A guide to Northern New Hampshire

I'm taking you to a town nestled in the White Mountains of Northern New Hampshire. Close your eyes and imagine a winter ski town... it would probably look something like North Conway.

We travelled to North Conway from Albany, New York. It is just about a 4.5 hour drive and is THE scenic route. We were going with the intentions of skiing- but this town has a lot to offer for the non-skiers that travel here as well.

SKI

Conway is undeniably a skiers dream in the winter months, so I'll start there. Within a half an hour you can be at 4 different beautiful ski resorts. We were only here for a weekend, so we chose one of them.

1. Attitash Mountain

This is the mountain we visited. Attitash is probably one of the more popular mountains - we were there on a Saturday and they had plenty going on. It offers 68 trails across two joint mountains, Attitash and Bear Peak. There are 2 lodges, providing plenty of room to accommodate the many skiers that visit. Locally brewed beer was served so naturally I was thrilled. When getting out on the lift it was apparent they had a good system down, making wait times not too shabby. Conditions that day were blue bird, trails were wide and well maintained.

What my absolute favorite part was the spectacular views. I have skied all over the northeast and when I tell you these were some of the most breathtaking views I've seen - that doesn't do it justice.

One thing to know- Attitash does not offer night skiing, so get there when they open to get your full day's worth.

Other mountains we didn't get to-

2. Bear Peak - smaller mountain, joined with Attitash. You do have the option of buying a ticket that will work for both.

3. Black Mountain - a little further north, about a 20 minute drive out of Conway. Offers 45 trails over a vast 140 arces. Pub on site to enjoy some good food and local brews.

4. Cranmore Mountain - Right in the town of Conway. Offers 56 trails and night skiing. There are two restaurants on site if you want to grab a bite.

ACCOMODATIONS

There are an abundance of places to stay in Conway- mainly inns and B&B's or you can stay right in the lodging of one of the ski areas.

We chose to stay at the Old Red Inn & Cottages.

Flashback to when I had you close your eyes and picture a perfect ski town, this is your cozy, weekend away in the mountains accommodation. We arrived late and checked in at the main part of the inn, greeted by the family dog.

Our cabin had its own parking and a cozy fireplace. Plenty of blankets provided, but I would bring your own pillow! There is also a small fridge to keep any drinks or snacks.

The best part was the breakfast in the morning (aren't B&B breakfasts always the best part?) It is in the main house - and cooked to order. The owner, Susan, sat in the room with us and other travelers who have been staying at Old Red for 10+ years. It feels as if you are enjoying a breakfast with long lost family.

The Old Red Inn is right in town and within walking distance to local restaurants in town.

The link to book is here: We highly recommend.

https://old-red-inn-cottages.business.site/

THE TOWN

Before we headed back home, we wanted to check out the small town of North Conway. The streets are lined with mom-and-pop shops and unique coffee houses. All in the shadow of big and beautiful Washington Mountain.

We stopped for coffee at The Met. This unique coffee shop is warm and welcoming, with plenty of places to hang out. The walls are lined with paintings and photography by local artists- all up for purchase.

Definitely a place to check out and grab a coffee to go, or get comfy and read a book!

Next, a place that stuck out and a must visit when in North Conway is Zeb's General Store.

Zeb's is a two-floor store packed with home made and local goodies. You can get anything from jams and beef jerky, to a magnet or tee shirt to bring home. The staff are all super friendly and welcoming. Set some time aside to really check this place out, you won't be disappointed.

Another cool thing to do is the Conway Scenic Railroad. They run from April - October, so we unfortunately were unable to partake however I was told by locals that this is a must if you happen to be in Conway during the warmer months. I mean, who wouldn't want to spend the day on a train ride through the White Mountain range taking in some great views?

More information can be found here: https://www.conwayscenic.com/

And last but not least: FOOD

While there are PLENTY of great restaurants, pubs and cafes to choose from, after reading piles of reviews here are my choices on a few good places to eat:

1. Muddy Moose Restaurant and Pub - this is where we went. Didn't disappoint!

2. Beef & Ski

3. Vito Marcello's Italian Bistro

4. May Kelly's Cottage

5. Boston Brothers Pizza

6. Peaches Restaurant

We decided before we even left that we would be back in North Conway, New Hampshire. I hope this guide helps you see the great things the little town has to offer so that you enjoy it as much as we did.

Happy Traveling!

-Aubrey