Katelyn Michaud
The White Mountains of New Hampshire are world famous with their granite peaks and colorful fall foliage, but did you know that there is so much more to do in the area? The White Mountains are home to year-round and seasonal family-friendly attractions to keep you busy every day of the year. Choose from amusement theme parks, trains, natural attractions, and more and make memories that will last you for a lifetime.
Ice Castles – North Woodstock, NH
There are only a few places in the world where you can experience the magic of a life-sized castle made just from ice. Bring the whole family and live out your dreams of being Elsa and Anna in Frozen. Typically opening in late December, the Ice Castle is created using thousands of gallons of water and Mother Nature. The 25-foot-tall ice fortress is filled with colorful lights, tunnels, fountains, slides, towers, and more.
Mount Washington – Sargent’s Purchase, NH
Famous for its erratic and extreme weather, Mount Washington standing at 6,288 feet is the highest peak in the northeastern United States. There are many ways to experience the gem of the Presidential Range. You can hike to the peak through the White Mountain National Forest. If you’re not ready to take on a strenuous hike, then you can drive to the top via the Mount Washington Auto Road. For a unique experience, take the Mount Washington Cog Railway, which was the first mountain-climbing cog railway in the world with an average grade of 25 percent.
Story Land – Glen, NH
For over 65 years, Story Land has been providing family fun and entertainment to generations of families across New England and beyond. The kid-friendly amusement park has over 30 fairytale-themed attractions such as the Dutch Shoes, Alice’s Tea Cups, Bamboo Chutes, and more. In addition to all the rides and games, there are tons of shows, pet zoos, and events to keep the whole family busy with fun. During the fall, Story Land hosts holiday-themed events such as Halloween and New Year’s.
Santa’s Village – Jefferson, NH
Celebrate Christmas in July at Santa’s Village. Nestled in the mountains of Jefferson, Santa’s Village is a Christmas-themed family-friendly amusement park open during the summer and fall months. Kids and adults of all ages will love the many rides and games, like the Chimney Drop, the Little Drummer Boy, and Santa’s Express Train. Don’t forget to also visit Santa’s Village in November and December to experience the magical wonderland of Christmastime at Santa’s Village.
Clark’s BEARS – Lincoln, NH
Clark’s Bears is one of the original attractions in the White Mountains established over 95 years ago by Florence and Ed Clark. Still run by the Clark family today, Clark’s Bears is fun for the whole family with rides, games, museums, and the one-of-a-kind Black Bear Show. Open during the summer and early Fall months, a day at Clark’s Trading Post will create lifelong memories.
Whale’s Tale Water Park – Lincoln, NH
On a hot summer day, there is no other place you’ll want to be in the White Mountains than Whale’s Tale Water Park. Located close to RiverWalk Resort, Whale’s Tale Water Park is full of slides, pools, and a lazy river. Fun for all ages, a splash at Whale’s Tale will definitely help keep you cool on those dog days of summer.
Granite State Scenic Railway – Lincoln, NH
All aboard the Granite State Scenic Railway The family-owned and operated train departs from the Hobo Junction Station in Lincoln with vintage coaches and travels along the scenic Pemigewasset River. The 80-minute round-trip train rides run from May through October and again from Thanksgiving through December for the popular Santa Express trains.
Flume Gorge – Lincoln, NH
Located inside of Franconia Notch State Park, the Flume Gorge is one of New Hampshire’s best natural attractions. The Flume, first discovered in 1808 by 93-year-old Aunt Jess Guernsey, is 800-foot natural gorge at the base of Mount Liberty. Take the 2-mile Flume Trail through the Flume Gorge and see its natural wonder. After your walk check out the other attractions in the park, like the Flume Covered Bridge and Table Rock.
Loon Mountain – Lincoln, NH
As a year-round resort, Loon Mountain has a lot to offer visitors to the western White Mountains. During the winter season, Loon Mountain has over 2,100 vertical feet over 370 acres of skiable terrain with 61 trails, eight tree-skiing areas, and 11 lifts. The mountain is known as one of the most family-friendly mountains in New England. During the non-ski season months, Loon has a new downhill mountain biking park with six miles of trails, cross-country mountain bike trails, an adventure center, and more.
Alpine Adventures – Lincoln, NH
Fly above the trees with Alpine Adventures in Lincoln. Alpine Adventures was the first, longest, highest, and fastest zipline canopy tour in New England. Their private 300-acre facility in Woodstock is home to four different zipline courses, including the ultimate adrenaline rush of the Super SkyRider Zipline. The off-road adventure and Thrillsville challenge are a ton of fun for all ages.
Book Family Fun in the White Mountains
With so much fun available in the White Mountains, make sure you book in advance for the perfect day in the mountains at all your favorite White Mountain attractions.
