Points of Interest between Ashland, Massachusetts to Stratham, New Hampshire

picture of Ashland, Massachusetts

Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Ashland, Massachusetts to Stratham, New Hampshire

Driving from Ashland, Massachusetts to Stratham, New Hampshire can be a pleasant experience filled with beautiful sceneries and exciting attractions. Covering a distance of about 70 miles, the journey usually takes about 2 hours, depending on the route and stops made along the way. Here are five unexpected places to stop on your journey that will make your trip more interesting.

Halfway Point: Lawrence, MA

Lawrence is one of the largest cities in Essex County, Massachusetts. The city has a rich history and a diverse cultural heritage. You can take a break from driving and explore some of the attractions around the city. These include:

  1. The Pemberton Park - This park is located in the heart of Lawrence and offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It's a nice place to stretch your legs and relax before continuing on your journey. Once you're there, you can take a stroll along the walkways, enjoy a picnic, or play some sports like basketball or tennis.

Favorite food to eat in Lawrence: Try some delicious Dominican Food at Yely's Coffee Shop.

Now that you've had a chance to rest, let's continue on to our destination, Stratham, New Hampshire. Here the road less traveled will lead to some exciting and unexpected places to stop and explore.

  1. Swasey Parkway - Located in Exeter, NH this 1.2-mile long park is a perfect place to stretch your legs. It encompasses a leafy square, numerous trees, and rustic benches, offering a scenic spot to watch the sugar maple trees turn shades of yellow, orange, and crimson during the fall. Taking a walk along the serene Swasey Parkway can be a delightful start to your exploration of the small and charming town of Exeter.

Favorite food to eat in Exeter: Pop into Ohana Kitchen for some healthy Korean rice bowls.

  1. Puddle Dock Pond - Situated at Strawbery Banke Museum, Portsmouth Puddle Dock Pond is a seasonal rink, offering public ice-skating during winters. Located just beyond the historic house district of Strawberry Banke, Puddle Dock Pond is a beautiful outdoor attraction where kids and adults alike can enjoy a day of skating, whether you're a novice or a figure skater.

Favorite food to eat in Portsmouth: Grab a lobster roll at The Beach Plum

  1. Barnard Hill Cemetery - On your drive to Stratham, make a brief stop in Haverhill, MA, at the Barnard Hill Cemetery. Established in 1663, the Barnard Hill Cemetery is among the oldest burial grounds in America, and many ancient headstones bear the names of some of the earliest settlers of the formerly-Kingsbury, now known as Haverhill. The quiet and serene resting place provides a fascinating look into the past.

Favorite food to eat in Haverhill: Don't miss the chance to try a famous Ric's sandwich at Riverside.

  1. Wiggly Bridge Distillery - The Wiggly Bridge Distillery is located in York, ME, and is nestled between the York River and Steedman Woods. It is a must-visit spot for lovers of locally-made craft gins, bourbons, and rums. The distillery offers tours of its facility, a large tasting room, and a sprawling outdoor seating area overlooking the river. It's an excellent place to relax and unwind while learning about the history and science behind producing some of the finest spirits.

Favorite food to eat in York: Treat yourself to some lobster macaroni and cheese at The York Harbor Inn.

Exploring these offbeat attractions will add an element of discovery to your journey. Each place offers a unique experience that will make your trip more than just a drive from point A to B. Don't miss the chance to get off the beaten path and explore what these towns and cities have to offer.