Your Ultimate Guide To Winter Attractions And Activities In New Hampshire
Jasmine Vieau
Author
When the snow starts falling and the air gets crisp, New Hampshire becomes a winter wonderland packed with awesome things to do. Whether you’re a snow lover or just looking to chill indoors, my guide has you covered. I’ve rounded up all the best activities to make sure your winter in the Granite State is a blast. Let’s dive into the best things to do in New Hampshire in winter!
Holiday Events In New Hampshire
When winter rolls around in New Hampshire, it’s time for some serious holiday fun! There’s no shortage of exciting events, from the enchanting Santa’s Village and the glittering Gift of Lights to the cozy LaBelle Lights and the magical Ice Castles in North Woodstock. Don’t forget the festive rides on the Santa Express Trains. These are the kind of experiences that make New Hampshire’s winters a blast. So, if you’re looking for fun things to do in New Hampshire in winter, these spots are where the magic happens.
1. Santa's Village
Santa's Village in Jefferson, New Hampshire, is like stepping into a Christmas dreamland. With rides and attractions decked out with Christmas and winter-themed names, it's an absolute blast during the holiday season. Imagine strolling through the park with Christmas carols playing and a million twinkling lights illuminating as the sun goes down – it's a surefire way to get you in the festive mood.
2. Gift of Lights
Experience a beloved holiday tradition at New Hampshire Motor Speedway's Gift of Lights. This annual event features 2.5 miles of captivating Christmas light displays. Highlights include a dazzling 150-foot RGB Tunnel of Lights, festive arches, toy exhibits, and scenes like the 12 Days of Christmas, among others. With over 3.5 million LED lights, it's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
3. LaBelle Lights
Escape the holiday chaos at LaBelle Lights in Derry, New Hampshire, where a million twinkling lights brighten a festive outdoor walking path. Special theme weeks offer interactive experiences, and you can enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages. Dining options include grab-and-go items at The LaBelle Market and an indoor dining experience at Americus Restaurant. Don't miss themed weeks like Holiday Card Week and 80's Ski Week for added fun.
4. Santa Express Trains
Hop on the Santa Express Trains departing from Hobo Junction Station, starting the Friday after Thanksgiving and running weekends until mid-December. The 80-minute journey returns to the same station in Lincoln, NH, offering Coach Class and First Class seating. In both, passengers meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, with young children receiving letters for Santa and delightful gifts. Complimentary treats like chocolate milk and Christmas cookies are provided, ensuring a memorable holiday experience for all.
5. Ice Castles
Ice Castles in North Woodstock is a magical winter attraction where fairy tales come to life. It offers a variety of winter activities, including ice slides, caverns, crawl tunnels, a Mystic Forest Light Walk, snow tubing, and a Polar Pub with frosty beverages. This enchanting experience began in 2011 and continues to bring smiles and unforgettable winter memories to all who visit. Today, Ice Castles remains committed to spreading joy and inspiration through its icy creations.
Christmas Towns In New Hampshire
New Hampshire comes alive with holiday spirit when Christmas rolls around, and there’s no shortage of charming towns that embrace the season with open arms. Among these, Portsmouth, Concord, and Nashua stand out as some of the best Christmas towns in the state. Each of these towns offers its own unique blend of winter fun, complete with festive decorations, holiday events, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes the holiday season truly special. From coastal delights in Portsmouth to the rich history of Concord and the urban festivities of Nashua, these towns capture the enchanting essence of Christmas and are perfect places to enjoy the holiday magic.
6. Portsmouth
The holidays in New England are all about cozy vibes and picturesque scenes, and Portsmouth fits right into the picture. You can take a laid-back tour of the town or hop in your car and cruise through Portsmouth and its nearby areas to enjoy the dazzling Christmas lights and all-around winter fun. Vintage Christmas in Portsmouth keeps the festive spirit going for a whole month, offering a mix of holiday shows, gift shopping, and fun events like the Candlelight Stroll. So, join in the holiday merriment with Portsmouth.
7. Concord
Check out the festive charm of Christmas in Concord, with events like the Concord NH Winter Fest, parades, and family-friendly activities. Don't miss Midnight Merriment in Downtown Concord, a perfect opportunity for holiday shopping while enjoying the seasonal lights and supporting local businesses. Get into the holiday spirit with the beloved tradition of "The Nutcracker," offering magical performances, beautiful costumes, and enchanting scenery, courtesy of The Turning Pointe Center of Dance, a local institution.
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8. Nashua
Nashua, twice recognized as the "Best Place to Live in America" by Money Magazine, boasts a rich history rooted in the thriving textile industry. Today, its downtown area serves as a bustling hub for commerce and entertainment. A highlight of Nashua's holiday season is the Winter Holiday Stroll, drawing approximately 40,000 attendees to Downtown Nashua. The festivities kick off with a charming candlelit parade along Main Street, concluding at Library Hill, where the city's Holiday Tree is illuminated, marking the official start of the holiday season. The event is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, featuring Santa, delectable food trucks, captivating vendors, live performances, exhilarating rides, and a multitude of delights that bring joy to all.
