North Conway and Mt Washington Valley Travel Guide
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with fall foliage (late September to mid-October) and ski season (December to March) being particularly popular.
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Transportation Options:
- Driving: Most convenient. From Boston, take I-95 North to the Spaulding Turnpike, then Route 16 North (about 3 hours).
- Car Rental: Average cost is $89 per day in North Conway. Renting in town is generally cheaper than at airports.
- Bus: Concord Coach Lines offers daily service from Boston to North Conway (about 115 miles, $54).
- Flying: Nearest major airports are in Portland, ME (50 miles), Manchester, NH, and Boston, MA (117 miles).
- Accommodations: Average hotel rates range from $297/night (3-star) to $350+/night (5-star).
- Outdoor Gear: Pack appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities, as mountain weather can change quickly.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore North Conway
- Breakfast at Frontside Coffee Roasters
- Visit Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center
- Shop at Zeb's General Store
- Scenic ride on Conway Scenic Railroad
- Dinner at Moat Mountain Smoke House & Brewing Co.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
- Hike Cathedral Ledge or Whitehorse Ledge
- Visit Diana's Baths waterfalls
- Afternoon at Cranmore Mountain Resort
- Dinner at Table + Tonic
Day 3: Mount Washington and Scenic Drives
- Drive along Kancamagus Highway
- Visit Mount Washington (Cog Railway or Auto Road)
- Explore North Conway Village shops and restaurants
- Farewell dinner at a fine dining establishment
Additional Activities
- Ski or snowboard at nearby alpine resorts (winter)
- Tax-free shopping at Settlers Green Outlet Village
- Visit Story Land (for families)
- Explore White Mountain National Forest