Alamo Car Rental
New Hampshire

For a trip focused on the White Mountains, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) is often the most convenient choice due to its proximity and straightforward highway access. Flying into MHT allows you to avoid the heavy city traffic associated with Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), getting you on the road north more quickly. While BOS may offer more flight options, the drive can be significantly longer, especially during peak hours. Portland International Jetport (PWM) in Maine is another excellent alternative, particularly if your itinerary is centered on the eastern White Mountains, like North Conway, or if you plan to also visit the Maine coast.

Departing from Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) toward the Lakes Region is quite direct and generally avoids significant city congestion. After picking up your rental, you will follow signs for Interstate 293 South/Route 101 East for a very short distance. You will then merge onto Interstate 93 North, which is the primary highway that leads directly to the Lakes Region. This route bypasses downtown Manchester entirely, allowing for a smooth transition from the airport to the main northbound artery. Staying on I-93 North will take you straight towards Concord and then onward to popular destinations like Lake Winnipesaukee.

During peak foliage season, a Friday afternoon drive from Manchester to North Conway requires a flexible schedule and patience. While the trip can take under two hours in ideal conditions, you should realistically budget at least three to four hours for the journey. Traffic on I-93 North can be heavy as locals and tourists head north for the weekend. The most significant delays often occur on Route 16 leading into the Conway and North Conway area, where traffic can slow to a crawl. It's wise to plan for a leisurely drive, perhaps building in a stop for dinner along the way to let the heaviest traffic subside.

To create an efficient loop between the White Mountains and the Seacoast, consider a route that utilizes different major highways for each leg of the journey. For example, you could start in the White Mountains and drive south on Route 16 through North Conway, which leads directly toward Portsmouth and the Seacoast. After exploring the coast, you can return north via Interstate 93. This creates a natural, counter-clockwise loop that covers distinct regions of the state. This approach minimizes backtracking and allows you to experience the scenic, town-centric drive on Route 16 in one direction and the faster, more direct interstate drive in the other.

When staying in downtown Portsmouth, where street parking can be limited and timed, most travelers find it easiest to use one of the city's public parking garages. The Hanover Street Garage is a centrally located and popular option that offers overnight parking, keeping your vehicle secure and accessible. Many hotels in the downtown area also offer parking for their guests, though it's always a good idea to confirm this when booking your accommodations. Utilizing a garage eliminates the stress of searching for a spot and allows you to enjoy the walkable city center without worrying about parking regulations.

The drive through Franconia Notch on I-93 is exceptionally scenic and generally not stressful for most drivers, even those unfamiliar with mountain roads. The highway narrows to a single lane in each direction through the park, which naturally slows traffic and encourages drivers to take in the views. The road is well-maintained with gradual curves and is not characterized by steep drop-offs or harrowing switchbacks. The primary challenge can be the sheer beauty of the surroundings, which can be distracting. Simply stay attentive, be mindful of the reduced speed limit, and enjoy one of the most beautiful stretches of interstate in the country.

Driving the Kancamagus Highway for sunrise and hiking requires some simple planning. The road is entirely accessible, but there are no gas stations, restaurants, or shops for its entire 34.5-mile scenic stretch, so ensure you have a full tank of gas and any needed supplies before you start. For a sunrise mission, be aware of wildlife, particularly moose, which can be active on the road in the early morning hours. The numerous scenic overlooks and trailhead parking lots are well-marked and easy to pull into. Arriving early is key, as even at dawn, popular spots like the Lincoln Woods Trailhead can begin to fill up with fellow early risers.

Yes, you should expect to lose cell service for the majority of your drive along the Kancamagus Highway. Service is unreliable to non-existent between the towns of Lincoln on the west end and Conway on the east end. Because of this, it is essential to plan your navigation in advance. Download offline maps of the area to your phone or GPS device before you enter the White Mountain National Forest. It's also helpful to have a general sense of your planned stops, as you won't be able to look up information on the fly. This lack of connectivity is part of the highway's appeal, offering a chance to disconnect and enjoy the scenery.

Winter road conditions in New Hampshire vary significantly with location and elevation. Around Manchester, major highways like I-93 are typically well-plowed and treated, though they can still be slick during active storms. As you drive north toward Lincoln, you'll gain elevation and the potential for snow and ice on the roads increases. The most dramatic change occurs on the higher-elevation passes, such as the Kancamagus Highway, which can have deep snowpack on the shoulders and may close temporarily during severe weather events. Always check the New England 511 road conditions report before heading into the mountains during the winter months.

