Exeter, New Hampshire welcomes visitors with historic appeal and a rich sense of New England character. Day trips from Exeter offer an easy way to explore coastal views, charming towns, and scenic drives. Distinguished brick buildings line the streets, independent shops beckon you to stop by, and the Squamscott River adds a beautiful backdrop to everyday life in town. Whether you are planning a weekend escape or a longer New Hampshire vacation, Exeter is a wonderful home base for exploring the region.
Of course, there are plenty of things to do in Exeter before you even leave town. A walking tour of downtown Exeter reveals centuries of history along with charming cafés and galleries. You can sample local craft beer at nearby New Hampshire breweries, and head toward the coast for beach time and fresh ocean air. With so many experiences nearby, visitors often plan a few day trips from Exeter to explore even more of the Seacoast.
Choosing where to stay is an important decision, especially when planning a getaway centered around relaxation and exploration. As one of the most elegant Exeter Hotels, we’re located right in the center of downtown, in front of the bandstand, the perfect location for making day trips from Exeter. Guests enjoy luxury accommodations, high-end amenities, and warm personal hospitality that make every stay special. Plan a memorable escape and enjoy unforgettable day trips from Exeter. Book your stay today!
The Best Day Trips From Exeter
Exeter sits in a location that makes exploring New Hampshire remarkably easy. Within a short drive, you can experience coastal villages, historic cities, peaceful countryside, and lively New Hampshire towns that each offer their own personality. In a single afternoon, you might stroll along the New Hampshire coast, browse small town shops, or visit scenic parks that show off the natural beauty of the region.
Day trips from Exeter take you to some of the most interesting places in New Hampshire. Here are some of our favorites:
- Portsmouth is one of the most vibrant towns along the New Hampshire coast and is only about twenty minutes from Exeter. Start your visit in Market Square, where you will find independent shops, bookstores, cafés, and galleries that reflect the city’s creative spirit. History lovers should explore the Strawbery Banke Museum, an outdoor museum that brings four centuries of local living to life through preserved homes and gardens. Pick up a lobster roll from Sanders Fish Market, then take a relaxing walk through Prescott Park along the waterfront.
- Hampton Beach is one of the most popular New Hampshire beach towns and one of the easiest day trips from Exeter. Spend the day relaxing on the wide sandy beach, walking along Ocean Boulevard, or enjoying classic Hampton Beach boardwalk treats like fried seafood and ice cream. The Hampton Beach State Park area is great for swimming and sunbathing, while the lively promenade offers shops, arcades, and live entertainment in the summer.
- Newburyport, Massachusetts, is a charming coastal town known for its historic brick buildings and lively waterfront. Begin your visit by strolling along State Street, where you will find boutiques, specialty food shops, and cozy cafés. Walk down to the Merrimack River boardwalk for scenic harbor views and a relaxing place to sit and watch the boats. Many visitors also drive a few minutes to Plum Island, where you can see the lighthouse, explore sandy beaches, and visit the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge.
- One of the most scenic destinations near the New Hampshire coast is York, Maine. Begin your visit at Nubble Lighthouse, one of the most photographed landmarks in New England. The best views of the ocean and lighthouse are from Sohier Park. York Beach and Long Sands Beach provide great spots for a seaside walk or a relaxing afternoon by the water. Nearby shops, saltwater taffy stands, and casual seafood restaurants give the town its classic New England beach town charm.
- Just over the New Hampshire border at Portsmouth is Kittery, Maine. Here, coastal history, great shopping, and a growing food scene make it a popular destination. Many visitors begin at the Kittery Outlets, where dozens of stores offer everything from clothing to home goods. After shopping, drive to Kittery Point to visit Fort McClary State Park, where you can explore historic fort structures and take in beautiful harbor views. The nearby Foreside area has become a popular dining destination with bakeries, seafood spots, and creative restaurants worth the short trip.
- New Hampshire’s most populous city, Manchester, offers a lively city atmosphere and a great change of pace from the coastal towns. The Millyard Museum is a fascinating stop where you can learn about the city’s textile mill history and see how the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company shaped the region. Elm Street is the main hub for dining and shopping, filled with restaurants, craft breweries, and entertainment venues. Visitors often combine lunch downtown with a visit to the Currier Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of American and European art.
- Salem, Massachusetts, is a fascinating destination filled with history, culture, and waterfront charm, making it one of the most interesting day trips from Exeter. Many visitors begin at the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the events of 1692 before walking through the historic district toward the House of the Seven Gables. The Peabody Essex Museum is another highlight, known for its impressive art and maritime collections. After exploring the historic sites, stroll along Pickering Wharf where you will find shops, cafés, and beautiful harbor views.
- Kennebunkport is one of the most picturesque coastal towns in Maine and a wonderful option for day trips from Exeter. Start by exploring Dock Square, where charming boutiques, art galleries, and seafood restaurants line the streets. Many visitors drive along Ocean Avenue to see dramatic Atlantic views and the well-known Walker’s Point estate. For a relaxing afternoon, head to Goose Rocks Beach, where soft sand and gentle waves create one of the most beautiful beach settings in southern Maine.
From charming harbor towns to vibrant cultural hubs, these day trips from Exeter reveal why the Seacoast remains one of the most loved New Hampshire vacation spots.
Stay at the Best Exeter Hotel
Our elegant Exeter Hotel offers a luxury retreat for couples looking for more than a typical hotel stay. Guests can step out the front door to experience Exeter’s historic streets, local shops, and inviting restaurants, then come back to a quiet and welcoming space at the end of the day.
Built in the 1800s, our intimate property is known as one of the most distinctive Exeter Hotels, offering eight elegant guest rooms and suites designed for comfort and romance. Guests enjoy high-end linens, luxury finishes, and peaceful spaces that make it easy to unwind after a day of discovery. Some rooms feature fireplaces and flat screen TVs, perfect for relaxing evenings after your day trips from Exeter, and every stay includes complimentary Port wine waiting in your room. Whether you are planning a weekend away or a longer escape exploring the Seacoast NH, our Exeter Hotel offers the warmth and sophistication that define a perfect getaway. Book your getaway today!
