Lakes

Come join the families who make memories at the Margate on Winnipeaukee, a great home base for your New Hampshire getaway. Just steps from the lake’s calm, scenic Paugus Bay, the resort has a 400-foot private sandy beach and kayak and paddle board rentals. Glide around the bay’s islands, swim out to the raft or just relax in your beach chair. (Kids will love the complimentary popcorn and snow cone carts!) There’s a heated indoor pool and oversized whirlpool, large outdoor pool, fitness center and an arcade game room. Area activities include hiking, biking, skiing, snowmobiling, boat cruises, a scenic railroad, ice arena, Funspot (the largest arcade in the world) and fun shopping. Dine in the Gazebo Beach Bar or in one of many local restaurants.

Experience the magic of Castle in the Clouds for a day of family fun! With more than 200 programs and events throughout the year, there are plenty of hands-on activities for kids. Step outdoors to hike scenic trails maintained by the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, feed rainbow trout at Shannon Pond, and order ice cream from Cafe in the Clouds. Additionally, there is a meadow perfect for little ones to burn off some energy before ending the day with a trolley ride back to the parking lot. Castle in the Clouds promises a day filled with smiles and memories for the entire family!

Boredom? Not an issue in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. You’ll see soon enough why your kids want to go back season after season, year after year. Here’s a very partial list: cruises on Lake Winnipesaukee, rides in a cog railroad train up Mt. Washington, the shows at Clark’s Bears, fairytales coming to life at Story Land, kayaking and paddle boarding in summer and skiing and snowmobiling in winter, an aquarium, mountain bike park, zip line tours, scenic gondola rides, water parks, ice skating and farm visits. Oh, and there’s Santa’s Village, the world’s largest arcade, a park with polar caves to explore, paintball and trampoline parks. With great restaurants, great shopping and great accommodations, the kids will have a blast, and you will leave already planning your next vacation.