places to visit in new hampshire in the winter

New England Wanderlust

New Hampshire , Winter  ·  November 3, 2022

33 Incredible Things To Do In New Hampshire In The Winter (2023-2024 Season)

New Hampshire is a true winter playground for just about anyone, even if you don’t ski! Of course, there’s plenty of slopes to go around, but if you’re looking for tons of gorgeous winter scenery, cozy hotels and cabins, charming towns to explore and fun ways to play in the snow and celebrate what winter is all about, this post shares the best things to do in New Hampshire in the winter. You may actually look forward to winter after reading this, so let’s get started!

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Things To Do In New Hampshire In The Winter – White Mountains

One of the best places to visit in New Hampshire in the winter season is the White Mountains region. Between cute and cozy little towns to explore, stunning mountains, awesome ski resorts and countless outdoor activities, it’s impossible to run out of things to do. Here are all the best things to do in New Hampshire in the White Mountains during winter.

1. Ski, Of Course!

One of the most popular things to do in New Hampshire in the winter is ski, and whether you’re a pro, or looking to hit the slopes for the very first time, this is one of the best states to visit. You’ll find lots of different ski resorts to choose from, including some great ski-in, ski-out hotels, and a really fun apres ski atmosphere.

Here are some ski resorts and hotels to check out in New Hampshire:

• Cranmore Mountain Ski Resort
• Bretton Woods Ski Resort
• Mount Sunapee Ski Resort
• Attitash Mountain Village
• Mountain Club At Loon
• The Inn At Thorn Hill

2. Splurge On A Stay At The Omni Mount Washington Resort

One resort I didn’t mention above because it deserves its very own place on this list, is the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods. As one of the top luxury resorts in all of New England, if you’re looking for a fun way to splurge or celebrate a special occasion in the winter, this is a place you’ll want to consider.

The resort is a destination in and of itself, and offers amenities like an on-site spa and restaurants, luxury and cozy accommodations, free shuttles to the ski base, equipment rentals, snowshoeing, snowtubing and sleigh rides just outside your room door. It’s really a one stop shop for the perfect winter getaway.

And, of course, you can’t ignore the incredible mountain views every step you take around the resort grounds!

Click here to explore more or book your winter stay at the Omni Mount Washington Resort!

3. Explore North Conway

It’s been voted as the best ski town in North America, so if you’re looking for a memorable winter getaway, North Conway is a place you’ll want to visit. Even if you don’t ski, it has everything you need for a cozy getaway including a very cute little downtown, restaurants featuring fondue service, sleigh rides and the Scenic Conway Railroad (but more on that in a bit).

Location Tip: North Conway is very close to Jackson, which is home to Nestlenook Farms and the Snowsculpting Competition event. See more about those below.

4. Ride The Cog Up Mount Washington

One of my favorite things about New Hampshire in general is that they do an amazing job with railroad tours, which is something very unique to this area. One of the coolest railroad tours they offer is The Cog, which takes visitors up Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast.

In the winter, it’s not safe to go to the summit, but you can get pretty close with a ride on The Cog. Winter excursions take you to Waumbek Station, which is at an elevation of 4,000 feet. Considering that the mountain is just over 6,000 feet, that’s still pretty high in the dead of winter!

Once you reach Waumbek Station on Mount Washington after your scenic ride, you’ll be greeted with warming huts, fire pits and hot beverages to enjoy while you take in the breathtaking views.

5. Drive The Kancamagus Highway

Everyone knows that the Kancamagus Highway is the best scenic drive for fall foliage, but did you know it’s also one of the best things to do in New Hampshire in the winter? The entire route is serviced and plowed all winter long, and makes for a very scenic and relaxing winter drive (as long as it’s not a blizzard, of course!).

This scenic drive takes you through the heart of the White Mountains National Forest along Route 112, and passes by awesome trails, waterfalls, a covered bridge and other beautiful overlooks. It’s an entirely different experience in the winter season, so even if you’ve done it in the fall, I highly suggest you try it out in the winter, too. Many of the overlooks are just as stunning, and you get a real snow globe feeling while driving around.

This drive connects the towns of Lincoln and Conway, and depending on where you’re staying during your trip, you can begin or end in either town. And it’s only about 34 miles long, so it doesn’t take long if you don’t make any stops.

6. Experience Ice Castles

The little town of North Woodstock, close to Lincoln, is home to one of only 5 Ice Castle displays in the country. If you plan to visit in the winter, this is definitely something you’ll want to consider adding to your itinerary for a very magical experience.

Ice Castles features stunning works of art in the form of, you guessed it – castles. But it’s much more than that. Displays change each year, and can also feature ice slides, caves, craw tunnels and sometimes sleigh rides. It’s worth it to experience, even if just once if your lifetime.

Ice Castles in New Hampshire typically runs from the beginning to January through the end of February, and sometimes into the first week of March. But it’s entirely dependent on weather, and they do a wonderful job keeping everyone updated on their social media pages.

7. Ride The Snow Train To The Attitash Mountain Resort

Another wonderful and scenic railroad ride is on the Snow Train, which brings you up to the Attitash Mountain Resort in the mountains. Run by Conway Scenic Railroad, the Snow Train is a more affordable option compared to The Cog train ride, and allows visitors to plan long layovers at the resort to enjoy all the fun winter activities.

Once at the resort, you can enjoy sleigh rides, skiing, snow tubing or a cozy mountain-side lunch before making your way back down to the village on the train.

This train departs from North Conway Village, which is perfect if you’ve chosen that as your home base for your trip.

8. Dine On The River At Schilling Beer

One of the best things to do in New Hampshire in the winter is to get cozy indoors with a pint of the local brews, and one of my favorite places to do that in the White Mountains region is Schilling Beer in Littleton.

Right on the Ammonoosuc River, both their tasting room and taproom are extra cozy this time of the year, and feature scenic views of the river and covered bridge. I also really love their pizzas, so this is a really great spot to nestle into on a cold day.

Click here to read more about all the fun things to do in Littleton!

9. Walk To Flume Covered Bridge

Franconia Notch State Park is a popular attraction in the summer and fall, but there’s still a few fun things you can do here in the winter, too. If it’s not too snowy, you can walk to Flume Covered Bridge at Flume Gorge, which will look especially beautiful with the white snow all around it.

In the winter months, the actual Flume Gorge walkway will be closed, but Flume Covered Bridge is one of the very first things you encounter on the trail before getting to the gorge, and access is still open to the public.

Pro Tip: The walk down to the bridge is fairly steep, so it’s a good idea to pack spikes or boots with good traction for this walk. Otherwise, it should be pretty easy!

Click here to read more about visiting Franconia!

10. Admire Snow Sculptures In Jackson

In the little town of Jackson, you can enjoy the NH Sanctioned & Jackson Invitational Snow Sculpting Competition in January! During the event, the best of the best when it comes to ice sculptures will be creating works of art out of 8-foot tall chunks of ice, and visitors are welcome to stand by and watch them work.

If you’ve never seen ice sculpting in person before, I highly recommend it. Seeing it in person, and witnessing how much talent and heart goes into these pieces, is truly amazing to take in.

The event typically takes place during a weekend, and carvers begin to work on Friday, with their pieces needing to be finished on Sunday for judging, so that’s a really great day to visit, too.

Pro Tip : While in Jackson, be sure to stop by Honeymoon Covered Bridge for a cute photo opp!

11. Go Snow Tubing

It’s hard to not find places to go snow tubing in the White Mountains in the winter season, and this is a really fun way to play in the snow if you’re not into skiing. Plus, it definitely makes you feel like a kid again, and having been a few times as an adult myself, I can confirm it’s super fun.

Most of the big ski resorts will have tubing parks, include tubes to use during your session and usually have a lift system so you don’t have to climb back up the hill. Here are some really great tubing parks to check out:

• Tubing Hill at Bretton Woods Nordic Center
• Attitash Mountain Resort
• Tubing Park at Cranmore Mountain Resort
• Loon Mountain Tubing Park
• King Pine Snow Tubing
• Pats Peak Snow Tubing

12. Have A Dog Sledding Adventure

One of the most memorable things to do in New Hampshire in the winter is to book a dog sledding adventure. If you’ve ever wanted to glide through the forest with these beautiful pups through the snow, I can’t recommend this enough.

Now, the most important thing to know if that you book with an ethical group. You may be wondering if dog sledding is an ethical activity, and it absolutely is, as long as you do your research. Many people don’t realize that these dogs actually love to pull sleds. That’s what they’re bred for, and if they’re not working, they’re unhappy. They also love being in a working pack with a strong leader and getting direction. This is a fun activity for them, and it’s just as fun for you to be a part of.

One place I recommend you check out is Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel . The pups are all well-loved and cared for, and there are a few different tour options to choose from. All tours include time with the pups, too, which is honestly the best part.

13. Try All The Outdoor Winter Sports

New Hampshire is a mecca for all things outdoors in the winter, and if you’ve ever wanted to broaden your horizons and try something new, this is a really great place to do it. Activities like snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and fat biking are readily available everywhere.

Most places will also have rental equipment nearby, too, making it really easy to join in on the fun.

14. Get Pampered At The Soaking Pot

After being outside in the snow all day, one of the best things to do in the winter is to relax with a soothing foot bath at The Soaking Pot. Located in North Conway, The Soaking Pot creates specialized baths to sooth cold and tired feet, which is such a fun way to treat yourself in the winter (especially after skiing all day).

Soaks can also include massages for the ultimate relaxation experience.

15. Get An Adrenaline Rush With Winter Zip Lining

Alpine Adventures in Lincoln has put together a customized course for those looking for an adrenaline rush in the winter. Combining all the very best lines from their park, winter zip lining includes 6 runs that vary in length and height, so pretty anyone is guaranteed to love it.

And the best part? You’ll be surrounded by amazing views of fresh snow on the pine trees and the mountains. It’s a win-win.

16. Eat All The Pancakes At Polly’s Pancake Parlor

Why does eating pancakes in the winter taste so much better? If you’re with me on this, then you’ll want to make sure you add an amazing breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor to your itinerary. This famous restaurant is, of course, known for their pancakes, but all the breakfast foods here are pretty great.

Located in the scenic town of Sugar Hill, it’s worth the trek here to fill up before heading out for a day of playing in the snow.

Pro Tip: For an extra fun souvenir to bring home, keep an eye out for Polly’s Pancake Parlor pancake mixes sold in many of the shops around the area.

17. Visit An Indoor Water Park

Yep, you read that right! The White Mountains is home to Kahuna Laguna, a year-round water park that can be found at the Red Jacket Mountain View Resort in North Conway. If you’re looking for a break from all the snow, this is an awesome place to spend the day.

Inside the water park, you’ll find a wave pool and lots of water slides to choose fly down.

Note : Kahuna Laguna is temporarily closed as of 2022 after a fire at the resort, but plans to reopen in the future.

Romantic Things To Do In New Hampshire In The Winter

If you’re planning a winter getaway to New Hampshire to celebrate a special occasion or just want to plan lots of quality time with your partner, here are my favorite romantic things to do in New Hampshire during the colder months.

18. Visit Nestlenook Farms In Jackson

I don’t think there’s a more romantic place to be in New Hampshire in the winter season than Nestlenook Farms. Located in Jackson, this little farm knows how to celebrate all things cozy in the winter, and offers scenic sleigh rides, the cutest little park for ice skating, magical snowshoeing paths through the woods and fire pits for romantic snuggles.

Oh, and did I mention that the grounds are completely aglow with twinkle lights?

You can also book an overnight stay on the farm, too, for the ultimate cozy experience.

19. Experience The Chocolate Festival

Known as the “sweetest day on the trails,” this chocolate festival is the best way to spend a romantic afternoon together. Businesses along the cross-country ski and snowshoe trails band together and create delicious chocolate treats for tastings as you make your way through the snow-covered trails.

Past creations have included specialty hot cocoa drinks, traditional milk and dark chocolates, baked goods and gourmet chocolate creations.

This event typically takes place in February each year, and tickets are required to participate. Don’t want to make your way through the trails to get to the good stuff? No worries! Each stop is an actual business (like an inn) and welcome people to drive directly there for a fun road trip. Click here to book your tickets!

20. Book A Cozy Cabin For Two

Any mountain region in the winter is bound to be cozy when you book a cabin, and the White Mountains is no exception. One of the most romantic ways to celebrate winter in New Hampshire is to book a cozy cabin for two, and plan to spend a lot of time snugging inside, lighting a fire, watching movies, and admiring the views.

Here are a few places to check out that would make for a perfect winter getaway:

• Romantic Country Cabin w/ A Fireplace
• Treehouse Cabin w/ A Hot Tub
• Tiny House in the Woods w/ A Fire Pit

21. Go On A Winery Tour

Right at the RiverWalk Resort in Lincoln, NH, you’ll find the Seven Birches Tasting Room. But even better? You can take a tour and talk to the winemakers!

During this guided tour, you’ll get to learn about the wine-making process, ask questions, tour the wine production room and sample different varieties. You also get to keep your tasting lass as a fun souvenir of your tour.

Click here to book your Meet The Winemakers Tour in Lincoln!

Things To Do In Portsmouth, NH In The Winter

Portsmouth is one of my favorite places in all of New Hampshire, and also makes for a wonderfully cozy winter getaway. It’s obviously a bit different from the atmosphere in the White Mountains, and here in Portsmouth, you’ll find a more city vibe that still feels rather quaint and charming. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Portsmouth in the winter.

22. Experience Vintage Christmas

If you’re looking for one of the most charming Christmas getaways in New England, Portsmouth should definitely be on your short list. Their Vintage Christmas celebration is a great way to kick off the holiday season, and includes the opening of the skating rink at Strawbery Banke Museum , candlelight strolls, special holiday performances at the local theater and gingerbread house contests.

23. Skate At The Picturesque Puddle Dock Pond Rink

Even though the holiday season is usually the kick-off for the picturesque skating rink at the Strawbery Banke Museum, it’s typically open through the entire winter season.

Puddle Dock Pond transforms into a charming little ice rink that’s backdropped by the historic houses at the museum. Ice skate rentals are also available for a small fee, or you can bring your own!

24. Indulge In Retail Therapy – Tax Free!

Did you know that New Hampshire doesn’t charge sales tax? For that reason, this is an awesome destination to indulge in a little retail therapy. And Market Square in Portsmouth is one of my favorite shopping areas in all of New England.

There are really amazing specialty and independently-owned boutiques in Portsmouth, and if you’re looking to get started with some holiday shopping, or are just on the hunt for a few ways to treat yourself in the winter season, you’re likely to find bags of things to bring home with you.

A few of my favorite shops in Portsmouth are Sault New England , Jane Gee and Pickwick’s Mercantile (located at the Strawbery Banke Museum, and totally worth it!).

25. Unwind With A Massage

Winter is a great time to focus on yourself and practice a little self-care, and getting a massage is such a great way to do that. Work out the kinks from the stress and excitement of the holiday season at one of the several massage therapy boutiques in Portsmouth.

Here are a few places to consider:

• Elements Massage
• The Gift Massage and Bodywork
• Portsmouth Massage Therapy
• Face Body Spirit

26. Snuggle In With A Book And Cocktail At Book & Bar

There’s something extra comforting about getting cozy with a good book in the winter, right? Well, to elevate that experience even more, one of the coolest things to do in New Hampshire in the winter is to head to Book & Bar, where you can buy your next great read, and also grab a cocktail (or beer, or really, any other drink you want).

Not only do they have both a bookstore and a bar, but they also serve really great food, so you can grab a cheese board, pretzel bites or some spinach and artichoke dip, too. On select nights, they also host live music performances.

27. Take In A Show At The Music Hall

The Music Hall is such a gem in Portsmouth! As an old Vaudeville theater from the 1870s, it still hosts incredible music and live performances to this day. On a cold wintery night, one of the best things to do is take in a show, and you’ll find everything from stand-up comedy, book readings and musicals at this very historic and special little theater.

Other Great Things To Do In New Hampshire In The Winter

28. go beer tasting at the flight center in nashua.

The Flight Center in Nashua is such a great place to spend a cold wintery day. They’ve made it into a space that invites people to relax and spend quality time together, all while serving up some of the best craft beers from the New England region.

And not only can you get a beer flight or pint here, they also have a great food menu with pizzas and other comforting favorites like nachos, fried pickles and charcuterie.

29. Explore The Cute Town Of Walpole

Walpole is a cute little town in southern New Hampshire that’s only about 30 minutes from Keene, and I find it especially charming in the winter. Now, there’s not a ton to do in Walpole, but that makes it a very relaxing way to spend a beautiful wintery afternoon.

During your visit, you’ll want to start with grabbing a delicious cup of hot cocoa from L.A. Burdick that you can sip on while you stroll. If you get hungry, pop into the Hungry Diner for some awesome farm-to-table food (including local beers and hard ciders!). For dessert, pop into the parlor at Walpole Creamery and try their seasonal flavors (yep, even in the winter).

30. Shop The Winter Farmer’s Market In Concord

November through April, shop for all your local foods at the Concord Winter Farmer’s Market! Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t source out fresh and delicious local foods, and this farmer’s market is a great way to stock up on special ingredients for a hearty and cozy winter meal.

Not only will you find local foods here, you’ll also be able to browse through speciality items like handmade soaps, crafts and even treats for your pets.

31. Meander Through Exeter

Exeter is another lovely and charming little town in New Hampshire that makes the winter season enjoyable and exciting. And it’s only a short 25-minute drive from Portsmouth, so if you’re visiting one, you can easily venture over to the other for the ultimate southern New Hampshire winter vacation.

Exeter is not only a cute little town, it also makes all the winter activities you think of when visiting the White Mountains accessible in the southern half of the state. You’ll be able to go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snow tubing in Exeter.

But, if it’s a more relaxing and peaceful winter getaway you’re looking for, you can slow down a bit with an afternoon at the spa, strolling through the beautiful shops and cozying up at a charming inn.

32. Attend A Winter Festival

There are so many winter festival throughout New Hampshire every winter that it’s hard to keep up with them all! But one thing’s for sure, they’re all really fun and a great way to get outside and celebrate winter.

Keene does a great job with their Annual Ice and Snow Festival, which includes snow ball fights, lots of hot chocolate and ice sculpture contests.

Another awesome one to check out is the Winter Carnival in Hooksett, where you’ll find lots of winter contests, sledding, corn hole games and yes, more ice sculpting!

33. Visit A Sugar Shack

At the end of the winter season in New Hampshire, the maple harvest begins! This actually flows into spring, but in New Hampshire, winter pretty much lingers through April in most areas. But during this time of the year, sugar shacks are open, and offering tastings! Some even do tours of their tree taps if you time your visit just right.

Some really awesome sugar shacks to check out are:

• Benton’s Sugar Shack in Thornton – Awesome breakfast restaurant, with a cute little store where you can buy their own syrups. They also have a viewing area to watch the syrup being made.
• Folsom’s Sugar House in Chester – Cute little shack which offers tastings, all kinds of maple products to take home and demonstrations.
• Blueberry Hill Sugarworks in Raymond – An adorable little shack known for their whiskey barrel aged syrups.
• Ben’s Sugar Shack in Temple – One of the larger sugar shacks in the state that offers lots of maple products, syrups and even has maple donuts!
• Stuart & John’s Sugar House in Westmoreland – A sugar shack with an awesome restaurant that has all kinds of maple foods to order – including maple pull-apart squares!

Best Places To Stay In New Hampshire In The Winter

Aside from the Omni Mount Washington Resort, which was mentioned earlier in this post, these are my suggestions on the best places to stay. I included a mix of awesome ski resorts in the White Mountains and charming hotels in Portsmouth.

The RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain in Lincoln is an awesome choice for skiers in the White Mountains. The resort offers a free shuttle to the mountain base, an on-site spa, restaurant and winery tasting room, and turns their pool into an outdoor ice rink in the winter .

→ Click here to book your stay at RiverWalk At Loon Mountain!

The Christmas Farm Inn in Jackson is another amazing option in the White Mountains region. Besides the perfect wintery name, it’s also insanely cozy. Enjoy amenities like on-site dining, an on-site spa, lots of room choices, including cozy cabins and cottages, and a great location in Jackson!

→ Click here to check out the Christmas Farm Inn in Jackson

For a luxurious winter escape in the mountains, the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods is absolutely perfect. Known as one of the best resorts in New Hampshire, you can enjoy on-site dining, a spa, lots of winter activities, skiing nearby, and you’re also minutes away to The Cog, which runs in the winter as mentioned 😊

→ Click here to check out the Omni Mount Washington Resort

The Hotel Portsmouth right in the heart of Portsmouth is an awesome choice for a winter getaway. It’s only a short walk to Market Square for shopping and restaurants, and the rooms are updated and modern, but super cozy at the same time.

→ Click here to check out The Hotel Portsmouth

For a budget option in Portsmouth , I really like recommending the Port Inn & Suites . It’s just a few minutes from downtown, and the rooms here are clean, spacious and comfortable , while saving you a few extra bucks during your stay.

→ Click here to check out the Port Inn & Suites

Psst! I have an entire guide on Where To Stay In The White Mountains if you’re looking for more information on the best towns and hotels 😉

What Is The Weather Like In New Hampshire In The Winter?

New Hampshire is actually the third snowiest state in the U.S., so it’s pretty safe to plan on having snow if you visit in December, January, February or March. It can vary a bit by region, but the White Mountains will often be colder than the rest of the state because of the higher elevation. There, you should anticipate daily averages of around 25°F during the day.

South of the White Mountains, you can expect average daily temperatures of around 30-35°F.

If you plan to fly in, you’ll definitely want to rent a car with reliable tires, and perhaps an SUV is a good idea.

Just keep in mind, though, that as with any New England state, there are flukes in weather patterns, and the past few years, especially, have shown that the new pattern is weather extremes due to global warming. I’ve personally been experiencing lots of fluctuations between warm(ish) and cold weather while traveling through New Hampshire in the winter, and even the mountains aren’t safe from random warm days. It also looks like experts opinions show these fluctuations are the new norm going forward.

New England is definitely moody, and I always like to remind people that it could have a mood swing at any time!

What To Pack For Winter In New Hampshire?

