The Best New Hampshire Breweries Near Laconia

A flight of beer mugs filled up at one of many New Hampshire breweries.As the North American brewery scene has witnessed an unprecedented surge in popularity over the last decade, many beer enthusiasts have decided to forgo their bland domestic lagers for more unique and sophisticated sapidities. As tastes evolve and palates become more discerning, so do the attributes that constitute how a good beer should taste. One of the fascinating aspects of visiting New Hampshire breweries is tasting new beers that help immerse you in their locality’s sights and sounds via the tasty beverages enjoyed by those inhabiting the region. Perfectly situated near several Laconia, NH, area breweries, the NASWA Resort is the ideal place to bring back a couple of growlers and six-packs to keep the fun going all night.

3 Must-Try New Hampshire Breweries

Before you start your “libatious” journey, we ask that you drink responsibly and be sure to secure a designated driver. Although it would be reasonably easy to search Google for “breweries near me,” deciding which ones to visit may be more challenging. To help streamline your efforts, we’ve put together a useful list of our favorite local New Hampshire breweries. Cheers!

1. Canterbury Aleworks

Canterbury Aleworks might be one of the most unique craft beer experiences you’ll ever embark. Known as a nano-brewery, Canterbury is a one-barrel operation influenced by British and Irish handcrafted beers. Water-powered and wood-fired, you’ll take a trip to a simpler time for a surprisingly wide variety for such a small operation. 

2. Twin Barns Brewing Company

Although they specialize in beer, Twin Barns is more than a brewery. Besides their eclectic selection of signature beers, TBBC also features a delectable food menu to complement a noteworthy collection of IPAs, porters, and stouts. It bears mentioning that TBBC invites those on “workation” to carry out their tasks from the comfort of the taproom.

3. Kettlehead Brewing Company

Much like Twin Barns, Kettlehead Brewing Company has offerings that extend beyond beers. With a more expansive food menu than most New Hampshire breweries, it’s almost a taproom-restaurant hybrid. Further separating Kettlehead from the pack is a wide variety of craft beers, including an IPA milkshake, imperial stout, hard cider, and hefeweizen.

Laconia, New Hampshire, Lake Resorts: The Perfect Retreat

After sampling some of the local New Hampshire breweries’ most satisfying suds, you can retreat to The NASWA Resort to keep the good times rolling. Our local beer offerings are anything but ordinary, so why book your stay at a typical hotel? With a dynamic assortment of lodging options and on-site amenities, you’ll experience firsthand what makes NASWA a highly coveted destination. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit us online or call 888-55-NASWA.

Fall Getaways: Apple Picking near Laconia, NH

A woman enjoys apple picking at one of the Lakes Region's many orchards.There’s something to be said about the nostalgia associated with summer’s end as the heat and humidity subside, as do the number of tourists, making it the perfect time for a fall getaway, especially if you’re hoping to avoid crowds. Kids are getting ready to go back to school, the days are shorter, and the crisp autumn air will soon signify the changing seasons. With its beautiful lakes, elegant foothills, and sprawling hardwood forests, it’s easy to realize why New Hampshire’s Lake Region is ideal for an end of summer retreat. One of the most quintessential activities for this time of year is apple picking. Not only will you be able to immerse yourself in vibrant fall colors, but you’ll also have the opportunity to pick your own fresh produce from some of the best New Hampshire orchards. Today we’ll share with you some of our nearby favorites.

Apple Picking at Our 3 Favorite Orchards in New Hampshire 

Nestled in the Lakes Region’s heart on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, NASWA Resort boasts a diverse selection of accommodations with a seemingly endless array of amenities. Whether you’re a family hoping to squeeze in a final vacation before the school year is in full swing or a romantic couple seeking an escape to the lake, you’ll find out that we’ve learned a few things about tranquility. And there’s nothing quite like a breezy stroll through a fragrant, serene New Hampshire orchard. We’ve spent a great deal of time at all of these New Hampshire orchards and can tell you that the backdrop created by the brilliant reds, yellows, and oranges on display is an attraction all its own. Without further ado, let’s get to the core of apple picking in the Lakes Region.

Stone Mountain Farm 

In Belmont, NH, Stone Mountain Farm is the area’s premier high-density orchard just south of Laconia, meaning they can focus more on growing fruit, rather than trees. Supported by a trellis system, trees are held up by large posts and wires, much like at a vineyard. Unlike standard trees that need five to seven years to reach production, high-density trees can be harvested as early as one year after being planted and often don’t require a ladder. Check out their dynamic assortment of apples ranging from juicy Akanes to crunchy CandyCrisps.

Smith Orchard

Also, in Belmont, Smith Orchard has been in production since 1985 and has a common variety of apples, including Macintosh, Red Delicious, Cortland, and Ginger Gold, among others. In addition to apples, Smith Orchard also provides a distinct line of body and hand creams made right on the farm! Adding to the allure, they also have weekly events and serve as an outdoor venue for birthday parties, making it an excellent place to bring the kiddos.

