Points of Interest between Bellingham, Massachusetts to Durham, New Hampshire

picture of Bellingham, Massachusetts

The Best Places to See When Driving From Bellingham, MA to Durham, NH

Are you planning a road trip from Bellingham, Massachusetts to Durham, New Hampshire? This scenic and historic drive is filled with breathtaking views and exciting attractions that will make your journey unforgettable. From charming towns to beautiful parks, there is something for everyone along the way. Here are the top places you must see during your road trip from Bellingham, MA to Durham, NH.

Beautiful Towns to See

  1. Portsmouth, New Hampshire - Begin your journey by visiting the charming town of Portsmouth. Walking around the brick sidewalks of Market Square and Strawberry Banke, visitors will enjoy the history, architecture, and charm of the town. The town is filled with quaint cafes, restaurants, shops, and galleries. Don't forget to visit Prescott Park, a beautiful park on the waterfront that hosts concerts and events.

  2. Concord, New Hampshire - Concord is the capital of New Hampshire and offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors will enjoy exploring the historic downtown area, which includes several landmarks, shops, and restaurants. The New Hampshire State House, the oldest state house in the country, is a must-see landmark in the city, along with the nearby Capitol Center for the Arts.

  3. Newmarket, New Hampshire - Newmarket, a small town founded in 1727, offers natural beauty and history, with Lamprey River flowing through adding to its charm. This is a great town for a walk or bike tour, as it offers a scenic river trail and historic downtown filled with art galleries, cafes, and gift shops.

  4. Newburyport, Massachusetts - Newburyport is a historic city and a perfect example of a quintessential New England town. The downtown area features beautiful architecture, historic landmarks, and art galleries. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront and enjoy a scenic and historic wharf. A unique landmark to visit in the city is the Plum Island Point Lighthouse, which is located at the northern tip of Plum Island.

Natural Attractions

  1. Walden Pond State Reservation - Walden Pond State Reservation is a beautiful natural attraction located in Concord, Massachusetts. This reservation offers a deciduous forest, a large freshwater kettle pond, and plenty of hiking trails. Visitors can learn about Henry David Thoreau, a famous philosopher, and author, who lived there in the mid-19th century.

  2. Pawtuckaway State Park - The Pawtuckaway State Park is an ideal stop for nature lovers. Located in Nottingham, New Hampshire, this park covers over 5000 acres of land with campsites, a lake, a beach, and several hiking trails. Visitors can hike the North Mountain trail to the summit of the mountain to enjoy breathtaking views of the park and the surrounding area.

  3. Mount Major - One of the best hiking trails in New Hampshire can be found in the Belknap Mountains. Mount Major is a 1,780-foot mountain and is located near Alton, New Hampshire. It offers a challenging hike and an incredible panoramic view of Lake Winnipesaukee. The Mount Major trail is a popular trail that loops around the mountain, taking visitors about four hours on a round trip.

  4. White Mountains National Forest - Covering over 800,000 acres of land in New Hampshire and Maine, this national forest offers a wide range of activities for nature lovers. From scenic drives to hiking trails, from mountain biking to skiing, there is something for everyone. Visitors can see several New Hampshire's highest mountains, including Franconia Ridge, Mount Washington, and the Presidential Range.

Historical Sites

  1. Old Sturbridge Village - Old Sturbridge Village, located in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, is a living history museum that recreates a New England village in the 1830s. Visitors can see live demonstrations, interact with costumed staff, and explore re-created homes, shops, and farmsteads. The museums and events offered throughout the year provide a punch of history in an educational and fun experience.

  2. The Salem Witch Museum - If you're into the history of witch trials, then The Salem Witch Museum is a must-visit attraction in Salem, Massachusetts. This museum offers visitors a peek into the lives of victims through life-size stage sets, lighting, and exhibits. You can see period furniture, life-size stage sets, and interactive displays that bring the infamous witch trials to life.

  3. Strawbery Banke Museum - This museum, located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is an outdoor village featuring over 30 historic buildings. The buildings are owned and preserved by the Museum to reflect the lives of Portsmouth residents from the late 17th century to the mid-20th century. It is a perfect representation of New England living and will take you on an exciting journey back to when the colony was developing.

Conclusion

All in all, a road trip from Bellingham, Massachusetts to Durham, New Hampshire is an unforgettable experience that offers something for every type of traveler. With these top places to see along your way, you can create a memorable itinerary filled with history, nature, and beautiful towns. So, to experience the beauty and culture of New England, pack your bags and take off on a trip. Don't forget to stop at these must-visit attractions for an added pinch of joy to your journey!