Things to Do in New Hampshire in Summer Archives - The NASWA Resort - Home of the World Famous NazBar and Grill

Dragon Boat Racing | Things to Do on Lake Winnipesaukee

One of the best parts about spending time on Lake Winnipesaukee is you never know what kind of activities you may find. Lake life can bring about many exciting water sports, but arguably none are as demanding for participants as dragon boat racing. This unique spectator sport has a deep-rooted history and has grown in popularity around the world; and has become a yearly event on Weirs Beach in Laconia. And The NASWA Resort is just the place to stay for easy access to all the fun!

Dragon’s head with dragon boat racing team at the back

Lake Winnipesaukee Dragon Boat Festival

Originating in China, dragon boat racing is a team sport consisting of a crew of up to fifty paddlers! Teams furiously paddle to the finish line, like any other race, and whichever boat crosses first wins. Our Lake Winnipesaukee version is a little more laid-back, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be competitive! This year’s Dragon Boat Festival will benefit Gilda’s Club New Hampshire, an affiliate of the cancer support community. We’re proud to show our support by hosting the “Awakening of the Dragons” Ceremony to kick off the festival.

What to Know About Dragon Boat Racing

Dragon boat racing is a little more complex than just a bunch of people paddling like mad. Each paddler must sync with their team, led by the rhythm of a vital member known as a drummer. There is also a “steer person” at the back of the boat responsible for maneuvering. Although no experience is necessary, you may want to build arm strength before taking on such a challenge. Teamwork is a crucial aspect of this unique sport. Boats compete at the same time, so coordination is paramount to success.

Not Your Typical Lake Winnipesaukee Hotel

If you’re interested in participating in this year’s dragon boat racing event, check out the Gilda’s Club website for more information. They’ll provide you with boats, paddles, life jackets, practice time, and officiating. The minimum age to participate is 13 years old. Participation requires a donation, and spectators are encouraged to donate as well. And if you want a front-row seat for all the action, look no further than The NASWA Resort! For more information or to book your stay, please get in touch with us online or call 888-55-NASWA.

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Spend the Day at Franconia Notch State Park

Nestled in the heart of the White Mountain Natural Forest, Franconia Notch State Park is one of the prettiest places in the Granite State, offering the perfect add-on destination for anyone looking for a complete New Hampshire getaway. Teeming with activities and amenities that make New Hampshire unique, Franconia Notch is worthy of your consideration. What’s more, The NASWA Resort is less than an hour away, making it the perfect base camp to explore everything this local favorite has to offer.

Places of Interest at Franconia Notch State Park

Flume Gorge

An 800-foot gorge at the base of Mount Liberty, Flume Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder. Taking the two-miles long Flume Trail gets you out in nature as you hike to the Conway granite walls that rise to almost 100 feet overhead with a gap of just 12 feet from wall to wall. The hike takes you through the natural beauty of this part of New Hampshire, with the vibrant greens of mosses contrasting with colorful wildflowers.

Echo Lake

Echo Lake sits at almost 2,000 feet, with dazzling views of Cannon Mountain and Mt. Lafayette. The lake office offers canoe, kayak, and paddle boat rentals, so being on the water for part of the day is a highly recommended adventure. Fun fact: Echo Lake is a tributary of the Connecticut River.

Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway

Climbing to the 4,080-foot summit of Cannon Mountain is a lot of work after hiking a gorge and kayaking a lake. Instead, take the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway! This engineering marvel takes passengers up 2,180 vertically to an area with walking trails to an observation tower and cafe on the summit. Cannon Mountain is also a significant draw in the winter, with 97 ski trails and slopes to explore.

Your Favorite New Hampshire Resort on Lake Winnipesaukee

The NASWA Resort bills itself as the “Quintessential Lake Winnipesaukee Resort,” and it is easy to see why. The NASWA offers convenient on-site restaurants, the longest private sandy beach on the lake, and complimentary dock space for guests to bring their boats. And with easy access to Franconia Notch State Park and other offsite destinations, you’ll be well on your way to a memorable New Hampshire getaway. Accommodation options for groups of all sizes include suites and cottages. Check availability and book now!

When staying in the New Hampshire Lakes Region, check out The NASWA Resort for a unique getaway experience on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee.

← 22 Things to Do in New Hampshire During Your Summer Getaway Dragon Boat Racing | Things to Do on Lake Winnipesaukee →

22 Things to Do in New Hampshire During Your Summer Getaway

One of the perks of having your summer getaway in New Hampshire is you can seamlessly find many fun activities. The Granite State doesn’t cover as much area as many other states, but that makes it easier to see more! With so many things to do in New Hampshire during the warmest part of the year, you’ll want a place to retreat to after each exciting day. The NASWA Resort on Lake Winnipesaukee is the perfect place to branch out from as you explore the Lakes Region and beyond. To give you a few ideas of must-see attractions, landmarks, and events, we put together a list of 22 things you should consider during your vacation.

Fun Things to Do, Visit, and See in New Hampshire

Laconia’s centralized location makes it easy to travel to various summer attractions with friends and family. You’ll undoubtedly create lasting memories in New Hampshire as you notch each item off your list. Here are some of our nearby favorites.

Visit the historical and iconic Castle in the Clouds for Summer Music Night.
Walk next to massive granite walls at the Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park.
Cruise along the scenic Kancamagus Highway for stunning views of the White Mountains, Sabbaday Falls, and Rocky Gorge.
Watch The Bear Show at Clark’s Bears.
Find the best “pick your own” farms and bring home some fresh produce.
Go to Sugar Hill to see a colorful and vast array of blossoming lupines.
Stick around Laconia for Motorcycle Week.
Take a tour of New Hampshire’s seven distinct regions.
Take a swim in Lake Winnipesaukee
Climb aboard a scenic train ride.
Try to find all of the Lakes Region’s covered bridges—New Hampshire has 54 in total!
Find the best “pick your own” farms and bring home some fresh produce.
Head to New England’s highest peak and check out the Mount Washington Observatory.
Go back to Mount Washington at night with some nighttime snacks and watch for shooting stars.
Explore the Lakes Region via boat with a scenic cruise.
Fly through the sky at Monkey Trunks High Ropes and Zipline Park.
Book a tour with Granite State Whale Watch in Rye.
Watch a nail-biting NASCAR race at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
Get up early and take in an idyllic New Hampshire sunrise over Lake Winnipesaukee.
Get in touch with nature and find a moose in the wilderness.
Take a picture of a majestic waterfall.
Watch a theatrical performance at the Cake Theater, Lakeport Opera House, Colonial Theatre, Winnipesaukee Playhouse, or Great Waters.

Hotel Resorts in New Hampshire | Lake Winnipesaukee

Now that you have a relatively extensive list of things to do in New Hampshire, it’s time to start planning your getaway! The NASWA Resort has played host to friends and families for generations, so we know what it takes to have an unforgettable vacation. And the only thing that could make exploring our beloved state any better is knowing you’ll have a welcoming place to call home during your stay. Please reach out online or call 888-55-NASWA today to learn more about how The NASWA can help fulfill your New Hampshire summer vacation experience.

← 3 New Hampshire Waterfalls near Laconia Spend the Day at Franconia Notch State Park →