Family Activities
A range and variety of fun stuff for families and children to do in New Hampshire — year-round, indoors and outdoors — is mind boggling.
Examples include amusement parks featuring Santa and classic nursery rhymes, zip lines, rock climbing and cave tours, working farms with animal visits and hay rides, ski mountains with year-round activities, living history villages, and more.
Bring the kids, enjoy, and maybe even learn some history. Lodgings that welcome kids and families can be found all around you.
21 listings
Jefferson, NH
Featured listing: Santa's Village
528 Presidential Highway 603-586-4445Will the kids love going to an attraction named after Santa Claus? Of course!
With a name like Santa’s Village, how could the kids not have the time of their lives? There are enough rides to provide appropriate thrills for every member of the family. Soar on the Skyway Sleigh monorail or ride the Jingle Bell Express through the village. Go ‘round on the Reindeer Carousel or see the amazing views from the Ferris wheel. Slide downhill on the YouTubing ride or Yule Log Flume, drive bumper cars or antique cars. Then there’s the water park with three, three-story-high, twisty water slides, a splash pad for preschoolers and the Ho Ho H20 attraction with splashes, slides and other interactive fun. Plus, you can meet Santa, feed his reindeer and go on a park-wide elf scavenger hunt!
Charlestown, NH
Featured listing: Morningside Flight Park
357 Morningside Lane 603-542-4416At this complete flight park, an adventure — on land or in the air — is waiting for everyone
There’s an adventure for everyone at the Morningside Flight Park, where a gently elevating slope makes it a world-renowned training ground for hang gliding and paragliding beginners and a challenging launch site for experienced pilots. After instructions, lessons and courses of various types, you’ll take to the sky — perhaps foot-launching from the hillside, or in a tandem hang gliding flight with a professional instructor. Kids will love the zip line tours, where you fly through the tree tops from platform to platform in a course designed for almost everyone. There’s also laser tag with state-of-the-art equipment, great for a family outing or a birthday celebration. Extend the fun by camping on the back side of the training hill, in your own tent or a cabin. Swimming and fishing ponds are nearby.
Chichester and Hooksett, NH
Featured listing: Chuckster's Family Fun Park
Two Great Locations 603-798-3555True fun and games for everyone at these New Hampshire play parks
Fun for all ages is an understatement at New Hampshire’s two Chuckster’s locations. At Chuckster’s Ice Cream & Miniature Golf in Hooksett, NH, you can tee off from inside a fire tower on a multi-level mini golf course (one of two huge courses) and, after 18 amazing holes, adjourn to the ice cream barn. At Chuckster’s Family Fun Park in Chichester, NH, mini golf is just one of 16 unique attractions. Race on the go-kart speedway, scale our Klime Walls challenge, and zip along the new 265-foot Zipline. Fun games include Downpour Derby, Shoot-N-Shower (foul-shot loser gets a watery surprise), ChucksterBall and Frantic Hoops. Need recharging? There’s ice cream, pizza, chicken tenders, burgers and more.
Gorham, NH
Mount Washington Auto Road
Route 16 - Pinkham Notch 603-466-3988Auto road has a long history of families traveling along it to reach the grand summit
For over 160 years, families have been traveling up the Mt. Washington Auto Road, first by horse-drawn carriages and wagons, now by cars and tour vans – and SnowCoaches in the winter! Reaching the Northeast’s highest summit means looking out over the grand Presidential Range and beyond. There’s also the Mt. Washington Observatory Museum to explore, a cafeteria and gift shop. And there are other ways to travel: via ATVs on certain days, hiking and, in the winter, you can even snowshoe or Nordic ski down after traveling up to the tree line in the SnowCoach. There are sunset and sunrise tours, and the Spring Adventure Tour lets you get up close to the process of clearing the road of giant snowbanks and drifts.
