According to forum posts, Jackson is highly recommended for its picturesque village setting, complete with a waterfall and a walkable village green. North Conway is also favored for its proximity to White Mountain attractions and ample shopping and dining options.

Travelers have called out Hanover and Portsmouth as charming towns. Hanover offers a vibrant college town atmosphere near Dartmouth, while Portsmouth provides a coastal experience with historic sites and harbor cruises.

For those interested in quaint cafes and antique shops amidst beautiful scenery, Meredith and Keene are suggested. Meredith sits by Lake Winnipesaukee, offering lake cruises and a scenic backdrop, while Keene is noted for its attractive Main Street and proximity to outdoor activities.

Some users recommend exploring the Monadnock Region for a quieter experience, highlighting towns like Peterborough and Walpole for their small-town charm and scenic drives.

According to forum posts, travelers recommend a classic loop drive around the Kancamagus Highway, Route 16, Route 302, and the Franconia Notch Parkway, which can be completed in a day from any major town in the White Mountains. Many users suggest basing in North Conway or Jackson for convenience to multiple attractions, including Mount Washington, where a visit to the summit can be made via the cog railway, van tours, or by driving oneself.

Travelers have called out various hiking options ranging from easy to strenuous, with popular hikes like Mount Crawford for moderate levels and Mount Washington for a more challenging experience. For family-friendly activities, Diana's Baths and Echo Lake offer lighter excursions with scenic views. Additionally, some travelers recommend exploring the Flume Gorge and taking a tram ride to the top of Cannon Mountain.

For those planning longer stays, forum users often suggest splitting time between the White Mountains and other locations such as Acadia National Park or the Maine coast to enjoy a variety of landscapes and activities. Accommodation suggestions include looking into vacation rentals for week-long stays, especially during peak seasons when hotels can be booked out.

Some travelers expressed interest in romantic and quaint lodging options such as Bed and Breakfasts in Portsmouth, NH. Recommendations included staying in downtown Portsmouth to be close to amenities and attractions.

For those looking for hotels or inns, The Sailmakers House and The Hotel Portsmouth were specifically mentioned as nice establishments in downtown Portsmouth. Additionally, chain hotels like Residence Inn, Hilton Garden Inn, Sheraton, and Aloft were also recommended for their comfort and location.

Other posts mentioned the need for lodging along Route 9 in New Hampshire, suggesting inns like Colonel Williams Inn, The Nutmeg, Inn at Quail Run, and Grateful Acres. Despite a tighter budget, these were highlighted as well-rated options that could potentially meet travelers' needs.

In cases where budget constraints were discussed, travelers were advised to consider both the lodging costs and amenities. Some posts underlined the challenge of finding places with specific features like hot tubs and trails within a certain price range, suggesting a need for careful planning and research.

According to forum posts, taking a boat tour around Lake Winnipesaukee is highly recommended. The M/S Mount Washington offers various cruises, including brunch, cocktail, and sunset options. Smaller boats, such as the U.S. Mail vessel, offer shorter cruises that let you see the scenic lakeside houses.

Travelers have called driving around the lake a beautiful experience, particularly on the northern side, which is quieter. Nearby attractions like Canterbury Shaker Village and the scenic Kancamagus Highway in the White Mountains are suggested for afternoon trips.

For those interested in more active water-based activities, renting kayaks or stand-up paddleboards in Meredith is an option. This area also provides a more interactive way to enjoy the lake's scenery and tranquility.

Some users recommended visiting historical sites like the Canterbury Shaker Village and taking a scenic drive through the White Mountains, enhancing the cultural aspect of their trip around Lake Winnipesaukee.

Some travelers have recommended taking scenic drives such as Route 302 for beautiful views of the White Mountains, including Mt. Washington. For those seeking to reach the summit of Mt. Washington, options include the Cog Railway or driving the Mt. Washington Auto Road, which offers an exhilarating experience due to its narrow and winding nature.

According to forum posts, the Omni Mt. Washington Hotel is a popular choice for staying close to the mountain, offering luxurious accommodations albeit at a higher price. Dining near Mt. Washington can be limited, with more upscale options like the dining facilities at the Omni Hotel or casual cafes at the base of the mountain and the summit.

Travelers have called out the diverse activities available in the Mt. Washington area, from hiking and wildlife viewing to aerial tram rides at nearby locations like Cannon Mountain. The area is also known for its dramatic weather conditions, adding an element of unpredictability and adventure to visits.

According to forum posts, one popular road trip route in New Hampshire includes driving on the Kancamagus Highway, known for its scenic beauty, especially during the fall foliage season. Travelers have recommended stopping at various points along this route for hiking and enjoying the natural scenery.

For many users, exploring historic towns along their road trip adds to the experience. Towns like Meredith, North Conway, and Portsmouth are frequently mentioned. Portsmouth, with its rich history and scenic harbor area, and North Conway known for its proximity to natural attractions like Mount Washington and the White Mountains, are highlights.

Some travelers said alternative routes such as driving through the White Mountains, exploring Franconia Notch, or venturing around Lake Winnipesaukee offer engaging landscapes and attractions. These areas provide a mix of outdoor activities, quaint shops, and local dining, enhancing the road trip experience in New Hampshire.