Do you want to know what to do in North Conway during vacation? North Conway, NH, has many indoor or outdoor activities for each traveler. In the following section of the article, we discuss many things that help travelers to make their journey memorable.
Secondly, we also discuss the best, cheapest, free, family, and most romantic things to do in North Conway, NH, at night, in November, in December, on weekends, or in summer. Read the content to get valuable information.
Travel to North Conway
Let’s start; North Conway has many natural wonders, mountains, and tourist attractions in NH. According to the 2022 survey, its population is more than 6500, and it is considered one of the best tourist destinations in NH. The area code of North Conway is 603.
Secondly, there are many things if you visit for the first time. You will plan to see each season next time. A majority of people are big fans of North Conway’s beauty. We also visited with friends or family yearly to enjoy the lovely surroundings.
This small town has four seasons: summer, winter, spring, and fall. Each season has its charm and offers different indoor and outdoor activities.
In summer, tourists can swim in various lakes, especially the Saco River. Secondly, admire leaves peeping in the fall. Thirdly, winter relates to snowfall and skiing. Late spring is a good time for hikers.
Additionally, North Conway has many beautiful hotels, restaurants, shopping places, outdoor adventures, small shops, and many adventure-related things. We will discuss everything briefly and cover each essential aspect of the town.Â
Best Things to Do in New Hampshire, North Conway
According to our experience, here are the best things to do in North Conway, NH.
Conway Railroad:
Conway Railroad is considered one of the best rail rides in the US. It runs year-round so that you can take a ride anytime. It would be best if you traveled in the Fall season to enjoy the fall foliage and different colors in the mountains of Hampshire.
Secondly, there are three train options to explore the town. Choose the train based on its price and duration of round trips. The first train option is the Conway Valley trip. It is a classic and affordable rural train ride, and each round lasts 55 minutes.
The average fare is $14 for children and $20 for adults. The second option is Bartlett-Sawyer, which charges $40 for children and $54 for adults for a round trip of two hours. This ride provides an extra service and will take you along with Saco River Valley.
The third and last ride option is Mountaineer, which is a little expensive compared to the first two train rides. Its round trip comprises 5.5 hours, and the fare starts from $65. The route of this coach is from the Mount Washington Valley and Crawford Notch.
The coaches offer many services during a trip like you can purchase meals. In the end, if you want to visit Conway in the fall, you must book the tickets before the time because all the tickets are sold out quickly.
The Victorian Rail Station is also very popular and beautiful due to its Russian Style towers and Red Roof.
Zeb’s General Store:
There are a lot of general stores in North Conway, but Zeb’s is one of the best and most iconic places that tourists must visit during their trip. It was opened in 1991 and got a massive success in a very short time.
This store offers 500 different products from various categories that will take you past where general stores were ordinary in the United States. It is located in the middle of downtown in a bright yellow color.
Folks spend a lot of time buying their desired products. Buy snacks, aged cheeses, antiques, pickles, fudge, homemade soda, and more from one place.
Souvenirs and local products from Hampshire and New England’s surrounding areas are available on the store’s upper floor. Zeb’s also offers homemade soda and penny candy. In a store, many exciting things are available for kids.
The Met:
NH has many coffee shops, but Met is the most beloved coffee shop in North Conway. It is located next to the Conway Scenic Railroad, which is situated in the heart of town. The walls are designed with local art that offers a great experience.
Visitors can enjoy many coffee options and flavors that are unavailable in other places. However, if you don’t like coffee, get a hot rum roast, pecan pie latte, smoothies, and hot chocolate in 15 different flavors.
Secondly, Met also offers the best breakfast and light lunch options in a small town. Many items are included in breakfast, like sandwiches, bagels, and muffins.
In contrast, use salad and sandwiches during lunch. Met also offers the best indoor and outdoor seating arrangements to enjoy more with coffee and lunch.
Diana’s Baths:
Diana’s Baths is the best place in North Conway to cool your feet in the summer. It is located in the National Forest’s white mountain near Bartlett town. This stunning spot includes a lot of swimming pools, rocks, and waterfalls.
It is a 15-minute flat walk from the NC to reach the playground through forests. There are plenty of swimming pools where you can spend a lot of time on hot days.