Bretton Woods, NH
Mount Washington Cog Railway
Off Route 302 603-278-5404Thrill ride up Mt. Washington continues to delight railroad fans of all ages
Families from all over the world come to the majestic White Mountains of New Hampshire to be thrilled by the ride up on the historic Mount Washington Cog Railway. The dramatic ascent to the summit of the Northeast’s highest peak features amazing views of lush forests, deep chasms and the steepest railroad trestle in the world in Jacob’s Ladder. (Yes, the trees are straight: It’s you who are at an angle!) Kids will love the commentary of the entertaining and knowledgeable engineer and brakeman or brakewoman. The journey begins at a base station with a great interactive museum and observation deck and, at the summit, there’s an interactive weather exhibit as well as a summit post office to mail postcards direct fro
North Woodstock, NH
Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves
1712 Lost River Road -- Route 112W 603-745-8031Trek through a White Mountain wonderland at Lost River Gorge
Take your family on a journey beneath the earth at Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves in New Hampshire's White Mountains. You'll find yourself exploring a spectacular wilderness wonderland formed millions of years ago by glaciers, water, and wild weather. Located on a preserve owned by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, Lost River Gorge is home to granite cliffs, spectacular waterfalls, rugged caves, and a river that plays hide-and-seek amid the rocks. Hike along a three-quarter mile boardwalk, or step off and explore the boulder caves, including the Sun Altar, Thor's Workshop, the Devil's Kitchen, the Lemon Squeezer, and the Judgment Hall of Pluto. Sturdy footwear and outdoor clothing are recommended. Open early May to mid-October.
Gorham, NH
Great Glen Trails
Route 16 at Pinkham Notch 603-466-3988Fun all four seasons for all the members of your family at this active outdoor center
Fun for everyone in the family, every season of the year: That’s the goal at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, at the base of the Mt. Washington Auto Road. That might mean searching for moose and eagles as you paddle along the Androscoggin River on a wildlife kayak cruise. Or, packing a picnic lunch and hiking up to the Great Angel or Cadiddlehopper Cabin. Or biking over smooth, well-marked carriage roads. In the winter, it means superior cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and, a favorite with families, snow tubing down Tubing Hill, enjoying s’mores and hot cocoa by the fire pit on weekends and holidays. The comfortable base lodge has lockers, showers and a fireplace. The Outfitters Shop has all the best in outdoor gear to buy or rent.
Salem, NH
America's Stonehenge
105 Haverhill Road 603-893-8300Let your kids explore the mysteries of America's history
Kids love mysteries, and that's what makes a visit to America's Stonehenge in Salem, New Hampshire, a great trip for your family. A half-mile trail through the pine woods leads to megaliths, stone chambers, a rock altar, and other strange artifacts. Were they built by colonial farmers or Native Americans? Or constructed by ancient people -- Druid priests, perhaps -- who left similar monuments all over great Britain. Adding to the mystery is the fact that you'll find megaliths of the same type scattered around New England. Our site, however, is one of the largest collections. What's more, many other sites are on private property, and off limits to visitors. So come visit our woods, and find out why they've left scholars confused for decades.
North Woodstock, NH
White Mountains Attractions
200 Kancamagus Highway 603-745-8720Every day in the White Mountains brings a new adventure or activity for fun-seeking families
You know what people who bring their families to the White Mountains never hear? The words “I’m bored.” There is simply too much to do! Shoot down North America’s longest alpine slide, visit a park where fairy tales come to life, explore the area in a Side X Side vehicle or on a cog railway. Let the kids poke their way through glacial caves, go mountain biking at a ski resort, slide and splash their way through a world-class water park. Learn about loons at a wildlife center or about rural living at a country doctor museum. Visit an aquarium, the largest arcade in the world or a sled dog kennel. From disc golf to gondola rides, there’s a thrilling family experience around every corner in the White Mountains. To find out more, follow our link above or call us today at 1-800-346-3687.
Tilton, NH
Lakes Region Tourism Association
61 Laconia Road 603-286-8008It’s safe to say the kids will never be bored when you book a Lakes Region vacation
New Hampshire’s Lakes Region you and your kids will want to come back season after season, year after year. Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Winnipesaukee; ride one of the trains that take you along the lake or up the mountain; visit animals native to New Hampshire at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center; visit one of our many farms to see animals and get your local produce; looking for more adventure zip line; mountain coasters; mountain biking and aerial tree top tour at Gunstock Mountain Resort; visit the world’s largest arcade at Funspot; enjoy a park with caves to explore at Polar Caves; scenic chair lift and gondola rides; kakaying and paddle boarding in the summer and skiing; snowmobiling; ice skating in the winter.
With great restaurants, tax-free shopping (main streets and outlets) and a variety of accommodations, the kids will have a blast, and you will leave already planning your next vacation.
