Definitely try the backroads to the lake while you stay in Auburn. It is not a long trip and you'll see more of NH than the interstate. Since we live in Epsom, east of Concord, Rte 28 to Alton and Wolfeboro is a favorite. But we also enjoy Rte 106 up to Laconia and Meredith. These routes do not pass through village centers so you may want to make some side trips. I highly recommend a stop at Canterbury Shaker Village and the Fox Country Smokehouse.