For a base with a wide variety of short day trips, Lincoln is an excellent choice. It is situated at the western entrance of the Kancamagus Highway and provides immediate access to Franconia Notch State Park, including attractions like the Flume Gorge and Cannon Mountain. North Conway is also a fantastic base, especially for exploring the eastern side of the mountains, Mount Washington, and the shops and restaurants along Route 16. Littleton offers a charming downtown and great access to the northern White Mountains and Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. Ultimately, Lincoln's central position between two major scenic areas often gives it a slight edge for minimizing daily drive times.

During busy summer weekends, securing a parking spot at the Flume Gorge requires an early start. To be safe, plan to arrive within the first hour of opening, which is typically around 9:00 AM. By late morning, especially on a holiday weekend or a Saturday with perfect weather, the main parking lot can reach capacity. Arriving early not only guarantees you a spot but also allows you to experience the gorge with fewer crowds on the walkways. If you plan for a later arrival, be prepared for the possibility of having to wait for a space to open up.

Before starting the ascent on the Mount Washington Auto Road, it's wise to do a quick, common-sense check of your rental vehicle. Ensure you have plenty of fuel, as there are no services on the mountain. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the vehicle's gear shifter, particularly how to engage lower gears, as you will be instructed to use them for the entire descent to prevent brake overheating. It's also a good practice to review the Auto Road's own vehicle restrictions and safety guidelines, which are provided before you begin the drive. This preparation ensures a more confident and enjoyable experience on this unique mountain road.

The most straightforward route from the White Mountains to the Acadia National Park area involves a combination of scenic state highways and a major interstate. From a central location like North Conway, you would take Route 302 East into Maine. This road is scenic and well-maintained, leading you toward the Portland area. Near Portland, you will merge onto Interstate 295 North, which later becomes Interstate 95 North. You'll follow I-95 to Bangor, then take I-395 to Route 1A South, which leads directly toward Ellsworth and the bridge to Mount Desert Island. This route avoids complex backroads and is well-signed the entire way.

For a practical and efficient drive between Burlington, Vermont, and the White Mountains, utilizing the interstate system is your best bet. From Burlington, take Interstate 89 South toward Montpelier and White River Junction. At White River Junction, you will connect with Interstate 91 North for a short distance before taking Exit 17 to connect with Route 302 East. Route 302 will take you directly across the border into New Hampshire and toward towns like Littleton and Bretton Woods. While Route 302 is a two-lane highway, it is a major thoroughfare and generally moves efficiently outside of peak holiday traffic.

A common navigation mistake visitors make is underestimating the time it takes to travel between these towns, especially when using scenic routes. Many travelers assume the Kancamagus Highway is a quick connector between Lincoln and Conway, but with its winding nature and many scenic pull-offs, it's a journey to be savored, not rushed. Another point of confusion can be navigating from Conway to Gorham; relying solely on a GPS might lead you down smaller backroads. Sticking to the main artery, Route 16 North, is the most direct and reliable path. Always factor in extra time for mountain driving and potential stops.

To enjoy a full day in Franconia Notch without feeling rushed, start your morning at Cannon Mountain with a ride on the aerial tramway for incredible views. Afterward, dedicate the early afternoon to exploring other nearby attractions within the notch, such as the Flume Gorge or a walk around Echo Lake. Plan to finish your main activities by late afternoon. This gives you ample time to head back toward Lincoln, check into your lodging, and relax for a bit before finding a sunset spot. A great, easily accessible location for sunset near Lincoln is the Pemigewasset Overlook on the Kancamagus Highway, just a few minutes' drive from town.

Traveling with a toddler on I-93 north from Manchester is manageable thanks to several convenient rest areas. The Hooksett Welcome Centers (accessible from both northbound and southbound lanes) are a perfect first stop, offering restrooms, a liquor store with local products, and space to stretch. Further north, the Canterbury Rest Area provides a quieter, more park-like setting for a break. Once you get closer to the mountains, taking an exit in a town like Plymouth or Campton can give you access to parks, playgrounds, and quick-service restaurants, providing a more engaging break for a little one before the final leg of your drive.

Managing wet ski gear in a rental car is best handled with a little preparation. Many travelers bring along a few large, heavy-duty trash bags or a collapsible laundry hamper to contain wet boots and prevent melting snow from soaking the car's floor mats. A small, packable towel is also invaluable for wiping down skis or snowboards before placing them in the vehicle. If you have a vehicle with a pass-through or folding rear seats, this can make transporting skis much easier. Keeping the wet gear consolidated makes cleanup at the end of your trip simple and helps maintain the condition of the car.