Now that you know what to prepare for in terms of temperatures and snow, here are some things to consider packing for your winter trip to New Hampshire:

• A good parka . I’ve used Eddie Bauer winter parkas like this one for years and swear by them for most winter trips.
• Warm, waterproof boots . I’m a big fan of Sorel boots because they keep me super warm, and they’re also stylish. I like these for playing in the snow , and these for walking around towns . The important thing to make sure is that your boots are waterproof so you stay dry and warm!
• Base layers . These from Amazon work really well, are inexpensive, moisture-wicking and will help keep you warm when playing in the snow.
• Warm socks that will keep you dry . I recommend these Darn Tough socks in all my winter packing lists because they’re truly worth the investment and come with a lifetime guarantee. Plus, they’re made right in Vermont, so you’re keeping it in the New England family.
• Warm hats, gloves/mittens and scarves . I really like these North Face beanies because they’re extra warm, but also look cute. But always go for warmth over style when shopping for your New Hampshire winter vacation.
• HotHands! You have no idea how much these come in handy for very cold days. Buy a pack on Amazon and thank me later.
• Waterproof snow pants if you plan to do anything in the snow, including dogsledding, snowtubing, skiing, etc. If you need some for your trip, these from Amazon will do the trick .
• For clothing when not playing in the snow, jeans and sweaters work great. I also often layer my sweaters with turtlenecks underneath for extra warmth if needed.

Pro packing tip : Keep your wardrobe casual for this trip! Unless you’re planning on a very fancy dinner out in a place like Portsmouth, everything is very casual here, and there’s no need to pack any fancy clothes.

You may also enjoy reading:

• Best New England Winter Getaways
• Christmas in New Hampshire: Where To Go & Festive Things To Do
• Best Things To Do In Vermont in the Winter
• Best New England Christmas Towns
• The Ultimate New England Bucket List
• Things To Do In Newport, RI In The Winter
• Things To Do In Maine In The Winter
• Things To Do In Portland, Maine In The Winter
• Gorgeous New Hampshire Covered Bridges You Should See
• Fall In New Hampshire: The Best Things To Do

That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do In New Hampshire In The Winter

And there you have it! Now that you know all the very best things to do in New Hampshire in the winter season, hopefully you’re feeling inspired to plan your own adventure. It truly is such a magical state to visit in the colder months, and they really know how to celebrate the best of winter, including featuring the seasonal flavors at restaurants, cozying up by a post-ski fire pit and offering so many options to play in the snow. Happy planning!

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17 Ways to Have Fun in New Hampshire This Winter

Every region of New Hampshire offers a good dose of winter fun, from zip-lining through the forest to ice skating in a historic seaside town.

By Cathryn McCann

Dec 15 2021

New Hampshire Winter Fun | Bretton Woods Canopy Tour

With its abundance of snow and ice, winter in New Hampshire creates an unbeatable seasonal playground filled with unique, adventurous, and (most important!) fun activities. The state’s seven distinct regions offer everything from zip-lining through the forest to carving fresh powder on the slopes; more mellow options include pond skating by the ocean and sipping gourmet hot chocolate. So no matter who you are and what you love to do, you can find some great ways to enjoy the New Hampshire winter. Here are some of our favorite ideas to get you inspired.

New Hampshire Winter Fun | Ways to Embrace the Cold

Winter zip-lining  | mount washington resort, bretton woods.

If you like going along for the ride, consider zipping up to 165 feet above the ground at speeds of up to 30 mph in the heart of the White Mountains. The three-hour guided tour offers a little bit of excitement, a little bit of education, some pretty incredible views, and a whole lot of fun.

Cosmic Snow Tubing | Granite Gorge, Keene .css-1yazzzz{color:#ff0000;} Please note: Cosmic Snow Tubing is currently closed, but Granite Gorge is open for regular tubing.

There’s snow tubing, and then there’s cosmic snow tubing. Granite Gorge Ski Area in western New Hampshire offers some of the state’s best snow tubing with the unique added fun of neon lights, disco balls, glow-bead necklaces, and a DJ on Saturday nights.

Plan Your Perfect Summer Adventure: Get The Free Ultimate New England Summer Guide!

Alpine Skiing  | Waterville Valley Resort, Waterville Valley

With 50 trails and 11 operating lifts, this smaller full-service resort rarely sees large lines. Plus, all the trails are covered by snowmaking technology, freeing skiers of dependence on finicky Mother Nature. The warmer, south-facing slope is an added bonus for those who aren’t big fans of the chill factor.

Giant Swing  | Cranmore Mountain Resort, North Conway

It’s like a fair ride but much bigger, and in the middle of winter. The Giant Swing at Cranmore Mountain in North Conway allows up to four people at a time to swing high into the sky — a thrilling new way to enjoy mountain views.

Cross Country Skiing  | Jackson XC, Jackson

If immersing yourself in a winter wonderland sounds tempting, head to Jackson, where you’ll find 56 expertly groomed cross-country skiing trails, including easier backcountry skiing and more intense skate skiing on an international race course. Cold? Stop at the warming cabin, grab a hot beverage at Cocoa Café, or try out any of the pubs, inns, and eateries right off the trails.

Snowshoeing  | Bear Notch Ski Touring Center, Bartlett

Strap on some snowshoes and go for a walk among waterfalls, meadows, riverside views, and hills along the 40-plus miles of groomed trails at Bear Notch Ski Touring Center in northern New Hampshire. Grab some rentals if you don’t have equipment, and be sure to warm those fingers and toes afterward with hot chocolate or soup in the warming hut.

SnowCoach Tour  | Great Glen Trails, Gorham

Mount Washington in the winter is an awe-inspiring place. Given that it’s home to some of the most extreme winds and weather in the world, getting above its tree line in the winter is only for expert mountaineers. Less experienced adventurers, however, can hop aboard the SnowCoach, a 12-passenger vehicle that rides on four tracks rather than wheels, for a trip into the subarctic environment as it journeys two-thirds of the way to the summit and back down again.

Mountain Coaster  | Gunstock Mountain Resort, Gilford

Can’t make it to Florida? Meet New Hampshire’s winter take on Disney World. The Mountain Coaster’s two-person carts chug uphill through the forest before plunging down and around at speeds of up to 25 mph. You can use the cart’s braking system to slow the ride to a pace of your comfort.

Ice Skating  | Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond, Portsmouth

There’s plenty of great shopping and dining to be had in the beautiful Seacoast region of New Hampshire, but a great addition to any winter day here involves putting on some skates and gliding out onto Puddle Dock Pond at Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth. Rentals and lessons are available.

Fat Biking  | Mount Washington Valley Ski Touring Center, Intervale

Does biking through the Mount Washington Valley sound like a dream? Add the elements of winter and a bike with supersized tires, and you’ve got yourself a terrific way to do some wintertime exploration. Mount Washington Valley Ski Touring Center in Intervale has groomed trails in the Whitaker Woods specifically for biking, making it a perfect place to try out this relatively new winter sport.

Ice Castles | Ice Castles, North Woodstock

If you’re in the Woodstock area and are up for a chilling but delightful experience, Ice Castles is a magical place where you can wander through towering ice structures or play on ice slides. Since all the attractions here are carved from approximately 25,000 pounds of ice, the start and end dates each year are weather-dependent, but recent seasons have run from mid-January until early March.

Snowmobiling  | Pittsburg Ridge Runners, Pittsburg

Northern New Hampshire has some of the best snowmobiling in the country, so if you prefer to get your winter fix at high speed, consider heading to the Great North Woods. The Pittsburg Ridge Runners, the state’s largest snowmobile club, grooms more than 200 miles of trails connecting to Canada, Vermont, and Maine.

Sled Dog Adventure  | Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel, Jefferson

Hurtle through snowy scenes of the White Mountains behind a team of rescue dogs at Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel in Jefferson. There’s a variety of tour options, and guests are given the opportunity to harness and hitch the team — and maybe even help drive the sled.

New Hampshire Winter Fun | Ways to Escape the Cold

Get hot chocolate  | l.a. burdick handmade chocolates, walpole.

The home base of the famous handmade chocolate brand L.A. Burdick is situated in the classic small town of Walpole. The shop and café on Main Street offers a wide array of chocolates, pastries, and drinks in an environment perfect for relaxing or visiting. Try the decadent “drinking chocolates,” including dark, milk, and white chocolate options.

See a Movie  | Red River Theatres, Concord

There’s something really cozy about heading to a movie theater on a cold winter night, and a great place to go is right in downtown Concord. At the state-of-the-art Red River Theatres, you can discover independent films, enjoy the classics, and check out local and regional film projects.

Eat Pancakes | Polly’s Pancake Parlor, Sugar Hill

Sometimes a cold winter day simply demands a stack of warm, delicious pancakes. And you’ll get just that at Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill. It’s a truly local experience, given that the pancakes are made from scratch and topped with New Hampshire maple syrup. The light, fluffy flapjacks have made the place famous for over 75 years.

Drink Beer  | The Flight Center, Nashua

Thanks to New Hampshire’s ever-expanding craft beer scene, you can enjoy a cold one at multiple breweries in every region of the state. If you’re hoping to try a wide selection of local brews, though, head to the Flight Center in Nashua. The lounge and bottle shop has 48 rotating taps, allowing visitors to try some of the best New Hampshire and New England beers.

What’s your favorite way to have winter fun in New Hampshire? Let us know!

This post was first published in 2019 and has been updated. 

SEE MORE: Guide to New Hampshire Ski Resorts Exploring the Ice Castle in Lincoln, New Hampshire Polly’s Pancake Parlor | Breakfast in the White Mountains

Cathryn McCann

As Digital Assistant Editor, Cathryn writes, manages, and promotes content for NewEngland.com and its social media channels. Prior to this role, she lived and worked on Martha’s Vineyard as a newspaper reporter, covering everything from environmental issues and education to crime and politics. Originally from New Hampshire, Cathryn spends most of her time out of the office on the trails, slopes, or by the water.

8 Gorgeous New Hampshire Winter Getaways

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What makes good New Hampshire winter getaways? Snow — and lots of it. Lots of outdoor activities that go beyond skiing. A cozy place to return to — perhaps with a fireplace, a blanket, and a nice, hot beverage waiting for you.

Winter is a wonderful time of year in New Hampshire. We have stunningly beautiful mountain landscapes, some of the best ski resorts on the East Coast, and adorable small towns that look like they were plucked from a painting.

When it comes to New Hampshire winter vacations, there is a surprising amount of variety in what you can do — so we at New Hampshire Way sat down to create winter travel guides to our favorite handpicked destinations.

And man, was this post fun to write! You’re going to love these winter adventures. (And don’t forget to check out our favorite things to do in New Hampshire in the winter !)

This post was most recently updated in November 2023.

Table of Contents

Choosing the Right NH Trip in Winter

New Hampshire might be a small state — but there’s an enormous variety in New Hampshire winter vacations. So how do you choose? Start by imagining the kind of trip you want. There’s a world of difference between a B&B in buzzing North Conway Village and a cabin rental by the Canadian border in Pittsburg!

Consider the kinds of outdoor activities you want to do. Do you plan to ski? Maybe hike or snowshoe? Something less active, like sleigh rides or dog sledding?

Consider the location. Do you want to be somewhere isolated and rural, or would you rather have dining and shopping options around? Do you want to bring groceries or go out for your meals?

Consider your accommodation. Would you rather be in a small B&B or inn? Do you like the feel of a big resort? Or would you rather rent your own cabin, house, or apartment?

Narrow down what you’re looking for and you’ll be well on your way to a memorable New Hampshire winter trip.

If you’re looking for romance, quiet, and solitude, we would head to a small picturesque town and stay at a cozy inn like the Sugar Hill Inn near Franconia or The Wentworth in Jackson .

North Conway is a great option for both skiers and people who don’t ski. It has shopping and dining, and other winter activities like sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

If you’re based in Boston, New Hampshire’s Monadnock region is less than two hours away. Portsmouth is even closer if you want a nontraditional city winter getaway.

Bretton Woods is a great outdoor getaway for kids (and adults!) of all ages. North Conway is another family-friendly option.

North Conway

North Conway is the winter getaway for you if you want an adorable town with lots of amenities, shopping, easy access to ski mountains, and lots of outdoor activities.

Of course we list North Conway first — it’s the quintessential New Hampshire winter getaway! Right on the edge of the White Mountain National Forest and the Kancamagus Highway, this tiny town gives you easy access to New Hampshire’s best ski resorts, winter activities, and what seems like a scenic spot in every direction.

If you’re looking to ski, North Conway has easy access to Attitash and Cranmore Mountain resorts. Wildcat Mountain and Bretton Woods are further away but doable. Jackson is right up the road with excellent cross-country trails, and snowmobile trails criss-cross the region. ( See our full NH ski resorts guide here. ) And North Conway is a great place to try ice climbing !

If you’re not as athletically oriented, there are plenty more activities in the North Conway area: sleigh rides, cozy restaurants, cafes, and breweries; and tons of shopping options (hello, Settlers Green outlets !). The Conway Scenic Railroad even runs a “snow train” to Attitash and back.

We think North Conway is a fabulous choice for groups of friends, couples, families, and New Hampshire travelers who like a lot of variety on a trip. Some athletic activities, some lazier activities, all wrapped up in a quintessential New England village.

Read More: Best Things to Do in North Conway, NH

Where to Stay in North Conway

Hotels and Inns: North Conway has an outstanding selection of bed and breakfasts, inns, and boutique hotels. We are especially big fans of the Cranmore Inn , and the Buttonwood Inn on Mount Surprise , just outside town.

Cabins, Homes, and Rentals: This large house across from Cranmore Mountain is perfect for big families, this “chicken coop” of a home is cozy and pet-friendly, and this timber home is an Instagrammable winter dream.

Find deals on hotels in North Conway here and see all North Conway home rentals here .

Our Full Guide: The Best North Conway Hotels and B&Bs

Monadnock is the New Hampshire winter getaway for you if you love driving through postcard-perfect winter villages, staying at a cozy B&B, and enjoying small town New England.

We think the Monadnock region of southwest New Hampshire is one of the Granite State’s best kept secrets — and if you’re looking for a cozy, low-key winter getaway, this is where you want to be.

Keene is the biggest hub of the region, but it feels like a funky, youthful small town. And as you leave Keene and drive those country roads, you’ll be stunned by how much it looks like it could be the 1800s. This is the place to stay in a cozy bed and breakfast, watching the snow fall from your window.

You don’t come here to ski. (Granite Gorge was a reliable local option, but it closed following the pandemic.) Instead, drive around and explore: visit breweries (we love Post & Beam Brewing and Branch & Blade Brewing ), go antique shopping in Peterborough and Fitzwilliam, take a sleigh ride at Stonewall Farm , drop by New England Sweetwater Distillery or Copper Cannon Distillery to sample some spirits.

We think Monadnock is one of the best New Hampshire winter getaways for couples, solo travelers, and adult friend groups who relish exploring small towns and would rather drive around and explore than tick off a long checklist.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Keene and Monadnock, NH

Where to Stay in Monadnock

Hotels and Inns: For a winter getaway to Monadnock, we strongly recommend one of the area’s excellent bed and breakfasts. Two solid options are The Bridges Inn in Swanzey and The Chesterfield Inn in West Chesterfield, both with lovely fireplaces.

If you want to enjoy exploring Keene on foot, Elm City Carriage Barn is perfectly situated and lovely. The Monadnock Inn in Jaffrey Center is a very good value-for-money option.

Cabins, Homes, and Rentals: Did you know you can stay in an actual treehouse in Monadnock? We also love this gourmand’s cottage near the base of Mount Monadnock, that comes with a world-class kitchen and closet of spices.

Find deals on hotels in Monadnock here and see all Monadnock home rentals here .

Jackson is the New Hampshire winter getaway for you if you want to enjoy the White Mountains in a cozy, low-key atmosphere — and lots of cross-country skiing.

Jackson is a short drive from North Conway, but feels like a world away. As soon as you cross the Honeymoon Covered Bridge, you’ve entered a classic New England village with rolling hills (and edged with high-ticket bed and breakfasts).

In Jackson you have easy access to several ski resorts: Cranmore Mountain, Attitash, and Wildcat Mountain are within a short drive. But Jackson truly excels when it comes to cross-country skiing. There are more than 50 trails covering more than 100 kilometers (62 miles), extensive trailside dining, and JacksonXC is a great resource for people looking to ski.

But there’s way more than skiing. Nestlenook Farm is a favorite Jackson stop for sleigh rides and ice skating. And when you’re ready for some indoor time, we recommend a visit to White Mountain Puzzles . This company still makes all of their own puzzles and the business is a treasure!

We think Jackson makes an excellent romantic getaway, where you can relish the quiet, hide away from the world, and enjoy plush accommodations. And if you need a bit more excitement? North Conway is right down the road.

Where to Stay in Jackson, NH

Hotels and Inns: Jackson is a hub for excellent, high-end B&Bs. The Wentworth has an upscale homey atmosphere and a billiards table; the Inn at Jackson has traditional decor and a fireplace surrounded by leather chairs. The Christmas Farm Inn and Spa has an Aveda spa on property, a great way to recharge.

Cabins, Homes, and Rentals: We love this cozy pet-friendly cottage , this two-bedroom peach Victorian home is out of a storybook, and if you want to be central, in this home where you can ski right onto the town common !

Find deals on hotels in Jackson here and see all Jackson home rentals here.

Pittsburg is the winter getaway for you if you want to get far away from the world — even by New Hampshire standards — and get on a snowmobile.

If you’re unfamiliar with Pittsburg, you’re not alone — this town (unlike the city in Pennsylvania, there’s no h on the end) is the northernmost town of New Hampshire, deep in the Great North Woods. During the summer, people come to Pittsburg for pristine lakes and some of New England’s best stargazing; in the winter, however, it’s all about snowmobiling!

While New Hampshire is an excellent state for snowmobiling, Pittsburg takes it to the next level with extensive, well-maintained trails. You can even earn bragging rights by snowmobiling into Québec! The Pittsburg Ridge Runners have all the information you need on exploring the region safely.

Not a snowmobiler? You can cross-country ski or snowshoe along the trails, or try your hand at ice fishing. While some of the lakes are safe for ice skating, there’s also a rink next to the Congregational Church in downtown Pittsburg.

Dog sledding is popular in the snow-rich areas of the Great North Woods. If you’re keen to try, we recommend checking out New England Dog Sledding in nearby Colebrook or Northern Exposure Outfitters in Milan. ( See our full dog sledding New Hampshire guide here. )

Otherwise, come with groceries and a stack of library books, make yourself a nice hot tea or cocktail, and build a fire in the fireplace. This is the time of year for savoring early sunsets and cold, clean air. When you need a New Hampshire winter vacation to recharge, Pittsburg is a great choice.

Where to Stay in Pittsburg

You don’t come to Pittsburg for hotels — here it’s all about home rentals. Head south to Colebrook for more accommodation options, like the Mohawk Cottages , a collection of five cozy bungalows.

This affordable cabin has a porch with views of Lake Francis, this new and modern home has a wooden interior and huge windows, and this little red cabin on Lake Francis is straight out of Instagram.

See all Pittsburg home rentals here.

Bretton Woods

Bretton Woods is the New Hampshire winter getaway for you if you want to experience one of New England’s best winter resorts, with all the bells and whistles you could ask for.

In New Hampshire, Bretton Woods is often synonymous with the Omni Mount Washington Resort. This historic hotel is a New Hampshire legend and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986. Today people flock here to enjoy winter outdoor fun in the shadow of Mount Washington.

So what is there to do here? Quite a bit. Tons of alpine skiing trails, and of course snowboarding. Tons of cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails. Guided backcountry skiing, if that’s your thing. Snow tubing! Winter ziplining canopy tours! Scenic gondola rides! Fat tire biking in the snow!

Nearby, you can take the Mount Washington Cog Railway (yes, it runs in the winter, but not all the way to the top). Muddy Paw Dogsledding is just 25 minutes away in Jefferson.

Bretton Woods is an excellent New Hampshire winter vacation for families, couples, groups of friends, and people who want all kinds of outdoor activities at their fingertips. And if you don’t want to leave the premises for a week, that’s fine — you won’t run out of things to do.

Read more: The Best NH Ski Resorts

Where to Stay in Bretton Woods

Hotels and Inns: In Bretton Woods it’s all about the Omni Mount Washington Resort . The most luxurious property in New Hampshire and a solid option with more winter fun than you ever imagined. It’s pricey, but New Hampshire winter vacations don’t get better than this!

Cabins, homes, and rentals : This four-person ski-out condo calls itself “affordable luxury,” this forested cottage is a short walk from the beginner skiing areas, and it you’re looking for spectacular views from giant windows, this five-bedroom home will blow you away.

Find deals on Bretton Woods hotels here and see all Bretton Woods home rentals here .

Meredith is the New Hampshire getaway for you if you love quiet off-season trips — and you’re keen to try some ice fishing.

Lake Winnipesaukee? In the winter?! We’re serious. Lake Winnipesaukee claims to be the oldest summer resort in America, but it can be a four-season destination with plenty of winter fun.

Meredith is one of our favorite Winnipesaukee towns, and it looks absolutely beautiful under fresh snowfall. Meredith also hosts a number of winter events: the Great Meredith Rotary Ice Fishing Derby , and the New England Pond Classic ice hockey game, and the Laconia Sled Dog Derby is just down the road.

Ice fishing is one of the best things to do in Lake Winnipesaukee in the winter, and if you want to learn, the Tackle Shack can set you up with all the gear you need.

Looking to warm up on a chilly day? Spend an afternoon at the Spa at Mills Falls , try some wines at Hermit Woods Winery or some beers with a side of board games at Twin Barns Brewing . Browse for new reads at Innisfree Bookshop or hit up the games at Funspot .

And if you’re in the mood for a little bit of skiing on your Meredith winter getaway, Gunstock Mountain Resort is just down the road.

Read More: Things to Do in Lake Winnipesaukee

Where to Stay in Meredith

Hotels and Inns: Ballard House Inn is a solid B&B right in Meredith with easy access to everything in town; another traditional option is The Nutmeg Inn . Willing to go a bit further? We recommend the Center Harbor Sutton House B&B next door to Meredith in the town of Center Harbor, complete with its handmade quilts.

Cabins, Homes, and Rentals: This all-wood craftsman cottage feels so cozy and warm; and if you’re on a budget, this one-bedroom apartment is great value.

Find deals on Meredith hotels here and see all Meredith home rentals here .

Portsmouth is the New Hampshire winter getaway for you if you want a chic urban atmosphere with lots of shops, restaurants, bars, and breweries to explore…when the summer crowds are long gone.

You might think of Portsmouth as a summer destination — and frankly, you’d be right. Portsmouth and the Seacoast truly come to life during the summer months, with boat rides along the Piscataqua River and concerts in Prescott Park.

But in the winter? You get Portsmouth all to yourself. You can go out to eat and not have to wait for a table. You can go to a brewery and have a long chat with the brewer about the latest beers on tap. You can stroll through historic sites without feeling the crowds.

You might get lucky and experience some snowfall in Portsmouth — but due to its coastal location, you don’t get heavy snowbanks. Instead, you get a lot of wind — so be ready to duck into the nearest adorable shop!

Portsmouth is more of an urban adventure type of winter destination. Instead of skiing or snowshoeing, spend your days hopping from cafes (we love Cup of Joe and Popovers on the Square ) to breweries (we love Great Rhythm and Portsmouth Brewery ).