North Woodstock, NH
Ice Castles
24 Clark Farm RoadA spectacular frozen fantasy for the young – and young at heart
Ice Castles in North Woodstock is a fun-filled winter activity that has everything a child – or a child at heart – could fantasize about: ice slides, mazes of tunnels, crawl spaces, frozen fountains, thrones and towers of cascading ice. This frozen fortress is the perfect place to make unforgettable memories as a family. But the fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down. In fact, there’s always a spectacular light show at night, as LED lights embedded inside the ice turn the castles from brilliant shades of blue, to vibrant red, purple, and green. Families are advised to buy tickets online in advance (you can spend as much time as you like once you’re inside), to dress warmly with boots, and to consider a small sled instead of a stroller for really little ones. There’s also a concession stand with hot chocolate, cider, and warm treats.
Berline, NH
Androscoggin Valley Chamber of Commerce
961 Main Street 603-228-0836The list of fun things to do in this family-friendly part of N.H. is almost endless
Make sure you have your list ready when you tell the kids you’re going to the Androscoggin Valley, NH and they ask what there is to do there. Because here’s a partial selection of activities: skiing, snowshoeing, ATV and snowmobile riding, horseback riding, hiking up mountains, biking past rivers, whitewater rafting, canoeing, zip-lining. You can visit a sugar house to see how maple syrup is made, go fat biking or watch for moose on a guided tour. There are scenic gondola rides, rock-climbing walls, nature refuges. Take a sleigh ride or go dog-sledding. Indoor activities include everything from concerts to sporting events. The busy region includes restaurants to please everyone, and lodging options range from camping and glamping sites to hotels and resorts with pools.
Laconia, NH
Margate Resort on Winnipesaukee
76 Lake Street 603-524-5210Your family’s unforgettable vacation awaits at this resort right on the lake
Come join the families who make memories at the Margate on Winnipesaukee, a great home base for your New Hampshire getaway. Just steps from the lake’s calm, scenic Paugus Bay, the resort has a 400-foot private sandy beach and kayak and paddle board rentals. Glide around the bay’s islands, swim out to the raft or just relax in your beach chair. There’s a heated indoor pool and oversized whirlpool, large outdoor pool, fitness center and an arcade game room. Area activities include hiking, biking, skiing, snowmobiling, boat cruises, a scenic railroad, ice arena, Funspot (the largest arcade in the world) and fun shopping. Dine in the Gazebo Beach Bar or in one of many local restaurants.
Moultonborough, NH
Castle in The Clouds
455 Old Mountain Road 603-476-5900Interactive activities and stunning natural beauty at a National Historic Landmark create an unforgettable family experience
Experience the magic of Castle in the Clouds for a day of family fun! With more than 200 programs and events throughout the year, there are plenty of hands-on activities for kids. Step outdoors to hike scenic trails maintained by the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, feed rainbow trout at Shannon Pond, and order ice cream from Cafe in the Clouds. Additionally, there is a meadow perfect for little ones to burn off some energy before ending the day with a trolley ride back to the parking lot. Castle in the Clouds promises a day filled with smiles and memories for the entire family!
Bethlehem, NH
Town of Bethlehem
From skiing to shopping, there’s something fun for every member of the family
Bring the family to Bethlehem, N.H., and be prepared to be entertained, White Mountains-style. There’s fantastic alpine skiing and snowboarding, of course, at six nearby mountains: Cannon, Bretton Woods, Attitash, Loon, Waterville Valley and Wildcat. Miles of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing trails, snowmobile trails, and fat biking trails wind through the area. In the warmer months, those trails are great for biking and hiking for all ages. There’s also tennis and basketball on public courts, two golf courses, a movie theater, town pool, pristine rivers to cool yourself down and a lively downtown area with all sorts of shops and cafes. It’s a short drive to a variety of attractions including Santa’s Village, Story Land, Whale’s Tale Waterpark, the Flume Gorge and the Mount Washington Cog Railway.
Lincoln, NH
Granite State Railway
64 Railroad Street 603-745-2135Travel the Rails in Lincoln — Where Lasting Family Memories Are Made
All aboard the Granite State Railway for a relaxing journey into America’s railroad past. Climb into restored vintage coaches, breathe in that crisp White Mountains air, sit back and enjoy the scenery through the woods and banks along the winding Pemigewasset River. Join us on our NEW Lincoln Rail Bikes, offering families a fun and active way to experience the outdoors together. This unique, motor-assisted ride travels along the rails through the scenic beauty of the White Mountains — creating unforgettable moments for families, couples, and groups alike. At the Gift Shop, grab snacks, ice cream and soda — or bring your own picnic lunch. Trains and Rail Bikes will run May through October, then Thanksgiving through mid-December, join us on our beloved Santa Train experience. Book your one-of-a-kind Lincoln rail experience now!
