This Is New Hampshire's Quirkiest Little Town
Picture a landscape with such an impressive, rugged beauty that it has inspired artists for generations. North Conway, New Hampshire, is just this destination. Founded in the mid-18th century, this small New Hampshire community began attracting painters a few decades later, inspired by the scenery of the White Mountains. Their work gained international attention, so much so that King Edward VII once purchased several paintings of the region to hang in his castle.
Today, North Conway remains a haven for creativity, home to outstanding galleries and live performance venues. But its artistic appeal is only part of the story. The surrounding White Mountains also make it one of the country’s top ski destinations. The town has even been ranked the best ski destination in the United States. If you are looking for a place in New Hampshire that stands apart, North Conway is sure to impress.
Top-Ranking Ski Town
With seven ski resorts, over 335 trails, and 1,600 skiable acres, it is no surprise that USA Today ranked North Conway and the Mt. Washington Valley as North America’s best ski destination in 2024! In the winter, skiers can spend the weekend at the Cranmore Mountain Resort, which is located right in the city limits of North Conway. Founded in 1937, the resort today has more than 170 acres of skiable terrain and 56 trails. The resort’s longest run is roughly a mile long, and the mountain’s vertical drop is about 1,200 feet. Travelers wanting to learn how to ski can take one of the resort’s classes, including beginner lessons for children and adults.
If you prefer cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, there are around 250 miles of trails near town. The Mt. Washington Valley Ski Touring & Snowshoe Center is a great option to consider, offering around 19 miles of trails for cross-country skiers and snowshoers that wind through riverside hayfields and mountainside forests.
Conway Scenic Railroad
While skiing through the Mt. Washington Valley is one way to take in the scenery, travelers should not miss the chance to ride the historic Conway Scenic Railroad. Departing from the town’s 1874 train station and offering excursions in vintage rail cars, this excursion truly has an old-fashioned feel. The Mountaineer is the best excursion for those seeking beautiful views of the valley, stretching over 50 miles round trip and winding through Crawford Notch—a major pass in the White Mountains.
This train ride lasts around five hours and offers a premium dome, first, and coach class, and allows passengers to reserve lunch on board. For a shorter trip, consider booking the Valley Train Excursion, which lasts just under an hour and is about 11 miles round-trip. During the excursion, passengers can take a seat in a variety of vintage rail cars and experience the spirit of the country’s golden age of railroad travel.
Music and Live Entertainment
After exploring the Mt. Washington Valley, make sure to spend a day in town exploring the town’s local art and music. Founded in 2000, The M&D Playhouse puts on performances and workshops year-round. Some of the upcoming performances include The Sweet Delilah Swim Club, Titanish, and My Fair Lady. Need to keep your kids entertained in the summer months? The playhouse hosts a theater summer camp for children aged seven to 15, ending with a showcase for family and friends on the final day of camp.
Visitors in North Conway on a Sunday afternoon should consider stopping by May Kelly’s Cottage for a drink. Once a week, this lively tavern hosts seisiúns—traditional Irish music sessions where musicians gather to share tunes. Guests might hear jigs, hornpipes, and reels, played on instruments like flutes, fiddles, uilleann pipes, accordions, concertinas, tin whistles, guitars, mandolins, and banjos. If the mood strikes, a dance may even break out in the middle of the tavern!
Art Scene
In addition to North Conway’s live entertainment scene, there is plenty of local art to appreciate. Travelers can start their art tour at the League of NH Craftsmen North Conway Fine Craft Gallery, which has been present in the community since 1932. The gallery showcases various art styles, ranging from contemporary to more traditional styles, and features mediums like blown glass, pottery, jewelry, fiber arts, furniture, and more. Visitors wanting to improve their art skills can also take a pottery or craft class at the gallery.
The White Mountain Museum & Gallery is another place in town to admire the work of local artists. In the museum section of the facility, visitors will find about 90 oil paintings that range from traditional landscape paintings to impressionist, luminist, and tonalist styles. Those hoping to purchase a piece can browse the gallery, which offers a wide variety of regional art at competitive consignment rates.
While many tourists may come to North Conway for the skiing scene, there is much more to explore beyond the slopes. With a year-round theater, a historic railway, and several prestigious galleries, you will definitely want a few days to explore the town after skiing. After a morning on the mountain, travelers can also set aside time to experience an afternoon at May Kelly’s Cottage, where they can enjoy a cozy Irish jam session. You may arrive for the adventure, but you will most likely leave with the North Conway spirit!