In the winter you can go ice skating at Puddle Duck Pond at the Strawbery Banke Museum, visit the U.S.S. Albacore (though they close from Christmas to mid-February), or drive down to the Seacoast Science Center in Odiorne State Park.

If you visit Portsmouth in December, it’s all decked out for the Christmas season, with Christmas trolleys, holiday lights, and window displays! On weekends you can experience the Candlelight Stroll at Strawbery Banke.

Portsmouth is the New Hampshire winter getaway for urban adventurers who don’t let a little cold weather ruin their fun time! During this time of year we think Portsmouth is a better fit for solo travelers, couples, and groups of adults than young families; bring the kids in the summer.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH

Where to Stay in Portsmouth

Hotels and Inns: The Sailmaker’s House makes an excellent splurge, one of the best independent properties in town. We’re also fans of the stylish Ale House Inn . If you want a spa to warm up from the cold, we recommend the Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel .

Cabins, Homes, and Rentals: We love this simple one-bedroom (and it’s a great value for money) and if you want more space, this three-bedroom historic home is lovely.

Find deals on Portsmouth hotels here and see all Portsmouth home rentals here.

Our Full Guide: Where to Stay in Portsmouth, NH

Franconia is the New Hampshire winter getaway for you if you want to enjoy the White Mountains without the crowds, with fun breweries and easy access to beautiful hikes.

We say Franconia here, but we’re using it to refer to Franconia Notch and four towns in the northwest corner of the White Mountains: Franconia, Sugar Hill, Bethlehem, and Littleton. This is an outstanding part of New Hampshire, filled with great beauty and small towns.

As far as skiing goes in Franconia, you have easy access to Cannon Mountain; Bretton Woods and Loon Mountain are each a 30-minute drive away.

But beyond that, it’s all about the hiking. Some of the best winter hikes in New Hampshire are in Franconia Notch, from the easy, classic Flume Gorge trail to challenging Franconia Ridge. Be sure to have the proper gear for winter hiking. In many cases you’ll need snowshoes.

Beyond hiking, you can take a sleigh ride at Franconia Notch Stables , go ice skating at Franconia Inn , or visit Ice Castles down in North Woodstock.

And for us, no trip to the Franconia area is complete without a visit to Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill! And we love warming up at the cozy breweries in the area: Rek-Lis Brewing in Bethlehem, Schilling Beer Co in Littleton (in fact, save an afternoon for exploring downtown Littleton), and Iron Furnace Brewing in Franconia.

Franconia is the New Hampshire winter getaway for you if you want to spend your days out winter hiking — then coming back to reward yourself with a warm beverage and a nice spot by the fireplace.

Where to Stay in Franconia

Hotels and Inns: If you’re going to splurge, go for the Sugar Hill Inn , one of the best B&Bs in the White Mountains and worth every penny. We’re also big fans of the Adair Country Resort in Bethlehem and Kinsman Lodge in Franconia is a good value option with a lovely innkeeper.

Cabins, Homes, and Rentals: This home near Cannon Mountain in Franconia has a new jacuzzi, this affordable log cabin is walking distance from downtown Bethlehem (and one of our favorite breweries, Rek-Lis), and if you want wow factor, this Sugar Hill log cabin is on 14.5 private acres.

Find deals on Franconia hotels here and see all Franconia home rentals here .

More on New Hampshire in the Winter:

• Things to Do in New Hampshire in the Winter
• The Best NH Ski Resorts
• Where to Go Dog Sledding in New Hampshire
• New Hampshire’s Best Sleigh Rides
• Where to Go Snow and Ice Climbing in New Hampshire
• Ultimate Guide to Christmas in New Hampshire: 2022 Events

Best of New Hampshire:

• 50+ Best Things to Do in New Hampshire
• The Best New Hampshire Breweries
• New Hampshire Outdoor and Indoor Water Parks
• New Hampshire Fall Foliage: When and Where To Go
• 30 Unforgettable Things To Do In The White Mountains, NH

What’s your favorite New Hampshire winter getaway?

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Top 10 Things to Do in New Hampshire in the Winter (White Mountains and Great North Woods)

Post summary:  A round up of the best things to do in the White Mountains and Great North Woods Regions of New Hampshire in the winter

Looking for the ultimate winter getaway in New England?

New Hampshire’s White Mountains and Great North Woods are packed with exciting activities to make your winter extraordinary.

Whether you’re mushing with spirited sled dogs, cozying up in a charming mountain inn, or exploring the snowy peaks with a SnowCoach tour, there’s something in New Hampshire for everyone.

This guide highlights the top winter experiences in New Hampshire (based on our own experience!) to ensure your trip is packed with both adventure and relaxation.

Table of Contents

Guides to help you plan your White Mountains, New Hampshire Road Trip

How to Use Google Maps to Plan Your Next Road Trip (Step-By-Step Tutorial With Examples)

What to Pack for a Day Hike: Essential Gear and Complete Packing List

The Best Microspikes for Hiking on Ice and Snow

15 Useful Apps to Download Before Your Next Road Trip (for Free!)

Best things to do during winter in New Hampshire – White Mountains and Great North Woods

1. go dog sledding with muddy paw sled dog.

New Hampshire has a rich dog sledding history that dates back to the early 1900s. It’s weaved into the history of the area from back when dog sledding was used by early explorers.

To be honest, we were hesitant to book dog sledding at first, as we are with any form of “animal tourism”. But I’m glad we decided to give it a try because I truly believe that it’s perfectly ethical if you do your due diligence and after seeing how much the dogs truly love it, I can’t recommend it enough!

This was our first time dog sledding, so we chose the introductory 1.5 hour mush tour with Muddy Paw Sled Dog.

We chose this company because I love that they founded a nonprofit Sled Dog Rescue and Education Center that takes in rescues and gives sled dogs a second chance.

The tour starts with a meet and greet with the dogs and is very educational. It’s immediately clear that the mushers are so passionate about the dogs and their job. During our mush, we learned about how they feed the dogs, how they train them, and how they decide what order they mush in (which is all dictated by the dog).

Getting there: Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel,  32 Valley Rd, Jefferson, NH 03583

2. Stay at a cozy inn

New Hampshire is famous for its quintessential cozy mountain inns, and after traveling New Hampshire many times, I’d argue that this is THE best way to book a stay.

This winter was our first time staying at a proper inn and I can’t believe it’s taken us so long. There’s no shortage of quaint mountain inn’s around the White Mountains and Great North Woods that offer a cozy, personalized stay that larger hotels just can’t match. You really get a more local experience and maybe even a fireplace to cozy up next to after a day of winter hiking or skiing.

Here’s some of the best inn’s around the White Mountains and Great North Woods NH: 

• The Wentworth Inn , Jackson NH (We stayed here on recent winter trip and loved it!)
• Adair Country Inn & Restaurant , Bethlehem NH
• The Inn and More , Bartlett NH

The cost of staying at an inn varies, but it’s often comparable to hotels, sometimes with breakfast included. It’s a fantastic way to experience the local charm, get some insider tips from the innkeepers, and maybe even make some new friends over breakfast.

The lobby at The Wentworth

3. Take a ride on the Mount Washington SnowCoach

Mt. Washington is the highest peak in the Northeast USA (6288 ft). In summer, you can drive your car to the top via the Mount Washington Auto Road. However, the road is impassable to regular cars in the winter, so the only way to get there is with a tour on the Mount Washington SnowCoach.

The Mount Washington SnowCoach takes you a little more than halfway to the top (just above the tree-line) in special vans fitted with snow tracks – no hiking required.

The tour leaves from the bottom of the Auto Road and slowly climbs about 3,000 feet toward the summit. Even though the ride up is in a heated van, make sure you still dress very warm. You’ll have about 15-20 minutes to get out and enjoy the views at the top and it is COLD.

We went on a particularly windy day and it was very easy to see why they can only take you halfway to the top!

If you’re ultra-adventurous, you can hitch to the top on the SnowCoach, take in the views, and then snowshoe or cross country ski back down.

Getting there: Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center,  1 Mt Washington Auto Road, 1 Mt Washington Auto Rd, Gorham, NH 03581

4. Treat yourself to fine dining at 1869 Room at The Wentworth

People usually associate the White Mountains with outdoor adventure over fine dining. But did you know that fine dining is actually one of the best things to do in NH in the winter?

After careful research, I concluded that we absolutely had to try the 1869 Room at The Wentworth. There’s a heavy focus on fresh, locally sourced cuisine here that’s prepared by a talented culinary team.

I ordered the short ribs and Greg got the pork chop. Everything was 10/10. They also serve gluten-free and veggie options on the menu.

The restaurant is open to the public every day from 6:00-9:00pm, so you can still come here even if you don’t stay overnight at the Wentworth Inn.

Make your reservation ahead of time! We learned the hard way that reservations fill up at least 24 hours in advance, especially on weekends.

5. Snowshoe to Beaver Brook Falls in Colebrook, NH

Beaver Brook Falls is a hidden gem waterfall off the beaten path in the Great North Woods region. It’s a single cascade that stands over 80 feet and freezes into a giant tower of ice in the winter.

You can see the falls from the parking area, but I recommend strapping on your snowshoes or microspikes and taking a short walk to the base. The area around Beaver Brook Falls is also perfect for a leisurely walk in the woods along the walking trails that give you different views of the falls.

Getting there: Beaver Brook Falls Wayside, 432 NH-145, Colebrook, NH 03576

Tip: If you like history and happen to be there in June – September, stop by Moore Family Homestead Historic Farm Museum. It’s only a 5 minute drive from Beaver Brook Falls. This historic homestead museum is the last remaining original 100 acre historic farm settlement of its kind and an important historic landmark.

6. Enjoy a tasting flight at a local winery

Alpine Garden Winery is a new winery and cider mill in Bartlett, NH. They make locally grown wine and cider using local fruit, native yeast and minimal intervention.

The winery is open Friday – Sunday from 12-6pm. Head straight into the red barn and take a seat at the bar or at one of the little rustic tables.

The owners are very friendly and passionate about their wines. It’s so easy to strike up a conversation with them to learn more about their vineyard and minimal intervention processes.

Most of the wine and ciders here are pretty dry, which was great for me. I’m a dry wine girlie, so I loved everything.

Note that this is a small, local winery. They don’t serve snacks or tapas to order, but there are a few local charcuterie items for purchase in the cooler.

Getting there: Alpine Garden Winery, 1257 US-302, Bartlett, NH 03812

7. Visit IceCastles NH

Located in North Woodstock, IceCastles NH is a wintery fairytale land come to life. You can walk through archways, tunnels, slides, and thrones made entirely of ice. We didn’t get to experience it for ourselves on our last trip, but this is at the top of our must-do list next winter!

According to their website, IceCastles typically open in January. However, everything there is entirely weather dependent, so it may temporarily close or be unavailable due to weather.

Tickets can sell out fast, especially on weekends, so you should definitely book online in advance.

Getting there: IceCastles, 24 Clark Farm Rd, North Woodstock, NH 03262

8. Hike to Diana’s Baths in the White Mountains

Diana’s Baths in the White Mountains NH is such a pretty winter hike. This NH winter waterfall is only about 0.6 miles one way on a flat trail through the forest.

Visiting during winter in NH is a unique experience because you can explore a lot more than you can in the summer. If the river is frozen, you can walk right up to the base of the frozen waterfall.

Just remember to bring your microspikes for traction! Here’s a list of the best traction devices for walking on snow and ice.

Daily National Forest Pass ($5) is required here. You can purchase one ahead of time online or at the kiosk at the trailhead.

Getting there: Diana’s Baths,  3725 West Side Rd, Bartlett, NH 03812

Here are some other amazing winter waterfall hikes in the White Mountains: 

• Cloudland Falls via Falling Waters Trail, Lincoln NH (moderate)
• Jackson Falls, Jackson NH (easy)

9. Take a winter train ride on The Cog

The Cog Railway (or just ‘The Cog’) in New Hampshire has been bringing passengers to the top of Mount Washington since the 1800s.

In the colder months, The Cog transforms into a scenic winter wonderland experience. While it doesn’t reach the summit due to the extreme winter conditions at the top of Mount Washington, the views and experience are still well worth a trip.

The winter trips typically go up to Waumbek Station, but sometimes goes as far as Skyline at 5500′, which is an area above the tree line with outstanding views of the Northern Presidentials, the western face of the Mount Washington summit and the Mount Washington Observatory.

Riding the Cog Railway during winter in NH is such an easy and accessible way to see the White Mountains in a completely different light. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to add a dash of adventure to their winter adventures.

10. Savor wood fired pizza at Flatbread Company in North Conway

Cap off your visit to NH in the winter with some of the best wood fired pizza you’ll ever have.

The pizza at the Flatbread Company in North Conway is made using locally sourced organic ingredients. In fact, we ate here twice during our 3 day trip because their wood fired flatbread is DIVINE.

I also love that they give back to the community through local benefit nights with local non-profits.

This place gets ultra crowded around dinner time, so prepare for a wait if you show up at peak dinner hour!

Getting there: Flatbread Company, 2760 White Mountain Hwy, North Conway, NH 03860

Important things to know before visiting New Hampshire in the winter

• Download offline maps – Cell service here is super spotty, particularly once you get further into the mountains. We lost service completely in some areas. Don’t forget to download your route on offline Google Maps before you head out. I outline how to do that in my guide on How to Use Google Maps to Plan Your Road Trip . .
• Daily fee:  $5 per day. You can buy a day pass at the self-serve pay stations in the parking lot.
• White Mountain Annual Pass: $35 per year, or $40 per year for families. This is definitely the best deal if you’re staying for awhile or plan to visit more than once a year. You can buy an annual pass ahead of time here .

Getting to New Hampshire

All of the NH winter activities on this list are located in The White Mountains and Great North Woods of Northern New Hampshire.

For this itinerary, the closest airports are:

• Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) in Manchester, NH; 2.5 hour drive
• Burlington International Airport (BTV) in Burlington, Vermont; 2.5 hour drive

You need your own car to make the most of your winter trip to New Hampshire , because many things are remote and very spread out.

Typically, you won’t need a 4×4 because the roads are generally very well maintained. However, winter in the mountains is unpredictable, so it’s always good to have 4WD if possible.

Scroll   down to find my detailed 3-day NH winter road trip itinerary below.

There aren’t any buses or shuttle services in this part of New Hampshire, so relying on public transportation isn’t an option.

Tip: If you drive into New Hampshire from the west, break up the drive by stopping in the town of Littleton, NH! Grab lunch at Littleton Freehouse Taproom & Eatery and then browse the local art galleries. There are a few galleries to choose from, but we really liked League of NH Craftsmen Fine Craft Gallery for local handicrafts.

How to spend 3 days in NH in the winter

This 3-Day New Hampshire winter road trip packs a whole lot into a short amount of time. It’s mostly based in the White Mountains with a quick trip to the Great North Woods.

Day 1:  Arrive in New Hampshire and check in at your Inn (we love The Wentworth!)

Day 2:  Dog sledding with Muddy Paw Sled Dog; visit Beaver Brook Falls or tour IceCastles NH; fine dining at 1869 Room at The Wentworth

Day 3: Take a winter hike or visit Diana’s Baths; afternoon tasting flight at Alpine Garden Winery (open Friday – Sunday); Mount Washington SnowCoach or The Cog; dinner at Flatbread Company in North Conway

Did you enjoy this guide to the best things to do in New Hampshire in the winter? Let me know in the comments!

More new hampshire travel guides:.

Artists bluff:  Hike the Artists Bluff Trail in Franconia Notch State Park NH

NH Fall Road Trip:  11+ Breathtaking Places to Experience Fall in New Hampshire (+ 3 Epic NH Fall Road Trip Itineraries)

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Top 15 Things to Do in New Hampshire in Winter Off the Slopes

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New Hampshire in winter is perfect for those yearning to escape city crowds and find relief from daily stress.

As a first-time visitor to The Granite State, I was astounded by the dramatic landscapes, ethereal snow-covered trees, and quiet.

In fact, it often felt like my husband and I were the only people for miles – and we might’ve been!

Even though we didn’t partake in any winter sports, there were plenty of fun things to do in New Hampshire off the slopes.

So if you’re looking to experience New Hampshire in winter beyond snow sports, you’re in the right place.

Here are 15 of the best off-the-slope activities to enjoy during winter in New Hampshire.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Read the  full disclosure here .

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15 Can’t-Miss Activities While Visiting New Hampshire in Winter

1. drive the kancamagus highway.

The Kancamagus Highway – affectionately known as “The Kanc”– runs for 34.5 miles along New Hampshire’s Route 112. It weaves through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest and reaches an elevation just under 3,000 feet.

This stretch of highway is one of New England’s most scenic routes and one of the best fall foliage points in the U.S. For this reason, it’s especially popular during leaf-peeping season.

Although I’ve only experienced The Berkshires in Massachusetts and Vermont in the fall thus far, I’m planning to return to New Hampshire one autumn to capture The Kanc in all its glory.

However, that being said, the Kancamagus Highway winter views are simply spectacular!

PHOTO TIP: The Kanc is so stunningly beautiful that you’ll probably witness numerous people stop to photograph it during your visit.

Watch out for cars if you decide to capture it from the middle of the road as we did. I recommend shooting with a telephoto lens (70mm – 300mm) if you do.

One of the reasons this highway is so seductively beautiful is its remote nature.

The Kanc is so remote, in fact, that you won’t find any rest stops, gas stations, or food establishments along it.

PRO TIP: I suggest fueling up and relieving yourself prior to hopping on. Fortunately, you’ll find rest stops and other conveniences at each end, regardless of which way you enter/exit the highway.

Kancamagus Highway Attractions

Despite its peaceful nature, there are plenty of Kancamagus Highway attractions to check out along your drive.

In fact, you can get the full lay of the land as well as the history of the region with a super inexpensive audio tour!

With audio narration and animated videos developed by local guides, you can enjoy this self-guided audio experience right from the comfort of your car. How cool is that?

In particular, one of my favorite spots along The Kanc is the Russell-Colbath Homestead .

This charming structure was originally built back in the early 1830’s.

The US Forest Service purchased it years later in 1961 as a means of preserving its historic location. It then underwent reconstruction in 2003.

Although the barn – which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places – is open seasonally, it’s closed in winter.

That said, we absolutely couldn’t resist capturing it from the street against the snowy forest backdrop.

You can read more about the history of the property and inquire about renting it out for a special event here .

How to Get Here:

The Kancamagus Highway begins just east of Lincoln, runs along NH Route 112, and continues eastward towards Conway.

2. Explore White Mountain National Forest

As mentioned, The Kanc runs through the center of the striking White Mountain National Forest .

Fortunately, this highway offers numerous areas for you to pull off, park the car, and explore the quiet beauty of the forest.

You may also notice that these passageways serve as entrance points for cross-country skiers, hikers, and the occasional snowmobiler as well.

You’ll definitely want to take the opportunity to pull off road to admire the winter wonderland scenery, regardless of the nature of your visit.

The White Mountain National Forest is located at 71 White Mountain Drive in Campton, New Hampshire.

3. Hike Franconia Notch State Park

I honestly wasn’t sure if Franconia Notch State Park would be worth visiting while in New Hampshire in winter. Well, I was wrong!

Although it’s easily one of the most popular things to do in Lincoln in autumn, it’s truly stunning in winter as well.

If anything, the snowy day we had made the experience all the more special.

Franconia Notch State Park is located in the center of White Mountain National Forest. This mountain pass is traversed by a parkway extending from Flume Gorge to Echo Park.

You can read more about the trails and campgrounds as well as view a map of the park here .

We hiked to the Flume Covered Bridge on our brief visit here and it was absolutely beautiful in the snow.

The bridge is located at The Flume, as the name suggests. It’s actually one of the oldest covered bridges in New Hampshire, dating back to 1886. It’s open to foot traffic as well as maintenance vehicles and crosses over the Pemigewasset River.

PRO TIP: Make sure to wear boots with good traction when hiking to this covered bridge in winter, as the descent is a bit steep.

I’m sure this area is also stunning in the fall, with all of the foliage colors.

Franconia Notch State Park is located at Flume Gorge, Daniel Webster Highway in Lincoln, New Hampshire.

4. Ride the Snow Train to Attitash Mountain Resort

Have you ever dreamt about riding a train through the snowy mountains?

Well, you can get your wish in Northern New Hampshire! The Conway Scenic Railroad is easily one of the best things to do in North Conway . This unique experience offers riders a scenic journey north to the beautiful Attitash Mountain Resort .

Although we didn’t have a chance to ride it, I definitely want to hop aboard the train trend next autumn.

That said, this colorful train station was definitely the most unique and eye-catching I’ve seen on my travels.

This 90-minute excursion is perfect whether you’re feeling nostalgic or looking to take the kids on a “Polar Express-esque” experience.

Sandwiches, snacks, and beverages are available for purchase onboard.

Head here to check pricing information/availability and book a train.

The snow train to Attitash Mountain Resort departs from the Conway Scenic Railroad. The station is located at 38 Norcross Circle in North Conway, New Hampshire.

5. Visit Ice Castles New Hampshire

Ice Castles is one of the main tourist attractions in New Hampshire during the winter.

This frozen attraction incorporates hundreds of thousands of icicles which have been carefully hand-placed by professional ice artists. You’ll find everything from ice-carved tunnels, to LED-lit sculptures, to icy thrones throughout the exhibit.

This winter phenomenon is definitely catching on quickly, particularly in the Instagram world. In fact, I first caught wind of it years back on the gram.

However, I didn’t realize there was a New Hampshire location until inadvertently stumbling across it on Pinterest while trip planning.

There are a total of four Ice Castles located throughout North America, including New Hampshire, Wisconsin, Utah, and Colorado.

Since each location is weather-dependent, the season can begin anywhere from late December to early January. Ice Castles remain open anywhere from late February until early March, depending on how cold it stays.

I’ll say, while it’s hyped up on social media amongst a millennial audience, this is definitely more of a child-centric excursion.

For instance, I expected the slides that were advertised to be much larger, but they’re most definitely intended for the little-legged.

There were also some fun miniature ice sculptures aimed at the kiddos.

That said, as a self-proclaimed moose fanatic, I was equally as excited as the littles (if not more so), to discover this hidden gem!

What to Expect When Taking Photos Here:

Ice Castles can definitely be fun for adults, too. You’ll just need to exercise some patience if you’re after those Insta-worthy photos.

First off, the main area where people congregate isn’t very big, so you’ll need to negotiate space with other photo-takers.

That said, with a bit of creativity, you can find a cool photo opportunity or two removed from the crowds.

PHOTO TIP: I recommend finding a cavernous area to shoot. Not only will this limit (or eliminate) people from wandering through your shot, it’s also a great deal warmer than shooting out in the open air. (I should know, I was dressed as Elsa from Frozen, after all!)

