7 Must-Do Summer Attractions Near North Conway, NH
Summer in the White Mountains always seems to pass too quickly. Before the season slips away, make the most of your New Hampshire summer vacation with unforgettable mountain adventures, family-friendly attractions, scenic waterfalls, amusement parks, and relaxing days on the river.
Located in North Conway, New Hampshire, White Mountain Hotel & Resort offers a peaceful home base within easy reach of some of the best summer attractions in the White Mountains. Whether you are planning a family vacation, a romantic mountain getaway, or an outdoor adventure with friends, these seven must-do activities deserve a place on your summer bucket list.
How many can you check off before summer ends?
1. Drive to the Summit on the Mount Washington Auto Road
No White Mountains summer vacation is complete without experiencing the legendary Mount Washington Auto Road. Known as the “Road to the Sky,” this scenic mountain road climbs 7.6 miles through four distinct ecological zones to the highest summit in the Northeast. Along the way, the landscape changes dramatically as forested mountain scenery gives way to the rugged alpine environment near the summit.
Visitors can drive their own vehicle or leave the driving to an experienced guide during a Mount Washington guided tour. Once you reach the summit, take time to explore, enjoy the expansive views and experience the famously unpredictable weather of Mount Washington. Conditions at the top can be very different from those in North Conway, so pack an extra layer and check the Auto Road’s operating status before leaving the hotel. Guided tours and Drive Yourself access are weather-dependent.
2. Find Summer Adventure at Cranmore Mountain Resort
Located in the heart of North Conway, Cranmore Mountain Resort is one of the most convenient summer attractions near White Mountain Hotel & Resort. Cranmore’s Mountain Adventure Park combines classic mountain scenery with family-friendly thrills, making it an excellent choice for visitors searching for fun things to do in North Conway with kids.
Race down the Mountain Coaster, soar through the air on the Soaring Eagle Zip Line, test your courage on the Giant Swing or slow things down with a scenic chairlift ride. From the summit, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of North Conway and the surrounding White Mountains. Cranmore also offers downhill mountain biking and seasonal events, giving active families plenty of ways to spend a summer day outdoors. Attraction availability and operating hours can vary, so check Cranmore’s website while planning your visit.
3. Walk Through the Flume Gorge
The Flume Gorge is one of New Hampshire’s most impressive natural attractions and a must-see destination for hikers, photographers and nature lovers. Located in Franconia Notch State Park, this spectacular natural gorge extends approximately 800 feet beneath towering walls of Conway granite that rise between 70 and 90 feet high.
The self-guided Flume Trail follows a scenic two-mile loop through the gorge and surrounding forest. Along the way, visitors encounter wooden boardwalks, waterfalls, moss-covered boulders, mountain streams and historic covered bridges. The complete loop generally takes about an hour and a half and includes uphill sections, stairs and uneven terrain.
Because the Flume Gorge is one of the most popular summer attractions in the White Mountains, advance reservations are strongly recommended. Entry is scheduled for a specific arrival window, and busy dates may sell out. This is an ideal day trip from North Conway for anyone hoping to experience some of the most dramatic natural scenery in New Hampshire.
4. Step Into a Fairytale at Story Land
For generations, Story Land has been one of the most beloved family attractions in the White Mountains. Located in nearby Glen, New Hampshire, this fairytale-themed amusement park is especially well suited for families with younger children, although parents and older siblings will find plenty to enjoy as well.
Children can meet favorite storybook characters, enjoy kid-friendly rides, watch live entertainment and explore interactive play areas throughout the park. Popular attractions include the Roar-O-Saurus coaster, Antique Cars, the Great Balloon Chase and the Huff Puff & Whistle Railroad. Story Land also offers Moo Lagoon, a farm-themed water play area with slides, fountains and splash features that are perfect for cooling down on a warm New Hampshire summer day.
With more than 50 rides, shows, attractions and play areas, Story Land can easily fill an entire day. Review the park calendar and purchase date-specific tickets in advance, particularly when visiting during weekends, holidays and school vacation periods.
