Unless you’re from New England or tuned into national news, many people don’t know where New Hampshire is, what’s there, and what there is to do.
However, if you mention Mt. Washington to these same people, many will know the general area and might even ask about the small town of North Conway, New Hampshire.
And though North Conway isn’t exactly near the base of the mountain, it is nonetheless known for its beautiful mountain scenery and as a travel destination for those headed to the Northeast.
With many shops, restaurants, places to stay, and things to do, North Conway is an exciting place to spend a short vacation. Here are 9 great things to do in and around North Conway, New Hampshire.
1. Stay in North Conway
While there is a lot to do in the areas around North Conway (as you’ll soon discover), the town of North Conway itself serves more as a home base or jumping-off point for the many attractions in the area.
Though the town itself has a number of great activities, your biggest reason for coming to North Conway is likely that you’re staying in a hotel in town in order to visit all of the White Mountains. We don’t blame you! Being close to major roads accessing Mt. Washington, Lincoln, Maine, and the western Lakes Region, North Conway is an ideal spot to stay.
With over twenty different lodging options, you’re certain to find a spot that accommodates your needs for an affordable price. Some of the best hotels are the North Conway Grand Hotel, the Eastern Slope Inn Resort, and the Fox Ridge Resort, but you can’t ever go wrong with the Comfort Inn or the Residence Inn.
2. Shop In North Conway’s Settlers Green Outlet Village
New Hampshire is an exceptional place to visit for a number of reasons. Though we may not be very big, our shopping is one of the most unique reasons. New Hampshire is one of five states nationwide with no sales tax.
No sales tax means cheaper prices, and when you’re in North Conway, you should take advantage of these cheap prices! Settlers Green Outlet Village, located just down Route 302, is one of the best shopping areas in the state.
At Settlers Green, you can find just about everything you might need. The outlet includes American Eagle, Banana Republic, Adidas, Claire’s, Coach, Columbia, Eddie Bower, GAP, Kate Spade, Old Navy, REI, Talbots, and more.
Even if you can’t find what you’re looking for here, there are a number of other shopping locations in North Conway. With an EMS, Christmas Tree Shop, LL Bean, Books A Million, Walmart, Lowes, and Home Depot in town, you can truly find anything and everything while shopping in NH.
3. Dine Your Way Through Town
If you’ve ever been to a resort town or live near one, you’re likely to find three major things: lodging, activities, and dining. What vacation would it be if you had to cook your own food all of the time? North Conway is no exception to this rule.
With a number of delicious restaurants in the area, taking some time to try the local food is always an enjoyable way to spend your vacation. While in North Conway, be sure to check out the Black Cap Grille, Wicked Fresh Craft Burgers, or Barley and Salt Tap House and Kitchen.
Of course, no mountain town would be complete without some local beverages. Go try out the White Mountain Winery, Sea Dog Brewing Company, or drive down to Conway and try out Tuckerman Brewing.
If you’re looking for some family-friendly options, North Conway has those too. Applebee’s, Five Guys, and the 99 Restaurant are always reliable options.
4. Conway Scenic Railroad
New Hampshire’s history is unique in that we have always relied on a strong tourism industry to sustain the state’s economy. Though we have evolved to have some strong industry in New Hampshire thanks to the state’s Stay, Work, Play campaign, we have commonly relied on visitors from Massachusetts and the Mid-Atlantic to come visit.
The most common way people used to come up to New Hampshire was via train, and the state has managed to maintain some of these railroads. Today, no trip to North Conway would be complete without a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad.
Located right in the center of town, the Conway Scenic Railroad offers a unique variety of train routes to enjoy. You can take a ride on the Sawyer River Excursion, the Conway Valley Train, the Mountaineer, or, during a special time of year, ride Santa’s Holiday Express.
Train rides vary between one hour all the way up to five and a half depending on the trip you take. Be sure to book in advance and enjoy this unique opportunity.
