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People generally have mixed emotions about traveling home for the holidays. Some hate the bustle of the airport, and some people like me, just love how festive it is this time of year. While traveling by train, plane or automobile can be stressful during the busiest time of year, I’ve gotten pretty good at making the most of it. In fact, for the last six years, I’ve had to travel cross-country to make it home for the holidays; and while some people might see this as an annoyance, I welcomed the airport with the exciting thought of being with my family and back in New England soon. 

However, this past weekend, Matt and I realized, that this will be our first holiday season not traveling; which is a big deal. We started to notice that we had a little extra time on our hands and the thought of holiday travel on our minds. So we decided on Friday to spontaneously take a trip up north. We had our bags packed and in the car, within an hour, and started our drive through New Hampshire, via route 202.

We usually never have time to head up north, so having the chance to explore and capture content, in the northern state of New Hampshire, was like a holiday miracle. When we first decided to head up, we had no idea where to go. In fact, I asked you all, over on Instagram stories, which towns we should explore; and great minds think alike, because most of you responded with similar recommendations. I pulled out a roadmap, circled the three towns with the highest number of recommendations and saw they all lied just off of Route 202. 

So if you are traveling up north this holiday season or looking for new quintessential New England towns to explore; we’ve got you covered! Below you’ll find a list of towns to stop in when driving route 202 home for Christmas. 

Towns worth checking out when driving, home for Christmas

(traveling north)

Town #1 / Hancock: This historic town was first settled in 1764 and was named “Hancock” in honor of the one and only John Hancock. With almost every building on Main Street registered on the National Register of Historic Places, this town is abundant with colonial homes, historic gravesites and quintessential New England charm. If you’re getting a little tired and looking to turn in, make sure to check out the Hancock Inn, which is one of the state’s oldest operating inn. Or just stop to refuel with a classic New England breakfast sandwich at Fiddleheads, also located on the historic main street. 

Town #2 / Henniker: This historic town is filled to the brim with picture worthy spots. In fact, the images above were taken at the Henniker Covered Bridge located near the campus of New England College. Whether you’re driving through, like Matt and I, or exploring a new town in your neck of the woods; this New Hampshire town has everything the locals would want.  From getting to cut down your own Christmas tree at Forster’s Christmas Tree Farm to an afternoon of skiing at Pats Peak ski area, this town is the definition of a winter wonderland.

Town #3 / Hopkinton: First settled in 1736, this historic New Hampshire town is just stunning to drive through. With massive colonial homes, lining its Main Street; you’ll be sure to want to snap a picture, as you drive through. Now as you continue your drive up north, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for antique shops. While Matt and I were traveling north, we found a quaint antique store, right outside of Hopkinton, filled with several flexible flyer sleds! You bet I picked up one or two, honestly I think New Hampshire is one of the best states to go antiquing in! 

Okay, I hope this post inspired you to make the most of your holiday travel this year! & if you’re traveling home for the holidays don’t forget to pack a classic holiday look. This year I’ve been styling these tartan Vineyard Vines pants to almost every outing. Not only are they wicked warm, but they go with just about any colored top! I decided to pair it with this high-necked eyelet top, but have also styled it with a red knit sweater, green wool turtlenecks, and glittering gold blouses. Wishing you all safe travels! 

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