8 Things To Do This Weekend in New Hampshire
Whether you’re chasing mountain views, craving fresh local food, or looking for a classic New England adventure, New Hampshire’s White Mountains region delivers in every season. With charming villages, thrilling outdoor activities, and some genuinely great places to eat and explore, a weekend here never feels long enough.
We’ve put together a guide to eight of the best things to do – from a scenic railroad journey through mountain passes to an alpine coaster that’ll have the whole family grinning. And if you’re looking for a place to stay, a cozy Red Cottage vacation rental puts you right in the heart of it all – a warm home base after long days in the fresh mountain air.
1. Conway Scenic Railroad
Board a vintage train and wind your way through the heart of the White Mountains on one of New Hampshire’s most beloved rail journeys. The Conway Scenic Railroad runs routes through Crawford Notch, offering sweeping valley views and that rare, unhurried pace you can’t get from the front seat of a car. Kids love it. Adults love it even more.
2. Living Shores Aquarium
New Hampshire’s only aquarium, Living Shores in Glen is an indoor adventure perfect for all weather. Interactive exhibits let you get hands-on with marine life, and the tropical tanks are a genuine highlight for younger visitors. It’s a welcome addition to the White Mountains, adding something totally unexpected to the usual mountain itinerary – and kids absolutely light up here.
3. Bretton Woods
Best known as home to the largest ski resort in New Hampshire, Bretton Woods transforms completely in summer. Miles of mountain biking trails, scenic gondola rides, disc golf, and the grand backdrop of Mount Washington make it one of the most versatile destinations in the White Mountains. Come winter, the skiing is world-class. Come summer, it’s still spectacular.
4. Alpine Garden Winery
Tuck away an afternoon at Alpine Garden Winery, where locally crafted wines are served against a backdrop of rolling mountain scenery and the easy energy of a New Hampshire summer. It’s a relaxed, unpretentious spot – a perfect counterpoint to more active days – and the wines, made from locally grown fruit, are a genuine reflection of the region.
5. Barley & Salt
After a day on the trails, Barley & Salt is exactly where you want to end up. This North Conway gem serves elevated comfort food alongside creative craft cocktails in an atmosphere that manages to feel both laid-back and genuinely special. It’s the kind of local spot that regulars don’t always want to share – but it’s too good to keep quiet.
6. The Local Grocer
Part grocery store, part community hub, The Local Grocer is a neighborhood staple with a genuine soul. Stock up on fresh local provisions, grab picnic supplies for a trailhead lunch, or just browse the New Hampshire-made goods on the shelves. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why shopping local actually matters – and you’ll almost certainly walk out with something you didn’t plan to buy.
7. Attitash Mountain
Attitash is a White Mountains institution. In summer, the famous alpine coaster is a must-do – a long winding ride through the trees that’s genuinely exhilarating for riders of all ages. Scenic chairlift rides offer views you won’t forget. When the snow falls, Attitash becomes one of the most popular ski destinations in the region, drawing families back year after year.
8. Flatbread Company
Wood-fired pizza, fresh locally sourced ingredients, and a big welcoming dining room – Flatbread Company is a North Conway institution and one of those rare restaurants that works for everyone. Whether you’re coming with kids after a day at the mountain or winding down with friends over a good beer, the food is consistently excellent and the vibe is always right.
Make it a weekend worth remembering. New Hampshire’s White Mountains have a way of getting under your skin. The trails, the views, the food, the people – it all adds up to something you’ll want to come back to. Book a Red Cottage home and give yourself the space and comfort to really settle in.
