Fun Things to Do in New Hampshire in Winter 2024

With its dramatic, snowy mountains and an endless array of seasonal activities, winter in New Hampshire is truly magical. Whether you are a family, solo traveler, or a couple, NH will have something for you, guaranteed. 

Adventure seekers will have countless snow activities like skiing and snowboarding in world-class resorts while the more leisurely traveler can enjoy sleigh rides and ice skating. 

Not a fan of the cold? Lovely bed and breakfasts in rustic lodges await, and what better way to spend an evening than by a crackling fire and hearty New England food? 

With its peaceful, stunning landscapes, New Hampshire is a true winter wonderland, and we’re not just saying that because we’re from here. Here are all the fun things you can do in New Hampshire in winter!

1. Outdoor Winter Activities 
2. Indoor Winter Activities 
3. Family-Friendly Fun 
4. Unique Winter Adventures
5. Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Outdoor Activities

Many folks hibernate in winter. Not us! We just pile on more layers and get out and play. 

New Hampshire in winter is a snowaholic’s dream. From world-class pow and winter hiking to ice skating and sleigh rides, it’s got something to float every outdoorsy person’s boat. 

Skiing and Snowboarding 

With over 300 miles of slopes combined and 128 ski lifts, NH is home to some of the nation’s top ski resorts. Whether you are a serious shredder or a complete beginner, there’s going to be one for you. Here are some of our favorites. 

Bretton Woods - Boasting 464 acres of skiable terrain and stunning views of Mt Washington, Bretton Woods is NH’s largest resort. With an extensive network of slopes from gentle, beginner-friendly runs to challenging downhills, this resort will suit snow sports enthusiasts of all levels. 

Loon Mountain Resort - With scenic landscapes along the Pemigewasset River, Loon has over 70 trails from forgiving green slopes to poop-your-pants black diamond runs. Beginners have dedicated learning areas so they stay out of your way, and visitors get to enjoy six award-winning terrain parks. 

Mount Sunapee Resort - With over 66 trails across 233 acres of skiable terrain catering to all levels, Mt Sunapee offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the lake. In addition, a wide variety of activities like snow tubing and sledding make it family-friendly, even for non-skiers. They also have an excellent ski school.

Cannon Mountain - Located in Franconia Notch State Park, Cannon Mountain has the highest vertical drop in NH, plunging serious shredders an impressive 4,080 ft. While you can still find beginner-friendly areas, this resort is more suited for intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders. 

Waterville Valley Resort - With over 60 trails, 11 lifts and an excellent ski school, this resort is ideal for all skill levels. 

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking

Just because trails are covered with snow doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy them. 

Here are some beginner hikes that are accessible in winter. 

• Lonesome Lake
• Mount Tecumseh
• Mount Pierce
• Kearsarge North
• Tuckerman Ravine Trail
• Arethusa Falls
• South Moat Mountain

Be sure to check the current trail conditions and weather reports before you head off. Winter in NH can be unpredictable and the Whites are notorious for sudden storms, bitter cold, and high winds. 

Snowmobiling

New Hampshire is home to over 7,000 miles of snowmobile trails made possible by thousands of landowners who have generously opened up their land and countless volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the trails. 

In addition, there’s a vast network of rental companies, hotels, cabins, and restaurants that cater to snowmobilers. Remember to always check trail reports before heading out. 

Ice Skating and Ice Fishing 

Anglers head to Lake Winnipesaukee, the state’s largest lake, in throngs during winter, with fishing shanties popping up like mushrooms. The lake is home to fish like trout, perch, and pickerel, attracting ice-fishing enthusiasts of all levels. 

If you’re looking for ice skating, numerous public rinks dot the state like the Concord, Roby Park, Ice Den, and Icenter.

Sleigh Rides 

If you want something a little more leisurely, there’s nothing more nostalgic than a quintessential sleigh ride complete with horses and jingling bells. Book first in the many providers that offer rides. Here are some that we recommend to our guests. 

• Omni Mount Washington Resort, Bretton Woods
• Nestlenook Farm, Jackson
• Franconia Notch Stables, Franconia
• Attitash Mountain Village, Bartlett
• Coppal House Farm, Lee
• Silver Ranch Stables
• Stonewall Farm, Keene
• Charmingfare Farm, Candia

2. Indoor Activities

If you aren’t a fan of the cold, fret not, there’s plenty to do indoors as well. 

Spa and Wellness Retreats 

We love treating ourselves in one of the many spas after a long day on the slopes. Here are some of our favorites. 

• White Mountain Hotel & Resort
• North Conway Grand Hotel
• Canyon Ranch
• InnSeason Resorts Pollard Brook 
• RiverWalk Resort, Loon Mountain
• The Margate 
• Mountain Edge Suits, Sunapee
• Golden Eagle Lodge

Indoor Pools and Water Parks

Face it, Wim Hof isn’t for everyone, and some of us like our water, well, WARM! 

Numerous hotels have indoor heated pools so you can get your laps in comfortably. In addition, water parks like Kahuna Laguna in North Conway offer family-friendly fun. 

Visit Art Galleries and Museums

If you’re in the mood for some culture, New Hampshire boasts top-notch museums and galleries such as the Currier Museum of Art, Albacore Park, and the New Hampshire Historical Society Museum. 

You can also catch a performance at the Music Hall, Palace Theatre, or Capitol Center. 