Stone Brook Hill Farm

Located in Gilford, NH, Stone Brook Hill Farm is a family operated orchard that doubles as a pick-your-own blueberry farm. A unique factor to consider when visiting Stone Brook is that you’ll be escorted to the orchard via a quick hayride to over 1,600 trees producing a large stock of local favorites. Furthermore, they have a comprehensive collection of pumpkins in October and a farm stand that carries everything from handcrafted cider donuts to maples syrup. 

New Hampshire Resorts on Lake Winnipesaukee

As much as there is to do at the resort, we encourage our guests to explore the beautiful Lakes Region that surrounds us, and apple picking is a fantastic way to start. After a long day, you can retreat to your home away from home for some much-deserved relaxation without a care in the world. For more information or to book your fall getaway, please contact us online or call 603-366-4341. Don’t forget to ask about our ongoing specials!

Enjoy New Hampshire’s Fall Foliage Near Lake Winnipesaukee

A smiling visitor holds up an amber colored leaf to showcase the New Hampshire fall foliage.While summer is undoubtedly a great time to visit Lake Winnipesaukee, we want to turn our focus ahead to autumn for those planning fall getaways to New Hampshire’s beautiful Lakes Region. With its rolling foothills, expansive hardwood forests, and, of course, elegant lakes, it’s no wonder that our little slice of paradise has been considered a premier destination for the perfect retreat. One of the most popular autumn attractions can be found just about anywhere you look; we’re talking about the New Hampshire fall foliage. Before we get started, we recommend taking a look at the New England foliage report supplied by the Foliage Network.

Best Ways to Enjoy New Hampshire’s Fall Foliage

The scenic vistas and serene tranquility of the Lakes Region present an unforgettable leisure experience for those fortunate to make the trip. Leaf peeping is a cost-effective way to explore the area’s stunning array of colors while immersing yourself in the natural beauty exemplified by our great state. The crisp, fresh autumn air lends itself to comfortable hikes, scenic drives, and picturesque boat and train rides. To help familiarize you with some of the best locations and modes of travel, we put together this brief guide for the best ways to enjoy New Hampshire’s fall foliage. 

M/S Mount Washington Cruises 

Since 1872, the historic and revered M/S Mount Washington has served as an elegant way to take in and admire the fall foliage around Lake Winnipesaukee. With two-and-a-half-hour day cruises that depart from Weir’s Beach, you’ll have a front seat view of some of New England’s most outstanding scenery. M/S Mount Washington also offers dinner cruises on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.

Lake Winnipesaukee Loop

A scenic drive around Lake Winnipesaukee is a fun way to explore the cute towns and villages that punctuate the region. The best part of this picturesque byway is stopping in each community for some shopping, dining, and sightseeing. With 75 miles of awe-inspiring foliage and shining water, you’ll be surrounded by iconic autumn brilliance at every turn.

Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad

If you want to do more leaf-peeping and less driving, then a trip on the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad is just for you! For over 30 years, Hobo Railroad has provided scenic rides through most breathtaking areas of New Hampshire. The trains run rain or shine, which could be a good option for those days when inclement weather rears its head.

New Hampshire Family Resorts: The Perfect Fall Getaway

The NASWA Resort in Laconia, NH, has a remarkable assortment of lodging options that render the perfect launchpad for leaf peeping near Lake Winnipesaukee. Nothing feels better after an adventurous day of sightseeing than retreating to your home away from home. With dog-friendly options and a dynamic collection of on-site recreational opportunities, it’s not surprising that NASWA remains at the forefront of New England’s family vacation scene. For more information on how we can accommodate your autumn New Hampshire vacation, please reach out online or call 888-55-NASWA today!

Top Lake Winnipesaukee Lodging for You

As we prepare to turn another page on the calendar, we can’t help but fantasize about summer. Children and adults alike eagerly wait for bottomless ice-cream, days spent in swimsuits, and the sweet sound of boats roaring around New Hampshire’s lakes. However, many guests choose to vacation with Naswa Resort, because there are endless things to do at Lake Winnipesaukee, right here in our backyard! Whether you’re planning a summer family vacation, romantic getaway, or a friends’ reunion, Naswa Resort offers the best Lake Winnipesaukee lodging for you.

New Hampshire Summer Vacation Cottage

The Naswa Resort boasts 18 unique cottages, each more beautiful than the next, for you to enjoy on vacation. Our one-room cottage comfortably sleeps four guests on two full-sized beds. The two-bedroom cottages are large enough to sleep six guests, which is ideal when you have a large family or are traveling with several friends. These cottages also come with convenient amenities, such as a full kitchen and daily trash/towel service. Be sure to watch the fiery sunrise/sunset over Lake Winnipesaukee from the comfort of your screened-in porch.

Paugus Suite

Our largest Lake Winnipesaukee lodging option is called the Paugus Suite. It features three bedrooms (one king-sized bed and two queen-sized beds) sleeper sofa in the living room, a full kitchen, and a balcony overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee. Paugus Suite also includes a flat-screen TV, phone, and air conditioning. If you’re traveling New Hampshire with several people, talk to our Naswa Resort team about securing your stay in our world-class unit.