When visiting New Hampshire's charming but often crowded small towns, the best parking strategy is to find the first available spot, even if it's a short walk from the town center. Circling the main street in hopes of a closer space can lead to frustration and add to traffic congestion. Look for designated municipal lots, which are often located just a block or two off the primary thoroughfare. Once you're parked, embrace the walkability of these towns. This approach is less stressful and allows you to discover small shops and cafes you might have otherwise missed.

On a peak autumn weekend, traffic on Route 16 through North Conway can become extremely slow, often resembling stop-and-go conditions for several miles. The stretch through the main village and its collection of outlet stores is particularly prone to congestion. It's not uncommon for a drive that would normally take 10 minutes to stretch to 45 minutes or more. To manage this, plan to travel through this area either very early in the morning or later in the evening. Alternatively, use your rental car to explore the quieter backroads and scenic drives away from the main commercial corridor during the busiest midday hours.

A realistic three-day trip covering these three regions requires strategic planning to minimize drive time. A good approach is to dedicate one full day to each location and plan your lodging accordingly. For instance, you could spend your first day and night in the White Mountains, perhaps based in Lincoln or North Conway. On day two, drive south to the Lakes Region for your lake activities, staying overnight near Lake Winnipesaukee. On your final day, drive from the lakes to the Seacoast to explore Portsmouth before heading toward your departure airport. This linear progression avoids backtracking and makes the driving feel like part of the adventure.

For a half-day trip focused on covered bridges near the Connecticut River, the area around Cornish and Plainfield is an excellent and accessible choice. This region is home to the impressive Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge, the longest two-span covered bridge in the world, connecting New Hampshire and Vermont. Several other smaller but equally photogenic bridges, like the Blow-Me-Down Bridge, are located on nearby country roads. This cluster of bridges is relatively easy to navigate with a GPS and allows you to see multiple historic structures within a short driving loop, making it a perfect excursion from the I-89 corridor.

Driving at night in rural New Hampshire requires heightened awareness due to several factors. Most backroads have no streetlights, so you will be relying entirely on your vehicle's headlights, and visibility can be limited on winding or hilly sections. Wildlife, particularly deer and moose, are frequently active after dusk and can appear on the road with little warning, so it's crucial to drive at a cautious speed. Additionally, fog can settle in valleys and low-lying areas, further reducing visibility. Using your high beams when appropriate and staying vigilant are the keys to safe and confident nighttime driving in the state's beautiful rural areas.

The least confusing route from the Boston area to New Hampshire is to get onto Interstate 93 North as soon as possible and stay on it. While there are merges and heavy traffic within the immediate Boston metro area, once you are north of the city, the highway becomes more straightforward. Pay close attention to the overhead signs, especially around the I-95/Route 128 interchange, which is a major junction. Once you pass that point and cross into New Hampshire, the drive becomes much simpler. Using a GPS for lane guidance through the initial city portion can be very helpful for a stress-free transition.

To make a day trip from Portsmouth to the White Mountains feel worthwhile, focus on one specific area and start early. A great plan is to drive up Route 16 directly to the North Conway area, which takes about 90 minutes to two hours without traffic. This allows you to spend the core of your day enjoying activities like a scenic train ride, a short hike, or exploring the shops. Another option is to drive up I-93 to the Lincoln area to experience Franconia Notch. By choosing one destination and maximizing your time there, you can have a fulfilling mountain experience and still be back in Portsmouth for a late dinner.

Travelers heading north into the White Mountains often make a final supply stop in one of the larger towns along the main highways. If you're driving up I-93, the towns of Plymouth and Lincoln have large, modern supermarkets that are perfect for stocking up on groceries, drinks, and any other necessities. For those traveling up Route 16, Conway and North Conway offer several major grocery stores right on the main road. Stopping in one of these gateway towns ensures you have everything you need before venturing onto more remote scenic roads like the Kancamagus Highway, where services are non-existent.

The best way to plan for stops along I-93 is to be proactive and utilize the full-service rest areas and towns before you reach the most congested areas. The Hooksett Welcome Centers, just north of Manchester, are an excellent first stop for restrooms and information. As you continue north, consider exiting in Concord or Tilton, which have numerous options for food and gas right off the highway. Planning your main break in one of these larger service towns ensures you are comfortable and supplied before you hit potential weekend traffic closer to the Lakes Region and the White Mountains, where exit options become more sparse.

A realistic plan for visiting Hampton Beach is to arrive early, secure a parking spot for the day, and explore the area on foot or by trolley. The main beach area has a large state park lot and numerous private lots, but they fill up quickly on summer weekends. Once you've parked, the central part of Hampton Beach is very walkable, with shops, restaurants, and the main beach all close together. For beach-hopping along the coast on Route 1A, a local trolley service often runs during the peak season, which can be a great way to visit other nearby beaches without the hassle of finding a new parking spot each time.