Outdoor Activities
New Hampshire’s winter landscape offers an array of outdoor adventures for skiers and adventure seekers. From the heart-pounding dog sledding at Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel to the snowy wonderland of Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and the thrilling Washington SnowCoach ride, there’s something for everyone. Bretton Woods, the state’s largest ski area, beckons snow sports enthusiasts, while Nestlenook Farm provides a picturesque winter setting for ice skating and snowshoeing. With tubing hills, ski resorts, and year-round outdoor fun, New Hampshire is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
9. Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel
Get ready for an epic adventure like no other in the White Mountains of New Hampshire with Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel. It's got year-round dog sledding adventures that are hands-on and suitable for all ages. No experience is needed! Meet the furry sled dogs (many are rescues) and hear their incredible stories. Then hop on a sled and enjoy a breathtaking ride through the scenic landscape.
10. Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center
If you're a winter adventure seeker, the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center in Gorham is a must-visit destination for winter sports. With a variety of activities such as cross-country skiing, snow tubing, snowshoeing, fat bike rentals, and the Washington SnowCoach, there's no shortage of ways to have fun. However, the Washington SnowCoach is definitely the standout. Take a ride on this incredible vehicle for an unforgettable adventure in a sub-arctic world. You'll ride the four sturdy tracks up Mt. Washington Auto Road to treeline, taking in the stunning winter views around you. Expert guides will keep you entertained with interesting stories along the way, leaving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the ride. Make sure to get off at the "Top of the Tour" for a quick photo opportunity before heading back down to base.
11. Bretton Woods
Did you know that Bretton Woods is the largest ski area in New Hampshire, with 464 acres of skiing and snowboarding available on 63 trails and 35 glades? It's true! With ten lifts and four high-speed quads, getting to the top of the mountain is almost as fun as the ride down. Plus, snow-making on 92% of the trails ensures that there's always snow available. Located in the White Mountains, Bretton Woods offers a variety of family-friendly activities year-round. Apart from skiing, visitors can enjoy Nordic skiing, ziplining with a thrilling winter canopy tour, and a 25,000-square-foot spa with views of Mount Washington.
12. Nestlenook Farm
Welcome to Nestlenook Farm in Jackson, a recreation park in the heart of the White Mountains, offering an array of activities to enjoy on a snowy winter day. Hop aboard one of the custom-made Austrian sleighs and take a magical sleigh ride along a 1.5-mile trail adorned with flickering lights and kerosene lanterns. If you prefer something more reminiscent of a Currier & Ives painting, the three-acre Emerald Lake skating rink awaits, inviting you to glide across its frozen surface on ice skates. For those seeking a more serene adventure, explore the picturesque forest of the snow-covered 65-acre estate on over three miles of snowshoeing trails.
Winter Getaways
Embrace the magic of winter in New Hampshire with these fantastic getaways. The Wilderness Inn Bed and Breakfast near Franconia Notch State Park is a cozy retreat in the White Mountains. Just nearby, The Conway Cabin provides rustic comfort and access to outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for a blend of history and adventure, check out the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods. Whether you want a peaceful B&B, a cabin to snuggle up in, or a grand resort experience, these New Hampshire getaways have it all for a memorable winter break.
13. The Wilderness Inn Bed and Breakfast
Nestled in the scenic White Mountain National Forest, The Wilderness Inn in North Woodstock, New Hampshire, is a charming bed and breakfast with a rich history. Originally constructed in 1912 as the home of a lumber mill owner, the inn retains its craftsman-style décor. Conveniently located, it's just five miles south of Franconia Notch State Park, with easy access to Cannon Mountain and Loon Mountain as well. Guests can start their day with a delicious breakfast served on the newly refinished screened porch, featuring a variety of options using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including pancakes, crêpes, French toast, omelets, and more.
14. Conway New Hampshire Cozy Cabin
This rustic yet comfortable two-bedroom cabin in Conway serves as an ideal base, just minutes from the attractions and experiences of the Mt. Washington Valley. Situated in a wooded setting, the cabin's large deck and outdoor fire pit provide a perfect spot to plan the day's adventures. Whether you're exploring Echo Lake State Park, shopping in North Conway, hiking in the nearby Green Hills Preserve, or embarking on a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, this cabin offers easy access to some of the best attractions in the area, making it the ultimate cabin rental near Mt. Washington Valley for those seeking adventure and relaxation.
15. Omni Mount Washington Resort
The Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods offers a perfect blend of history and adventure. Whether you're ziplining, swimming in the heated outdoor pool, or enjoying guided winter adventures, the resort has something for everyone this time of year. Relax in the 25,000-square-foot spa and wellness center. Dine at Stickney’s Steak & Chop Pub or the elegant 1902 Main Dining Room, and don't miss a nightcap at the Cave, a hidden speakeasy. At Omni Mount Washington Resort and the Bretton Woods Ski Area, winter fun and cherished experiences are always on the agenda.
Have you had the chance to experience any of these winter activities? I love the vibe of Ice Castles – it looks epic! Feel free to share your favorites with me from the list!
If you’re seeking more family things to do in New Hampshire in winter, make sure to visit the Cranmore Mountain Resort. And if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors this winter season, don’t forget to bring these winter essential items with you!
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