lincoln are full of New Hampshire activities and tourist favorites. Woodstock in winter is especially enchanting.

5. Hang out in Hanover

Hanover is home to Dartmouth College and some of the state's most delicious and diverse dining. Plus, as the crown jewel of the Upper Valley, Hanover offers spectacular views over the west of the state and into neighboring Vermont.

6. Portsmouth

Only a small percentage of New Hampshire residents live near the seacoast, so taking a day trip to New Hampshire's biggest coastal city is well worth the drive. Here you can enjoy beautiful gardens, some of the oldest architecture in the state and the salty ocean air. As one of the most walkable cities in New Hampshire, it's a great place to get out and stretch your legs.

7. Tamworth

Charming Tamworth is right between the Lakes Region and the White Mountains, so no matter which way you drive to it, you're sure to see some gorgeous sights. Read on to discover one of our favorite hiking trails in Tamworth, New Hampshire.

8. The New Hampshire Waterfall Loop

New Hampshire has lots of amazing waterfalls, but finding them all (and hiking to them!) can be tough. Luckily, this loop lets you see many waterfalls in one day, and you can even see a few of them from the comfort of your car.

Share this article with someone you want to take a day trip in New Hampshire with. While you're planning, be sure to check out these nine under-appreciated New Hampshire state parks.