If your trip coincides with Motorcycle Week in Laconia, you must plan for significant traffic delays, especially in the Lakes Region. To reach the White Mountains, it's best to avoid the areas immediately surrounding Weirs Beach and Meredith if possible. A good strategy is to use I-93 as your primary north-south route, as it bypasses the most congested local roads. Be prepared for much heavier motorcycle traffic on all roads, and add at least an extra hour to your anticipated travel time between the seacoast or southern New Hampshire and the mountains. Traveling early in the morning is your best bet to get ahead of the heaviest traffic.

For a late-night arrival followed by a long drive, prioritize safety and preparation. Before leaving the airport area, make sure you have your destination programmed into your GPS and have downloaded offline maps, as cell service can be spotty in rural areas. Ensure you have any necessary drinks or snacks for the drive, as most roadside services will be closed. Drive cautiously, being especially watchful for wildlife on unlit backroads. It's also a good idea to inform your lodging host of your estimated late arrival time so they can provide any specific instructions for a smooth check-in process after hours.

Coordinating a multi-car trip in New Hampshire works best when you designate specific, easy-to-find meeting points in advance. State-run welcome centers, large gas stations, or the parking lots of major attractions are ideal for this purpose. Instead of trying to follow each other bumper-to-bumper, which can be stressful and unsafe, have everyone navigate independently to the next agreed-upon stop. Using a group chat to communicate ETAs can be helpful, but be aware of spotty cell service in the mountains. This approach allows each driver to travel at their own pace and prevents the group from getting separated by traffic lights or other vehicles.

For scenic fall drives without the intense traffic of the Kancamagus Highway, consider exploring routes slightly off the main tourist path. Route 118, which runs from Canaan to Lincoln, offers beautiful mountain scenery and is typically much quieter. Another excellent option is the drive along Route 302 west of Littleton, heading toward the Vermont border, which provides lovely views of the Connecticut River Valley. The area around Sandwich, accessible via Route 113, is also known for its classic New England charm and less-traveled roads. These routes deliver a fantastic foliage experience with more driving and less stopping.

When driving in New Hampshire, it's crucial to be attentive to speed limit changes as you enter small town centers. Speed limits can drop suddenly from 50 mph on a rural highway to 25 or 30 mph through a village, and these zones are often carefully monitored. The best practice is to begin slowing down as soon as you see the sign for the reduced speed limit. These towns are often very walkable, with pedestrians, crosswalks, and cars pulling out from side streets. Adhering to the posted speed limit is not only about avoiding a ticket but is also a matter of safety for the local community.

For popular trailheads like Arethusa Falls or Artist's Bluff, especially on a weekend, arriving early is the only reliable way to secure a parking spot. Plan to be at the trailhead by 8:30 AM at the latest; an 8:00 AM arrival is even safer. These lots are relatively small and fill up very quickly with hikers aiming to get an early start. A good backup plan is to have a secondary, less popular hike in mind in the same general area. If you arrive and the lot is full, you can pivot to your alternate plan without losing a significant part of your day.

During mud season, which typically runs from late March through May, many unpaved and secondary roads in New Hampshire can become soft, rutted, and difficult to navigate. The Forest Service often closes gates on its gravel roads during this period to prevent damage, which can restrict access to some trailheads and remote areas. Higher elevation scenic routes like the Kancamagus Highway may have a delayed opening for the season. It's best to stick to paved state highways and check the New Hampshire State Parks or White Mountain National Forest websites for any specific road closure announcements before you head out.

The easiest way to plan your departure drive from the White Mountains is to be conservative with your time estimate. Check the driving time on a GPS the night before, and then add at least an extra 30 to 45 minutes to account for potential traffic, a stop for gas, or unexpected delays. If you are staying in a more remote location, plan to be on the main highway, like I-93 or Route 16, by a specific time. This ensures that the majority of your drive is on predictable, well-traveled roads. Having a relaxed timeline for your final morning will make the end of your trip much less stressful.

For a trip combining the mountains and the coast, a practical split is to dedicate at least two consecutive nights to each location. For example, spend two or three nights in a mountain base like Lincoln or North Conway, allowing you a full day of exploration without a long drive. Then, use the middle day of your trip as a travel day to drive to the Seacoast, perhaps stopping in the Lakes Region along the way. Finish with two nights in the Portsmouth area. This approach consolidates your longest drive into one day and gives you uninterrupted time to enjoy each distinct region of New Hampshire.