North Conway is my new bestie. I fell in love this 4-season nook of New England a few years ago. Here are some of my favorite things about my new favorite place.
SNACKS
Frontside Coffee Roasters– they roast their own coffee and their space is so sunny and bright. Patio seating too!
Old Village Bakery– our favorite place. This is our first stop before/after a day of snowboarding. 7am-3pm Wednesday-Saturday. Fresh bread made daily!
Mystic Sugar Bakery– is located off the hustle and bustle of the main street (White Mountain Highway.) This shop specializes in hand-crafted, small batch sweet treats. Lots of cakes for special occasions. Love them because they use fresh, seasonal, and local products. Their cookies are huge.
The Juice Spot– serving delicious smoothies, fresh-pressed juices, acai bowls & more. Located in the heart of downtown North Conway.
PLAY
The Saco River– located in the heart of the White Mountains, the Saco River along North Conway is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and summer in New England camp vibes, the perfect backdrop for tubing. Here are a list of business who can help make your tube, kayak or canoe trip down the river really fun and safe!
Saco Bound, Saco River Canoe & Kayak, Saco Canoe Rental, Saco Valley Canoe.
Check out these spots for great hiking, swimming, rock climbing. Jackson Falls, Cathedral Ledge, Diana’s Bath & Waterfall, Echo Lake State Park
Cranmore Moutain– located in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire, 1 mile from downtown North Conway Village and just 2.5 hours from the Boston area and 1.5 hours from Kennebunkport, ME. Cranmore is a 4-season, family-friendly ski resort known for its ski school, sunny, south-facing slopes, and a festive atmosphere geared for skiers and non-skiers alike. During the summer months take a ride on the Mountain Coaster, fly through the air on the Soaring Eagle seated zip ride, or check out the views with a scenic chairlift ride! My boys snowboard here every weekend and their staff is top-notch.
Conway Scenic Railroad– hop on the Valley Train for a one hour trip on a historic train. Spend the extra money to bump up to first class so you can ride on the Gertrude Emma. This vintage train has big wicker seats with double-wide windows. Well-behaved dogs are always welcome. Ben & Jerry’s right around the corner welcome too!
Flume Gorge– the Flume is a natural gorge that extends 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty. The walls of Conway granite rise to a height of 70 to 90 feet and are 12 to 20 feet apart. Visitors can choose to walk just to the top to the Gorge, or continue on to do the two-mile loop. Wear your hiking shoes!
Story Land– Story Land is the best children’s theme park in New Hampshire, offering rides and entertainment to thousands of families with young children for over 65 years. This kid friendly amusement park features over 30 attractions.
Living Shores Aquarium– don’t wait for a rain day to visit this cute aquarium. Check out over 32,000 sq feet of ocean life. Visit touch pools, meet real-life sea creatures at our exhibits, and so much more! Their gift shop is dangerous.
EAT
Delany’s– this is our favorite place to eat in North Conway. Everything is so good. Go early or be prepared to wait. They offer take out service but will shut it down if they get too busy. They are actually known for their sushi!
MOAT– craft beer, barbecue, burgers, wraps and sandwiches, wood grilled pizza, and entrees that will take you south of the border. They have lots of seating and a lively bar. My boys love their nachos!
Elivio’s Pizzeria– family owned for 43 years and known for their NYC style pie. They get really busy so call ahead! Plenty of parking.
Boston Brothers Pizzeria– located across from Mystic Sugar Bakery, this pizza shop make their own sauce. They also have lots of gluten free options.
White Mountain Winery– the shop pups Doc, Lucy, Stella and Scarlett are the cutest greeters in the valley. Wine tasting are first come first served. While children are allowed in the shop they can’t hang at the tasting table. All tips from the bar are donated to the local area humane societies in the honor of our rescue dogs.
SHOP
L.L. Bean Factory Store Factory Outlets– I always walk away with slippers and sheets when we pop into this must visit destination! Roscoe and Bruno somehow end up getting something new too. There is always something new to find at your local L.L.Bean Outlet.
Christmas Loft– the Christmas Loft has the largest selection of ornaments in New England. They have over 10,000 unique ornaments. Families love the life-sized animated New England Christmas Village.
Toy Chest– this shop is independently owned and is located on the main drag in North Conway. There is something for every type of kiddo here. They also have some great black Friday deals.
Ski & Sun– great customer service. We rent snow boarding gear for the boys from here every year. They have UNREAL pre/post season sales.
Poppy & Vale– botanical vibes for your home and self care routine. Great spot to grab a hostess gift. Soy candles, jewelry, homeware, stationary and clothing for the littlest one in your crew.
Zeb’s– no trip to North Conway is complete without a trip to Zeb’s General Store. My kids beg me every weekend, all weekend long to take them to Zeb’s. Candy, fudge, salty treats, sweet treats, soaps and stuffies. They have 5,000 unique products, all presented in an incredible display of antique store fixtures.
STAY
Eastern Inn & Suites– a quaint family friendly hotel located 7 min from the heart or North Conway. Indoor heated pool, indoor hot tub, fitness center, game room, billiards room, outdoor fire pit, outdoor play area. Direct access to Whitaker Woods with 43 kilometers of trails for cross country skiing, snow shoeing, fat tire biking, and hiking.
Villa Hygge– If you are looking for an upscale stay in North Conway look no further. This hotel is all about Scandinavian warmth and elegance. Beautiful amenities- Nordic Sauna, Himalayan Salt Lounge, massage and yoga.