Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth sits on the Atlantic coast with access to the historic harbor, the Moffatt-Ladd House, and the Isles of Shoals.
The Portsmouth Historic District and the Isles of Shoals ferry are coastal New Hampshire essentials.
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or browse all12 destinations near Portsmouth
Height of Land
Roxbury, ME 04275
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.9 by 1.0k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 42 min from Portsmouth · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Jackson Falls
Jackson, NH 03846
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 54 min from Portsmouth · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Stone Sculpture
Medford, MA 02155
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.8 stars) · 55 min from Portsmouth · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Presumpscot River Preserve
Portland, ME 04103
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 56 min from Portsmouth · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Franconia Notch State Park
Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 7.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 53 min from Portsmouth · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Castle Rock
Marblehead, MA 01945
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 10 min from Portsmouth · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Step Falls Preserve Mahoosuc Land Trust
Newry, ME 04261
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 24 min from Portsmouth · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Portland Head Light
ME 04107, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 16.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 2 min from Portsmouth · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Echo Lake State Park
North Conway, NH 03860
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 40 min from Portsmouth · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Minute Man National Historical Park
MA 01773, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 3.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 1 min from Portsmouth · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Brewster Gardens
Plymouth, MA 02360
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 44 min from Portsmouth · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Diana's Baths
NH 03812, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 3.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 43 min from Portsmouth · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Portsmouth, NH?
The best day trips from Portsmouth include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Portsmouth?
Most great day trips from Portsmouth are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Portsmouth?
Many of the best day trips near Portsmouth are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Portsmouth?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Portsmouth, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Portsmouth?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Portsmouth make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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