Anyone searching for the perfect winter escape needn’t look further than North Conway, New Hampshire. Nestled in the Mount Washington Valley, North Conway’s historic buildings line winding streets, the forefront of a picturesque landscape framed by the imposing rise of the snow-capped White Mountains.
Many of New Hampshire’s towns are tourist destinations, and with good reason. New Hampshire’s natural beauty appeals year-round: beautiful, perfectly temperatured dog days of summer, followed by breathtaking fall foliage and an icy winter wonderland, tempt visitors from across the country.
We love North Conway for the simple reason that it offers the attractions that attract tourists but doesn’t fall prey to crowds or gimmicks. It’s an authentic town with a year-round population of people whose lives don’t revolve solely around the tourism industry. Plus, it’s undeniably charming and scenic.
There’s no shortage of things to do in the area, indoors or out. See our top recommendations listed below:
Conway Scenic Railroad
Hop aboard the Valley Train for a scenic trip and an old-fashioned railroading experience. Explore the train’s vintage passenger cars (when your attention isn’t focused on the views outside the train’s windows) and put in one last request with Santa.
Echo Lake State Park
Grab a friend, bundle up, and snowshoe to the top of Cathedral. Get ready for a winter wonderland – the park is beautiful this time of year.
Farm by the River B&B with Stables
Two miles from downtown North Conway, Farm by the River is a fanciful bed and breakfast that is also home to a stable filled with horses. Reserve a time to take a horse-drawn sleigh or carriage ride, wagon ride, or horseback ride, and enjoy the majesty of the White Mountains.
Mt Washington Snow Coach Tours
When there’s a nip to the air, being outside is not everyone’s first choice, particularly if there’s a warm fire and cozy blanket tugging you elsewhere.
Skiing and Snowshoeing
Hit the slopes at one of the many ski and snowboard areas near North Conway that offer equipment rentals for the displaced North Carolinian. Not interested in speed? Nervous about ski lifts? Strap on some snowshoes and head to Outdoor ESCAPES, where a guide will lead you down one of New Hampshire’s pristine trails and, with a stroke of luck, show you the backside of a fleeing, elusive moose.