Hampton Beach, NH
Hampton Beach Village District
115 Ocean Boulevard 603-926-8717It’s easy to see why families keep coming back for vacations in this fun, lively area
There is no whining about being bored allowed at Hampton Beach, NH, where parents and kids have been coming for decades for the best in family entertainment. That might mean exploring beach tidal pools or running in the surf, spinning and sliding in a playground, trying to conquer pinball machines and other games in arcades, gathering for movies or concerts right on the beach, or oohing and aahing over fireworks displays or thrilling acrobatics at the Circus. There’s an oceanarium with touch tanks, candy and ice cream shops with more flavors than you can imagine, and plenty of hotels with outdoor pools. Dining is casual and easy, from take-out fries on the boardwalk to seafood restaurants right across from the beach. Check the website for information on the Children’s Festival, and the sand sculpture contest.
Concord, NH
Scenic RailRiders
188 Sewalls Falls Road 603-931-1700Plan something out of the ordinary for a family outing: riding the rails on custom-built “bikes”
Your Last Chance to Pedal the Rails in Concord NH, 2026 will be our last year in Concord!
Your family is going to love this: Pedaling over picturesque, abandoned railroad tracks in a custom-built Rail-Bike for two or four people. The all-ages, one-of-a-kind adventure from Scenic Railriders will take you through woods, past farmland along the Merrimack River and even over bridges. Pedaling required along the 6.2-mile route is leisurely, and kids 5 and over can usually reach those pedals! There are two rest stops as your guides help turn the caravan around. It’s a comfortable ride — the “bikes” have handle bars to rest your hands, seat belts and redundant brakes. The kids’ car seats, child seats or booster seats can be strapped right onto the “bike” seats, and groups of more than four can have their “bikes” linked. Advanced reservations are required.
We have added a 2.3 mile evening Holiday Lights Tour Mid-November through Christmas Weekend!
Albany, NH
Huttopia - White Mountains
57 Pine Knoll Road 603-447-3131Time for that family winter getaway? Mountain cabins are close to all the best activities
Iona Lake becomes your private playground with swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for perch or black bass. Our Little Trappers program entertains children under 12 with supervised nature activities. The heated saltwater pool offers relaxation and aquatic fun in all seasons. Hiking trails cross our 50-acre property, leading to the White Mountain National Forest. Every family finds their happiness between outdoor adventures and convivial moments around the campfire under the stars.
Bethlehem, NH
Town of Bethlehem
Lots to keep every member of the family happy in this fun White Mountains region
Make family-friendly Bethlehem, NH your headquarters for your White Mountains adventure. Comfortable lodging options include summer campgrounds to winter ski resorts and year-round inns. And fun activities are everywhere, from downhill and cross-country skiing and snowboarding to golfing and hiking. Take the kids out on a bike trip through forests and along the river or visit a water park. See Santa’s Village or Story Land, or amaze them with a trip up Mt. Washington on a cog railroad train. Visit the Flume Gorge or arrange for a wildlife or maple-sugaring tour at The Rocks. See a movie in the Colonial Theatre, one of the country’s oldest continuously operating movie theaters. The area boasts plenty of fun places to shop and to eat, as well as a variety of festivals.
Lincoln, NH
NHSCOT & NH Highland Games Festival
Loon Mountain Resort - 60 Loon Mountain RoadFind Scottish Fun for the Whole Family
Get your kids interested in Scottish culture from an early age with the help of NHSCOT, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Scottish culture year-round. Join Highland Dance of NHSCOT to learn the steps of the Highland Fling, the Sword Dance, and the Strathspey and Reel. Prefer to explore your musical abilities? Sign up for classes with the Pipes & Drums of NHSCOT. In the winter, enjoy ice skating in your kilt or a Curling on Ice Try It Class. Or celebrate the New Year, Scottish style, at NHSCOT’s family-friendly Hogmanay event. And don’t forget about NHSCOT’s annual NH Highland Games & Festival, a “must-attend” event for all ages, which takes place each year during the third weekend in September.