Laconia: One of the Best Places to Stay in New Hampshire

When it comes to planning the ultimate summer escape, few destinations strike the perfect balance of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and lakeside relaxation like Laconia, New Hampshire. Nestled in the heart of the state’s renowned Lakes Region, Laconia offers travelers the best of everything: breathtaking scenery, endless outdoor adventure, rich history, and that unmistakable small-town warmth that turns a trip into a tradition.

And at the heart of it all is The NASWA Resort—Lake Winnipesaukee’s premier family-owned resort with nearly 90 years of lakeside hospitality. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, here’s why Laconia should be at the top of your summer travel list—and why The NASWA is the perfect place to stay while you explore it all.

1. Surrounded by Natural Beauty in the Heart of the Lakes Region

Laconia’s location is nothing short of magical. Positioned between the expansive Lake Winnipesaukee and the quieter Lake Opechee, this charming city is framed by rolling hills, dense forests, and pristine waters. Whether you’re catching the sunrise over the lake from your cottage porch or hiking to a nearby overlook, the region’s natural beauty never fails to inspire.

During summer, the landscape bursts into life: the lake shimmers under clear blue skies, trails are lined with lush greenery, and the scent of pine and wildflowers fills the air. Whether you’re an avid photographer, nature lover, or someone who simply enjoys a peaceful view, Laconia’s scenery offers a soul-refreshing backdrop to your vacation.

2. An Outdoor Playground for Every Kind of Adventurer

If your ideal summer getaway includes exploring the outdoors, Laconia delivers in spades. Lake Winnipesaukee is a playground for water lovers, and The NASWA Resort offers direct access to it all with the largest private sandy beach on the lake.

Here’s what you can enjoy just steps from your room:

• 🛶 Free kayak and paddleboard rentals for houseguests
• 🏖️ Sunbathing and swimming on the resort’s private beach
• 🎣 Fishing and boating right from the dock
• 🛥️ Complimentary scenic boat rides aboard the SS NASWA in July and August

And beyond the resort, the greater Laconia area offers:

• 🚲 Bike trails, including the scenic Winnipesaukee River Trail
• 🥾 Hiking in the nearby Belknap Mountains
• 🛶 Paddling at Ahern State Park or exploring the Winnisquam and Opechee Lakes

Whether you’re chasing thrills or just want to relax with your toes in the water, Laconia has something for everyone who loves the great outdoors.

3. A Calendar Full of Local Events and Festivals

Laconia doesn’t slow down in summer—in fact, it comes to life with some of the region’s most beloved events, giving visitors the chance to experience the area’s vibrant local culture.

Some can’t-miss summer events include:

• 🏍️ Laconia Motorcycle Week – The oldest national motorcycle rally in the U.S., drawing thousands to the city each June. The NASWA is proud to be the official hotel of the event and home of the iconic Peter Makris Memorial Run.
• 🌎 Laconia Multicultural Festival – A celebration of global cultures, with music, food, dance, and storytelling in downtown Laconia.
• 🎆 Fourth of July Festivities – Complete with a patriotic parade, live music, lakeside picnics, and fireworks that light up the night sky.

At The NASWA, the festivities continue all summer long with live music at the NazBar, family-friendly activities, and themed weekends that add extra magic to your stay.

4. History and Culture Around Every Corner

While the lakes may be the main attraction, Laconia also boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage that adds meaningful depth to any visit.

• 🧱 Belknap Mill – The oldest unaltered brick textile mill in the United States, now a museum and cultural center featuring rotating art exhibits and local history.
• 🏛️ Lake Winnipesaukee Museum – Learn about the area’s Indigenous history, early tourism, steamboats, and the development of Laconia’s lakeside communities.
• 🎭 The Colonial Theatre and local art galleries – Host performances, concerts, and exhibits that showcase the creative heartbeat of the city.

For those who love to explore local heritage, these attractions offer a deeper connection to the land and the people who’ve called it home for generations.

5. Warm Hospitality That Feels Like Family

What truly sets Laconia apart is its genuine, welcoming spirit. Whether you’re chatting with a local artist at the farmers market, sharing a table with fellow guests at The Blue Bistro, or getting tips from the team at The NASWA front desk, there’s a friendliness here that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

At The NASWA Resort, that spirit comes to life every day. Founded by Jim and Fannie Salta in 1935, and still run by the Makris family today, the resort embodies the Greek tradition of philoxenia—the idea of treating strangers as friends.

From sun-up to sunset, we strive to ensure your stay is not just a vacation, but a memory in the making.

Make This Summer Unforgettable—Stay in Laconia at The NASWA Resort

When you combine the scenic beauty, endless recreation, local events, and rich cultural experiences of Laconia with the heartfelt hospitality of The NASWA Resort, you get more than just a trip—you get a tradition worth returning to.

📍 Centrally located on Lake Winnipesaukee
🏖️ Direct access to a private beach and waterfront dining
🏡 A wide variety of accommodations from cozy cottages to suites
🍽️ Two on-site restaurants: the lively NazBar & Grill and the elegant Blue Bistro
🐾 Pet-friendly options so the whole family can come along

Ready to Plan Your Stay?

📞 Call us at 888-55-NASWA
🌐 Visit naswa.com to explore accommodations and special offers
📧 Email [email protected] for group bookings or event planning

Laconia is calling—and your perfect summer vacation is waiting. Come experience why we’re one of the best places to stay in New Hampshire and discover what it truly means to live the lake life.