Laconia, New Hampshire: 10 Best Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Laconia, New Hampshire (Belknap County)

If you’re dreaming of classic New England charm, sparkling lakes, and laid-back small-town vibes, Laconia, New Hampshire is a great place to land. Right in the heart of Belknap County and just steps from Lake Winnipesaukee, this little city packs a big punch when it comes to outdoor fun, family adventures, and cozy downtown strolls. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway from Boston, a road trip through New England, or looking for an affordable summer vacation spot, Laconia and the nearby towns have plenty to keep you busy. Below are 10 things to do near Laconia, NH that locals love and visitors come back for year after year.

1. Relax at Weirs Beach on Lake Winnipesaukee

If you only do one thing in Laconia, make it Weirs Beach. It’s the classic New Hampshire lake experience. You’ll find:
  • A sandy public beach with shallow water that’s great for kids
  • A long wooden boardwalk with lake views and mountain backdrops
  • Arcades, ice cream stands, and casual spots for burgers and fries
  • Public docks and boat launches
On a sunny summer day, this place feels a bit like stepping into a retro postcard. You can spread out a towel, dip your toes in the water, then walk up to grab a soft-serve cone and people-watch along the boardwalk. If you’re visiting in the evening, stick around for sunset. The sky over Lake Winnipesaukee can light up in shades of orange and pink that make it hard to put your phone away.

2. Take a Scenic Cruise on the M/S Mount Washington

Right from the Weirs Beach area, you can hop on a classic Lake Winnipesaukee cruise aboard the M/S Mount Washington. This isn’t just a boat ride – it’s one of the signature experiences in the Lakes Region. Typical cruises include:
  • Daytime sightseeing cruises with narration about the lake and local history
  • Evening dinner or theme cruises (think sunset dinners or dance nights)
  • Stops at other lakeside towns like Meredith or Wolfeboro on certain routes
If you’re not a big hiker but still want mountain and lake views, this is an easy way to soak it all in. Grab a spot on the upper deck, feel the breeze, and watch the shoreline roll by. It’s also a good option if you’re traveling with grandparents or little kids who can’t walk long distances.

3. Ride the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad

Love old-fashioned trains? The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad runs right along the edge of the lake, and it’s a relaxing way to see the area without driving. Highlights:
  • Trains typically depart from Weirs Beach and Meredith
  • Routes follow an old Boston & Maine Railroad line
  • You ride in vintage train cars with big windows
The train moves slowly enough that you can really enjoy the views—water on one side, forested hills on the other. In fall, when the leaves turn bright red and gold, it’s especially beautiful. If you enjoy simple, low-stress activities on vacation, this is a good one. Grab a coffee, sit back, and let someone else do the “driving.”

4. Explore Downtown Laconia & the Riverwalk

While many visitors rush straight to the lake, downtown Laconia is worth a few hours of your time. You’ll find:
  • Local shops and boutiques
  • Cafés, bakeries, and cozy breakfast spots
  • Historic mill buildings and brick architecture
  • The Laconia Riverwalk along the Winnipesaukee River
The Riverwalk is an easy, pleasant stroll. You can watch the water slide over old dam structures and get a feel for Laconia’s industrial past. If you enjoy photography, the old brick mill buildings and bridges make great backdrops. Tip: Plan a lazy morning downtown—grab coffee, wander the Riverwalk, then pick a spot for lunch before heading out to the lake or mountains.

5. Step Back in Time at the Belknap Mill

Right in Laconia, the Belknap Mill is one of the oldest surviving brick textile mills in the United States. Today, it’s a museum, cultural center, and event space. Why it’s worth a stop:
  • Learn about New England’s early mill history and water-powered machinery
  • See exhibits on local life in the 1800s and 1900s
  • Catch art shows, community events, or seasonal programs
Even if you’re not a “museum person,” the building itself is pretty cool to walk through. When you stand by the old windows and look out at the river, it’s easy to imagine how different life here looked a couple of centuries ago. If you’re traveling with kids, check their schedule—there are often family-friendly programs or craft days.

