Explore the Granite State this Summer

July 24th, 2026 by

Summer in New Hampshire is the perfect time to hit the open road. With its majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, and charming coastal towns, the Granite State offers a variety of scenic drives that appeal to locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a longer summer adventure, your vehicle from Grappone Automotive Group is the ideal companion for exploring New Hampshire. From comfortable family SUVs to sporty sedans, we’ve got tips, routes, and advice to make your summer road trips safe, fun, and memorable.

Road trips are more than travel—they’re an experience. NH’s natural beauty, roadside attractions, and small-town charm make every mile worth enjoying. By preparing your vehicle and planning your itinerary, you can focus on the adventure rather than the logistics.

1. Planning Your Summer Road Trip

Before setting out, planning is key. Here’s what to consider:

Choose Your Route Based on Interests:

  • Mountains: The White Mountains are perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying cooler summer temperatures.
  • Lakes: Explore the Lakes Region for boating, swimming, and relaxing by New Hampshire’s pristine waters.
  • Coastline: Take a scenic drive along the NH Seacoast for beach views, quaint towns, and fresh seafood stops.
  • Countryside and Small Towns: Enjoy charming towns with local shops, markets, and hidden gems off the main highways.

Vehicle Readiness:

  • Schedule a summer check-up at your local Grappone Automotive service center to ensure your brakes, fluids, tires, and AC are ready for long drives.
  • For family trips, make sure your SUV or crossover has adequate cargo space for luggage, gear, and recreational equipment.

Packing Essentials:

  • Water, sunscreen, snacks, and a first-aid kit are must-haves.
  • Entertainment for passengers: music playlists, audiobooks, or podcasts keep everyone engaged.
  • A camera or smartphone is great for capturing scenic overlooks and summer memories.

2. Top Scenic Summer Drives in New Hampshire

a. Kancamagus Highway (Route 112):

  • This 34-mile highway through the White Mountains offers waterfalls, hiking trails, and panoramic views.
  • Ideal for drivers in SUVs like the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, or Mazda CX-50.
  • Must-see stops: Sabbaday Falls, Rocky Gorge, Lincoln Woods, and local roadside markets.

b. Lakes Region Drives:

  • Route 3 around Lake Winnipesaukee or Route 25 through Squam Lake provides stunning water views and small-town charm.
  • Perfect for family road trips—Mazda CX-5, Honda Odyssey, or Ford Escape provide comfort and cargo space.
  • Highlights: Meredith for boutique shopping, Wolfeboro for lakeside dining, Holderness for scenic photo ops.

c. Coastal Drives:

  • From Hampton Beach to Portsmouth, enjoy ocean views, historic landmarks, and charming towns.
  • Sedans like Mazda3 or Honda Civic are ideal for coastal cruising, while SUVs carry extra gear for picnics or beach days.
  • Stops to consider: Hampton Beach State Park, Strawbery Banke Museum, Prescott Park Gardens.

d. Countryside and Scenic Byways:

  • NH Route 16 (Crawford Notch) is perfect for rolling hills, rivers, and local farm stands.
  • Drive through small towns and pick up fresh produce or artisan goods for a truly New England experience.
  • For photography enthusiasts, this route offers beautiful river vistas and forest landscapes.

3. Preparing Your Vehicle for Summer Adventures

Maintenance Checklist Before You Go:

  1. Tires: Check tread, pressure, and alignment.
  2. Fluids: Inspect coolant, brakes, windshield washer, and transmission fluids.
  3. Battery: Ensure peak condition, especially for older vehicles.
  4. AC System: Test cooling and replace cabin air filters if needed.
  5. Emergency Kit: Pack essentials like water, first-aid supplies, flashlight, and roadside tools.

Comfort & Cargo Tips:

  • SUVs and crossovers offer ample cargo space for gear, coolers, and luggage.
  • Sedans are efficient for longer trips, providing fuel economy and smooth handling.
  • Roof racks or cargo carriers can expand space for outdoor equipment like bikes, kayaks, or camping gear.

Technology & Navigation:

  • Use built-in navigation or apps to track traffic, scenic stops, and avoid construction delays.
  • Infotainment systems like SYNC®, i-Activsense®, or Co-Pilot360™ enhance driving with hands-free options.

4. Safety Tips for Summer Road Trips

Stay Hydrated and Comfortable:

  • Pack plenty of water for passengers, pets, and yourself.
  • Utilize your vehicle’s climate control and ventilated seats to maintain comfort during the hottest parts of the day.

Watch for Wildlife and Road Hazards:

  • NH’s rural areas can have deer, moose, and other wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.
  • Mountain roads can have steep curves and elevation changes—drive carefully.

Plan Breaks and Scenic Stops:

  • Stretching and short breaks improve alertness and enjoyment.
  • Scenic pull-offs, waterfalls, and lake views make great photo opportunities and resting points.

Family and Pets:

  • For families, pack snacks, activities, and entertainment for longer drives.
  • Keep pets comfortable with ventilation, shade, and frequent water breaks.

5. Making the Most of Your NH Summer Adventure

Plan Scenic Stops:

  • Waterfalls, lakes, overlooks, and historical landmarks are perfect for photo opportunities.
  • Example: Stop at Lake Winnipesaukee for kayaking or a picnic.

Engage with Local Communities:

  • Summer fairs, farmers’ markets, and festivals enrich the experience.
  • Support small businesses by trying local eateries, ice cream shops, and artisan markets.

Capture Memories:

  • NH’s scenic landscapes provide countless photography opportunities.
  • Keep a journal or digital record of your trips, favorite stops, and hidden gems.

Conclusion

New Hampshire is a summer road trip paradise, offering mountains, lakes, coastline, and charming towns. With proper planning, vehicle preparation, and local insights from Grappone Automotive Group, your summer drives can be safe, comfortable, and unforgettable. Whether you’re in a Ford, Honda, or Mazda, your vehicle is your key to exploring everything the Granite State has to offer.

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