A Scenic Drive between Center Harbor, NH, and Portland, ME

Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, driving from Center Harbor, New Hampshire to Portland, Maine is a scenic and fun option. In this article, we will go over some different routes and stops you can make along the way to make the most of your trip.

The Route: Driving from Center Harbor to Portland

The distance between Center Harbor, NH, and Portland, ME is approximately 85 miles, which can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the route and traffic conditions.

Route 1: The I-95 Route

The quickest and most direct route is to take I-93 South to Concord, NH, exit onto I-393 East, and then merge onto I-95 North. This will take you directly into Portland. This route is approximately 85 miles and takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Route 2: The Kancamagus Scenic Byway Route

If you have a little extra time, why not take Route 112, better known as the Kancamagus Scenic Byway? This route will take you through the stunning White Mountains, and it's a great way to break up the journey. The Kancamagus Highway is a 34.5 mile stretch of road that starts in Conway, NH, and ends at the Pemigewasset River in Lincoln, NH. From there, you can take I-93 South to Portland. This route is approximately 127 miles and takes around 2.5 hours. But trust us, the views are worth it!

Route 3: The Coastal Route

Another beautiful way to get to Portland is by taking the coastal route. This route will take you along the Maine coast on US Route 1, through picturesque coastal towns and fishing villages. This route is approximately 96 miles and takes around 2 hours. If you have time, we recommend making a few stops along the way, perhaps in Portsmouth, NH, or Kennebunkport, ME.

Places to Stop along the Way

No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of places to stop and stretch your legs or even spend the night if you want to turn your trip into a mini-vacation.

Squam Lake

Just outside of Center Harbor, you can find Squam Lake. This beautiful lake is perfect for a swim or paddle and is a popular spot for fishing. You can rent kayaks and canoes from the Squam Lakes Association, and there are several hiking trails in the area if you want to take a closer look at the scenic views.

North Conway

If you take the Kancamagus Scenic Byway Route, you can stop in North Conway, a charming town located in the heart of the White Mountains. North Conway has plenty of shopping and dining options, and you can take a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad or visit the Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center.

Portsmouth

On the coastal route, you can stop in Portsmouth, NH, a historic town with plenty of dining and shopping options. Make sure to visit the Strawbery Banke Museum, a living history museum that shows what life was like in Portsmouth in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries.

Kennebunkport

In Maine, Kennebunkport is a great place to stop. This coastal town is home to charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants. You can take a walk down Ocean Avenue to see some of the grand summer homes, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the Bush family compound.

Conclusion

Driving from Center Harbor, NH, to Portland, Maine is a fun and scenic way to experience New England. Whether you take the quickest route or opt for a more leisurely drive, there are plenty of places to stop along the way. So pack your bags, grab some snacks, and hit the road!