Day Trips from Manchester
← All Manchester day tripsDay Trips from Manchester: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Manchester, NH. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Manchester
Wachusett View
Westborough, MA 01581
Just 1 hr 11 min from Manchester, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mount Holly Overlook On Okemo State Forest Mountain
Belmont, VT 05730
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Manchester, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Beach Overlook
Westerly, RI 02891
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Manchester, rated 4.9 stars by 325 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic View and Rest Area
Groton, MA 01450
Just 48 min from Manchester, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Enfield Lookout
MA 01082, USA
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Manchester, rated 4.9 stars by 346 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Foliage viewpoint
Brattleboro, VT 05301
Just 1 hr 52 min from Manchester, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Prospect Hill Rd. Lookout
Harvard, MA 01451
Just 54 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Pemigewasset Overlook
Albany, NH 03818
Just 1 hr 32 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars by 838 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Sugar Hill Overlook
Albany, NH 03818
Just 1 hr 38 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars by 359 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook
NH 03812, USA
Just 2 hrs 12 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Panoramic Overlook
Lincoln, NH 03251
Just 1 hr 28 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars by 155 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Saco Valley Overlook
North Conway, NH 03860
Just 1 hr 52 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Manchester
What are the best scenic drives near Manchester, NH?
The best scenic drives near Manchester include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Manchester?
Most scenic drives near Manchester range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Manchester?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Manchester, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Manchester?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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