5. Embrace Nature On Cathedral Ledge Or In Whitaker Woods
If you’re coming up to the White Mountains, you’re here for one reason – you want to embrace the great outdoors. Fortunately for you, being located in the heart of the White Mountains and on the edge of the White Mountain National Forest, there is plenty of nature to enjoy.
While you can travel and find hiking and natural activities good for all ages and abilities, it can sometimes be difficult to find trails appropriate for children or beginners. Fortunately, this is not the case in North Conway. Cathedral Ledge provides a beautiful lookout over the town and parts of the White Mountain National Forest and is just a few minutes up the road.
If you’re looking for a flatter route, go check out Whitaker Woods right near the town center. With plenty of walking, biking, and running trails, this makes a great park to bring a furry friend, or just a nice place to eat lunch.
6. Tee Up At Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf
Sometimes, after a long day out and about, it can be hard to find an activity that seems appealing. You want to do something to make the most out of the nice weather and the relaxing vacation, but you don’t want to pursue something too intense.
If this is you, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf has got your back. Located just outside of the Comfort Inn and Suites, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf is a pirate-themed mini-golf course where you and the family can put your way through a number of unique elements while learning about pirates and seeing who the grand mini golf champion is.
Mini golf is one of those activities that you might not regularly think of doing, but you’re always certain to have a good time goofing off on the course. This course, in particular, can get a little crowded on the weekends or during peak tourist time, so be aware you might face some delays.
7. Shred The Slopes Of Cranmore Or Attitash Mountain Resort
North Conway is known by locals as first and foremost a ski town. With a high school that has six different ski teams, Olympic skiing calling the town home, and a popular ski school, we’d be remiss not to mention these phenomenal ski resorts within close proximity.
Cranmore Mountain Resort, located in North Conway, includes 170 acres of skiable terrain, 8 lifts, 56 trails, and 3 terrain parks for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy. The mountain also includes a zip line, a small roller coaster, and mountain biking during the summer.
If you’re looking for a bigger hill, you can take a small drive out to Attitash Mountain Resort to get your fill. Attitash is owned by Vail Resorts and offers 68 trails, 8 lifts, 311 skiable acres, and 23 miles of trails for you and your family to enjoy. Be sure to check out these resorts no matter the time of year.
You can also choose to stay at the Attitash Mountain Village in Bartlett that’s set between the Attitash Mountain Resort and the Saco River.
8. Drive The Kancamagus Highway
No trip to New Hampshire’s White Mountains would be complete without a drive on the historic Kancamagus (pronounced K-ANK-U-MANG-US) highway. The Kanc, as locals refer to it, is a gorgeous scenic byway through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest.
The Kanc traverses 34.5 miles and climbs up and down 2,855 feet as you ascend the side of a number of New Hampshire’s tallest peaks. The ride is well known for its twisty road, beautiful views, and impeccable foliage. Driving the Kanc during the fall is one of the best ways to view foliage in the country.
Even outside of fall, however, the road is still a fun ride. With gorgeous views of the White Mountains and many scenic stops, you can get out, walk around, and enjoy the fresh mountain air with the convenience of a car.
Important to note, however, is that there is no gas on the Kanc, and that in the winter the road can be dangerous. Use your best judgment when deciding to ride the Kanc.
9. Visit Story Land – The Place Where Fantasy Lives
Though not located in North Conway, Story Land is just a short ten-minute ride north in Glen, New Hampshire. This children’s theme park is one of the biggest in New England, and has been beloved by Granite Staters for over fifty years.
Story Land is truly meant for kids between the ages of 2 and 13. The theme park includes a number of fun experiences including two roller coasters, a castle, a small aquarium, and more. From meeting Cinderella to getting a license from Humpty Dumpty, every childhood fantasy can be experienced.
Story Land usually opens in May and stays open until Columbus Day. It is truly the best spot to bring young children in the state.
A visit to North Conway, New Hampshire is certain to be memorable for you and your family. No matter your age or interests, there will be something for you to enjoy. We can’t wait to see you there!