The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Candia, New Hampshire and Rockport, Massachusetts

If you are looking for a quick road trip from Candia, New Hampshire to Rockport, Massachusetts, then get ready for an exciting and unforgettable journey! This trip will take you through beautiful landscapes, historic towns, and coastal destinations. The halfway point will be the charming town of Andover, MA. Here are some highlights and top things to do on this road trip.

Top Five Things to do

1. Visit Salem, MA

Salem, MA, is a must-visit destination on this road trip. Famous for its witch trials and spooky history, Salem has plenty of activities to offer. The town has several museums that document its history and offer visitors a glimpse of the past, including the Salem Witch Museum and the Peabody Essex Museum. Visitors also enjoy visiting the historic House of Seven Gables, famous for Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, and walking around the scenic Salem Common.

Interesting Fact: Salem is the birthplace of the National Guard, the oldest active fighting force in the US military.

2. Explore Portsmouth, NH

No visit to this area would be complete without a stop in Portsmouth, NH. Portsmouth is a historic seaport that retains its colonial charm. Visitors will enjoy strolling through Market Square, the heart of historic downtown Portsmouth, to admire the architecture and dine in one of its many restaurants. The town also has several museums and cultural institutions, such as the Strawbery Banke Museum and the Music Hall.

Interesting Fact: Portsmouth is home to the oldest still-operating brewery in the US, the Portsmouth Brewery, which opened in 1991.

3. Relax in Gloucester, MA

Gloucester, MA, is a picturesque seaside town and a lovely place to unwind. Visitors can spend a relaxing day exploring its stunning beaches, such as Good Harbor Beach or Wingaersheek Beach, or taking a stroll along the scenic Gloucester Harbor. The town also has several galleries and studios for art enthusiasts, and visitors can catch a show at the Gloucester Stage Company.

Interesting Fact: Gloucester was the inspiration for Sebastian Junger's bestselling book, "The Perfect Storm."

4. Hike in the White Mountains

The White Mountains in New Hampshire are a breathtaking destination and a hiking paradise. Visitors can hike the scenic Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, or explore the Crawford Notch State Park. The White Mountains also have many other tourist attractions, such as the Flume Gorge or the Kancamagus Highway, ideal for a scenic drive.

Interesting Fact: The Old Man of the Mountain, a famous rock formation resembling a face in the White Mountains, collapsed in 2003.

5. Visit the Lowell National Historical Park

The Lowell National Historical Park is a fascinating destination for history buffs. The park preserves the history of the Industrial Revolution in the US and its impact on the town of Lowell, MA. Visitors can learn about the town's textile mills and the lives of factory workers during the 19th century. The park also has several historic buildings and museums, such as the Boott Cotton Mills Museum.

Interesting Fact: The Lowell National Historical Park has the largest urban park canal system in the US.

Conclusion

This road trip from Candia, New Hampshire, to Rockport, Massachusetts, offers visitors a fantastic experience of New England's history, culture, and natural beauty. From the historic port of Portsmouth to the spooky town of Salem, from the relaxing beaches of Gloucester to the scenic White Mountains, and finally to the Lowell National Historical Park, this journey has something for everyone.

The total driving distance between Candia, NH, and Rockport, MA, is approximately 130 miles, and the journey takes around 3 hours, excluding stops. So, plan your route and get ready for a thrilling and unforgettable road trip!