A Summer Cruise to the Capital: Things to Do in Concord, NH

One of the best things about visiting The NASWA Resort in Laconia is its centralized location in the NH Lakes Region. Still, if you’re itching to explore the Granite State further, you must consider a trip to Concord, the capital. Not only are there a ton of fun things to do, but it’s also an excellent summer destination if you’re in town for Laconia Motorcycle Week, as there are a few associated attractions in Canterbury and Loudon, NH, just outside of Concord. Let’s take a look!

Step into History at the NH State House

As the oldest state capitol still in use, the NH State House is an architectural gem offering insights into the state’s rich history and government. Marvel at the grandeur of its chambers, adorned with intricate details and historical artifacts. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Canterbury Shaker Village: A Surreal Experience

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Canterbury Shaker Village, just a short drive from downtown Concord. Step back in time as you explore the meticulously preserved buildings, gardens, and exhibits that pay homage to the Shakers, a religious community known for their craftsmanship and simple way of life. From guided tours to hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this serene cultural sanctuary. 

Stroll Around Main Street and  Downtown Concord

Take a stroll along Concord’s Main Street and discover a vibrant hub of local shops, eateries, and cultural things to do. Browse boutique stores for unique souvenirs, indulge in delicious cuisine at cozy cafes and restaurants, and explore art galleries showcasing the work of talented local artists. Don’t miss the Capitol Center for the Arts, where you can catch a live performance or art exhibit that showcases the city’s creative spirit.

NH Motor Speedway

If you’re here for Laconia Motorcycle Week, then the Loudon Classic at the NH Motor Speedway is a must. Known as the longest-running motorcycle race in the nation, the Classic has been around since before the race track was built! So not only do you have a chance to visit this iconic race track, but you can also catch one of the world’s most exciting racing events. Even if you’re not here during Laconia Motorcycle Week, you may wish to witness one of the many other races.

New England Racing Museum

Another high-speed attraction in Loudon that motorsports fans will appreciate is the New England Racing Museum. Boasting 10,000 square feet of New England racing history, it’s no surprise that automobile and motorcycle racing has become so popular in New Hampshire. From classic stock cars to wobbly sprint cars, the New England Racing Museum is the perfect place for history buffs and racing enthusiasts alike.

New England Family Vacations Near Concord, NH

After a day of discovering new things to do in Concord, NH, return to the lakeside oasis of The NASWA Resort for relaxation and rejuvenation. Nestled on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, just a scenic drive away from Concord, The NASWA offers a perfect blend of comfort and tranquility. Unwind on the private sandy beach, take a refreshing dip in the lake, or savor a delicious meal at The NazBar & Grill as you recount the day’s adventures with loved ones. Oh, did we mention that we’re the official hotel of Laconia Motorcycle Week? 

Find out more and book your stay today!

Spending the Day at Crawford Notch State Park

Are you craving an escape into nature, where mountain peaks touch the sky and waterfalls cascade gracefully? Then check out Crawford Notch State Park in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. For vacationers seeking a perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and mountainous wonders, Laconia’s NASWA Resort stands as the ideal hub. Nestled on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, The NASWA Resort is your gateway to the scenic beauty of Crawford Notch, just under 90 minutes away.

Crawford Notch State Park: A New Hampshire Wonder

Picture yourself surrounded by the majesty of the White Mountains. With its rugged terrain and pristine landscapes, Crawford Notch State Park offers a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails, ranging from strolls to challenges, wind through dense forests, leading to panoramic vistas and captivating waterfalls.

Arethusa Falls

One of the park’s highlights is Arethusa Falls, a 200-foot waterfall that captivates visitors with its sheer beauty. Walk along Arethusa Falls Trail for an immersive hike as you traverse the enchanting forest and arrive at this majestic cascade. The journey is as rewarding as the destination, making it a must-visit to connect with nature.

Willey House Historic Site

Delve into the history of Crawford Notch at the Willey House Historic Site. Learn about the Willey family’s tragic tale from 1826, when they faced a devastating landslide while attempting to flee their home. The site serves as a poignant reminder of the area’s rich history, adding another layer of depth to your exploration.

New Hampshire Family Summer Vacations at The NASWA Resort

After a day of mountain exploration, return to your lakeside accommodations at The NASWA Resort in Laconia. Less than 90 minutes from Crawford Notch, The NASWA offers a perfect blend of comfort and relaxation on Lake Winnipesaukee. Choose from several lodging options, including rooms, suites, and cozy cottages, ensuring a restful night’s sleep after your mountain adventures.

Visit us online or call us at 888-55-NASWA to learn how we can be your ideal Lake Winnipesaukee vacation spot!

Soak in the Sunshine with a Picnic in the Park

Since 1935, countless visitors have packed their bags and headed to The NASWA Resort for a relaxing but memorable getaway. Situated on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, this New Hampshire resort is not only home to great on-site activities but also puts you near some of the best attractions in the area. If you’re looking for something laid-back to do, pack up your blanket and basket, and head out for a picnic in the park.

The 5 Best New Hampshire Parks for a Picnic

Before setting off on your picnic adventure, you need to create your perfect basket. Stop by NazBar & Grill to place a to-go order or put together your own delicious meal. Once your basket is filled with goodies, grab a cozy blanket from your rental and set off for a relaxing adventure.

Plenty of parks near our Lake Winnipesaukee resort have ample green space for you to kick back and relax on.

  1. Weirs Community Park, less than a mile away, is one of the best hidden gems of the Laconia Weirs Beach area. This park features miles of walking trails and a phenomenal playground, perfect for your kids to burn off some energy.
  2. Found off Parade Road is Waukewan Highlands Community Park. Take in stunning views by spreading your blanket out by Hart’s Pond. After you’re done eating, wander the interpretive trail.
  3. If you’re looking for a quintessential neighborhood park, head to Tardiff Park. The wooded field at this park is an ideal spot for your picnic. Bring a soccer ball or kite to play with, or you can shoot some hoops on the basketball court.
  4. Picnic in the shadow of the oldest public monument in New England by heading to Endicott Rock Historic Site. This park is found on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee in the Weirs Beach Village.
  5. Perhaps one of the most scenic parks for a picnic is Clough Park/Scenic Park in nearby Meredith. Overlooking Meredith Bay, this waterfront spot features several incredible picnic areas and walkways to explore when you’re done. 

Reserve Your Scenic New Hampshire Getaway

No matter where your adventures take you, from a picnic in the park to a local state park, rest easy knowing you have a cozy place to call home. By booking your stay at The NASWA Resort, you are treating yourself to a quintessential lakefront resort experience. 

This family-friendly resort features a range of lodging options, including cottages and suites, that can accommodate groups of all sizes. The NASWA Resort also features a range of on-site amenities and activities, including dining options, dock space, and more. When you’re ready to start planning your next visit, check availability online and book your stay with the click of a button.

New Hampshire Vacation Gift Cards from The NASWA Resort

As we make our way through autumn, it becomes increasingly apparent that the holiday season is upon us. Whether you plan on attending a bevy of get-togethers or hosting a celebration of your own, you may find yourself wondering what types of gifts everyone wants. And although there may be a few people that leave you scratching your head in search of the perfect present, the good news is that a New Hampshire vacation is something just about everyone can enjoy. Thankfully, The NASWA Resort in Laconia can help take the guesswork out of choosing the right Lake Winnipesaukee rental by providing you with vacation gift cards!

New Hampshire Vacation Rentals on Lake Winnipesaukee

Instead of ordering a drab assortment of random presents online, consider giving a thoughtful yet straightforward vacation gift card from The NASWA. With certificates ranging from 50 to 2,000 dollars, you can choose to “chip in” or go “all in ” for the loved ones in your life. What’s more, vacation gift cards allow the recipients to plan a trip the way they see fit, set for the best time that works for them. We all know how arduous vacation planning can be, and the last thing anyone wants is to be dictated by someone else’s itinerary! Gift cards allow the flexibility that people (especially families) need to make the appropriate travel arrangements before making their way to Lake Winnipesaukee.

New Hampshire Vacations in the Lakes Region

Although vacation gift cards can help push away the clouds of uncertainty surrounding what to get people, you’ll probably want to know what a New Hampshire vacation at The NASWA entails. For starters, guests can choose from various lodging options ranging from studio suites to cottages and cabins. Still, what really separates The NASWA from other New Hampshire family resorts are the on-site amenities, unique and exciting events, and of course, the restaurants, NazBar & Grill, and Blue Bistro! Furthermore, our beloved Lakes Region is teeming with quintessential landmarks, attractions, and activities that will undoubtedly serve as worthy complements to an unforgettable getaway. No matter how you slice it, a New Hampshire vacation gift card for The NASWA Resort has something for everyone!

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Kids Activities in New Hampshire

The Best Kids Activities in Laconia, New Hampshire

Although school is in full swing, plenty of families still decide to take weekend getaways or staycations in the New Hampshire Lakes Region. In the heart of this beautiful and iconic area, The NASWA Resort offers an unrivaled family resort experience on the illustrious Lake Winnipesaukee. What’s more, fall in New Hampshire is a special time of year when the leaves start changing, and the surrounding hillsides take on a new persona. And as much as we know our guests love to hang out on the beach or spend time on the water, we highly encourage them to do some exploring with the youngsters and enjoy some of the excellent kids’ activities found in our slice of New Hampshire.

New Hampshire Kids Activities near Laconia

Although they might not tell you directly, kids stand to benefit the most from a fall getaway. Let’s face it, going back to school is kind of a drag after spending the whole summer riding bikes and running around the neighborhood! Given the abundance of excellent kids activities in Laconia and the surrounding area, it’s not surprising that so many families choose The NASWA for their autumn retreats. After all, part of what makes the Lakes Region so appealing is the seemingly endless range of things to do for everyone, from toddlers to teens. Whether it’s zooming on go-karts or taking a trip to the petting zoo, we’ll offer a few entertaining endeavors that promise to please.

New Hampshire Family Vacations | 5 Things to Do with Kids

The most desirable feature found around Laconia is its standing as an excellent family vacation spot. Still, deciding on how to keep busy can be an arduous task when you have a group of youngsters pulling at your arm. With so much activity going on at once, it’s understandable why so many parents forgo the family vacation altogether—or at least until their kids grow up a little. Thankfully, our beloved community is teeming with ample opportunities to have fun.

NH Family Resorts | Lake Winnipesaukee Cottage Rentals in Laconia

Now that you know what types of fun activities for kids there are in the New Hampshire Lakes Region, you’ll be ready to go on at least one more family retreat before winter! If you still find yourself searching the internet for “things to do with kids near me,” you may want to check out this list made by tripbuzz.com for some additional ideas. In addition to the outstanding opportunities found throughout Laconia, The NASWA also knows a thing or two about keeping kids busy, whether it’s playing on the beach or going on a boat ride! For more information or to make a reservation, please contact us online or call 888-55-NASWA.

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