6. Drive Up to Gunstock Mountain Resort (Year-Round Fun)

About 15–20 minutes from Laconia, in the town of Gilford, you’ll find Gunstock Mountain Resort. It’s one of the best-known outdoor playgrounds in Belknap County. In winter:
  • Skiing and snowboarding with runs for beginners and advanced riders
  • Night skiing under the lights
  • Snow tubing for an easy, fun family activity
In summer and fall:
  • Scenic chairlift rides with views of Lake Winnipesaukee
  • Zipline tours and an adventure park (check age/height requirements)
  • Hiking trails with lookouts over the lake and mountains
  • Mountain biking in designated areas
Even if you’re not into extreme sports, just riding the lift on a clear day and looking down at the lake is worth the trip. The view feels almost unreal, like a painting.

7. Visit Ellacoya State Park for a Quieter Beach Day

If you like the idea of a lake beach but want something more low-key than Weirs, check out Ellacoya State Park in Gilford, about a 15-minute drive from Laconia. Here you get:
  • A long stretch of sandy beach on Lake Winnipesaukee
  • Picnic tables and shady spots for lunch
  • Calmer vibes and more space to spread out
The water is usually clear and refreshing, and the views of the surrounding mountains are fantastic. It’s a nice choice for couples or families who want a more relaxed setting with fewer arcade noises and more nature sounds. Parking can fill on peak summer days, so going earlier in the day is a good idea.

8. Hike Mount Major for Big Views with a Manageable Climb

Looking for a classic New Hampshire hike that doesn’t eat up your whole day? Mount Major, in nearby Alton, is a favorite with locals. It’s about a 25–30 minute drive from Laconia. Why it’s popular:
  • The main loop is only about 3–4 miles total (depending on your route)
  • You’ll climb to an open summit with sweeping views of Lake Winnipesaukee
  • The trail has some rocky sections but is doable for active families
Wear decent shoes, bring water, and give yourself enough time to take breaks. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a wide, open ledge where you can sit, snack, and soak in the view. On a clear day, the lake stretches out like a giant map at your feet. If you like to earn your views but don’t want something too extreme, this is a great choice.

9. Experience Laconia Motorcycle Week (If You Like Big Events)

If you happen to visit in June, you may land right in the middle of Laconia Motorcycle Week, one of the oldest motorcycle rallies in the United States. During this time:
  • Thousands of riders roll into town, especially around Weirs Beach
  • The streets fill with bikes, vendors, live music, and food stands
  • There are guided rides, contests, and special events all week
Even if you’re not a rider, walking the main drag during the day can be a fun people-watching experience. Just be prepared for crowds and noise. If you prefer quiet vacations, you may want to plan your trip for a different week—or stay in a quieter town nearby and drive in for just a day to check it out.

10. Take a Day Trip to Meredith or Tilton for Shopping & Dining

One of the nice things about Laconia is how close it is to other cute New Hampshire towns. Two easy options for side trips are Meredith and Tilton, both in Belknap County. Meredith (about 15 minutes from Laconia):
  • Charming lakefront downtown on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee
  • Art galleries, local shops, and specialty food stores
  • Nice spots for a sit-down dinner or drinks with a view
Tilton (about 20 minutes from Laconia):
  • Outlet shopping at the Tanger Outlets
  • Chain restaurants plus a few local places
  • A convenient stop if you’re coming up from southern New Hampshire or Massachusetts
If you’re staying several days in the Laconia area, mixing in a little shopping, dining, and exploring nearby towns keeps the trip interesting without adding long drives.

Planning Your Trip to Laconia, NH

To make the most of your visit to Laconia and Belknap County, keep these quick tips in mind:
  • Best time to visit: Summer for lake fun, fall for foliage, winter for skiing at Gunstock.
  • Getting around: A car makes everything easier. Many attractions are within a 15–30 minute drive.
  • Where to stay: Options include lakefront motels, cabins, campgrounds, and small hotels in and around Laconia, Weirs Beach, and Gilford.
  • What to pack: Layers (New Hampshire weather can change fast), comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket even in summer evenings.
Laconia may not be a huge city, but that’s part of its charm. You get that cozy small-town feel with plenty of things to do nearby—especially if you love lakes, mountains, and simple, outdoor fun.

What Would You Do First in Laconia?

Would you head straight for Weirs Beach? Ride the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad? Tackle Mount Major for those big lake views? I’d love to hear how you’d plan your time in Laconia and the Lakes Region:
  • Which of these 10 things would be at the top of your list?
  • Have you been to Laconia before? What did you enjoy most?
Drop a comment below with your favorite Laconia tips or questions about visiting New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend or family member who’s dreaming about their next New England getaway.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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