Naswa Resort

When trusting The Naswa Resort with your Lake Winnipesaukee lodging experience, your New Hampshire summer vacation will be perfect. Not only will you enjoy countless things to do on Lake Winnipesaukee, such as complimentary kayaks/paddleboards, dock space, Camp Naz children’s program, and boat tours, but also proximity to the area’s hottest upcoming events. While there are infinite Lake Winnipesaukee lodging options, we’re confident that Naswa Resort is the place for you. To learn more information about our summer specials, visit our website or give us a call at 888-556-2792.

Lake Winnipesaukee Fishing Offers Year-Round Joy

A bad day fishing is better than a good day at work, as many people say. As for our team at The Naswa Resort, we’d have to agree! Lake Winnipesaukee fishing is always a great idea. The 21-mile long lake boasts a wide variety of fish, including rainbow trout, salmon, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, yellow perch, and more. If you’re looking to reel in a good time, read the Naswa Resort staff’s guide on how to have a thrilling Lake Winnipesaukee fishing affair.

Lake Winnipesaukee Ice Out Season

Many Naswa guests find luck catching smallmouth bass during May and June since they typically spawn near the start of June. Start by trolling near the rocky hump or island, and your odds of catching a lunker will soar through the roof! The Naswa Resort suggests you use lures such as gold-tinted Long-A Bombers, deep-diving crankbaits, quarter-ounce Buddies, suspending Rogues, and perhaps jig-and-pigs. The smallmouth bass won’t be able to resist! However, we’ve also found great success in fishing the drop-off regions while using spider jigs, grubs, Carolina-rigged lizards, and six-inch Senko worms. The heavy tackle will make way down to the strike zone.

Winni Derby

After you’ve found the jackpot of fishing holes, sign up for the Winni Derby. This family-friendly event is recognized as the largest landlocked salmon and lake trout tournament in the northeast. Every year, thousands of guests vacation in Lake Winnipesaukee towns for a chance to win an assortment of prizes. Daily prizes along with best overall in categories such as Adult Salmon, Lake Trout, and Junior Salmon have a fair chance at winning an award! However, you must familiarize yourself with the rules to secure your seat in the tournament.

While The Naswa Resort can’t guarantee a winning fish, we can promise you a winning rate and a fun NASWA Fishing Pool Event. When traveling with a fellow fisher, consider renting our AquaVista Beachfront Beachfront room. For just $139 per night, you and one other adult can lodge just steps away from the beach. This way, you’ll never be too far away from the action! With a 3 night reservation, you also get to enter The NASWA Fishing Pool. A fun way to win some cool prizes. Awards are given not old for the biggest fish, but also for the prettiest, ugliest and more. Contact our front desk for further information on Winni Derby’s room rates.

Lake Winnipesaukee Ice Fishing

Ice fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee is a great way to take in the winter scenery while enjoying peace and quiet. Some years, Lake Winnipesaukee freezes as early as Christmas. While other years, it freezes well after New Year’s Eve. The ice conditions vary from year to year, so it’s crucial to check the Lake Winnipesaukee ice forecast before your fishing trip. During New Hampshire’s winter months, you’ll likely encounter Lake Winnipesaukee fish such as trout, pickerel, white/yellow perch, and black crappie. Visitors love ice fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee because it’s the best time to catch massive lake trout. Some nights you can even catch up cusk weighing over 10 pounds! Many visitors experience such successful Lake Winnipesaukee ice fishing that they return for the annual Meredith Rotary Ice Fishing Derby.

Ice Fishing Derby

The famous ice fishing tournament attracts fishers from around the world for a chance to win big prizes. Yes, it is frigid this time of the year; however, many anglers find the cold and potential frostbite well worth the chance of their catch being hung on the wall of fame. This family-friendly event takes place at Meredith Bay, which nearly turns into a small town during the ice fishing tournament. Several vendors and ice shanties form a rainbow of colors around the tournament’s grounds. This annual affair is a must-see experience for fishing enthusiasts.

Bait and Tackle Shops Near Me

Swing by one of the many bait and tackle shops in Lake Winnipesaukee to purchase your ticket to the ice fishing derby. Traditionally, AJ’s Bait and Tackle, Winnisquam Trading Post, Alton Circle Grocery, and Skelly’s Market, all sell tickets for the event. But these shops are also here to satisfy your summertime Lake Winnipesaukee fishing needs. Stop by for lure recommendations, a refresher on NH fishing regulations, or to purchase your New Hampshire fishing license. Word of advice, AJ’s Bait and Tackle also sell NH fishing license online.

Now that you’re ready to have an unforgettable Lake Winnipesaukee fishing experience, it’s time to book your stay at Naswa Resort. Our team looks forward to meeting you during the Lake Winnipesaukee ice out season, so we can be the first to hear about your biggest fish yet! Call us today at 888-556-2792 to kick off your vacation planning.

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