Additionally, it is the best picnic place in Conway, where you can enjoy a lot with your friends, children, and family. However, during a visit, be cautious because the rocks are slippery, and no special facilities exist.
Pay $5 for a single-day parking pass because it is part of White Mountain National Forest. Restroom services are also available to make the picnic more memorable. You can bring your leashed dogs for photos because many majestic views are everywhere.
Cathedral Ledge:
Cathedral Ledge is a natural landmark 700 feet above Bartlett town and offers an amazing view of the North Conway area. It is the dream place for rock and ice climbers. It is considered the best cliff in the United States because some hiking trails help to reach the top easily.
It is 5 minutes away from the NC. You can go to the top of the summit with a drive or walk by a mile-long road. White Mountain views are spectacular and unforgettable from the top point of the cliff. See the White Mountains, Saco River Valley, Echo Lake, and other attractive places.
Most people use a car and require twenty minutes to reach the top of Ledge. The mountain is close to Diana’s Baths and Echo Lake State Park. It is not a good choice for family members and children because a fence does not protect the upper section of the cliff.Â
Echo Lake:
Echo Lake is the best place to swim, relax, and picnic near Conway. You can go with friends, children, and families because it is a safe spot. Visit the lake in the daytime. For hiking, it is the most accessible point to move up to White Mountain. Located a few miles away from tax-free shopping.
It is an excellent option for mountain bikers, runners, and a stroll around the beautiful lake. It is the loveliest lake in NH, surrounded by colorful trees and a beach.
Secondly, the lake is best for kayaking, and with wood, go to the middle of the beach and enjoy more attractive lake views.
It is paid to visit and charges $4 from adults and $2 from children. The parking slots in a state park are limited, and you must reserve a place before the visit. The Summer weekend is the best time to visit the lovely spot.
Kancamagus Highway:
The Kancamagus (Kank-uh-mah-gus) drive has been one the most popular activities of travelers for many years. Enjoy the natural views while driving in NH. In the Fall foliage season, this 35-mile journey of NH Route 112 delivers the best experience and is known as the best road trip in a state.
It is considered a United States Scenic Byway due to its culture, history, popularity, and natural beauty. Kancamagus Drive will take you through a national forest, waterfalls, gorges, picnic areas, lakes, waterfalls, and other viewpoints.
During the ride, you should explore attractive places more and easily return in a single day. This road is bustling in the fall because most visitors love scenic views.
Secondly, the highway pass is the best place to see the beautiful lofty views of the White Mountains. Toilets are available throughout the journey.
The only drawback is that there are fewer facilities, like you can’t find a gas station and restaurants on the highway. It comes under the National Forest and charges $5 for parking.
Mount Washington:
It is the tallest and the best tourist attraction in the Northeast of the United States. Mount Washington is a part of the Appalachian Trail (AT) and is 6,288 feet high. People use different mediums to move up on the summit. It includes trains, buses, cars, slowcoaches, and climbing.
Wearing warm clothes before starting a trip would be best because the weather is colder than the North Conway. The Mt. Washington summit is famous for the worst weather in the world. It was opened in 1851.
At that time, horses and wagons were used, and it took four hours to reach the top of the destination. Nowadays, the total distance is eight miles, and a drive takes thirty minutes to move to the top.
The National Forest Authority charges $45 for a car, $9 for 5 to 12-year-old kids, and $20 for each adult to drive up to the mountain. The tour-guided services are also available. They will take you by bus and offer the services for only two hours.
In winter, the roads are closed due to heavy snowfall. However, use the Mount Washington SnowCoach to enjoy the winter experience.
The coach will easily take you up on the summit using a particular snow track instead of wheels. For Mount Washington SnowCoach, the charges are $59 for each adult and $35 per child.
Moreover, Cog Railway is the most exciting ride and the best thing to do in New Hampshire. It was the first climbing railway in the world managed by North America. No other country in the world has started this kind of project.
Mt. Washington is suitable for professional hikers, but it is harmful if you don’t have professional skills and knowledge because the weather changes very quickly.
The total distance of the summit is 4.2 miles, and it requires 4.5 hours for hikers to reach the final destination.
