Manchester, New Hampshire, nestled in the heart of the Granite State, is a vibrant city renowned for its rich history and dynamic cultural scene. As the largest city in New Hampshire, it boasts a diverse array of attractions, from the historic mill buildings along the Merrimack River to the bustling downtown area filled with eclectic shops and eateries. The city is also home to a thriving arts community, highlighted by the Currier Museum of Art and the Palace Theatre. With its blend of historical charm and modern amenities, Manchester offers both residents and visitors a unique New England experience, marked by a strong sense of local pride and a welcoming atmosphere.
If you're a local seeking a weekend escape, read on. With a wide selection of nearby destinations, both domestic and international, there's something for everyone. Here are some weekend getaway ideas for residents in the Manchester, New Hampshire area, all accessible within a direct 4-hour flight. Best of all, these trips can be enjoyed without the need to take annual leave (perfect for those working Monday to Friday, 9 to 5). It all comes down to what you wish to do at your chosen destination.
Washington, DC (IAD, DCA, BWI) - 1 Hour 35 Minute Flight
Why go?
Museums, walking tours, great mass-transit and cherry blossoms. Fly to DCA for convenience.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Washington DC
When to go?
Year-round (spring season for cherry blossoms)
Who can fly you there?
Southwest from MHT - See flight deals
AA from MHT - See flight deals
Allegiant from MHT - See flight deals
United from MHT - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $100+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Pro Tip:
For avid runners, pack your running shoes and go for daily runs around the White House, Washington Monument, Lincoln and Jefferson memorials.
New York, New York (JFK, LGA, EWR, ISP, HPN) - 1 Hour 30 Minute Flight
Why go?
It might not be the same city it was before, but it'll always make for a great weekend getaway.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in New York
When to go?
Summer for the best weather, but you’ll pay peak rates for solid hotels.
Winter for Christmas festivities!
Who can fly you there?
AA from MHT - See flight deals
Delta from MHT - See flight deals
United from MHT - See flight deals
Spirit Airways from MHT - See flight deals
JetBlue from MHT - See flight deals
Southwest from MHT - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $150+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Chicago, Illinois (ORD, MDW) - 2 Hour 40 Minute Flight
Why go?
Food, bars, sports, rivers!
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Chicago
When to go?
Summer
Who can fly you there?
AA from MHT - See flight deals
Southwest from MHT - See flight deals
United from MHT - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $150+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Pro Tip:
For bourbon enthusiasts, visit Untitled Supper Club on W Kinzie for an incredible speakeasy experience.
Miami, Florida (MIA, FLL) - 3 Hour 30 Minute Flight
Why go?
Beaches, outdoors activities, clubs, restaurants, culture. I just ask that you please please please venture out beyond Miami Beach.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Miami
When to go?
Any time of the year, but best is October - February for perfect weather. Avoid the spring break crowd in late Feb/early March the best you can.
Who can fly you there?
AA from MHT - See flight deals
Spirit Airways from MHT - See flight deals
Southwest from MHT - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $90+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Pro Tip:
Visit the following neighborhoods to step away from the "typical Miami": Wynwood, Brickell, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Midtown, Edgewater.
Orlando, Florida (MCO) - 3 Hour 15 Minute Flight
Why go?
Theme parks. Disney & Universal. Bring bug spray and an umbrella if you go during the summer. It's not my favorite city, but there's a reason why it's the #1 tourism city year after year in the US.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Orlando
When to go?
Year-Round
Who can fly you there?
Allegiant from MHT - See flight deals
Spirit Airways from MHT - See flight deals
Frontier from MHT - See flight deals
Southwest from MHT - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $60+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (PHL) - 1 Hour 40 Minute Flight
Why go?
History, sports, cheesesteaks
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Philadelphia
When to go?
Summer and Fall
Who can fly you there?
AA from MHT - See flight deals
Spirit Airlines from MHT - See flight deals
Southwest from MHT - See flight deals
Frontier Airlines from MHT - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $300+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Charleston, South Carolina (CHS) - 2 Hour 30 Minute Flight
Why go?
History, culture, family-friendly attractions, and water sports.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Charleston
When to go?
Spring, Summer and Fall
Who can fly you there?
AA from MHT - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $40+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT) – 2 Hour 30 Minute Flight
Why go?
Diverse Cultural Attractions, Thriving Food Scene, Outdoor Activities, Sports Hub, Historical Significance, Shopping, Festivals and Events.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Charlotte
When to go?
The best times to visit Charlotte are March–May and September–November.
Who can fly you there?
Frontier from MHT - See flight deals
AA from MHT - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $250+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Raleigh, North Carolina (RDU) - 2 Hour Flight
Why go?
Outdoors activities, restaurants, college sports, booming tech sector.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Raleigh
When to go?
Spring, Summer and Fall
Who can fly you there?
Delta from MHT - See flight deals
AA from MHT - See flight deals
Southwest from MHT - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $50+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
