I had understood that the OP was interested in seeing something on the way to Fairlee/Lake Morey where the September 7 wedding will take place. Of course it is possible to go all the way to Fairlee from the airport without stopping.

There is a very good music festival in Randolph Vt on 9/6 (New World Festival) but it sounds as though you will be involved in wedding activities that day.

Actually we aren't directly involved in the wedding, so the music festival on Sunday sounds perfect. Thank you.

There's so much to do, so little time. But everything seems to be such a short drive. I'm use to driving 2 hours just to shop, so this should prove to be a fun trip. I appreciate everyone's help and suggestions. My last experience to the east coast involved delayed flights and a late arrival, which meant missing out on a full day's vacation. It's hard to find lodging that lets you cancel the same day. If everything goes as planned, we could just lolly along and find lodging, but if life throws a curve, looks like we can always stay at airport motels. Thank you very much everyone.

Since you don't mind driving, consider the Alton Bay, Wolfeboro area which is an easy hop from Manchester airport. Unfortunately lodging for just that Saturday evening would probably also be a problem there.
This is a great spot that might have an opening:
www.greystoneinn-nh.com