Day Trips from Portsmouth
← All Portsmouth day tripsDay Trips from Portsmouth: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth
Scenic Beach Overlook
Westerly, RI 02891
Just 2 hrs 41 min from Portsmouth, 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 1 hr 11 min from Portsmouth, 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.
Pemigewasset Overlook
Albany, NH 03818
Just 1 hr 57 min from Portsmouth, 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.
Scenic outlook
Danville, VT 05828
Just 2 hrs 39 min from Portsmouth, 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.
Sugar Hill Overlook
Albany, NH 03818
Just 1 hr 50 min from Portsmouth, 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 4 min from Portsmouth, 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 60 min from Portsmouth, 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 33 min from Portsmouth, 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.
Prospect Hill Rd. Lookout
Harvard, MA 01451
Just 1 hr 8 min from Portsmouth, 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.
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
Albany, NH 03818
Just 1 hr 40 min from Portsmouth, rated 4.8 stars by 1,327 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Intervale Scenic Vista
North Conway, NH 03860
Just 1 hr 44 min from Portsmouth, rated 4.8 stars by 702 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.
Spot Pond Lookout
Stoneham, MA 02180
Just 56 min from Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth
What are the best scenic drives near Portsmouth, NH?
The best scenic drives near Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth?
Most scenic drives near Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth?
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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