Waterfall Hiking:
North Conway has many waterfalls, like Sabbaday, Arethusa, and Ripley Falls. All the waterfalls are an excellent source for enjoying natural beauty.
The White Mountains are the best place for hiking. Hiding toward a waterfall during your journey to enjoy more fun would be best.
Sabbaday Falls is the most popular in NH. Located nearer to the Kancamagus Highway. It is a good option if you have small children and is best for people who like low-key. The average distance is 0.7 miles, which is primarily flat.
Ripley Waterfall is a little tricky compared to Sabbaday Falls because there are many ups and downs during a hike. The condition of the trails is not good, but it is a moderate choice. It is one mile each way and located in Crawford Notch State Park.
In New England, Arethusa Waterfall is among the tallest and most beautiful. Located in Crawford Notch. Its hike is long, around 2.8 miles, compared to the other falls.
Skiing:
North Conway is the best option for winter destinations and is helpful whether you are a skier or not. You can come with your family and friends.
It is considered one of the top skiing towns in the United States. There are a lot of skiing opportunities within a thirty-minute drive from town. Located nearer to the White Mountains, which is approximately one mile away.
Cranmore Mountain is a top-rated place in the town. It opens in the Summer, Fall, Late Spring, or Winter seasons.
For example, you can enjoy tubing, skiing, and riding in winter. Enjoy the giant swing in summer, visit the adventure park, Soaring Eagle Zip Line, and join many other seasonal events. It is also America’s first ski resort, opened in 1938. There are many ski levels and 56 trails.
Wildcat Mountain Resort is also a moderate choice for experienced skiers. Located between Jackson and Gorham, about a 30-minute drive from North Conway.
This resort offers a lot of services and trails to enjoy the fun. There are 5 lifts, 2,100 feet of vertical skiing, and many trails.
Attitash Mountain Resort is the best winter and summer destination for families, 15 minutes away from the town. In summer, families can enjoy a mountain coaster. There are 11 lifts and 68 trails. It connects Attitash Mountain and Bear Peak.
King Pine is also a family-friendly ski area that is an affordable and attractive place. It is situated in East Madison, approximately 25 minutes from the town.
Settlers Green:
Settlers Green Outlet is one of the most affordable shopping places in North Conway. It has more than 70 shops, boutiques, and other places to eat food. Folks come here from all over the world around the year. They buy different products from many big brands at affordable prices.
Secondly, people from New England come over there, especially after the end of summer. You can buy products from famous brands like Addidas, Justice, Nike, Michael Kors, Old Navy, American Eagle, Under Armour, and more. The best thing is that it is a tax-free shopping outlet.
Additionally, they held various seasonal events to increase their sales. The valley is jam-packed during events, and people come from different places for more benefits. Settlers Green is located at the former White Mountain Airport.
Story Land:
Story Land Park was opened in 1954, and it is a fantastic tourist attraction for young kids because there are a lot of opportunities for their amusement. It has a lot of beautiful things like a roller coaster, antique cars, a castle, etc.
If you have kids, you must visit this park. Families can enjoy many opportunities by participating in different events, shows, and games. The entrance fee is $45, charged for each individual.
It is located on Glen Road, which is not a part of North Conway. Story Land Park is closed in the winter, but if you visit in summer, it is jam-packed with tourists.
Moose Tour:
If you have never experienced a moose tour during a trip, you must try it once. You will never forget this incredible journey. Generally, moose are found in the NH and the remote areas of North Wood because they love these places.
Wild animals are abundant there, but you do not see them easily. Join the safari tour if you want to see the moose because it will increase the chance of viewing it.
MWV Moose tour typically starts at 8:00 PM and ends in the middle of the night. It would be best if you pick up a bus on time. Expert drivers will take you to the best spots to see moose quickly.
Moose are wild animals; finding them in one place isn’t easy. However, the expert has vast experience, and the chances of seeing moose with them are very high.
The tour lasts three to four hours, and the average success rate of seeing moose in this territory is 93% to 97%. The safari tour costs $35 to $45 for adults and $25 to $30 for children.
Secondly, the tour costs depend on the season. Gorham Moose Tour is also an excellent option for visitors. During the safari visit, watch informative movies about moose and learn more about them and their habits.