5. Spend a Relaxing Day Tubing the Saco River
When summer temperatures rise, few activities feel better than floating down the Saco River. Saco River tubing is one of the most popular outdoor activities near North Conway, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery, sunshine and gentle flow of one of the region’s most recognizable waterways.
Local outfitters offer tube rentals, several trip lengths and shuttle transportation, making it easy for visitors to plan a river adventure without bringing their own equipment. Depending on the outfitter and selected route, floats may range from a short outing to a leisurely multi-hour trip. Tubing can be a fun choice for families, couples and groups looking for a laid-back break between hiking, sightseeing and visiting nearby White Mountains attractions.
River depth, weather and water conditions can change throughout the summer. Always follow the outfitter’s age requirements and safety guidance, wear appropriate water shoes and bring sunscreen, drinking water and a secure dry bag for essentials.
6. Discover the Beauty of Jackson Falls
Tucked into the charming village of Jackson, New Hampshire, Jackson Falls offers an easy and scenic stop for anyone exploring the Mount Washington Valley. The series of cascades flows over broad, smooth rocks, creating a beautiful setting for relaxing beside the water, enjoying a picnic or simply taking photographs.
Picnic tables and waterside rocks provide places to pause and appreciate the scenery. During warmer weather, visitors may also find shallow areas where they can cool their feet, although water levels and currents can change quickly after rain. Parking near Jackson Falls is limited and subject to a two-hour time restriction, so arriving earlier in the day may make your visit easier.
After visiting the falls, allow time to explore Jackson Village, known for its classic New England character, mountain views and iconic covered bridge. A trip to Jackson Falls can also be paired with a drive along Route 16 or a visit to another nearby White Mountains attraction.
7. Experience a White Mountains Classic at Clark’s Bears
Clark’s Bears has been a favorite White Mountains family attraction for generations. Located in Lincoln, New Hampshire, this nostalgic amusement park is best known for its famous trained black bear shows and the White Mountain Central Railroad.
During a visit, families can watch the bear show, take a memorable train ride and encounter the mischievous Wolfman. Additional attractions may include water rides, Blaster Boats, a climbing tower, museums, Segway activities and Merlin’s Mystical Mansion. During the heart of the summer season, Clark’s also hosts live acrobatic performances.
Clark’s Bears blends old-fashioned roadside attraction charm with rides, shows and interactive family activities. It makes an excellent addition to a day trip through Franconia Notch or can be paired with a visit to the Flume Gorge. Check the current operating calendar and show schedule before making the drive from North Conway.
Make White Mountain Hotel & Resort Your Summer Home Base
After a full day of exploring the best summer attractions near North Conway, return to the peaceful surroundings of White Mountain Hotel & Resort. Our secluded mountain setting places guests close to North Conway shops, restaurants, trails and family attractions while providing a relaxing retreat from the activity of downtown.
Cool off in the year-round outdoor heated pool, relax in the hot tub, enjoy dinner with mountain views or recharge in your comfortable guest room before beginning the next day’s adventure. From Mount Washington and Cranmore Mountain Resort to Story Land and the Saco River, some of the best things to do in the White Mountains are within easy reach.
Summer will not last forever, and popular dates can fill quickly. Start checking adventures off your list and book your summer getaway at White Mountain Hotel & Resort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer in North Conway
What are the best family-friendly summer attractions near North Conway, NH?
Story Land, Cranmore Mountain Resort and Clark’s Bears are three of the most popular family attractions near North Conway. Families can also enjoy tubing on the Saco River, exploring Jackson Falls and walking through the Flume Gorge.
What are the best outdoor activities in the White Mountains during summer?
Popular White Mountains summer activities include driving the Mount Washington Auto Road, hiking through the Flume Gorge, taking a scenic chairlift ride, tubing or paddling on the Saco River, visiting waterfalls and exploring family-friendly mountain adventure parks.
Where should I stay when visiting North Conway attractions?
White Mountain Hotel & Resort offers a quiet mountain setting just minutes from downtown North Conway and within driving distance of the region’s major attractions. Guests can combine days of sightseeing and outdoor adventure with resort amenities, mountain views, dining and comfortable accommodations.
Attraction hours, admission requirements, river conditions and availability may change. Visit each attraction’s official website before heading out.
