Roadtrip from Canton, Massachusetts to Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Are you ready to hit the road and explore the sights and sounds of New England? A road trip from Canton, Massachusetts to Portsmouth, New Hampshire could be just what you need to get excited about traveling.
Did you know that New Hampshire is famous for having no sales tax? You can save a bundle of cash when shopping for souvenirs!
If you're looking for a pit stop on your trip, halfway between Canton and Portsmouth is Peabody, MA. This town offers some great attractions, including the Peabody Historical Society & Museum and the Witch Dungeon Museum.
The drive from Canton, Massachusetts to Portsmouth, New Hampshire is just under 2 hours, covering a distance of approximately 90 miles. The drive takes you through some beautiful towns such as Manchester, NH, Lowell, MA, and Haverhill, MA. Consider making some stops along the way to break up the drive and take in some sights.
Top Five Places to Visit:
Strawbery Banke Museum
Located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the Strawbery Banke Museum offers a glimpse into colonial life. The museum is an outdoor living history museum that includes over 40 restored buildings. Visitors can see craftsmen making traditional items, interact with actors in costume, and learn about the history of Portsmouth. Don't miss the opportunity to taste some freshly baked goods at the onsite bakery.
The Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region
Just outside of Portsmouth, the Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region has miles of hiking and mountain biking trails to explore. The summit offers a stunning view of the coast of Maine, as well as views of the White Mountains in New Hampshire. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, deer, and moose. Be sure to bring some snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated on your hike.
The Mapparium
The Mapparium, located in Boston, MA, is an amazing three-story, stained glass globe that visitors can walk through. The sphere depicts the political boundaries of the world as they existed in 1935. The experience includes a light and sound show about world events and politics, making it not only visually stunning but informative as well. Be sure to take plenty of pictures in this unique location to remember the experience.
The Salem Witch Museum
Located in Salem, MA, the Salem Witch Museum tells the story of the infamous witchcraft trials of 1692. The exhibit includes life-size figures, lighting effects, and narrated commentary to bring visitors back in time to this historic chapter in America's history. Be sure to take a walk through Salem's historic district and visit some of the witch-themed shops and restaurants.
The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
Another stop in Boston, the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum brings visitors back to the night of December 16, 1773, when American colonists, frustrated and angry at Britain for imposing "taxation without representation," dumped 342 chests of tea, imported by the British East India Company into the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can dress up like colonists, interact with actors playing historical figures, and explore the museum's exhibits. Don't miss the opportunity to drink some fresh tea from the ship's tea station.
Point of Interest Recommendations:
- While in Manchester, NH, stop by the Currier Museum of Art to view their collection, which includes works by Picasso, Monet, and O'Keeffe.
- Lowell, MA is home to the Lowell National Historical Park, which celebrates the city's importance in the Industrial Revolution. Visitors can take a guided trolley tour, explore the canal system, and visit the Boott Cotton Mills Museum.
- Haverhill, MA offers hiking at Winnekenni Castle, which includes a castle, a wildlife reservation, and beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Conclusion
Taking a road trip from Canton, Massachusetts to Portsmouth, New Hampshire offers travelers the opportunity to see some amazing sights and learn about the history of New England. With a distance of under 2 hours, you can break up the drive with stops at some of the top sites, such as the Strawbery Banke Museum and the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum. Don't forget to visit some of the lesser-known spots along the way, such as the Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region, to experience the beauty of the area's natural resources.