Snowmobile:
Snowmobile is a winter sport that is very popular among NH and connects New England and Canada due to the 7000 trails across the state. There are a lot of places for experienced or amateur snowmobilers around a town.
Northern Extremes Snowmobiling and Bretton Woods provide tour guide services if you are unfamiliar with the sports activities. These professionals will adequately guide you and show you more adventure in the White Mountains.
Sweet Rides Snowmobiles is another excellent opportunity, which is 30 minutes away from North Conway in Madison.
They offer services for all types of riders because they have vast experience and knowledge about all the trails. You can easily go to any specific place or in the surrounding areas of the mountain that you have not explored before.
Tubing on the Saco River:
Saco River smoothly flows across North Conway and is the best option for river-tubing. In the summer season, you can enjoy the inner tube and relax your body. It is an excellent source of fun for people of all age groups.
In New England, river tubing is one of the popular activities. Along with the Saco River, there are a lot of beaches and picnic places. The cost of different routes, like 1, 3, and 5 miles, is different and charges $15 to $32.
Kahuna Laguna Indoor Water Park:
The Water Park offers many exciting things to do in the cold days of January. It is considered one of the best water parks in the United States. This indoor park is only for Red Jacket Mountain Resort guests.
In a park, there are many exciting things for amusement. It includes slides, fountains, bridges, pools, tubes, water buckets, etc. The authorities charge $38 for each individual and are free for 2-year-old kids. It is a perfect recreational spot because it is located near the downtown area.
League of NH Craftsmen:
Fine Craft Galleries are a large crafts organization located all over NH. They have offered the services for more than 90 years. Their main motive is to assist craft artists and promote craft products throughout the state.
You can visit any of your nearest stores, which offer a wide range of handmade products in different categories and styles. You can buy antiques, jewelry, NH souvenirs, etc.
Moreover, you will experience a museum environment whenever you visit any shop. The artists use an attractive and eye-catching color scheme and use the surrounding landscape in their designs.
Find coffee mugs in the shape of a birch tree, earrings in the shape of butterfly wings, winter scenery sketches in stained glass, and many more. I am sure you will love the available collection, and it will be a feast for visitors’ eyes.
Conway Covered Bridges:
Covered bridges are very common in New Hampshire and are the best place for photography. There are a lot of bridges in the town that you can visit.
You can find it on Route 16 Main St, Washington St, Saco River, and other places. Additionally, visit the Saco Bridge, Swift River Bridge, and Earlier Bridge if you go to North Conway.
Ski Museum:
New England’s Ski Museum is a great tourist attraction where you get complete information about skiing, its history, World War II, and its origin. A museum has a lot of ski equipment, memorabilia, clothes, artifacts, videos, signage, etc.
Secondly, see the ski suits used in different periods. This museum has two branches: one is in Franconia Notch, and the second one is in New England. Located at Route 16/302 White Mountain Highway, North Conway.
Schouler Park:
Schouler Park is a good option for family enjoyment. It is a busy tourist place year-round because there are many opportunities to have a good time. Tourists love playgrounds, paved paths, ball fields, fountains, and benches. It is located at Victorian Railway Station.
Secondly, the park’s environment is clean, safe, grassy, scenic, and pleasant. Many events and seasonal sports competitions are held for tourists throughout the year. Especially in winter, enjoy the free skating rink day or night time.
Light is well arranged for night skating, but it depends on weather conditions and snow. You also have the option to reserve your seat for skating.
Black Cap Hiking Trail:
Black Cap is located on Hurricane Mountain Road, behind Carnmore Mountain. It is considered one of the most popular hiking trails due to its short path, around 2.4 miles. It is pretty easy to reach the summit and admire the outstanding views of the White Mountain.
What is the best Time to Visit North Conway?
All the seasons have equal popularity and attraction. In the below section, we will discuss all the seasons for your better understanding.
The best time to visit this place is the start of October. At that time, the fall foliage is at its peak. Secondly, the weather is delightful and beautiful in the Fall season. The only drawback is that the prices of everything are sharply increasing.
Fall is expensive due to the large crowd compared to the other days. In contrast, we recommend visiting after mid-September if you don’t have enough budget and avoid the highest prices. Most families are not traveling these days, and the weather is beautiful.