Retail Therapy

Did you know New Hampshire offers tax-free shopping? 

There are countless shopping opportunities throughout the state including Settlers Green, Pheasant Lane, The Mall of New Hampshire, and The Mall of Rockingham Park. 

3. Family-Friendly Fun 

If your little ones are into snow sports, New Hampshire has you covered. From many kid-friendly trails and excellent ski schools to sledding and snow tubing, there are plenty of opportunities for kids to channel their energies. 

If they aren’t into the active stuff, here are some more ideas for more gentle fun. 

Winter Events 

New Hampshire is a beehive of activity in winter. Here are some kid-friendly events! 

• Ice Castles in Lincoln 
• Santa’s Village in Jefferson
• Dartmouth Winter Carnival, Hanover
• Winter Fest, Concord
• Snow Sculpting Competition, Jackson
• Hooksett Winter Carnival
• Nansen Ski Club Winter Carnival, Berlin
• Keene Ice and Snow Festival
• Derry Frost Festival

Indoor Entertainment 

If you want to hide from the cold, there’s still plenty of stuff for your kids to do. Here’s a list that you can work your way down.

Children's Museum of New Hampshire - Head to Dover for New Hampshire’s most visited educational museum. The one-of-a-kind, hands-on exhibits are designed to engage the whole family. 

Skyzone, Manchester - With dodgeball and wall-to-wall trampolines, kids have plenty of activities to burn off energy. 

SkyVenture, Nashua - Indoor skydiving and rock climbing for little adrenalin junkies. Oh, and they have the largest indoor surfing facility in North America. 

Seacoast Science Center, Rye - Curious young minds might be thrilled with a visit to the science center that’s in Odiorne Point State Park. 

Living Shores Aquarium, Glen - Another one for an educational experience, this is New Hampshire’s first aquarium. 

Fun Spot, Weirs Beach - The largest arcade in the world, Funspot has three floors and countless games that include vintage arcade games, mini golf, bowling, and bingo. 

4. Unique Winter Adventures 

Looking for something a little different this winter? We got your back. Here are some lesser-known things to do when the snow starts falling. 

Ice Climbing

If you’re up for a real challenge, try your hand at ice climbing. Pun intended. 

Most of the climbing is around Frankenstein Cliff in North Conway, but there is also climbing in many other areas like Mount Willard, Mount Webster, Cathedral Ledge, and Cannon Cliff. 

If you’re new to this demanding yet incredibly fulfilling sport, be sure to go with reputable guiding companies like Blue Ridge and Cathedral. Ice climbing isn’t a sport that you can safely learn with YouTube videos. 

Winter Ziplining 

Many operators have ziplines that are operational during winter. For example, Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods offers 165 feet high, 30 mph zips with some incredible views of the White Mountains in a three-hour guided tour. 

Igloo Dining or Winter Glamping

Treat yourself and have dinner in an igloo! Countless restaurants like the Galley Hatch, Rooftop at the Envio, and Rick’s Food and Spirits offer igloo dining so you can enjoy an intimate meal with friends and family amidst stunning scenery. More importantly, you’ll stay warm! 

You can also go glamping in a fancy tent which allows you to enjoy the great outdoors yet still stay warm. New Hampshire is full of cozy yurts and cabins that are nestled in peaceful, serene surroundings. 

Dog Sledding

If you’ve ever wanted to mush dogs, now’s the time. 

Numerous kennels like Muddy Paw in Jefferson, New England Dogsledding in Colebrook, and Northern Exposure Outfitters in Milan offer a range of activities from introductory outings to half-day clinics that will include instruction and a chance to mush your own team.

Final Thoughts 

We have so many ideas on what you can do during winter in New Hampshire that we can go on for days. If you’re thinking of a visit to New Hampshire this winter, Gidana Getaways is here for you. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing our deep love for all things New Hampshire! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What are the best things to do in New Hampshire in winter

The best things to do in New Hampshire in winter are skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing, hiking, ice skating, going on a sleigh ride, attending events, and visiting museums and galleries. 

2. Things to do on a rainy day in New Hampshire

On a rainy day, you can visit museums, go to an indoor water park, dine in an igloo, go bowling, play arcade games at Funspot, or go shopping in one of the many malls. 

3. Which are the most romantic restaurants in New Hampshire?

With the right person, every restaurant can be romantic! We’re kidding. Our favorite romantic restaurants are Adair Country Inn, Ristorante Massimo, Granita Enoteca, the Puddle Dock, and Hanover Street Chophouse. 

4. Where should I visit in New Hampshire?

No visit to New Hampshire is complete without going into the White Mountains. Other must-sees include Franconia Notch State Park, Lake Winnipesaukee, Mount Washington, the quaint towns of Portsmouth, Dover, and Manchester. 

5. What are some tourist attractions in New Hampshire?

Popular tourist attractions include Mount Washington, accessible via the famous Auto Road, which boasts breathtaking views and rugged terrain. Franconia Notch State Park in the White Mountains and features scenic trails. Lake Winnipesaukee, the state’s largest lake, offers ice fishing, and the Kancamagus Highway provides a stunningly beautiful drive. 

6. What to do in NH for one day

A day in NH is not nearly enough! But okay, if you only have a day, head to Franconia State Park, the very soul of the White Mountains. If you want to stay warm, take a drive on the Kancamagus Highway and enjoy the spectacular beauty and dramatic landscapes of New Hampshire in winter. 

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