The Best Things To Do in North Conway: A Hilarious and Heartwarming Escapade

Ah, North Conway. Nestled in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, it’s a dreamy escape for adventurers, nature lovers, and, of course, solo female travelers like us. Whether you’re seeking a dose of fresh mountain air, quirky small-town charm, or a chance to recharge your wanderlust, North Conway delivers in spades. Let me take you on a virtual journey through the highlights of this gem—and sprinkle in some of my laugh-out-loud solo mishaps for good measure.

Arrival: Where the Mountains Whisper “Welcome!”

I rolled into North Conway like a queen in her chariot—a.k.a. my trusty rental car stocked with snacks. First stop? Settlers Green Outlet Village. While I don’t need another pair of hiking boots, do I want them? Obviously.

To rest my weary head after this shopping extravaganza, I checked into the utterly charming Eastern Slope Inn. This historic spot boasts cozy vibes and is centrally located, making it easy to stumble back after a day of adventuring (or a glass too many at dinner). For something more budget-friendly, consider the Adventure Suites, where every room has a quirky theme. Think of it as adult sleepovers gone wild.

Day 1: A Summit, Some Sweets, and a Dash of Courage

Morning:
Start your day with breakfast at Peach’s Restaurant. This place feels like dining in your best friend’s kitchen if your best friend happened to be an exceptional chef. Order the stuffed French toast—it’s as decadent as it sounds.

Fueled up, I tackled Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast. Now, hiking this beast solo might sound daunting, so I opted for the Mount Washington Auto Road tour. The van driver doubled as an entertainer, regaling us with tales of weather extremes as we climbed above the clouds.

Feeling brave? Hike the Tuckerman Ravine Trail instead—but don’t forget to pack a whistle, map, and your best “lost in the woods” scream. You’ll probably just use the whistle to scare off chipmunks, but hey, safety first.

Afternoon:
Celebrate your mountain triumph with a well-earned scoop from Lickety Splitz ice cream shop. Their maple walnut flavor is a local specialty. Who knew existential crises tasted so good?

Evening:
Craving carbs? Dinner at Delaney’s Hole in the Wall is a must. Their menu is as diverse as your Pinterest boards, but the wood-fired pizza stole my heart—and my resolve to stick to salad.

Day 2: Waterfalls, Trains, and Witchy Nostalgia

Morning:
Rise and shine—it’s waterfall time! Diana’s Baths is a short hike from the parking lot, with cascading falls that make for Insta-worthy moments. Pro tip: visit early to beat the crowds and have a solo photo shoot without anyone photobombing your zen.

Afternoon:
All aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad! Riding the vintage train feels like stepping into a movie scene, with sweeping views of the White Mountains and charming narration. I half-expected a dashing stranger to share my seat, but alas, I had to settle for breathtaking landscapes and a bag of trail mix.

Still feeling adventurous? Echo Lake State Park offers kayaking and paddleboarding if you want to channel your inner mermaid. Solo paddling is surprisingly therapeutic, even when you accidentally row in circles for half an hour.

Evening:
End your day at the White Mountain Hotel & Resort’s Ledges Restaurant. Their farm-to-table menu is a foodie’s dream, and the sunset views? Absolutely swoon-worthy. It’s like eating inside a postcard.

Day 3: Retail Therapy and a Cozy Farewell

Morning:
Kick off your final day with a leisurely breakfast at Frontside Coffee Roasters. Their maple latte pairs beautifully with their buttery croissants.

Post-coffee, head to Zeb’s General Store. This quirky shop stocks everything from local jams to vintage-style candies. I bought maple syrup for gifts but accidentally finished half the bottle in my hotel room. Whoops.

Afternoon:
Spend your last hours exploring local art galleries or taking a yoga class at the nearby Mountain Kula Yoga. A little zen time is the perfect way to reflect on your adventure.

Evening:
Wrap up your trip with dinner at Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing Co. The beer flights are a hit, and their BBQ brisket will haunt your dreams (in a good way).

Bonus: Link Your Journey

If you’ve caught the solo travel bug, why not extend your trip? Consider a day trip to Washington, DC for a city adventure or dive into spooky vibes with my guide to the best things to do in Salem, MA. And if winter magic calls, check out my list of the top 10 places to visit in December in the USA. Your wanderlust won’t know what hit it!

Parting Thoughts

North Conway is proof that solo adventures can be as exhilarating as they are empowering. From scaling mountains to indulging in maple-laden treats, this little town offers a bit of everything. And remember: it’s not about the destination; it’s about the stories you collect along the way. Just make sure you don’t leave your souvenirs behind at a rest stop—learn from my mistakes!

Happy wandering!