In Summer, there are many opportunities to have a good time and explore many things. For example, you can swim, ride, hike, and enjoy river tubing on hot days. During the day, the weather is a little hot, but in the evening, it changes quickly, and you feel a light cool breeze.
Compared to the other days, winter is different. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, sitting, snowmobiling, etc. Spring months offer an opportunity for hiking because the conditions are more accessible. It is sometimes tricky for visitors due to the mud.
How to Get to North Conway, NH?
You can use different mediums to reach your desired tourist destination. It is two hours away from Manchester and 1-5 hours from Portland. However, if you are from Boston, you require approximately 3 hours.
You can also use public transport because many buses offer the services like Amtrak bus lines, Concord Coach Lines, and more. A majority of people use cars to come to this town. Uber service is not available, but you can use other taxi services.
Is North Conway Worth It?
In New England, it is one of the popular tourist destinations and has a lot of worth. Visitors come from around the world to this small town to enjoy the fun.
Secondly, it is considered the best spot for families and kids because all age groups have different opportunities.
People come around the year or in all four seasons because each season has a unique charm and quality. If you have not visited the small town before. We recommend you plan to spend a vacation and fall in love automatically.
What is the best Luxury Hotel in North Conway?
Many hotels offer different services, but Cranmore Inn is above all. It is my favorite hotel due to its many qualities and extra features. The hotel has a common area to spend some leisure time.
The delicious breakfast was prepared with Eddie and Christopher. It has 15 rooms that are well furnished and located nearer to the North Conway Village.
What are the best Mid-Range hotels in North Conway?
Kearsarge Inn is the best option for all mid-range travelers. It is located some steps away from the Conway North Village. This hotel offers rooms in various ranges.
You can easily choose the simple studio room and penthouse according to your budget. All the rooms are nice and provide all the necessary items.
What is the best Budgeted Hotel in North Conway?
Colonial Hotel is considered the best-budgeted hotel in a small town. Its overall design is simple and fulfills all the requirements. The management provides clean rooms, decent space, supportive staff, and jacuzzi tubs in each room.
What is the best Hotel for Families in North Conway?
Red Jacket Mountain Resortpark is the best option if you come with family members and kids because the rooms are spotless and comfy. Secondly, it along with an arcade and water park. The viewpoint thrilled the kids very much.
FAQs
What are the best things to do in North Conway?
There are many exciting activities to spend quality time with, but Zeb’s General Store, Scenic Railroad, and driving up Mount Washington are the popular options.
How much time do you need in North Conway?
A tourist must have at least three days to explore all the best places in North Conway.
How do you get to North Conway?
People use different mediums to reach small towns, but cars are the most popular medium. A car takes approximately 1.5 hours from Portland, 3 hours from Boston, and 2 hours from Manchester. If you don’t have a car, use a bus from Boston.
Is North Conway a good place for kids?
It is the best tourist place for kids because they love hikes, storyland, river tubbing, etc.Â
Where to Stay, and what are your favorite North Conway – NH places?
There are many places to live in North Conway. During travel, choose the Central Part and North Conway villages because many attractive destinations are within walking distance.
How much time to spend in North Conway
If you are an insider, you can do everything daily. Whereas if you come from outside the town, you require much time to explore multiple places.
What do you do in North Conway during summer?
In summer, enjoy scenic drives, hikes, trout fish, zip lines, golf, swimming, mountain coasters, etc.
What is there to do in North Conway, NH, in the winter?
In winter, there are many opportunities like skiing, snowboarding, Dog Sledding, snowmobiling, etc. Tourists can also participate in various ski events and festivals.
What is North Conway, NH, known for?
North Conway is famous for its homemade crafts, historical buildings, bakeries, bookstores, and outdoor tourist recreation spot.
Is there a train from Boston to North Conway?
Amtrak train line only used to travel from Boston to Conway.
What are the best outdoor activities in North Conway?
- Here are the top outdoor activities in North Conway, NH.
- Diana’s Baths
- Black Cap Hiking Trail
- Saco River
- Cathedral Ledge
- Drive the Kancamagus Highway
More on the White Mountains:
