Every visitor to North Conway hits the obvious spots — the outlets, the Kanc, Cathedral Ledge. Nothing wrong with that. But if you want to experience the valley the way locals do, here are eight things most tourists never find out about. Some are family activities, some are hidden spots, and some are just smart tips that'll save you time, money, or both.
<\!-- #1 -->Story Land Is Actually Worth It
Yes, it looks like a tourist trap. No, it's not. Story Land has been a White Mountains institution since 1954, and it's genuinely one of the best family theme parks in New England for kids ages 2-10. The rides are sized perfectly for little ones — gentle roller coasters, splash rides, a Polar Coaster, and themed play areas based on nursery rhymes and fairy tales. The park is clean, well-maintained, and small enough that you can do the whole thing in one day without feeling rushed. Local tip: buy tickets online in advance for a discount, and go on a weekday if possible. The lines are much shorter.
Settlers Green Is Tax-Free Shopping — For Real
New Hampshire has no sales tax. Zero. That means the 70+ brand-name outlet stores at Settlers Green — Nike, J.Crew, Brooks Brothers, Columbia, L.L.Bean, and more — are already discounted AND tax-free. If you're coming from a state with sales tax (looking at you, Massachusetts), the savings add up fast, especially on big purchases like winter gear, electronics, or clothing. The outlets are right on Route 16 in the center of town. Budget a couple hours if you're a shopper. Even non-shoppers usually walk out with something.
Echo Lake State Park — The Best Swimming in Town
Forget the hotel pool. Echo Lake is a stunning mountain lake at the base of Cathedral Ledge with a sandy beach, crystal-clear water, and a backdrop that looks like it belongs on a postcard. The state park has lifeguards on duty in summer, picnic tables, and restrooms. The water is clean and refreshing (read: cold early in the season, perfect by July). You can combine a morning hike up Cathedral Ledge with an afternoon swim in the lake below — one of the best days you can have in North Conway. Small parking fee ($4 for adults).
Pudding Pond — The Swimming Hole Tourists Don't Know About
Ask a local where they swim on a hot day and you won't hear "Echo Lake." You'll hear "Pudding Pond." This quiet, tucked-away pond in Bartlett is surrounded by pine trees and feels completely secluded even in peak summer. There's no lifeguard, no facilities, and no crowds — just clean mountain water and peaceful woods. It's a short walk from a small parking area off a side road. The bottom is soft and sandy. It's the kind of spot that makes you feel like you discovered something. Keep it chill and carry out your trash.
Conway Scenic Railroad — It's Not Just for Train Nerds
The historic 1874 train station right in North Conway Village is one of the most photographed buildings in town, and the train rides are genuinely enjoyable even if you've never thought twice about locomotives. The Valley Train (1 hour round trip) follows the Saco River south and is a relaxed, scenic ride perfect for families. The Notch Train (5.5 hours) is the premium experience — a full-day journey through Crawford Notch in restored vintage cars with dining service. In fall, the foliage trains are some of the most popular events in New Hampshire.
Free Outdoor Movies in the Summer
On summer Thursday evenings, the town sets up a big screen in Schouler Park right in the center of North Conway Village for free outdoor movies. Families bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic dinners. The movies are usually family-friendly crowd-pleasers. It's the kind of small-town event that makes you understand why people love this place. Grab takeout from one of the restaurants on the main drag, find a spot on the grass, and enjoy. The park is also home to a free summer concert series — check the local events calendar.
The Farmers' Markets Are Legit
The Mount Washington Valley has several farmers' markets running from late June through early October, and they're worth building a morning around. You'll find local maple syrup (New Hampshire maple is criminally underrated), artisan cheeses, fresh produce, baked goods, local honey, and homemade jams. The vendors are actual local farmers, not resellers. The North Conway market runs Saturday mornings in Settlers Green. There's also a solid market in Conway and occasional pop-up markets in Bartlett. Great for stocking up your rental kitchen with local ingredients.
The "Other" Side of Route 16 — Walk the Village
Most visitors drive through North Conway on Route 16 and see strip malls and traffic. But take a right turn into the actual village and it's a completely different world. The village center has independent bookshops, local gear shops, ice cream stands, art galleries, and the kind of general store that still sells penny candy. The historic covered bridge at the edge of Jackson is a 5-minute drive. The whole area is walkable and charming in a way that the main highway doesn't hint at. Pro tip: park at the train station lot and walk. The village is small enough to cover in an hour, but you'll want to linger.
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