Also, if you’re getting dressed up like me, I recommend tucking your dress into pants under a warm coat. Since re-entry isn’t permitted, you won’t be able to go back to your car to change. However, there are portable toilets located throughout the property, should you need one.

I’d also suggest framing your shot in advance as much as possible. This way, you can get in and out without causing too much of a disruption in the traffic flow.

Additional Attractions Beyond the Ice Castles

I was especially excited to discover the “enchanted forest,” since it was a little challenging to negotiate a shooting location amidst the crowd. Here, you can go on a magical walk through the snowy woods.

This area is located behind the main action, making it somewhat more removed from the overenthusiastic tourists.

I was super impressed by the hanging lanterns and magical snow-fairy vibe at the entranceway. It created such a romantic aura!

In addition, from a general visitor perspective, I found the horse-drawn sleigh rides to be a really nice touch.

Honestly, how could you not love these sweet horses?

Just keep in mind that there’s an additional charge for a ride and you’ll need to purchase a ticket for this activity in advance.

The property also includes a handful of fire pits, which are scattered throughout the grounds. I definitely appreciated the opportunity to toast up at one of these after braving the cold in my sleeveless dress!

Ice Castles New Hampshire is located at 24 Clark Farm Road in North Woodstock.

6. Get a Behind-the-Scenes Look at Ice Sculpting

If you prefer a more interactive ice sculpting experience, you won’t want to miss the New Hampshire Sanctioned & Jackson Invitational Snow Sculpting Competition !

At this popular event, spectators watch as competitors transform 8-foot-high by 4-foot-round cylinders of compacted snow into beautiful frozen creations.

This annual competition draws sculpting teams from all around the Northeastern U.S. with monetary prizes, a fun awards banquet, and a scavenger hunt for the kids.

Needless to say, this is my kind of spectator sport!

What to Know Before You Go:

The 2023 competition will run from Friday, January 27 at 7AM until Sunday, January 29 at 7AM .

While the event is free for all to attend, donations are happily accepted and appreciated.

Be sure to check in on this event page for more details as the 2023 event approaches.

  The 2022 competition will be located at Great Glen Trails/Mount Washington Auto Road in Jackson, New Hampshire.

7. Go Dog Sledding

Did you know you could go dog sledding in northern New Hampshire?

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 🐶Muddy Paw & Raft NH🌊 (@muddypaw_raftnh)

I was certainly blown away when I first discovered this!

Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel offers dog sledding adventures from mid-December to March out of their kennel in Jefferson, New Hampshire.

Each tour begins with a “meet and greet,” where sledders can get to know the dogs and help prepare them for the trail.

Tours then run from 90 minutes to three hours long, depending on the age of participants and experience level.

Post-adventure, it’s time to say goodbye with belly rubs!

Unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to go this time around, as tours were booked up. However, it’s yet another thing I’d love to try on a return trip!

Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel is located at 32 Valley Road in Jefferson, New Hampshire.

8. Venture Off-Road on an Alpine Safari

If you love the idea of weaving through snow-covered hills but prefer snowy wheels to muddy paws, then you can’t miss the Off-Road Adventure Tour at Alpine Adventures .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alpine Adventures (@alpinezipline)

Best described as a low-speed coaster, this adventure will have you zipping around in a 6-wheel-drive-military-off-road vehicle clad in stylish, safari-style animal print.

Prepare for 60 – 90 minutes of non-stop (and often bumpy) fun!

You can book your winter wonderland tour here .

Alpine Adventures is located at 41 Main Street in Lincoln, NH.

9. Visit the Highest Peak on the East Coast

The dramatic mountains of northern New Hampshire truly took my breath away.

In fact, I was never bored as a car passenger because there was always an impressive window view to distract me.

Mount Washington, in particular, is the highest peak in the Northeast.

I was surprised to find that it towers over some of the most impressive ranges I’ve seen in Crete, Greece !

Whether you’re hiking Mount Washington or photographing it from a distance, it’s a must on any northern New Hampshire itinerary.

You can also drive up to Marshfield Base Station , which is home to the Cog Railway Museum, a free and interactive museum exhibit.

While here, you can also pop into the food court/convenience store for a bite to eat, souvenirs, and other handy items.

The Marshfield Base Station is located at 3168 Base Station Rd in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire.

10. Check Out Omni Mount Washington Resort

While in the area, I highly recommend checking out the impressive Omni Mount Washington Resort .

Even if you’re staying elsewhere as we did, this famous resort is definitely worth a drive by, at the very least.

On a clear day (unlike the foggy one we had), you can actually get a picture-perfect view of Mount Washington, which sits behind it. It’s spectacular!

Omni Mount Washington Resort is located at 310 Mount Washington Hotel Road in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire.

11. See New Hampshire from New Heights on a Canopy Tour

How would you like to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of a snow-covered canyon?

Now, what if I told you that you could zip through snow-covered mountains at speeds of up to 30mph?

If just reading this has already gotten your heart pumping with excitement, then you’ll absolutely love the Bretton Woods Canopy Tour .

Located at the Omni Mount Washington Resort, this unique activity is one of the most exciting ways to experience New Hampshire in the winter.

With nine ziplines and two sky bridges suspended above Rosebrook Canyon, this adrenaline-pumping experience will make for a truly unforgettable winter adventure!

The Bretton Woods Canopy Tour will run from December 26, 2021 – March 26, 2022.

You can book your canopy tour here .

Follow the address for Omni Mount Washington Resort above.

12. Take a Ride on New Hampshire’s Giant Swing

While we’re on the topic of adrenaline-pumping activities, how does swinging over the snow-covered treetops sound?

Well, at Cranmore Mountain Resort , your wildest swinging dreams will come true!

This 4-person giant swing will have you soaring amidst the clouds for a truly unique perspective of New Hampshire in winter.

You can view details about the giant swing here .

Cranmore Mountain Resort is located at 1 Skimobile Road in North Conway, NH.

13. Go Sledding

Although I’m limiting these winter-focused suggestions to off-the-slope activities, I did want to include sledding on the list.

It’s almost always snowing in New Hampshire in winter, so there are numerous opportunities for this fun pastime!

I suggest heading to one of the openings off of the Kancamagus Highway and then seeing where the day takes you.

14. Photograph the Winter Wonderland Scenery

As I’m sure you’ve gathered by now, New Hampshire in winter is unspeakably beautiful. In fact, it’s the perfect setting for a snow photoshoot .

That’s why I suggest coming prepared with a camera so you can capture it.

If you’re bringing a professional camera, I recommend also carrying a range of lenses for versatility.

For instance, you’ll definitely want to include a telephoto in the mix. This will allow you to capture the detail and drama of the landscapes.

That said, one of the downsides of a telephoto lens is that you’ll lose a bit of depth to your photos.

To combat this, we also shot a number of our photos at or around 35mm, to capture a wider scope of the winter scenery.

You can check out my post about my travel blog camera and photo equipment for all of the details on what I shoot with.

Some of my favorite spots to photograph in New Hampshire include:

• Kancamagus Highway
• Inlets of the White Mountain National Forest (accessible from The Kanc)
• The Russell-Colbath Homestead
• Side streets offering views of Mount Washington

15. Cozy Up with Cocoa from a Specialty Chocolate Shop & Café

After a busy itinerary of winter fun, it’s time to toast up with some tasty hot cocoa from L.A. Burdick Homemade Chocolates .

FUN FACT: This beloved specialty chocolate shop and café boasts the best hot chocolate in all of New England!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by L.A. Burdick Chocolates (@burdickchocolate)

And just in case cocoa isn’t enough to satisfy your cravings, treat yourself to any of the other tasty delights on the menu! From rich chocolate mousse cake to chocolate chip walnut cookies, there’s something to satisfy every chocoholic’s palette.

L.A. Burdick Homemade Chocolates is located at 35 Main Street in Walpole, NH.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this round-up of the best winter activities in New Hampshire.

While I’m typically not a winter person, New Hampshire has opened my eyes to the beauty of the season and I’m sure it will do the same for you!

Have you been to New Hampshire in winter before? If so, what were some of your favorite activities? Let me know in the comments below!

For additional New England inspiration, check out my other posts on the region:

• Most Bewitching Places to Experience Woodstock, Vermont in the Fall
• Where to Experience the Magic of Woodstock, Vermont in Winter
• What to Do on Nantucket to Avoid the 15 Worst Rookie Mistakes
• 10 Fun Things to Do in Kennebunkport
• The Prettiest Lighthouses in Portland for Your Charming Maine Vacation
• The 1-Day Acadia National Park Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal
• Most Breathtaking Places to Experience Fall in The Berkshires
• Most Instagrammable Towns North of Boston
• 10 Dreamy Gardens in Connecticut You Can’t Miss

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The Insider’s Guide to Winter Adventure in New Hampshire

Planning a winter getaway the granite state is a good time waiting to happen..

Visit New Hampshire

New Hampshire has always been a choice destination for winter thrill seekers and outdoor-loving travelers. With its unmatched backcountry ski lines, trophy ice-fishing waters, and welcoming local businesses, visitors can expect a myriad of exciting opportunities across the state. To learn more about what makes New Hampshire the place to be when the snow falls and the ice forms, we talked to the outdoor director at Granite Outdoor Alliance , local adventurer Tyler Ray.

Outside : The White Mountains Region offers a combination of accessibility and challenge for backcountry skiers and ice climbers alike. What makes this area unique? And how can visitors unwind after a long day of setting routes and skin tracks?

Tyler Ray: The White Mountains Region is a snapshot of Switzerland here in New England, with Mount Washington as the nucleus of the community. Offerings on the mountain run the gamut from difficult challenges like navigating Tuckerman Ravine and ice climbing in the high peaks to a significant number of beginner opportunities in the gladed backcountry below the treeline. The amazing outfitters and guides in the area support both experts and novices to experience the mountains safely.

At the end of the day, between breweries, spas, and hotels, there are plenty of amenities for all types of visitors and locals to enjoy. For luxury spa treatments, head to the Villa Hygge Hotel in North Conway. Or if you’re traveling with kids, check out the ice castles in North Woodstock . Looking for distinctive lodging? Try Hub North —a European-style communal lodge in Gorham that helped expand backcountry access in the area.

With such a wide array of winter adventures possible, how can visitors make the most of their New Hampshire vacation?

I think the best way to experience winter in New Hampshire is to focus on a single region or community. You’ll find that the state has a variety of small businesses that really are the pulse of the outdoor economy here. Outdoor opportunities can vary from region to region, and the businesses support what you’re there to do. The communities are where the vibrancies begin, and it’s exciting to immerse yourself in them.

The Lakes Region is a well-known summer paradise, but what can you do there when the waters freeze over?

The Lakes Region is important in the winter, as it offers an entirely different experience than the White Mountains Region. Lake life in the winter is exciting, with ice skating, ice fishing, and extensive pond-hockey tournaments. Mixed in with all of that are a number of outfitters that specialize in hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing tours. All of these outdoor pursuits are complemented by small-town charm: window shopping, superb restaurants, and excellent lodging. You can also try less common activities like watching the Laconia World Championship Sled Dog Derby . Or time your visit around the Wild Corn Backcountry Shindig , hosted by King Pine. At this one-of-a-kind event, complete with vendors and premier musical acts, the lifts are switched off and all the skiing is human powered.

New Hampshire ski areas have always found themselves with a dedicated ski community. Aside from the excellent terrain, what keeps skiers and boarders coming back for more?

New Hampshire is unique in the ski world, especially when considering the historical growth of the sport. The state is the birthplace of American skiing, and skiing is the state sport. The spirit and vibrancy of ski culture run deep. Locals and visitors alike are attracted to the community feel of each individual mountain. These resorts support the skiing lifestyle. In New Hampshire, ski resorts are the lifeblood of many communities. The sense of belonging when you’re visiting those areas is unmatched. It’s why people return. You can go to Cannon for the true skier’s mountain, and then take in the unbeatable amenities at Bretton Woods .

There’s so much natural beauty in New Hampshire. How can visitors help preserve this invaluable resource?

It’s important for visitors to understand that the outdoors need to be treated with respect, as if it’s your own backyard. If we use our resources responsibly, we can preserve them for generations to come. There’s a long history of visitation and use in New Hampshire and it’s important to act like you live here. When we don’t, we end up tapping local resources, and everyone’s experience can be diminished. Follow tenets like Leave No Trace and carry-in, carry-out. At the end of the day, what’s important is being a good neighbor as you visit businesses, neighborhoods, and wild spaces. Respect where you are and who you are with.

Protect, respect, and preserve New Hampshire.

Make the Granite State Promise.

The Division of Travel and Tourism Development, as part of the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs, works with the state’s seven travel regions to increase visitation, travel, and visitor expenditures in order to expand business activity and employment throughout the state. Learn more at visitnh.gov .

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30 top things to do in new hampshire.

Outdoor adventures, amusement parks, museums and historic sites abound in the Granite State.

Top Things to Do in New Hampshire

Courtesy of Mount Washington Cog Railway

From traveling on the Mount Washington Cog Railway to posing in front of Cinderella's Pumpkin Coach at Story Land, New Hampshire has something for everyone to enjoy.

New Hampshire may be a small state, but it's packed full of attractions and activities for visitors. From its 18 miles of coastline to its centrally located Lakes Region to the looming White Mountains up north, New Hampshire offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Then there are the amusement parks, historic sites and thought-provoking museums to explore while vacationing in the Granite State.

With skiing in the winter, summer fun by the lakes and leaf-peeping in the fall, this state is a year-round destination. Here are some of the best things to do and see in New Hampshire.

Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves

The Lost River Gorge tops the list of what to see in New Hampshire for those looking for a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience. Open seasonally from early May to mid-October, this attraction has a self-guided, 1-mile boardwalk loop trail with more than 1,000 stairs. Make sure to dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear.

Along the way there are scenic spots to stop and admire the Lost River and its cascading waterfalls in the gorge. If you're limber and not too claustrophobic, you might choose to maneuver through nearly a dozen boulder caves, including one particularly tight spot called the Lemon Squeezer. Visitors to this attraction in the White Mountains appreciate that any of the cave crawls can be bypassed. Lost River Gorge is around 5 miles from North Woodstock's Main Street, where The Wilderness Inn Bed & Breakfast welcomes overnight guests in a craftsman-style 1912 home.

Address: 1712 Lost River Road, North Woodstock, NH 03262

Mount Washington Cog Railway

Ascend to the summit of the highest peak in New England aboard the Mount Washington Cog Railway. Onboard one of the specially designed biodiesel locomotives, you'll pass through steep grades and three climate zones to reach the Mount Washington summit at 6,288 feet in elevation. When you book your tickets online, you can also choose to take a historic steam locomotive at certain times of the year.

Schedule and pricing may vary based on weather and train excursion selection; check out Mount Washington Cog Railway's website for more information. The Cog Railway makes multiple daily trips in the warmer months to the summit, with its visitor center and rooftop observation deck. From late October to early spring, the railway operates shorter trips to the Waumbek Station, at about 4,000 feet in elevation. Past travelers appreciated the onboard live commentary that covers the history, flora and fauna of the area. The Mount Washington Cog Railway is located in the White Mountains near Bretton Woods, home to the majestic Omni Mount Washington Resort with its relaxing spa and multiple dining options.

Address: 3168 Base Station Road, Mount Washington, NH 03589

[Read: The Best Hotels in New Hampshire .]

Lake Winnipesaukee

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The largest lake in the state at 72 square miles, Lake Winnipesaukee is one of New Hampshire's most popular summer vacation spots. Families flock to the lake to go boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking and canoeing on the clear water surrounded by thick forest and looming mountains. A popular excursion is a scenic boat ride on the historic M/S Mount Washington ship. The resort towns that ring the lake are chock-full of fun things for families to do, including old-fashioned arcades, go-karting and mini-golf.

Lodging abounds in the area, from vacation homes and lakeside cottages to budget motels and small inns. Church Landing at Mill Falls in Meredith has a convenient and scenic location right on the lake, within walking distance of several restaurants and shops in town.

North Conway

In the heart of New Hampshire's Mount Washington Valley, North Conway is a fabulous vacation destination for fans of scenic railroads, historic covered bridges and outdoor adventures. The village is an especially popular spot in the winter months, as it's been ranked among the best ski towns in North America, with more than a dozen ski areas within a short drive of the village.

Outside of winter, the easy hike to the waterfalls at Diana's Baths is on a fairly flat gravel path, but the small parking lot can get quite busy in the summer, so recent hikers advise you try to go early or late in the day. Visitors flock to North Conway's many shopping outlets and malls, with no general sales tax charged on goods in New Hampshire. For a glamorous place to rest your head, consider a night at Stonehurst Manor , a beautiful 19th-century hotel with mountain views and wood fireplaces.

[Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in New Hampshire .]

Hampton Beach State Park

Hampton Beach State Park is packed with people in the summer, especially on hot, sunny weekends. Walking the wide sandy beach or picnicking under an umbrella for the day is free at this coastal state park. You'll need to pay to park your car, and recent visitors suggest making parking reservations ahead of time online at the New Hampshire State Parks website; otherwise, you'll likely have to hunt for a first-come, first-served metered space around town.

Across the street from Hampton Beach sits the legendary Hampton Beach Casino, which dates back to 1899. Not so much a popular place to gamble (though there are a few games of chance), this historic strip is filled with family-friendly arcade games, small amusement rides, snacks and souvenir shops. If you want to stay overnight, check out the oceanfront Ashworth by the Sea, the only full-service beachfront hotel here.

Lincoln is a great home base for exploring New Hampshire's White Mountains. The small town is home to Loon Mountain Resort for skiing, tubing and snowshoeing in the winter as well as zip lining, gondola rides, biking and hiking in the summer. Other local attractions for warm weather visitors include Whale's Tale Waterpark, Hobo Railroad and Flume Gorge. If you're trying to keep things affordable on your getaway to the White Mountains, consider booking a room at the Notch Hostel, a dog-friendly spot with fire pits, camping spaces, cabins and more.

Hood Museum of Art

Michael Moran | Courtesy of The Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth

Home to a wide range of art and artifacts, including Indigenous Australian contemporary art and a major archive of photojournalism, the Hood Museum of Art is located on the campus of Hanover's Dartmouth College. The collection is vast, with more than 65,000 pieces of art in the museum's care, though only a portion are on display to the public at any given time. Recent museum enthusiasts note that with free admission, the museum is certainly worth an hourlong stroll through the exhibits; there are also free guided tours on occasion. Right next door to the Hopkins Center for the Arts and the Hood Museum is the elegant Hanover Inn, the oldest continuously operating hotel in the state.

Address: 6 E. Wheelock St., Hanover, NH 03755

McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

Courtesy of McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

Concord's must-visit McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center honors two New Hampshire residents: Alan Shepard, who in 1961 was the first American to travel into space, and Christa McAuliffe, a teacher who was aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger that tragically exploded just after it launched in 1986. Visitors to this family-friendly attraction can learn about space travel and science through hands-on exhibits, demonstrations and planetarium shows.

Concord, the capital of New Hampshire, has plenty of hotel chains and budget-friendly lodging, but if you're looking for something different and historic, consider The Centennial Hotel, located in a 19th-century Victorian mansion.

Address: 2 Institute Drive, Concord, NH 03301

Prescott Park

Visitors to Prescott Park in the seaside city of Portsmouth rave about the beautiful flowers and waterfront views, commenting on what a great job the gardeners do with the landscaping in the summer months. The 10-acre waterfront park makes for a lovely place to stroll and take in the sights and smells of the serene space; there are also benches for rest and reflection. Admission to the park is free. In the summer, concerts, movies and theater productions take place in the park as part of the Prescott Park Arts Festival.

If you're looking to stay overnight in the city, Ale House Inn is housed in an 1880 former brewery warehouse and located within walking distance of the park.

Address: 105 Marcy St., Portsmouth, NH 03801

[Read: The Best Weekend Getaways in New England .]

Canobie Lake Park

Canobie Lake Park has been delighting visitors since it opened in 1902 with its botanical gardens, swings, canoes and penny arcade. Today it's a fun-for-the-whole-family amusement park filled with exciting rides, a water park and carnival-style midway games – plus dining venues that serve quintessential New England favorites like lobster rolls and fried dough. Thrill rides at this amusement park include the spinning, strobe light-filled Psychodrome and a roller coaster called Untamed that sends riders on a beyond-vertical drop of 97 degrees.

The amusement park is open seasonally, generally from Memorial Day weekend through Halloween. Check the website calendar for specific days and hours of operation (early and late in the season it's open on weekends only). Canobie Lake Park is located in Salem, in the southern part of New Hampshire. The closest hotel is the basic, budget-friendly Red Roof Inn Salem, which gets props from past travelers for its convenient location next to Interstate 93.

Address: 85 N. Policy St., Salem, NH 03079

Russell-Colbath Historic Site

The Russell-Colbath Historic Site sits in Albany, New Hampshire, along the Kancamagus Highway between the towns of Lincoln and Conway in the White Mountains. Built in the 1830s by the Russell family, a simple home on the property serves as an example of what living quarters were like for original settlers of the area. Guided tours are offered from July to September, and recent visitors praise the on-site staff, who can explain some of the home's history and preserved household items on display.

Operated by the U.S. Forest Service, this historic site also includes an accessible half-mile trail with interpretive panels about the logging and railroading industries here in the 19th century. The Russell-Colbath Historic Site is open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Outside of Conway along the Kancamagus Highway you'll find the Kancamagus Swift River Inn, with 10 quaint rooms and daily continental breakfast.

Address: Kancamagus Highway, Albany, NH 03818

Flume Gorge

Part of Franconia Notch State Park, the Flume is a scenic gorge with a 2-mile loop trail that allows visitors to admire the looming granite walls, rushing Flume Brook and even a classic New England covered bridge. The boardwalk trail at this attraction in the White Mountains does include many steps, so you'll want to make sure to wear sturdy shoes to traverse it safely. Admire plentiful mosses, ferns and flowers along the way.

Recent visitors note that the optional one-way Wolf's Den path, which involves crawling on hands and knees through boulders, is especially fun for kids. Make your reservations in advance to ensure that you'll be able to access the trail (and get a reduced entry fee) via the New Hampshire State Parks website. Nearby lodging includes Indian Head Resort in Lincoln, with resort rooms, cottages, bungalows and rustic houses.

Address: 852 Daniel Webster Highway, Lincoln, NH 03251

Courtesy of Storyland

For small children or nostalgic adults, this attraction is probably one of the most fun places in New Hampshire to spend the day. Story Land is located in Glen, east of the White Mountain National Forest, and dates back to 1954. It features classic attractions that celebrate children's nursery rhymes and fairy tales, including a giant Humpty Dumpty and Cinderella's Pumpkin Coach – both make great photo opportunities.

Young children like to visit the petting zoo with animals right out of favorite storybooks like the "Three Billy Goats Gruff." Older kids can pilot Swan Boats on a calm pond. More thrilling attractions include Dr. Geyser's Remarkable Raft Ride (be prepared to get splashed) and the Roar-O-Saurus wooden roller coaster. Nearby Nordic Village Resort in Jackson gets rave reviews from past travelers for its spacious accommodations that include studios, condos and townhouses, as well as pools, hot tubs and saunas for relaxation.

Address: 850 state Route 16, Glen, NH 03838

Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park

This National Historical Park honors Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a prominent American Renaissance sculptor who spent his later years (1885 to 1907) at this estate in Cornish. Visitors to this historic site can see his home, tour his studio and walk the grounds where his sculptures are on display. Recent parkgoers say they were in awe of the beautiful gardens.

Travelers should note that some areas are only open seasonally, with most indoor areas like the galleries closed from November to Memorial Day. In addition, there are wooded hiking trails up to 2 miles long on the 100-acre property, if you're looking to get a little exercise amid nature while visiting Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park. Cornish is located in central New Hampshire, near the Vermont border. Some of the closest budget lodging can be found to the north in the Connecticut River Valley, including the Fireside Inn & Suites West Lebanon – admire the hotel's impressive atrium filled with trees while you're there.

Address: 139 Saint Gaudens Road, Cornish, NH 03745

Santa's Village

Courtesy of Santa's Village

Just as the name suggests, Christmas-themed Santa's Village is a celebration of the jolly old fellow himself, as well as all things that make this winter holiday special, from elves and reindeer to sleighs and sweet treats. Family-friendly rides at this amusement park in Jefferson include the Reindeer Carousel, Christmas Ferris Wheel, Santa's Express Train and Yule Log Flume. There's also a water park that's open in the summer, with slides, splash pads and water sprays.

Visitors have noted how clean and charming this amusement park is. Typically Santa's Village is open daily in the summer, with limited weekend hours in the late spring and from Labor Day through Christmas. Be sure to check the website for operating hours before you visit. One inexpensive option for overnighting nearby is the Coos Motor Inn in Lancaster, located 6 miles north.

Address: 528 Presidential Highway, Jefferson, NH 03583

Strawbery Banke Museum

Courtesy of Strawbery Banke Museum

Set on 10 acres in downtown Portsmouth, Strawbery Banke Museum brings centuries of U.S. history alive with costumed role-players who share what life was like in New England's past. Visitors can tour historic buildings and interactive exhibits to learn about the people who once made their homes in this waterfront neighborhood. Past travelers say a highlight of their visit is chatting with the craftspeople in period dress, such as barrel makers and boat builders.

As an outdoor history museum, Strawbery Banke is typically open daily from May through October. In the winter months, try out outdoor ice skating on Puddle Dock Pond. Tickets can be purchased online or in person. If you're with kids, consider getting a family admission ticket to save some money. Just around the corner from Strawbery Banke is The Sailmaker's House, an intimate and historic boutique hotel with just 10 guest rooms.

Address: 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth, NH 03801

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Whale's Tale Waterpark

Courtesy of Whale's Tale Waterpark

Cool off during New Hampshire's hot and humid summer months at Whale's Tale Waterpark in Lincoln. Thrill rides include the Plunge body slides, where you might reach up to 40 miles an hour, as well as the Banzai Pipeline, which is a speedy tube ride that shoots you into a quarter pipe. Other attractions include Whale Harbor with short slides and gentle water sprays for toddlers; Shipwreck Island with its massive bucket dump; and Willie's Wild Waves, billed as the only wave pool in the White Mountains.

Past travelers consistently praise the friendly staff at Whale's Tale Waterpark, which is generally open mid-June through Labor Day. Located less than half a mile away on U.S. Route 3 is the Days Inn by Wyndham Lincoln, which has an indoor and outdoor pool and a kids playground.

Address: 481 Daniel Webster Highway, Lincoln, NH 03251

Castle in the Clouds

Courtesy of Castle in the Clouds

This unique seasonal attraction in Moultonborough offers a variety of things for visitors to do. You can tour a historic, 16-room, mountaintop mansion that was built in 1913 and features some modern technological advances of the time, including a central vacuum system. Take a self-guided mansion tour of the first two floors from late May to late October; guests can also opt for a guided basement tour of the mansion for an additional charge.

Spend the day hiking more than 28 miles of scenic trails, including gentle paths to waterfalls and more strenuous summit hikes. Trails in the Castle in the Clouds Conservation Area are free to access for summer hikes as well as winter snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There is a gift shop, cafe and restaurant on-site with outdoor seating offering sweeping mountain and lake views. You won't find many hotels near Castle in the Clouds, as it's located in a rural part of the Lakes Region. One of the closer options is Center Harbor Inn, set right on Lake Winnipesaukee and featuring a sandy beach plus kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals for guests.

Address: 455 Old Mountain Road, Moultonborough, NH 03254

Polar Caves

Courtesy of Polar Caves

The Polar Caves in Rumney were formed by a moving glacier 50,000 years ago. Visitors can pass through nine distinct boulder caves on a self-guided tour, while enjoying the cooler temperatures on a hot summer day. The granite spaces are all named: Shimmy through Orange Crush and walk the narrow path of Devil's Turnpike. The caves are linked by a series of trails and wooden boardwalks, and all cave entry is optional.

Be prepared to crawl, twist and get a little dirty if you choose to make your way through the natural obstacles, say past travelers. Visitors can also feed the fallow deer and ducks at the on-site animal park. Polar Caves is open seasonally, from mid-May through mid-October. Nearby Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Plymouth White Mountains offers daily hot breakfast.

Address: 705 Rumney Route 25, Rumney NH 03266

Kancamagus Highway

The Kancamagus Highway is a 34.5-mile National Scenic Byway that stretches from Lincoln to Conway in the White Mountains. This portion of state Route 112 is a wildly popular scenic drive in the autumn for its plentiful vistas of colorful fall foliage . Many pull-off points allow for stretching legs along this curvy, wooded highway, where you can take in views of mountains, waterfalls and rivers.

Along the highway, there are also parking lots at trailheads that allow you to traverse through the woods on foot. Past road-trippers and leaf-peepers note that cell service is very limited in this remote area. You won't really find any motels or hotels along this stretch of rural road that reaches 2,855 feet in elevation, though there are six White Mountain National Forest campgrounds.

Gunstock Mountain Resort

Courtesy of Gunstock Mountain Resort

This ski area in the Lakes Region welcomes outdoor enthusiasts in the winter with its 49 downhill ski and snowboard trails, around 17 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, and a tubing hill. You can also hike or snowshoe up the mountain, practice tricks in the terrain park, and even ski or snowboard under the lights at night.

Gunstock Mountain Resort also shines in the warmer months with its activity-packed Adventure Park. Go zip lining amid the trees up to 70 miles an hour, zoom through the forest on the Mountain Coaster, or walk along swinging bridges on an aerial obstacle course. If you're looking for a more mellow activity, consider a scenic lift ride. Tent and RV campsites are available at Gunstock Mountain Resort. Further afield is The Margate on Winnipesaukee in Laconia, which past travelers have praised for its sandy beach and indoor and outdoor pools.

Address: 719 Cherry Valley Road, Gilford, NH 03249

Currier Museum of Art

Courtesy of Currier Museum of Art

Manchester's Currier Museum of Art has a collection of 15,000 art objects, with a focus on painting and sculpture from the 14th through 17th centuries as well as contemporary works. Rotating gallery exhibits and special exhibitions showcase the varied collection. The Currier also offers access to two Frank Lloyd Wright homes, the only houses designed by the influential architect that are open to the public in New England.

Guided house tours are offered on Thursday evenings as part of "Art After Work," and the Currier Museum of Art is open year-round. For accommodations nearby, the Ash Street Inn is a bed-and-breakfast located in a 19th-century Victorian home with all the modern comforts you need. It's a couple of blocks from the museum and within easy walking distance of downtown shops and restaurants.

Address: 150 Ash St., Manchester, NH 03104

Courtesy of Funspot

A popular attraction for all ages in New Hampshire's Lakes Region, Funspot in Laconia houses the world's largest arcade with more than 600 games, including classic video arcade games and pinball machines, a 10-pin and candlepin bowling alley, indoor mini-golf, and rides for young children. Kids love playing games of skill to earn tickets to redeem for prizes, or you can spend a couple of hours playing old favorites like Space Invaders, Pac-Man and Asteroids. With Funspot's plethora of classic games, past travelers applaud the attraction for its nostalgic factor, while others say it's a good value for game tokens. Laconia's Summit Resort has two-bedroom suites, making this lodging option a good fit for families.

Address: 579 Endicott St. N., Laconia, NH 03246

Jenness State Beach

Smaller, with fewer bells and whistles than nearby Hampton Beach, Rye's Jenness State Beach is popular among families especially on sunny summer weekends, when you'll need to arrive early in the day to snag a metered parking spot, according to past visitors. Beachgoers will likely appreciate the bathhouse with restrooms, changing rooms and showers. Lifeguards keep watch as kids frolic in the waves in the summer months. Dogs are not allowed on the sandy beach in the summer, but leashed pets are permitted in the off-season. Dunes Motor Inn, with rooms under $200 a night, is right across the street.

Address: 2280 Ocean Blvd., Rye, NH 03870

[See: The Top Dog-Friendly Beaches in the U.S. ]

Bear Brook State Park

If you're looking to immerse yourself in nature on your trip to the Granite State, you can't go wrong with Bear Brook State Park, the largest developed state park in New Hampshire. Hiking, biking, camping, fishing, kayaking and swimming are a few of the activities you can enjoy in the warmer months in this recreational area. The park sits in the southeastern part of the state, near Manchester and Concord.

This is a heavily wooded area, and cell service may be limited – so come prepared with insect repellent and perhaps a paper map for navigation. Primitive campsites are available for RVs and tents at Beaver Pond Campground, with advance reservations available online. The closest lodging outside the park is near Concord and Manchester, including Tru by Hilton Concord, which is just off I-93 and offers free hot breakfast.

Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden

John Butler | Courtesy Moffatt-Ladd House and Garden

This Georgian-style mansion at the heart of Portsmouth has been open as a museum for more than a century. Built around 1760, the Moffatt-Ladd House is brimming with history, having housed General William Whipple, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. With original furniture, the house feels like a time warp; visitors have complimented the house's tour guides for their intimate and intriguing knowledge of the house's history.

Don't forget to check out the flower-laden garden while you're there. The house is open seasonally from spring to fall. Given the downtown location of this attraction, you'll find plenty of chain hotels in the area, but for something more special, consider staying at The Inn Downtown, a boutique apartment-hotel with chic rooms in an early 19th-century building.

Address: 154 Market St., Portsmouth, NH 03801

Mount Washington Auto Road

Courtesy of Mount Washington Auto Road

It's more than just a 7.6-mile road: The Mount Washington Auto Road bills itself as America's oldest continuously operating attraction. It opened in 1861, allowing visitors to take a four-hour carriage ride to the frigid summit of Mount Washington. Nowadays, you can do it a lot faster in your own car – just drive to the base of the road, pay the fee (you have to pay on a per-passenger basis) and start your ascent.

You'll want to download the Auto Road app to get an audio tour as you go up. For safety reasons, there are restrictions on certain vehicles as well as weight limits, so be sure to check them on the Auto Road website before heading out. If you don't want to drive, there are also guided tours available; in winter, the only option is to take the company's Snowcoach up, as private cars aren't permitted from December to March.

Address: 1 Mount Washington Auto Road, Gorham, NH 03581

USS Albacore Museum

If you or your family loves all things motorized, the USS Albacore is a fascinating place to visit. Built right nearby in Portsmouth, the USS Albacore was a state-of-the-art submarine that set a world record for speed in the 1960s. With the vessel now decommissioned, you can hop aboard and learn about how it works at this location just outside downtown Portsmouth – there's also a museum and memorial garden on-site. Take note: Children younger than 2 cannot go into the submarine, and the attraction is closed from around mid-December to mid-February each year.

Address: 600 Market St., Portsmouth, NH 03801

Wright Museum of World War II

If you're faced with a rainy day while visiting New Hampshire's Lake District, this museum is a formidable indoor alternative (and hard to miss, thanks to the tank poking out from one of its exterior walls). The museum has a collection of 14,000-plus items sourced both from the U.S. and the front lines of World War II as well as fully operational military vehicles. The museum aims to help visitors understand the role that Americans played in the Allied victory in 1945. Visitors have praised the Wright Museum for being thoroughly informative and for showing what happened in the U.S. during the war, not just focusing on the battle zones. If you're hoping to stay nearby, the historic Wolfeboro Inn with a New England-style pub on-site is one solid option.

Address: 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, NH 03894

Echo Lake State Park

This small but mighty state park is home to two stunning viewpoints. White Horse Ledge and Cathedral Ledge both require a little effort to get to, but they offer stellar views over Echo Lake and the surrounding forests. The trail up to Cathedral Ledge is shorter, at 1.2 miles, compared to 4.2 miles for White Horse Ledge. If hiking isn't your thing, you can swim and picnic by Echo Lake. Visitors praise the beautiful reflective waters of the lake and the easy walking trail that goes around it. The park is also easy to get to, located just outside the town of North Conway.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster hails from Montreal, Canada, right over the border from New Hampshire. The state's lakes and beaches are popular destinations for French Canadians, so he has no shortage of knowledge on what to do in the Granite State.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in Vermont
• The Top Things to Do in Rhode Island
• Fall in New England: When & Where to Go
• The Best Places to Hike in North America

31 Charming Bed-and-Breakfasts

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , New England Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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New Hampshire in Winter: A Guide to Outdoor Activities and Delicious Cuisine

New Hampshire is a beautiful state to explore any time of year, but taking a road trip through it during the winter can be particularly special. With snow-covered mountains , frozen lakes, and picturesque small towns , the landscape takes on a whole new character when the temperatures drop. From skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and snowmobiling, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Imagine savoring a warm bowl of hearty soup made with locally sourced ingredients or trying a craft beer brewed by the cold weather. And of course, no winter road trip through New Hampshire would be complete without a stop at a cozy cabin or inn to warm up by the fire. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, a winter road trip through New Hampshire is a delicious adventure that will leave your taste buds delighted.

Where to stay in New Hampshire?

Where to eat in new hampshire, what to do and see in new hampshire.

When it comes to lodging, there are quite a lot of options in the Granite State. Whether you’re looking for a traditional New England inn, or perhaps a more modern accommodation, New Hampshire has it all. Here are a few options where I stayed on my last trip to this area.

A very welcoming stay at the 1785 Inn in North Conway

Nestled right in the middle of the White Mountains of New Hampshire, this classic country inn is the perfect setup to relax with your loved ones after a full day of skiing in the many ski resorts around. The typical Yankee hospitality will you make you feel right at home . I really loved having breakfast in the dining room that has an impressive scenic view on the White Mountains. For more information, check the 1785 Inn .

Authentic New England charm at Martin Hill Inn in Portsmouth

If you plan on staying in Portsmouth and want the traditional experience, take a look at Martin Hill Inn . From there, you’ll be a 10-minute walk away from the bustling and hip downtown of Portsmouth. All of the rooms are unique and very, very cute! Check out Martin Hill Inn in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

The Mountain Club on Loon

Located in the northern part of New Hampshire — in Lincoln — the Mountain Club on Loon is the perfect plan if you plan on bringing your entire family or a couple of friends on your trip. While it’s more on the modern side, it’s quite amazing to look at the ski slopes from your room balcony. I really liked the outdoor heated pool as well as the sauna inside!

According to the locals and what I read online, New Hampshire has grown into a foodie destination in the past few years. In fact, Portsmouth is now a destination for all the gourmet people out there on the East Coast. Loving food like I do , I was very excited to discover the food scene of this area and I wasn’t disappointed at all!

Authentic New England Chowder at River House in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

First stop of your foodie journey in New Hampshire has to be River House , right at the center of Portsmouth. Perfect place to enjoy a nice lunch with a view on the Old Harbour. I got the seafood chowder along with the River House lobster roll which were both very delectable.

Oysters feast at Row 34 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

The East Coast of the United States — especially the New England part — is well known for its amazing seafood. Row 34  originated in Boston, Massachusetts and was so popular that they had to open a second hip and sleek location. They opened in Portsmouth and it has been a huge success since the opening.

What’s on the menu at Row 34

The menu at Row 34 is quite simple, yet very appetizing. The first part of the menu consists of the raw bar selection which include the popular Island Creek oyster as well as the Row 34 variety, both from the Duxbury Oyster Company.  You’ll also find smoked fishes and ceviche too. When you’re done with your oyster order, check the dinner menu which is as scrumptious as the raw bar menu! P.S.: The clam chowder is to die for!

Tamworth Lyceum in Tamworth, New Hampshire

This is definitely the kind of place you’re looking for if you’re a modern traveler — the type of place you would find in a larger city, with the undeniable charm of the small American town. At the Tamworth Lyceum, you can eat, have a coffee, enjoy a lecture or even a music show! The space also serve as a gift shop where you’ll find carefully curated items that embrace the outdoorsy vibes. I highly recommend having one of their amazing sandwiches or if you’re there on weekend, enjoy a nice breakfast!

Fine dining at The Wentworth Inn in Jackson, New Hampshire

If you want to experience a dinner in an elegant country inn after a long day on the slopes, check out The Wentworth Inn . They offer a unique farm to table dining experience right in Jackson, New Hampshire.

Most people will know New Hampshire for the all year round very popular Mount Washington. New Hampshire is also home to plenty of activities as diverse as visiting ice castles, shopping at the outlets & going up a snowy mountain. The Kancamagus Scenic Highway is also highly recommended and worth the detour!

Hop aboard the Mount Washington Snowcoach

From Mount Washington Auto Road website : Powered by a 4-track, all-wheel-powered drive-train, the 12-passenger (we typically seat only 7-9 persons) Mt. Washington SnowCoach transports guests (weather permitting) up to treeline on Mt. Washington (at approximately 4,200 feet) into a sub-arctic world for a truly unforgettable adventure.

Experience Ice Castles in North Woodstock, New Hampshire

Ice Castles in North Woodstock, New Hampshire is a winter wonderland that features a series of towering ice structures and sculptures. The ice castles are built by hand using icicles and are illuminated at night by colorful LED lights, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. Visitors can explore the castles, slide down ice slides, and enjoy ice-carving demonstrations. The attraction is open from late December to late March, depending on weather conditions. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of winter and enjoy outdoor activities with family and friends.

Visit an authentic General Store in Lincoln, New Hampshire

Cruising down the Kancamagus Scenic Highway

Driving down the Kancamagus Scenic Highway in New Hampshire during winter time is a unique and beautiful experience. The road is lined with snow-covered trees and the mountains in the distance are also blanketed in snow. The winding road can be challenging during winter as it can be icy and snowy, so it’s important to take extra care and drive slowly . During a heavy snowfall, the road might be closed for safety reasons. The winter scenery along the route is breathtaking, with snow-covered trees and frozen rivers. The White Mountain National Forest is especially beautiful during the winter, with the snow-covered trees creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The road also offers several opportunities for winter activities such as cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. It’s definitely a great way to experience the natural beauty of New Hampshire during the winter and it’s a must-see for anyone visiting the area during this time.

Enjoy a gin tasting at Tamworth Distilling & Mercantile

A spirit tasting at Tamworth Distilling & Mercantile in New Hampshire is an exciting and unique experience. The distillery is known for its hand-crafted, small-batch spirits made from locally sourced ingredients. During the tasting, you’ll be able to sample a variety of their spirits, each with its unique flavors and aromas. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly and will guide you through the tasting, explaining the different botanicals and the distillation process. The distillery is located in a beautiful setting, with a great view of the surrounding countryside. A spirit tasting at Tamworth Distilling & Mercantile is an excellent way to learn about the art of spirit-making, and to discover new and delicious spirits you may not have tried before.

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Burlington, Vermont: Best Road Trip From Montreal

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These Are New Hampshire's Most Magical Small Towns To Visit During Winter

These New Hampshire towns all offer their own charm, making them perfect winter getaways.

New Hampshire has a reputation for cold weather, but travelers shouldn’t let it deter them from experiencing the winter season there. In fact, the climate has made many New Hampshire towns a perfect place for winter activities and sports. Nowadays, many people flock to the state over the winter season to experience all it has to offer, from cold weather activities to expansive natural beauty .

There are plenty of stunning places to see in New Hampshire during the winter, but travelers shouldn’t automatically flock to the tourist traps. There’s something to be said for the small towns. They may not offer as many options in terms of dining and accommodations, but they make up for it in charm and uniqueness.

Below, we take a look at the top 10 best small towns in New Hampshire to visit in winter. Some of these towns get all decked out for the holidays and have been repeating the same traditions for decades, making them perfect for travelers wanting to get away at Christmas . But others are underrated gems for outdoor activities and sports. Needless to say, these New Hampshire towns all offer their own charm, making them perfect winter getaways.

RELATED: 10 Of New York's Most Beautiful Winter Towns To Visit This Season

10 Portsmouth

Portsmouth offers a colonial-style winter escape for travelers during the cold months. This coastal city is vibrantly decorated around the holidays, and its rich history will keep guests busy.

Portsmouth’s popular attractions include the Strawbery Banke Museum and the USS Albacore , a former research submarine that can be toured by the public. Plus, guests who’ll be in town on December 1st should see the annual tree lighting in the downtown at 5:30 pm.

The only thing stark about this small town is how stunning it is around the holidays. Stark, New Hampshire, has become famous for its covered bridge , which is decked out in Christmas lights every year. This tradition started over five decades ago when local children would take charitable donations to go towards putting it up.

Hanover is known as a college town, which is a surprisingly good thing come the holidays, as it means the town goes all-out with the Christmas decorations. Plus, many of the students will be gone for the holidays, offering a more low-key experience for out-of-town guests.

Visitors should check out the magical Christmas tree on Dartmouth Street as well as the gingerbread display at Hannover Inn.

RELATED: 10 Of The Best Places To Visit In December In The U.S.

With a population of a little more than 16,000 souls as of 2020, Exeter offers a quaint experience for tourists. It has a classic New England winter , filled with charming festive décor and snowy treetops. Visitors should check out the American Independence Museum on Water Street, which houses one of the rare, original versions of the Declaration of Independence.

6 Jefferson

Another New Hampshire town that goes all-out for the holidays is Jefferson, which spends at least an entire month every year in the Christmas spirit. The Christmas Farm Inn is one of the best places to stay in Jefferson during the holidays for obvious reasons. Guests can expect a charming town with plenty of cozy cafes and cute shopping options.

5 North Conway

North Conway is another excellent New Hampshire town for people who love winter activities. It offers easy access to some of the state’s best ski resorts . Plus, it has an array of other winter-themed activities , including sleigh rides, skating, and more.

There are plenty of hotels and inns to stay at, but visitors can also opt for a cabin for an extra special winter getaway.

RELATED: How To Skip Airport Lines & 9 Other Interesting Travel Hacks

4 Sugar Hill

Sugar Hill has all the best qualities of a small town, from tiny boutiques to historical markers and plaques that explain its centuries-old history. But another plus is that Sugar Hill is close to ski resorts, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy an array of outdoor winter activities set against a charming small town.

3 Canterbury

Canterbury Shaker Village has become one of the most well-known Christmas celebrations in New Hampshire. There are plenty of festive events for guests to check out , including the Canterbury Christmas market, gingerbread-making classes, and wreath-making classes. Canterbury is a great place for folks specifically looking to travel over Christmas, not just the winter season.

2 Monadnock

For a funky vibe, consider Monadnock. This cozy town offers a perfect setting for guests looking for a quaint getaway. Some areas of the town will make guests feel transported back to the 18th century. There’s a lot of festive décor around the holidays, but it pales in comparison to the town’s surrounding natural beauty.

Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including antique shopping, sleigh rides at Stonewall Farm, and sampling drinks at one of the many distilleries.

Another great place for travelers looking to see festive décor is Enfield. This town has become known for its La Salette Shrine, which puts out over 10 acres of Christmas lights every year. This magnificent display has been held in Jefferson since the 1950s , making it a must-see during the winter season.

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The 5 Best Winter Hikes in New Hampshire

Everyone knows that autumn is a beautiful time to be in New Hampshire , but winter can be an amazing season in the Granite State too. Fresh snow and colder temperatures will send most people scurrying indoors to wait for spring, leaving most of the hiking trails all-but deserted. But for those of us who can't stand the idea of being cooped up all winter long, this is the perfect time to grab a warm jacket, put on some extra layers, and slip into a good pair of boots for a nice walk in the snow.

If you're wondering which trails you should explore this winter, here are our picks for the five absolute best winter hikes in New Hampshire. 

Mount Moosilauke (Benton)

New Hampshire is home to 48 mountains taller than 4000-feet, and all of them are open throughout the winter. One of the absolute best is the 4803-foot Mount Moosilauke , which on a clear day offers great views of the surrounding countryside all the way to Vermont. Take the lesser-traveled Glenncliff Trail to the summit and you'll even climb up above the treeline along the way. Covering 7.8 miles, and with 3300-feet of elevation gain, this is a moderate to challenging hike in any season, so be sure to bring plenty of food and water to keep you supplied on the trail. If it isn't too windy, plan on spending some time at the summit as the view from the top just can't be beat. 

Lincoln Woods Trail (Lincoln)

Stretching 2.7 miles in length, and running along a mostly flat route, the Lincoln Woods Trail is an ideal path for cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and winter trail runners. It also makes for a great hike for those who don't want to deal with a lot of change in elevation but still enjoy being outdoors during the winter months. The route follows along the banks of the meandering Pemigewasset River, which provides plenty of wonderful scenery to enjoy. The trail is a loop route that is well marked and easy to follow, and includes a fun suspension bridge to cross as well. The bridges along the trail can be a bit slick in the winter, so watch your step when coming and going. 

Diana's Baths (North Conway)

Located inside White Mountain National Forest , Diana's Baths is a series of cascading waterfalls and pools 75-feet in height that are extremely popular with visitors during the summer months. But in the winter far fewer hikers venture out on the trail, leaving it relatively quiet and undisturbed. The trek to the Baths isn't especially long, covering a little more than a half-mile on mostly flat ground. This helps to make it a winter trek that almost anyone can enjoy, as it is extremely accessible in all but the worst of conditions. It may be an easy walk but it is also a rewarding one, as the colder temperatures cause the waterfalls to freeze over, dramatically altering the landscape for most of the winter. Locked in place, the frozen falls are a sight to behold, particularly when glimmering in the bright sunlight. 

West Rattlesnake Mountain (Holderness)

Don't let the name fool you, West Rattlesnake Mountain isn't amongst the taller peaks in New Hampshire, which makes it a great option for a vigorous winter hike. In fact, this "mountain" is only about 1260 feet in height, and the trail to its summit runs roughly 2 miles in length with about 450 feet of vertical gain. But, from the top hikers will get a wonderful view of Squam Lake, which usually freezes over early in the winter and is covered in fresh snow throughout the entire season. This is generally an easy to moderate walk, although snow conditions can make it more challenging than it would first appear. Still, experienced hikers will generally have no issues along the way, making this an enjoyable winter outing. 

Cannon Mountain (Franconia)

Another one of New Hampshire's 4000-foot peaks, Cannon Mountain is amongst the more accessible mountains during the winter months. Geared more for experienced hikers, Cannon features numerous trails that criss-cross its slopes, providing plenty of options for trekkers. One of the best is the Kinsman Ridge Trail, a 7.5-mile out-and-back hike which takes visitors up to the 4100-foot summit, offering breathtaking views along the way.

Be warned; this trek can be challenging and winter hikers will want to be well prepared with the proper gear. Dress warmly, bring additional layers in your pack, share your plans with someone else before setting out, and carry extra food and water. While not especially dangerous, it is always good to play it safe when hiking Cannon Mountain in the winter months. 

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50+ Things to Do in New Hampshire: Your NH Bucket List (2023)

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New Hampshire is one of America’s best-kept secrets, so if you didn’t realize there are so many fun things to do in New Hampshire, you’re probably not alone. Since it doesn’t have a sprawling city of millions, it’s not like everyone has a must do in New Hampshire list… but you should! New Hampshire has it all: the charm, quaintness, sites and activities, history, and gorgeous granite landscapes.

I was born and raised in NH, and just can’t seem to leave this beautiful corner of the country. What sets it apart for me is its amazing variety of sights, towns, and activities, that are all insanely accessible no matter what region you’re in. Since NH isn’t a large state, everything is at your fingertips. You can be in a city, on a mountain, then on the beach, all in the same day. Talk about bang for your buck. 

If you’re not convinced yet, I’m going to share 50+ of the best things to do in New Hampshire. Many of these are my personal favorites, and all are worth being added to your New Hampshire bucket list.

Let’s explore this great state!

Table of Contents

Lounge by the ocean at Hampton Beach State Park

The beach is a major favorite among New Hampshire locals. It’s such an integral part of our summers that I was surprised to learn we actually have the smallest ocean coastline (about 18 miles) of any state. But we definitely know how to make good use of our humble blessings! 

Hampton Beach State Park is a wicked popular vacation spot between June and August. Read a book in the sand, grab a slice of pizza on Ocean Boulevard, or catch the sand sculpture competition in September; there are a ton of fun things to do in Hampton Beach, and cool hotels to stay at, too!

Explore the oldest European settlement in the state

Located in my favorite coastal city of Portsmouth, Strawbery Banke Museum is a 10-acre outdoor history museum imbued with over 300 years of U.S. history and one of the best things to do in Portsmouth New Hampshire !

Dating back to the 1600s, this is the oldest neighborhood in NH to be settled by Europeans. Composed of 32 restored historic buildings, heritage gardens, and costumed role-players, the museum will immerse you in its rich history. 

You can participate in hands-on traditional crafts, storytelling, and artifact viewing. If you’re a history buff, Strawbery Banke is a must .

Take a dip in Diana’s Baths

It’s not hard to find cool things to do in the White Mountains because they are absolutely riddled with breathtaking natural formations, and Diana’s Baths is definitely one of them. Made up of a series of small waterfalls and pools, this 1-mile out and back trail in Bartlett is a short, easy walk, but packed with serene nooks to explore. 

Appreciate the beautiful waterfall views along your hike, wade in the clean mountain-water pools, or picnic on a summer day!

Take a  scenic train ride in the mountains

The Conway Scenic Railroad in North Conway Village offers family-friendly train rides through the Mount Washington Valley. This is definitely one of the top New Hampshire attractions for visitors to the state. 

Departing from a charming, sunny train station in North Conway , you can choose between two adventures: a heritage rail excursion to Conway and Bartlett, or a scenic roundtrip to Crawford Notch with plenty of vistas and rocky outcrops that’ll leave you in awe;; this is one of those very memorable  things to do with family in New Hampshire, especially if you live somewhere that doesn’t have mountains!

Drive, hike, or ride to the top of Mount Washington

Introducing Mount Washington : the tallest peak in the Northeast (6288’),  home to the fastest wind gust ever recorded on earth (231 mph), and the muse for every single ‘This Car Climbed Mt. Washington’ bumper sticker. 

But really, this mountain is a glorious point of pride for New Hampshire and undoubtedly one of the coolest things to do in New Hampshire, and there are several ways to experience its majesty. Experienced hikers can climb. Those who want to sit back and savor the scenery can ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway , the world’s first mountain-climbing cog, to the top. 

Last but not least, you can drive the legendary Mount Washington Auto Road to the summit yourself, then proudly display your new ‘This Car Climbed Mt. Washington’ bumper sticker. You’ve earned it!

Bring your little ones to Story Land

If you’re looking for things to do in NH with kids, check this out: Nestled in the town of Glen, Story Land is a children’s amusement park that will spark your child’s imagination and have them buzzing from excitement. 

With over 30 attractions, “the land where fantasy lives” was created to make kids smile, but adults might be equally amused by this living fairytale!

Walk across an epic boardwalk in a gorge

I highly recommend Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park , which was created by the flow of Flume Brook and sits at the base of Mount Liberty. This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in NH, and a visit here is certainly one of those must do things in New Hampshire that everyone should experience for themselves.

The 1.5 mile Flume Gorge loop takes you along stairs and a boardwalk within the gorge, where you can observe the lush flora and fauna up close and take in its 90-foot granite walls. It’s an unforgettable experience. 

I first visited Flume Gorge as a child, and it blew me away – I might as well have been in Terabithia. To this day, I’m still convinced it’s one of the most magical places in NH.  This is one of those special things to do with kids in NH that they will remember all their lives!

Enjoy the holidays year-round at Santa’s Village

Santa’s Village in Jefferson is a magical place for kids, plain and simple and is an obvious addition to any things to do in New Hampshire with kids list. And it’s exactly what it sounds like – a theme park that transports you to the North Pole. 

There’s food and shopping, a tiny train, holiday themed rides, elves, and meet-and-greets with Santa Claus himself! A visit to Santa’s Village should also be on the list for fun things to do in NH with toddlers, too! You’re never too young (or too old!) to enjoy a visit with Santa!

Learn about ocean science at the Seacoast Science Center

Located at Odiorne State Park, the Seacoast Science Center is a delightful, educational way to appreciate marine life and the ocean. If you’re looking for things to do in Rye NH, add this to the list!

The exhibits will teach you about marine mammals like whales and seals, beaches, and reefs. The best part is the touch tank, where you can pet a chain catshark or hold a sea star; this is one of the most fun things to do with kids in NH, and certainly one of the coolest Seacoast NH things to do, too.

Have a serene stay at a luxurious mountain hotel

Why not experience NH in style? Located in Bretton Woods, a hotspot for skiers and adventurers, the Omni Mount Washington Resort is a breathtaking hotel; not only is this NH luxury resort with a spa one of the most fun things to do for adults in New Hampshire, but kids will have a blast too, making this a fun NH family activity!

In the 20th century, The Mount Washington was one the most luxurious hotels of its time. And the present popularity of this historical hotel lies in its massive size, and the nature that surrounds it – a stay here comes with 360-degree views of the White Mountains. Book a stay here if you want a one-of-a-kind NH experience!

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

Watch a movie the old-fashioned way at a drive-in

Who doesn’t love a nostalgic drive-in theater experience? The Milford Drive-In Theater is one of the best things to do in Southern NH and is an old-fashioned two screen theater, one of the only drive-ins left in the state. Snag a spot early (first come, first served parking), buy your theater snacks at the concession stand and get cozy for the show; this could also be a romantic New Hampshire activity if you’re in the market for one of those. 

Get up close to nature at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Looking for things to do in Holderness NH? Well, off the beaten path a bit, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is a great place to visit if you’re interested in natural science or seeing a variety of cool animals up close. There are so many programs and camps for kids in NH, live animal exhibits, walking trails, and education programs. The center even offers cruises on Squam Lake .

Overcome your claustrophobia inside the Polar Caves

On the list of unique things to do in New Hampshire, the Polar Caves were formed during the last Ice Age and created when a glacier moved across the landscape and deposited massive granite boulders. I think gorgeous granite formations like the Polar Caves are what make NH’s landscape so amazing. 

You can visit Polar Caves Park and meander along the stairs and boardwalks that will weave you in and out of the caves. Some portions consist of really narrow crevices though, so be prepared if you’re not a fan of small spaces!

Sit on a frozen throne at the Ice Castles.

The Ice Castles , a frozen attraction in North Woodstock, is an incredible feat of human engineering and art, and definitely on the list of New Hampshire things to see in the winter. Built using hundreds of thousands of icicles by various artists, these castles have tunnels, ice thrones, sculptures, fountains, and more.  

It’s a magical, frozen kingdom that I really want to compare to a certain Disney movie… But maybe I should let it go. This is NH fun at it’s finest!

Jam out to live music in an oceanside park

There are some amazing memories to be made in downtown Portsmouth’s Prescott Park . A whole calendar of events happen here year-round. Not to mention, the location is fantastic! Right on the ocean, there are piers and beautiful gardens, and you’ll also be in spitting distance of Portsmouth’s best shops and restaurants.

One of the best ways to take advantage of Prescott Park is catching a live concert during their summer Concert Series . Lay out a blanket in the grass with loved ones and listen to your favorite band, with an ocean sunset and docking boats as the backdrop. This is where memories are made, especially if you’re looking for fun things to do for adults in NH; major date vibes, right?

Play PAC-MAN at the largest arcade in the world

Bet you didn’t know that Funspot arcade in Laconia is the largest arcade in the world – Guinness-certified! This place has over 600 games, 300 classic arcade games, a bowling alley, cash bingo, mini-golf, and even its own tavern, so if you’re looking for things to do in Laconia NH, check it out. If you can walk in and out of here in under an hour, you deserve a Guinness World Record yourself.

Stay in a unique cabin in the White Mountains

If you haven’t noticed yet, the White Mountains region is the home of so many classic NH things to do. 

An awesome way to get up close and personal with these amazing mountain ranges is to find a unique cabin stay. I’d recommend looking for one in towns like North Conway , Bretton Woods, Jackson , or Franconia. 

If you need some inspiration, check out our hand-picked list of 14 amazing cabins in the White Mountains; when you’re looking for cool things to do in NH, can it get much cooler than staying in a quintessentially cozy New England cabin?

Peruse the galleries of an art museum

Yes, NH actually has a good arts scene! While there are plenty of great museums to check out in NH, two institutions really stand out: the Currier Museum of Art , and the Hood Museum of Art. Both of them are beautiful museums with world-class collections and great NH things to do.

The Currier (which made our list of best things to do in Manchester) has a strong European and American collection. 

The Hood Museum in Hanover is a Dartmouth College institution, and as such has really strong ties to Dartmouth’s history and community. But with a collection of over 65,000 pieces ranging from European, Indigenous Australian, Asian, and African art, the Hood Museum offers a powerful diversity of perspectives. 

Having previously worked for this museum myself, I can proudly say it’s an impressive institution.

Tour the historic home of a famous American sculptor

In the late 19th century, the great American sculpture Augustus Saint-Gaudens lived seasonally at a gorgeous estate in Cornish, NH. 

The grounds have since been turned into the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park , where you can tour the home, walk the gardens, and view over 100 of Saint-Gaudens’ sculptures throughout the property. 

Visit a British colonial village dating back to the 1700s

The Fort at No. 4 Open-Air Museum is a historical site in Charlestown, established by European pioneers in the mid-1700s. 

You’ll get to explore the old, restored buildings, watch live reenactments, and view artifacts displays. The Fort will give you a better understanding of the fascinating, messy history of European colonization in New England, and is one of the more intellectually interesting things to do in New Hampshire. 

Have some fun in the sun at an amusement park

Looking for what to do in NH in the summer? Calling all roller coaster junkies: Canobie Lake Park in Salem is NH’s biggest amusement park and definitely one of the most fun things to do in New Hampshire!

Recently named in Time’s Money Magazine as one of America’s 10 best amusement parks , Canobie has over 85 games and rides and draws visitors from all over New England. 

Canobie really is a blast, and a great way to spend a summer day. Take a spin on the Xtreme Frisbee, if you dare!

Walk through New England’s largest outdoor sculpture park

Introducing the Andres Institute of Art , a lesser-known NH art institute but well worth the visit. One of the top things to do in New Hampshire for art lovers, the Institute is located along wooded trails in Brookline, and from dawn to dusk you are free to walk the paths and view over 60 sculptures created by various contemporary artists.

Take a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway

The Kancamagus Highway , a 34-mile scenic drive in Northern NH, is an amazing USA road trip experience . 

Officially designated an American Scenic Byway, this winding road cuts straight through the White Mountain National Forest and takes you over 2800-feet in elevation. Not only is it well worth the 2–3-hour drive, but you’ll have immediate access to the endless natural treasures of the White Mountains. 

Go in the fall if you can – many people consider this highway the best location for fall foliage leaf-peeping in the country, and certainly the best fall fun in NH!

Go on a moose tour

Have you ever seen a moose? These majestic, often elusive creatures are all over New Hampshire, but you might have to get lucky to spot one on your own. Instead, join up with a guided moose tour , like Pemi Valley Moose Tours located in Lincoln NH . This group in particular has a 97% success rate when it comes to spotting moose during their 3 ½ hour, ride-along moose tours!

Shred the gnar at a mountain ski resort

Vermont isn’t the only ski-lover’s haven in New England! NH has got some amazing peaks to shred too. And Loon Mountain Resort might just be one of the best places for it! Located in Lincoln, this resort covers three peaks and offers skiing and snowboarding lessons, rentals, and views for days. If you’re looking for New Hampshire things to do in the winter , get out and play in the snow!

Become a wine connoisseur at a local vineyard

I love a nice wine tasting and was surprised to discover how many NH wineries and vineyards there are, some even offering stuff like a New Hampshire wine and dine full day tour!

LaBelle Winery in Amherst has great food, fruity wines, and a beautiful vineyard. Averill House Vineyard in Brookline is rustic and family-owned, located in a restored barn from the 1830s. There’s also Haunting Whisper Vineyard , Flag Hill , Fulchino Vineyard , and more. And most of these offer wine tastings, tours, and dining on site. Take your pick! This is definitely a fun New Hampshire activity for adults.

See a show at a historic theatre

The Palace Theatre in Manchester is a great place to catch a live show, and is definitely one of those cool places in New Hampshire everyone should check out once. It offers a wide variety of productions, from plays to concerts to other performing arts events. We think it’s one of the top things to do in Manchester and definitely a fun pick if you’re looking for indoor activities in NH!

But it’s not just about the world-class performances they host. The Palace, which opened in 1915, is steeped in history, charm, and some even say hauntings ( it was featured on an episode of Ghost Hunters! ). So come for the show, stay for the ghosts if you’re looking for some spooky New Hampshire fun.

Peruse a farmers market on the seacoast

The Portsmouth Farmers Market is an open-air marketplace, where over 100 local vendors set up shop and sell their unique goods. It’s an awesome way to shop fresh, and support the region’s farmers, artisans, and craftspeople, definitely quaint fun Seacoast NH style . This farmers market runs from May-November.

Explore the inside of a Navy submarine

Have you ever wondered what the inside of a real submarine looks like? Well, satisfy your curiosity at the USS Albacore Museum . 

The USS Albacore is a preserved U.S. Navy submarine that was designed to conduct top-secret research in the 1950s. It sits in USS Albacore Park in Portsmouth now, where you can take a self-guided tour of its interior; this is definitely on the list of interesting stuff to do in NH for kids and adults!

Visit a mountaintop castle in the clouds.

Lucknow mansion, otherwise known as the Castle in the Clouds , is a massive mountaintop estate in Moultonborough, and a very cool way to explore New Hampshire!

Built by a wealthy businessman in 1913, the property has 5500 acres, a restaurant, and sprawling views of the lake and Ossipee Mountains. 

Come take a tour, learn about its fascinating history , appreciate the beauty, and enjoy the food. This historical mansion truly is a castle in the clouds, so if you’ve been looking for points of interest in New Hampshire, check it out!

Take a walk with a rewarding view at Cathedral Ledge

The Cathedral Ledge summit in Bartlett is a fairly low-commitment hike that offers a pretty big reward. Take this shaded walk along a mile-long auto road, up to Cathedral Ledge’s 1159-foot summit. There are plenty of options when it comes to New Hampshire outdoor activities, but at Cathedral Ledge you’ll find incredible views of the Saco River Valley and White Mountains from every direction.

Taste penny candy at an old-fashioned general store

If you’re nostalgic for those good ol’ days of candy counters and charming Yankee watering holes, you have to visit Zeb’s General Store in North Conway Village. It’s a really fun, whimsical spot for shopping while you’re exploring North Conway; it’s probably not the best shopping in New Hampshire, but you’ll find a wide array of old-fashioned candy, New England-made specialty foods, and unique souvenirs; this is one of those fun things to do in NH for kids that’s fun for the adults, too!

PS: Like old things? Check out our list of the best antique stores in New Hampshire .

Enjoy autumn like a local at the Deerfield Fair.

We love Fair Season in NH! It’s one of our quintessential fall activities. There’s just something about wearing flannel, petting farm animals, watching tractors race each other, riding rickety Ferris wheels, and eating shameful amounts of fried dough we can’t get enough of. 

The Deerfield Fair , held every September, has been operating for 144 years now. In 2019 this super popular fair attracted over 125,000 people in just four days! Oh, and if you do go, please try the apple cider donuts.

Spend an epic lake day at Lake Winnipesaukee

As the biggest lake in the state, Lake Winnipesaukee comes alive in the spring and summertime, and if you ask a local what to do in New Hampshire in the summer, chances are, they’re going to mention the state’s most well-known lake.

Located—shockingly—in the Lakes Region, there are so many ways to enjoy this gorgeous spot. Lounge on Weirs Beach, rent a boat from Goodhue Boat Co. , take a cruise on the M/S Mount Washington , or shop and dine at Mill Falls Marketplace during your summer in NH!

Visit one of the oldest surviving businesses in the United States. 

First opened in 1781, the Old Country Store and Museum in Moultonborough is considered one of the oldest businesses – and possibly the oldest general store – in the U.S.

