Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Bristol, Maine and Conway, New Hampshire
Bristol, Maine, and Conway, New Hampshire are two picturesque rural towns in New England, known for their natural beauty and rich history. For those looking to embark on a road trip, the route from Bristol, Maine to Conway, New Hampshire is a fantastic option. The journey encompasses over 220 miles, dotted with numerous attractions and scenic stops, making this trip one of the most exhilarating experiences anyone can have on four wheels. Halfway through the trip, travelers will reach the quaint town of Falmouth, Maine. However, the best is yet to come! Below are the top five things to do on this road trip, as well as interesting facts about them.
The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Located in Boothbay, Maine, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is a perfect place to take a leisurely stroll among colorful blooms of all kinds. With 295 acres of beauty, numerous gardens, and three miles of hiking trails, this place is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, during the summer season, they offer concerts, workshops, and family activities to make the visitor experience even more special!
Interesting fact: The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens has been voted one of the top botanical gardens in North America by Coastal Living Magazine.
Acadia National Park
The Acadia National Park in Maine is one of the region's most popular tourist attractions, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world every year. This park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who love activities such as hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and biking. In the fall season, the park's bright foliage colors are breathtaking as they fall around the park's mountains and lakes. Regardless of the season, though, the beauty of Acadia National Park is endless.
Interesting fact: Acadia National Park contains the tallest mountain on the North Atlantic seaboard, Cadillac Mountain.
White Mountain National Forest
Established in 1918, the White Mountain National Forest is one of the most popular destinations in New England. The forest is a mecca for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, and ATV riding. The forest also boasts several beautiful campgrounds where one can set up a tent, grab a camping chair, and enjoy the fabulous view of the surrounding mountains.
Interesting fact: The White Mountain National Forest has one of the nation's longest recreation trails, the Appalachian Trail, which is over 2,000 miles long.
The Kancamagus Highway
Kancamagus Highway, also known as New Hampshire's Route 112, is a 32-mile scenic byway where nature lovers can witness some of the most spectacular views in the area. On the drive, visitors can enjoy the stunning falling foliage and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Swift River flowing alongside the road. The drive also offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and plenty of wildlife to observe, making it a perfect day trip for the entire family.
Interesting fact: The Kancamagus Highway was named in honor of a Native American leader who was the son of a chief and was considered a hero to the early settlers.
Lake Winnipesaukee
At 44,586 acres, Lake Winnipesaukee is one of the more prominent water bodies in New Hampshire. It's a destination that has drawn tourists since the 1800s. Visitors can enjoy the lake's stunning scenery by cruising on one of the boats or attending regattas. In the surrounding towns, visitors can explore the unique local shops and experience the local culture.
Interesting fact: The lake offers a submarine tour where visitors can see the lake's underwater world without getting their feet wet.
Overall, the drive from Bristol, Maine, to Conway, New Hampshire, covers a distance of 220 miles, which takes about four hours if not making any stops. However, with so many exciting things to do and see along the way, the journey is well worth taking slowly. Anyone looking to experience the New England region's natural beauty should consider this road trip, as it is sure to be full of unforgettable experiences and memories.