This sunny-yellow store with its original foundation still intact is brimming with little wonders, knick-knacks, locally made foods, New England souvenirs, and a candy counter where you can try old-fashioned candy. The top floor holds a small museum for the history of the store and Moultonborough and could definitely be one of the things to do with family in New Hampshire!

Explore a historical, eclectic museum

If you’re looking for things to do in Dover NH and a museum that exhibits a variety of items covering local history, natural science, and decorative arts sounds fascinating, the Woodman Museum in Dover might be just the place for you. Apart from cool intrigues and oddities displayed across four historical buildings, you’ll find the oldest sycamore tree in Strafford County, a lovely garden, and the oldest house in Dover (built in 1675!). 

Drink craft beer at NH Brewfest

What’s there to do in New Hampshire? Well, we like our beer! In fact, there are almost 100 craft breweries across the state, serving up their unique styles for every kind of beer lover. To make it easy on yourself, why not sample them all in one place at the NH Brewfest in Portsmouth ? This festival features over 150 beers from 50 NH brewers! There’s a good chance you’ll find a new favorite; this is squarely in the fun things to do for adults in NH category!

Attend the largest beer festival in New England

While NH Brewfest is perfect if you’re interested solely in NH brewers, the New England Brewfest highlights all of New England’s best. New England’s official beer festival, New England Brewfest , is held in Woodstock, NH (which we’re pretty proud of). 

In past years they’ve hosted Lone Pine Brewing Co. , Woodstock Inn , Allagash Brewing , Berkshire Brewing , and so many others; if the question is what are fun things to do in New Hampshire and you’re a beer connoisseur, you’re in luck with this answer!

Enjoy a downtown festival at the state capitol

One of the summer’s most fun festivals takes place right in downtown Concord , the state capitol. Market Days Festival is a three-day event along Main Street in August, with live music, street food, crafts, carnival games, and all kinds of shopping. 

So many local businesses set up booths and sell their services and goods at Market Days. This event is so much fun, and really uplifts the whole community. Festivals like this are fun things to do NH style!

Pick fresh produce at a family-owned farm

Apples , pumpkins , oh my. There are so many wonderful farms in NH, it’s hard to pick which ones to highlight. But I’ll give it a shot.

Lull Farm in Hollis is always bustling no matter what time of year. They have gorgeous flowers for sale, a bakery counter, and fresh seafood and dairy. Moulton Farm in Meredith  is a favorite of mine. They have an extensive amount of produce, a corn maze every fall, and delicious homemade pies. 

And finally, check out Applecrest Farm Orchards if you’re looking for one on the seacoast. It’ll satisfy all of you apple fanatics out there. 

Have dinner and brews at a popular brewpub

Sometimes you might just be craving some good American grub and a local craft beer. Well, Backyard Brewery & Kitchen has your back. 

Recently featured on Phantom Gourmet , this brewpub is a bustling locale. People rave about the handmade beer, wide-open interior and outdoor patio, and the mouthwatering prime rib. Looking for something delicious in New Hampshire? Here ya go!

Immerse yourself in the history of Canterbury Shaker Village

Canterbury Shaker Village is over 200 years old, and as a National Historic Landmark it preserves the heritage of the Canterbury Shakers and educates the public on its historical significance. 

On your visit you can explore the Village grounds, take a guided tour, and check out various indoor exhibits. The unique architecture throughout the Village is a definite highlight!

Sample some wicked good chowda at Chowderfest

Chowder is a beloved New England soup. Probably because it’s comforting and hardy, and New Englanders definitely need hardiness to get through these killer winters. 

In any case, if you’re a fan of a good chowder, visit Chowderfest and Brews at Waterville Valley Resort . If you’re looking for things to do in New Hampshire in May, this is a good choice; for a small fee you can sample all the chowder your stomach can stand. Live music and local beer samples included!

Sip on a latte at a cozy café

NH’s coffee scene doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. And while we’re no Portland, there are some undeniable gems sprinkled around New Hampshire. 

Second to none is Apotheca in Goffstown , a café and flower shop combo that will spark your imagination and your taste buds. They have whimsical, earthy decor, comfy repurposed furniture, local artisan crafts and gifts, gorgeous flower arrangements and incredible coffee. What more do you need?  

Honorable mentions include Portsmouth Book & Bar , Local Moose Cafe , the Metropolitan Coffee House , and Union Coffee Co.

Take the family to Chucksters Family Fun Park

This amusement center in Chichester is jam-packed with fun activities, making it one of the top things to do in NH with kids. From a bumper boat pond to ziplining, go-karts, batting cages, a climbing wall, and mini golf, you won’t experience a single moment of boredom. 

Take a walk in the woods to the ruins of a castle

Located within the Madame Sherri Forest in Chesterfield , you’ll find something bewildering: the ruins of Madame Sherri’s Castle , where the iconic “staircase to nowhere” spirals up into the sky. This is definitely a unique New Hampshire thing to do!

There’s a fascinating history to this abandoned castle. It was built by the eccentric Parisian costume designer, Madame Sherri, to entertain New York City’s rich and famous in the Roaring Twenties. It’s fun to visit and imagine all the scandalous ragers taking place in those woods.

Drive through a magical tunnel of Christmas lights

If you love peeping amazing Christmas lights displays in December, look no further than the NH Motor Speedway in Loudon . While this speedway is normally used as a race car track, it is converted each holiday season into a magical 2.5-mile tunnel of Christmas lights that you can drive your car through. It’s worth waiting in line for as a super fun Christmas in NH thing to do!

Go on a shopping spree at the Merrimack Outlets

The Merrimack Outlets is a large, modern shopping center that has a nice food court, outdoor walking paths and over 100 outlet stores. There are so many upscale brands here that you won’t find anywhere else in the state, like Barbour, Coach, Lucky Brand, and Michael Kors, def some of the best shopping in New Hampshire!

Go flower-peeping at the Sugar Hill Lupine Festival

For nature-lovers and photographers who love capturing lightning in a bottle, you’ll want to attend the Sugar Hill Lupine Festival in the White Mountains. 

The town of Sugar Hill is way off the beaten path, but it possesses a secret treasure: endless fields and gardens of lupines. These beautiful purple, white, and pink flowers bloom for just a few short weeks in June. 

Attending the Sugar Hill Lupine Festival is one of the best things to do in NH in June to catch them at their glorious peak; the rolling hills explode with color, but only for a brief moment.

Ride the Alpine Slide at Attitash Mountain Resort

If you’re looking for NH things to do in summer that deliver big on fun, check out the alpine slide at Attitash Mountain Resort, the longest mountain coaster in North America! This qualifies as a fun thing to do in New Hampshire with kids and adults alike!

Spend a day on the river

New Hampshire isn’t just about the lakes; there’s also plenty of river fun to be had here! Adventurers can find a variety of rivers that are great for various outdoor activities. There are slow-moving rivers perfect for a lazy day of river tubing. And at the opposite end of the spectrum, there are some rivers with sections of exciting rapids, where folks can paddle on a white-water rafting excursion.

Don’t forget about the other fun river activities you can try, too, like fishing, swimming, or kayaking!

Take a trip to outer space

The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center is the perfect place to make your dream of going to space come true, without actually leaving earth.

This center has an observatory and interactive space exhibits, where you can learn all about astronomy, aviation, space science, and real-life astronauts such as the courageous Christa McAuliffe, so if you’re a big space buff, this might just be the best thing to do in New Hampshire for you!

But the best part? The planetarium shows. Recline in their domed theater, and feel like you’re literally flying through the stars. 

The answer to “what is there to do in New Hampshire” is basically EVERYTHING! Have fun making and then crossing items off of your New Hampshire bucket list!

Which of these top things to do in NH is your favorite?

More resources to help you plan your New Hampshire travels:

• 15 Picturesque Covered Bridges in New Hampshire to See ASAP!
• 11 Incredibly Fun Things to do in Exeter NH
• 16 Things to Do in Keene NH (and Nearby!)
• 14 Fantastic Things to Do in Littleton, New Hampshire 12 Fantastic Things to Do in Lebanon NH (+ Nearby!)
• 10 Incredible Things to do in Peterborough NH
• 13 of the Coziest + Best Cabins in New Hampshire
• Top Places to Go Dog Sledding in New Hampshire

Take This 34-Mile Drive To Take In Magical Winter Views In New Hampshire After A Good Snowfall

Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: [email protected].

More by this Author

One of our favorite ways to see New Hampshire is by car. What’s easier and more calming than hopping in, buckling up, and meandering through the mountains without consistent cell phone service? This drive, straight through the best part of the White Mountains, will take just part of the day which means it won’t require a ton of planning. Plan your excursion just after a fresh snowfall, and the views will be even more magical. Out of all of the great New Hampshire road trips we can embark on the Kancamagus Highway in winter still ranks one of the highest. You can beat the crowds and have the overlooks all to yourself to witness the beautiful scenery, so let’s hop in the car and go!

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Isn’t the Kancamagus highway in winter gorgeous? The 34-mile drive on the Kancamagus Highway is free and should take about an hour. What are some of your favorite winter drives in New Hampshire? Let us know in the comments! Want to stay in this winter wonderland a bit longer? Book at night at Camp David to extend your stay. Going out in the winter can be really good to just get out of the house and break up the normal routine, check out this video from Adventuring in the Moment for a winter adventure day which ends with a scenic drive on the Kancamagus.

If you love the Kanc in the winter, you’ll love it filled with colors, too! In fact, there’s no better place to see America’s fall foliage than this one dreamy destination; The Kancamagus Highway . .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Kancamagus highway in winter.

What are the best places to stop on the Kancamagus Highway in winter in New Hampshire?

Here are some of the best stops to make on the Kancamagus Highway in winter in New Hampshire:

• Rocky River Gorge
• Champney Falls
• Albany Covered Bridge
• Lower Falls
• Lincoln Woods

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The Best Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH in the Winter

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: November 10, 2023

Categories United States , Destinations , New England USA

Are you looking for the perfect winter getaway in New England?

Portsmouth, New Hampshire has long been known as a summer destination, with its proximity to the ocean, gorgeous public parks, and bustling downtown, but did you know that there are oodles of things to do in Portsmouth, NH in the winter?

Portsmouth is one of our favorite New England towns, and one of its biggest draws is that the fun doesn’t disappear when the winter winds blow down Market Street. In fact, the town is as bright and bustling as ever.

Sure, you have to bundle up, but there are numerous benefits to visiting this historic seaport in the off-season.

My husband and I try and visit Portsmouth and the surrounding communities every winter. As is often the case, we try our best to remain outside, wandering around the historic downtown, popping into shops, and exploring some of the surrounding communities.

When the cold winds send us scurrying indoors, we delight in discovering new coffee shops, restaurants, and galleries just begging to be explored.

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire in winter, as well as some tips for enjoying your own winter getaway.

Table of Contents

At-A-Glance: Things to do in Portsmouth NH in Winter

Want to skip to the good part?  If we had to choose the five best things to do in Portsmouth in winter, here’s what we’d do:

• Check into The Water Street Inn in Kittery, ME (walking distance from downtown Portsmouth)
• Take a self-guided walking tour of historic downtown Portsmouth
• Go ice skating at Strawbery Banke Museum
• Walk along the water at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye
• Visit the animals at the Seacoast Science Center in Rye
• See a show at the Music Hall

Read Next: A Romantic Summer Getaway in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Why Visit Portsmouth, New Hampshire in the Winter?

Portsmouth is conveniently located just off Interstate 95 near the border of New Hampshire and Maine.

It is an easy drive from Boston and New York City, which makes it a lovely getaway for semi-local city dwellers. Tourists flock to Portsmouth in the summer, but the town is a bit more relaxed in the off-season. Unlike many coastal towns that shut down in the winter, Portsmouth is always open for business , and the winter views are amazing!

Visiting Portsmouth in the winte r months will allow you to explore at a slower pace.

You can meander along the shore of the Piscataqua River where it flows into the Atlantic Ocean, take a self-guided history tour, and pop into more than 100 local restaurants. Fair warning — you may never want to leave.

Another advantage of visiting Portsmouth in winter? It’s cheaper!

As budget travelers, we love traveling during the off-season because it means fewer crowds and cheaper prices. Winter rates at many of our favorite Portsmouth hotels start at $100 per night, compared to $200+ during the summer. Use that extra money at a nice downtown restaurant or one of Portsmouth’s eclectic shops.

Fun Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH in the Winter

Ready to embark on an off-season getaway to one of New England’s most charming cities? Here are some of the best things to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire during the winter season. 

Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour of  the Historic Downtown Portsmouth

Did you know that Portsmouth is one of the oldest cities in the United States? It was settled in 1623 and served as the capital of New Hampshire from 1679 until the middle of the Revolutionary War.

Beautiful historic buildings, homes, and churches are scattered throughout the downtown area and include New Hampshire’s oldest still-standing house (built in 1664), the stately North Church that towers over downtown (constructed in 1855), and a collection of 39 historic homes at Strawbery Banke Museum. Did you know that when Portsmouth was first settled by Europeans, it was called Strawbery Banke?

Pick up a guide and map at the Portsmouth Chamber Visitor Center, and immerse yourself in Portsmouth’s rich cultural heritage as you meander around town.  

In the summer months, you can sign up for a tour guide to take you around the city, but in the winter, you’re on your own!

Dine Your Way Across the City

You’re sure to have worked up an appetite after your tour of downtown Portsmouth. Time to indulge at one of the more than 100 restaurants in the downtown area alone.

Whatever it is you’re craving, you will find it in Portsmouth, from the freshest coffee and baked goods to right-off-the-boat seafood selections and eclectic farm-to-table meals.

We have had so many delightful meals in Portsmouth over the years! Curious about our favorite spots? Check out our continuously updated post on the best restaurants in Portsmouth !

Go Ice Skating at Strawbery Banke Museum

Weather permitting, you can warm up any winter day with a few twirls around the ice-skating rink at Labrie Family Skate on Puddle Dock Pond, which is run in collaboration with Strawbery Banke Museum.

The rink generally operates from November to March, but the exact schedule is based on our crazy New England weather.

For more on operating hours and buying tickets, check out Strawbery Banke .

Learn About Local Marine Life at the Seacoast Science Center

Located within the boundary of Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, New Hampshire, the Seacoast Science Center features interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and live ocean critters.

It’s a great place to delve into ocean ecology and marine life. To make a visit even more enticing, the center sits right on the shores of the ocean, with incredible views of the crashing waves.

The Seacoast Science Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm in the winter, and daily in the summer. Educational programs are offered for kids and adults throughout the year with a rotating cast of cool educational displays.

We loved stroking the skates in the touch tank, watching the seahorses flit around in their aquarium, and learning about Tofu, the humpback whale who was hit by a ship, and whose skeleton was donated to the center.

A visit to the Seacoast Science Center is one of the best things to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire with kids, but even without kids, we learned so much on our visit!

For more about their special events and exhibits, visit the Seacoast Science Center .

Hike the Trails at Odiorne Point State Park

You can’t visit Odiorne Point State Park without exploring some of the beautiful trails that crisscross the 135 acres of the coastal landscape.

While the park is not big, it encompasses 7 distinct ecosystems, including New Hampshire’s largest stretch of undeveloped shoreline.

The first European settlers in New Hampshire landed at Odiorne Point, and there is a memorial dedicated to those settlers just off the trail along the coast.

The park is open year-round for outdoor adventures, but pets are not permitted. For trail maps and fee information, please visit New Hampshire State Parks .

Meander Around New Hampshire’s Smallest Town

That would be New Castle, which is also New Hampshire’s easternmost community, and the only town in the state that is located entirely on islands.

Take Route 1B (Wentworth Road)  around the island, and explore the rich history and natural landscapes along the coast.

Highlights of New Castle include Wentworth by the Sea , a grand historic hotel that was built in 1847, Fort Constitution and Fort Stark State Historic Sites , the Portsmouth Harbour Lighthouse, and a lovely little park called the New Castle Common.

We could have spent the whole day in New Castle, there was so much to see and do. Next time!

Catch a Show at the Music Hall

Winter in Portsmouth is the perfect time to catch a show downtown. The Music Hall was originally built as a vaudeville theater in 1878.

This was one of four theaters within a two-block radius in downtown Portsmouth, and while the other theaters have either burned or been torn down, The Music Hall is thriving.

Since its debut, it has been an opera house, a movie theater, and an abandoned space for roosting pigeons. A capital campaign started in the 1980s, and The Musical Hall was restored bit by bit.

Today it hosts world-class musical acts, comedians, theater productions, and films.

It is run as a community-supported nonprofit with a mission to promote a diverse array of performances. For a complete calendar, please visit The Music Hall’s website , and be sure to check out the restrooms when you go. They’re incredible.

There are easily enough winter activities to keep you busy in Portsmouth and the surrounding towns for a week or more.

Be sure to pack for winter weather , and bring your appetite and sense of adventure. You won’t be able to resist the winter charms of New England’s most lovely coastal community.

Where to Stay During Your Winter Visit to Portsmouth, New Hampshire

We recommend basing yourself within walking distance of downtown Portsmouth so you aren’t spending all of your time in the car. Here are a few suggestions for where to stay in Portsmouth, New Hampshire in the winter:

Boutique Hotel and Inn options – We have stayed in the Water Street Inn in Kittery, Maine three times, and we love it! The decor is colorful and modern, the atmosphere is cozy, and it’s got a unique flair that you won’t find in corporate hotels. It’s located across the Memorial Bridge in Maine, just a 10-minute walk from downtown Portsmouth, and what a beautiful walk it is!

If you want to be even closer to downtown, check out The Inn Downtown . This boutique hotel is right in the heart of town with 10 modern studio apartments for the cost of a regular hotel room.

Bed & Breakfasts – The Martin Hill Inn is a traditional Bed & Breakfast in a beautiful, uniquely decorated home just a 10-minute walk from downtown. No pets and no kids, but they do have one of the best breakfasts around, as well as complimentary afternoon refreshments.

Vacation rental : Need a little more room to spread out? This beautiful apartment has three full bedrooms and two bathrooms to sleep six people comfortably, plus it’s within walking distance of downtown.

A Few Tips for Visiting Portsmouth in the Winter

We 100% recommend visiting Portsmouth in the winter months, and we also are huge proponents of outdoor adventure.

During your stay, plan to spend time meandering Portsmouth’s historic streets, hiking the local trails, and ice skating. You’ll have plenty of time to warm up in a cozy coffee shop ( go to Elephantine !) and browse in the many downtown stores.

To make your trip memorable for all the right reasons, you need to be prepared for winter conditions.

The average temperature in Portsmouth hovers around freezing in January and February, and the ocean breezes that we love all summer long, are harsh and unforgiving in the winter.

What to Pack for Your Winter Trip to Portsmouth, NH

You know the saying, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing?” Well, this definitely applies to winter in Portsmouth!

Don’t get nervous looking at the weather forecast as your trip to Portsmouth comes closer. You’re going to be well prepared! Here are some must-haves for winter travel to Portsmouth, NH.

• Merino Wool! I recommend wearing cozy Merino wool layers underneath your regular clothing every day during your Portsmouth vacation. Avoid non-insulating fabrics like cotton, and manmade textiles like polyester, which make you smell bad. Our favorite merino wool layers are made by Woolly Clothing Co. – super soft, never itchy, and warm as a down comforter!
• A down puffy jacket! And speaking of down, the insulating qualities of a down jacket are hard to beat. The Nano Puff Jacket by Patagonia is windproof, water-resistant, and extremely packable. Eric and I both have one, and we wear them all winter long.
• Insulated boots. My favorite winter boots are Oboz Bridgers , hands down, or should I say feet down? I am entering my third season with these incredibly warm boots, which have great traction, and look good with all kinds of outfits. As long as Oboz keeps making them, I will keep buying them! They come in both men’s and women’s sizes and are wide in the toe.
• Warm socks. Darn Tough Vermont socks are made in Vermont and come with a 100% lifetime guarantee, whether you buy them online or at your local outfitter. We wear them year-round.
• Fleece gloves. These phone-friendly gloves by Columbia are warm and not too expensive. Gloves are awesome if your hands run hot in the winter, like mine. If your hands are always cold, get mittens instead!

We love exploring small towns in New England! If you do as well, check out these posts!

• The Most Perfect Things to Do in Wilmington, Vermont
• Best Things to Do in Peterborough, New Hampshire
• 10 Perfect Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont
• The Best Outdoor Attractions in Lincoln, New Hampshire

Follow us on social media for more small-town destinations!

Tara is a freelance writer and travel blogger with a passion for outdoor adventures. She is the co-author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont and currently blogs at Back Road Ramblers and Vermont Explored , where she shares travel tips, adventure destinations, and vacation ideas for the wanderer in everyone.

• Know Before You Go
• Visitor's Guide

Can you feel it? The sun is shining, the ground is thawing, and flowers are blooming. It must be spring in New Hampshire. With so much to do, see and discover…

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Plan your summer vacation, more to discover, want more travel ideas.

Scenic Places to Visit in New Hampshire from the Mountains to the Coast

• April 9, 2024

It may be one of the smallest states in the country, but there are so many incredible places to visit in New Hampshire even I, who grew up here, am still discovering them!

Check out our most recent “Places to Love” Season 7 episode, “New Hampshire Seacoast & More”

Where to Go in New Hampshire

The seacoast.

If you look at a map of New Hampshire, you’ll notice it kind of looks like a right triangle. Right where the bottom 90 degree angle would be is where the Seacoast region is. This tiny area stretches 13 miles along the Atlantic Ocean and is the state’s only coastline. It also happens to be the region where I’m from!

Where else can I start but my own hometown? I’m not alone, though, Portsmouth is easily one of the most popular places to visit in New Hampshire. I promise you, it’s as beautiful in real life as it looks in photos.

EAT: There are a ton of amazing places to eat in Portsmouth. The dining scene has really come a long way, and since it opened in 2000, one of my favorites has to be Jumpin’ Jays Fish Cafe . It’s even been named a James Beard Award finalist. For breakfast, there’s nowhere quite like Cup of Joe Café and Bar . Not only is the food good and the coffee hot, it’s owned by Portsmouth’s own assistant mayor. In the summer, grab a cone at Annabelle’s Natural Ice cream, one of the best in the whole country. Get the pure maple walnut to really keep it local.

SIGHTSEE: The best thing to do is to wander around Portsmouth’s historic district and take in all the colonial architecture. Strawbery Banke is an awesome outdoor history museum that details over 350 years of history. For something lighthearted, check out the Museum of Dumb Guy Stuff , which is a quirky homage to boyhood. I’d also check out tours with the Black Heritage Trail New Hampshire for everything related to Black history in the state.

ENJOY: Spend an evening at Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club . Grab dinner or even just a cocktail and be prepared for some world class live music. Another gem? The Seacoast Repertory Theatre (or just the Seacoast Rep). They have great shows all through the year, and I would know – this is where I spent my childhood!

STAY: If you want to be central, stay in the historic district. However, if you don’t mind being a little out of town, head to Wentworth by the Sea in the tiny nearby town of New Castle. This is where my family lived, and I always grew up admiring its beauty. It’s one of the few grand hotels to survive the Gilded Age!

Fun fact about Dover – it’s the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in New Hampshire and the seventh in the country. Downtown is situated along the Cocheco River, and the town has made a name for itself for its dining scene. Wherever you go, don’t skip Hong Asian Noodle Bar . It may be new, but it’s already made a splash with its authentic noodles and broth. If you’re with kids, the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is a ton of fun, and if you’re here for First Friday, you won’t want to miss the Dover Art Walk.

North Hampton

Another gem in the Seacoast region is North Hampton. It’s been around since the 1600s and is actually mostly inland, though there is a stretch right on the coast. Enjoy North Hampton Beach before checking out Fuller Gardens , one of the last working estate gardens in the US Northeast. Unwind at Throwback Brewery , which also includes a restaurant. Their whole ethos is making everything farm fresh from their beer to their food.

Merrimack Valley

Southwest of New Hampshire’s Seacoast, Merrimack Valley is also partially in Massachusetts. Its name comes from the Merrimack River, which runs roughly through its center. While part of its culture comes from its role in America’s Industrial Revolution, it’s also developed an artistic reputation since a number of artists through the centuries have called this place home. Think everyone from Anne Bradstreet in the 1600s to Leonard Bernstein, Robert Frost, Jack Kerouac, and more.

As you might guess, Manchester comes from the United Kingdom city of the same name. This isn’t a coincidence either. When merchant Samuel Blodget opened up a canal and lock system here, he chose the name because he wanted this town to lead the Industrial Revolution in America the way Manchester did in England. Today it’s the state’s most populous city and much of its former mills have been turned into everything from restaurants to classrooms.

EAT: Head to The Foundry for New Hampshire’s largest farm-to-table restaurant. Restoration Cafe is a great breakfast and lunch space if you want something clean and easy while still being delicious. And Cafe Momo has an awesome menu of Nepalese fusion cuisine.

SIGHTSEE: If you only visit one place in Manchester, make sure it’s the Millyard Museum . It’s dedicated to Manchester’s industrial history and how denim manufacturing directly influenced the city. Another gem is Cat Alley (aka Dean Court) which is home to a number of beautiful murals all dedicated to, you guessed it, cats! The Currier Museum of Art always has interesting exhibitions and is home to two Frank Lloyd Wright creations – the Zimmerman House and the Kalil House.

ENJOY: Catch a show at The Palace Theatres . It’s truly incredible how grand this theater is while still keeping its local, community roots!

GET OUTSIDE: Arms Park is a small park right on the Merrimack River in the city. Get your food to go and come here to enjoy being outside and don’t miss the colorful stairs. A little further out, Crystal Lake Park is great for swimming when the weather warms up.

STAY: Asher Street Inn . This boutique bed and breakfast is located in a historic Victorian home right by everything you’ll want to see in Manchester. 

The Robert Frost Farm

Located in the town of Derry, this little two-story clapboard farm is where Robert Frost lived for eleven years of his life from 1900-1911. He wrote his first two books as well as a number of poems while here and the farm had influence on his poetry even after they left. The farm is now a part of Frost’s legacy and is open from May to October. Not only can you tour the house, you can meander around the half-mile long nature/poetry trail on the property. Look for the different signs to see Frost’s poems. 

All the way in southwestern New Hampshire is the Monadnock region. It gets its name from the 3,165-foot high mountain that makes up most of the landscape and is the perfect area for some peace, quiet, and the great outdoors.

Mt. Monadnock

Mt. Monadnock defines this region and can be seen from all 34 towns. If you get to the peak, you’ll also be able to see all six New England states. Use the White Dot or White Cross trails for a shorter hike near the summit or if you want something longer, follow the Pumpelly Trail for 4.5 miles.

Keene is one of the great small towns to base yourself in if you want to explore Mt. Monadnock. In between your outdoor adventures, stay at the historic Burrell House , grab a drink at Elm City Brewing , and shop around for cool souvenirs at Hannah Grimes Marketplace . You can also time your visit for any one of the big events Keene throws like Pride Week or Radically Rural.

Peterborough

Another great small town to stay? Peterborough. It’s such a classic New England spot that it actually inspired the play “Our Town” by Thornton Wilder. Stay in the very adorable Little River Bed and Breakfast , grab a bite at Post and Beam Brewing , and time your visit to coincide with the local farmer’s market on Elm Street. For some history, pop over to The Monadnock Center for History and Culture and don’t miss out on Miller State Park , the oldest of its kind in New Hampshire.

North of the Seacoast and Merrimack Valley is the Lakes region. As the name suggests, it’s home to a whopping 273 bodies of water. It’s especially beautiful in the summer months when you can come for anything from a romantic getaway to an outdoors adventure.

Lake Winnipesaukee

Try and say Lake Winnipesaukee ten times fast! This is the state’s largest lake and is about as New Hampshire as it gets. With clear water and a wooded shoreline, make sure you find a way to enjoy this lake whether that’s swimming, kayaking, or boating. My vote is to book a tour aboard the M/S Mount Washington . Book a dinner cruise or Sunday brunch to really make it special!

Squam Lake Natural Science Center

When you come to the Lakes region, don’t skip out on Squam Lake Natural Science Center . It’s dedicated to everything related to New Hampshire’s natural world and includes lake cruises, live animal exhibits, the Blue Heron School, and so much more. It’s even sensory inclusive certified. I especially loved the loon cruise as I’d never seen one before!

Situated between Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Winnisquam, I always recommend people stay in Laconia if they want to explore the Lakes region. Be sure to grab a bite at the Local Eatery , a restaurant that crafts its whole menu on what’s available from local farms. You also don’t want to miss Funspot for the world’s largest arcade! Yes, you read that correctly – the world . Choose from over 600 coin-operated games and do not skip the “Landmarks of New Hampshire” mini golf course.

The only time I’d avoid is Bike Week in June unless, of course, you love motorcycles. It’s one of America’s largest rallies, so things will get very busy and hectic.

White Mountains

Right above the Lakes and Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee is the White Mountains region. As you might guess, its name comes from the White Mountains which make up most of the area. If the Lakes region is perfect for those that want to get out on the water, this is where you’ll want to go to be high above the ground.

White Mountain National Forest

Covering over 750,000 acres with a small bit of that in crossing over into Maine, White Mountain National Forest is just absolutely breathtaking. Over 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail is located in this area and it’s home to a number of 4,000ft high peaks. For newer hikers, check out the relatively short Artists Bluffs Trail, Sabbaday Falls Trail, Diana’s Baths Trail, or the Arethusa Falls Trail. If you’re up for a challenge, the Franconia Ridge trail is 9-miles round trip and you’ll be rewarded with truly incredible views.

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Fun fact – Mount Washington Cog Railway is the very first of its kind in the whole world and one of the very few still in operation. It’s by far my preferred way to summit Mt. Washington, which otherwise would take at least a 10-hour hike or a long drive to reach. After all, why drive when you can relax and enjoy a narrated ride to the top? You’ll have an hour to enjoy the summit, so you won’t feel remotely rushed either. Be sure to take in the 360 views from the Adams Visitor Center and pose with the Mt. Washington summit sign!

Afterwards head over to Omni Mount Washington Resort for some afternoon tea.

When it comes to the White Mountains, Littleton is largely considered the perfect gateway town. Right at the mountains’ northern edge, stay in the historic Thayers Inn , check out the guitars at Northern Lights Music , grab a beer at Schilling Beer Co , and indulge in your sweet tooth at Chutter’s , the world’s largest candy counter!

The Kancamagus Scenic Byway

Stretching between Conway and Lincoln, The Kancamagus Scenic Byway (or just “the Kanc”) is one of my favorite scenic drives in America . It’s especially magnificent come fall when everything is bursts of red, orange, and yellow! The whole stretch is a little over 34 miles and will cut through White Mountains National Forest. Just be prepared to want to stop a lot!

Phew! That’s just a start to all my favorite places to visit in New Hampshire. Any I’m missing? Let me know below!

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These 11 Unique Places To Stay In New Hampshire Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience

When my family and I first started our hunt for unique stays our journey took us to New Hampshire . This state will always hold a special place in my heart with its gorgeous lakes and towering mountain peaks. We spent countless hours hiking through the forest and vacationing in the granite state and we made dozens of family memories we cherish greatly. So if you are like us and absolutely love this state then why not make it your next trip for vacation, but not just any regular trip? With these unique places to stay in NH your next adventure is sure to be an unforgettable one.

Treehouse Rentals In New Hampshire

Tiny house rentals in new hampshire, castle rental in new hampshire, glamping in new hampshire, on the water rentals in new hampshire.

Large sections of the state are filled with beautiful forests so to take full advantage of this natural resource why not stay the night among the trees? Sleeping among the canopy of trees is one of the best experiences around and these treehouses afford quite a bit of luxury as well.

1. Four Season Treehouse, Sanbornton

• Address: Sanbornton, New Hampshire
• Size: 1 bedroom and 1 bath
• Price: $355 /night
• Amenities: Barbecue grill and free wifi
• Rating: 5 Stars

This cozy treehouse in Sanbornton is the perfect escape during any season. In the warmer months take a quick walk down to a private community beach for a little fun in the sun, and when those colder months come rolling in, gather around a fire or enjoy some ice fishing. The space inside is akin to a tiny house with clever use of space but still affording enough space for a full bathroom, mini kitchen, living space, and a loft bedroom. Small enough to fit everything you need and still have a family of 4 housed inside this can easily be a relaxing “get away from it all” kind of vacation. Sanbornton is close enough to lovely little towns to explore like Tilton, Franklin, and Laconia so make sure you venture out and take advantage of these beautiful towns while you stay in this treehouse .

2. Treehouse Life, Munsonville

• Address: Munsonville, New Hampshire
• Size: 1 bedroom and 1/2 bath
• Price: $295 /night
• Amenities: Fireplace and free wifi

Strip off the busyness of life and leave it all behind for a quiet retreat to this treehouse . Located in the southwestern corner of the state you will be surrounded by forests and beautiful scenery. Enjoy scenic sunsets and starry nights, warm yourself by the outdoor fire pit, and allow the crackling of the fire to soothe you. The space inside is cozy but will provide everything you need for a weekend getaway to an extended stay.

3. Treetop Luxury Escape, Lincoln

• Address: Lincoln, New Hampshire
• Price: $419 /night
• Amenities: free wifi

Sometimes the location of a unique stay alone can alone be the reason to book a night but this Treetop Luxcury Escape has both quality and location in its favor. Lincoln is a lovely little mountain town sitting on the west side of the White Mountains. Take a trip into this national forest and explore places like the Kancamangus Highway and continue all the way through to Conway and with a quick turn you will be in the phenomenal mountain town of North Conway . You can also extend the scenic drive on a loop and head through Bartlett which is also a great location, before you circle back around to the treehouse. Go for a hike and explore numerous trails, waterfalls, and stunning overlooks. If you make your trip in the winter then the town of Woodstock is a must to visit and see the stunning Ice Castles . Then again you may just choose to stay put you will be surprised by just how lovely a stay in a tree house can be. The craftsmanship is second to none with fine details all throughout the treehouse from reused and repurposed wood and metal. Guests will be amazed by the overall design making this a perfect place to stay on a vacation.

Tiny houses have become extremely popular over the years and the trend just keeps getting better. People have taken the idea and have made them truly one-of-a-kind properties, so when you are looking for unique rentals in New Hampshire , this is a great place to start. When I have stayed in tiny houses before it makes me realize I can always live with less stuff. So jump into the same great experience and book a small space to make big family memories.

4. Cardinal, Dorchester

• Address: Dorchester, New Hampshire
• Price: $210 /night

Trail Stays takes local craftsmen and builds tiny houses as a tonic for our busy modern world. There are 5 other tiny houses spread out throughout the property with plenty of privacy between them. The Cardinal is a bunk bed design with a large picture window by the bed so you will never be without a great view of the forest. The purpose of these tiny houses is to provide a retreat from the hectic modern life and reconnect with nature. So unplug and book a couple of nights to spend a romantic getaway to enjoy some quality time with the ones you love the most. These tiny houses are also centrally located so you can take a trip up to the White Mountains National Forest , Explore the surrounding towns of Lake Winnipesaukee , or be within an hour and a half drive to Manchester.

5. Tiny Pine Lakefront Cabin, Tilton

• Address: Tilton, New Hampshire
• Price: $315 /night
• Amenities: free wifi, lake view, and fireplace

I don’t know about you but I always love a quiet retreat to a lake. There is something so peaceful about sitting by the shore of a calm body of water nestled into the pine trees. That is exactly what you will find with Tiny Pine . This tiny cabin makes good use of the outside space with string lights hanging and illuminating the place at night while guests can grill and have a campfire. Access to the lake can be found with only a short walk to the dock where you can take out the peddle boat or kayaks for a day in the water. Rest and relax inside with a spacious open living area for a tiny house. Cozy up by the fireplace or cook a full meal in the stocked kitchen. If you would like to venture out for the afternoon the Tanger outlet mall is only a short drive with lots of good restaurants in the area. Down the road, you will also find Pirates Cove minigolf which was always a favorite of mine whenever vacationing in the area.

When searching for cool places to stay in New Hampshire you might be hard-pressed to find something better than this one. Who wouldn’t want to live like kings and queens in your very own castle? Live out your very own fairytale ending at this extraordinary vacation rental .

6. A Gothic Castle, Fitzwilliam

• Address: Fitzwilliam, New Hampshire
• Size: 8 bedrooms and 5 1/2 baths
• Price: $1,800 /night
• Amenities: Pool, hot tub, free wifi, and gym

Have you ever wanted to live in a castle? Now is your chance because this wonderful castle puts England back in New England! This gothic castle is located on a hill overlooking the water and has beautiful a mountain view. Fitzwilliam is a little town just north of the Massachusetts border on the southwestern side of the state with Nashua only a little over an hour's drive or you can explore the lovely back country roads leading to Keene . This is also one of the closest places to Boston so if you are flying in from far away this is a great spot to visit. Perhaps you are feeling up for a hike then Mount Monadnock is just north of here if you would like a challenge. In the winter guests can enjoy some groomed trails for a little cross-country skiing. The castle itself is the luxurious star of the show. Inside you will find European touches from the molding to the fantastic woodwork, exploring this castle is a fully immersive experience. Spend your time searching every nook and cranny because there are hidden doors and secret passageways to other guest rooms all throughout this fairytale rental .

Glamping is another rising trend that ranges from luxurious unique stays to simpler designs where you might have to “rough it” just a little. Either way, these places can be really fun places to stay in New Hampshire . So when you are looking to do some camping with a little pizzazz look no further than these glamping options.

7. Open Air Cabins, Lyman

• Address: Lyman, New Hampshire
• Price: $100 /night
• Rating: 4 Stars

For those who love camping then the closer you can get to the great outdoors the better. That is what you will find with these rustic open-air cabins . There is a privacy canvas that can be folded down but other than that it's just a platform, roof, and the open air. Some may be looking more to “the inn” kind of vibe but this is much more historical and rustic. Those who are truly looking to experience nature will find this to be a very attractive option when it comes to camping. If you prefer the property has plenty of other rustic options like enclosed cabins and more. The Ogontz Resort houses lots to explore and do with a private lake where you can go canoeing, a dining hall, and plenty of hiking trails. The resort also serves breakfast in the morning so you can almost call this a glamping bed and breakfast. This is a historic resort where they maintain the weathered charm of those who came before so if a rustic retreat is your thing then this is the place for you.

8. Yurt Home, Bretton Woods

• Address: Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
• Size: 3 bedrooms and 2 baths
• Price: $416 /night
• Amenities: free wifi and hot tub
• Rating: 4.9 Stars

If you prefer the glamorous side of camping more then this yurt home will be more your style. This home was inspired by the unique design of a yurt but could be more described as a cabin or a house. There are plenty of modern amenities sprinkled throughout so you won’t miss a single modern convenience. The property outside is just as beautiful with an ice rink in the winter, a fire pit, and a bubbling hot tub. During your stay make use of the close by river for a little bit of tubing in the summer or a swim. Nearby there are plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives after all you are in the White Mountains, which is my favorite place in New Hampshire. Head over to Crawford Notch State Park for amazing hikes like Mount Willard, or go to Franconia Notch State Park and take a short hike up to Artist Bluff for one of the best views in all of the state. Travel to the other side of Mount Washington and get a ticket to the Cog Railway which takes you all the way up to the top of the mountain.

9. Authentic Nomatic Tipi, Chatham

• Address: Chatham, New Hampshire
• Size: 1 bedroom
• Price: $80.50 /night
• Amenities: Barbeque grill

This authentic tipi was made by Nomadic Tipi and sits on a raised platform. The wood stove inside should keep things plenty of toasty during your stay, although you may want to make your stay in the summer months. The Tipi sits on a property known as Toadhill right on the northeastern part of the state right next to Maine. Head south through Gorham and you can find the town of Jackson and get views of Mount Washington there is also a famous covered bridge you will want to visit on your way. You can even drive to the top for an epic adventure. If you positively love unique stays then this place is filled with them from converted buses, yurts, tiny house trails, and so much more. The Tipi is designed to be a no-frills stay where one can connect with nature, that being said there is no running water or electricity so it is a great opportunity to unplug and get away from it all. On the property, there are trails for hiking and biking so you can really reconnect with nature. Toadhill also plans an annual music festival so make sure to keep up to date on all thats happening there by visiting the Toadhill website.

Isn’t there something just so tranquil and peaceful about being right on the water? When you look at the rivers and lakes in New England I have to say I think New Hampshire has the best ones. Everything from trickling mountain streams to the lakes region of the state is just beautiful. So stay right on the water with some unique stays or better yet, stay right on the water.

10. The Lincoln Cottage, Gilford

• Address: Gilford, New Hampshire
• Size: 5 bedrooms and 3 baths
• Price: $995 /night
• Amenities: Free wifi, hot tub, and boathouse

Lake Winnipesaukee has to be the most beautiful lake in all of New England. I have driven by it so many times, I have taken a boat out in the water, and I have seen it in all its stunning glory in every season. I could never get enough of the views and if you stay at the Lincoln Cottage you don’t have to ever take your eyes off this natural wonder. Perched high on a hill overlooking the lake this mansion certainly is unique all while maintaining a historic charm. The house has received plenty of modern updates over the years but none of it takes away from the quintessential New England look we all love. On the property is also a boat house so bring your own vessel of choice and take a spin out on the lake. The mansion is huge with plenty of space for a large group and still has room to explore even more. Nearby there are so many great things to see and do like Gunstock Ski Resort , Weirs Beach , Funspot , and scenic train rides. Those staying in this luxury lake house will not be disappointed.

11. Harborside, Laconia

• Address: Laconia, New Hampshire
• Price: $400 /night
• Amenities: Pool and hot tub
• Rating: 4.8 Stars

What better way to enjoy Lake Winnipesaukee than to stay on a houseboat floating on the water itself? Get your sea legs ready because you will be boarding the docked Harborside for a night unlike anything else. Allow the cadence of the water to relax you to sleep and enjoy the top-notch quality on board. While you stay on this houseboat you can also you all of the amenities of Akwa Marina. Enjoy the large beach, the fish-shaped swimming pool area with a hot tub, a restaurant, fire pits, beach volleyball, and so much more. You probably won’t want to leave, but if you do then there are nearby arcades, mini golf, shopping, and tons to do in this lovely little town.

Have you ever spent the night at any of these unique places to stay in NH? Which ones are your favorite and which ones will you add to your bucket list this year? There is so much to see in do in the wonderful state of New Hampshire it truly is a special place even if you have to travel halfway across America just to get there.

Looking for more to do in New Hampshire ? Check out these other unique stays from some of the best hotels to boutique hotels and yes Adventure Suites is in there, how could you not put that on the list? Spend a day in the lovely town of Portsmouth or the town of Concord .

The post These 11 Unique Places To Stay In New Hampshire Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience appeared first on Only In Your State ® .

Boston Marathon 2024: All results and times - complete list

Discover the leading times from the Boston Marathon 2024 on Monday, 15 April, a World Marathon Major.

Ethiopia's Sisay Lemma and Hellen Obiri of Kenya won the men’s and women’s Boston Marathon 2024 on Monday (15 April).

Below are the top times. Find the full results here .

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Boston Marathon 2024: Men's results

• Sisay Lemma (ETH) 2:016:17
• Mohamed Esa (ETH) 2:06:58
• Evans Chebet (KEN) 2:07:22
• John Korir (KEN) 2:07:40
• Albert Korir (KEN) 2:07:47
• Isaac Mpofu (ZIM) 2:08:17
• C.J. Albertson (USA) 2:09:53
• Yuma Morii (JPN) 2:09:59
• Cybrian Kotut (KEN) 2:10:29
• Zouhair Talbi (MOR) 2:10:45

Boston Marathon 2024: Women's results

• Hellen Obiri (KEN) 2:22:37
• Sharon Lokedi (KEN) 2:22:45
• Edna Kiplagat (KEN) 2:23:21
• Buze Diriba (ETH) 2:24:04
• Senbere Teferi (ETH) 2:24:04
• Mary Ngugi-Cooper (KEN) 2:24:24
• Woknenesh Edesa (ETH) 2:24:47
• Fatima Gardadi (MOR) 2:24:53
• Tiruye Mesfin (ETH) 2:24:58
• Dera Dida (ETH) 2:25:16

Boston Marathon 2024: Men's wheelchair results

• Marcel Hug (SUI) 1:15:33
• Daniel Romanchuk (USA) 1:20:37
• David Weir (GBR) 1:22:12
• Sho Watanabe (JPN) 1:26:10
• Joshua Casidy (CAN) 1:26:15
• Kota Hokinoue (JPN) 1:26:19
• Aaron Pike (USA) 1:28:35
• Simon Lawson (GBR) 1:28:49
• Jake Lappin (AUS) 1:29:25
• Rafael Botello Jimenez (ESP) 1:29:34

Boston Marathon 2024: Women's wheelchair results

• Eden Rainbow-Cooper (GBR) 1:35:11
• Manuela Schar (SUI) 1:36:41
• Madison de Rozario (AUS) 1:39:20
• Patricia Eachus (SUI) 1:40:22
• Aline Dos Santos Rocha (BRA) 1:41:47
• Vanessa de Souza (BRA) 1:43:22
• Marie Emmanuelle Anias Alphonse (MRI) 1:45:09
• Michelle Wheeler (USA) 1:45:09
• Jenna Fesemyer (USA) 1:46:21
• Hoda Elshorgbagy (EGY) 1:47:32

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.