If you want a relaxing and unforgettable 4th of July family vacation, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in New Hampshire. From gorgeous parks and lovely bays, to historic landmarks and more, this quaint state has it all. Book a stay at one of numerous cozy New Hampshire vacation rentals today. Without further ado, here are some of the most exciting spots in New Hampshire to spend Independence Day with your family.
1. Portsmouth
Portsmouth is the perfect home base for family fun throughout the Seacoast. From the Seacoast Science Center in Rye and the New Hampshire Children’s Museum in Dover to the beaches of Rye and Hampton, your options are limitless. Don’t forget about New England’s largest water park, “touch tank” and a submarine tour. Save the outdoor history museum, Strawberry Banke for their old-fashioned family Fourth of July celebration. It starts with a US Naturalization Ceremony and offers Old Fashioned Filed Day family games and a Decorated Bicycle Parade.
2. North Conway
With over 700,000 acres of protected White Mountain National Forest and the tallest peak in the North East, North Conway is the place for outdoor adventure. Choose from hiking, golfing, fishing, canoeing, or camping, or take a break with one of the family attractions, scenic tours, and shopping. Kids will love taking a scenic train ride or cooling off in the mountain waters along the Kancamagus Highway. Be sure to visit Diana’s Bath waterfalls and Story Land, New Hampshire’s best amusement park for kids.
3. Crawford Notch State Park
We know your vacation rental is comfy but get your kids outside and away from their screens at Crawford Notch State Park. The Bemis Brook Trail is excellent for families looking for a leisurely day outdoors. The 2.6-mile round trip is moderate and takes you too upfront views of the towering Arethusa Falls. You’ll get up close and personal with a 140-foot fantail waterfall as it spills over an outcropping of granite rocks and into the pool below.
4. Laconia
Visit the “Official Meetinghouse of New Hampshire,” Laconia’s Belknap Mill. It’s the oldest unaltered brick textile mill in the nation and represents the height of the Industrial Revolution. The mill is part of Laconia’s historic district, where you can also take the Riverwalk walking tour, a one-mile stretch of the Winnipesaukee River that takes you past other historic sites like the Busiel Mill, the Laconia Public Library, the Masonic Temple and the Laconia Passenger Station. Laconia is also home to Funspot is the largest arcade in the world. With over 600 games, including 300 classic arcade games, a 20 lane ten pin & candlepin bowling center, cash bingo, indoor mini-golf, a restaurant, a tavern and more, the entire family will be entertained!
5. Alton
Still looking for more hiking destinations? Mount Major is a popular one for families and younger hikers with its sure-footed moderate climb and plenty of places to stop and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Winnipesaukee. The 3.8-mile round-trip trek is more than worth it once you get a glimpse of the lush green mountain and sparkling blue waters of the Lake.
6. Lincoln
Nestled in the White Mountains, Lincoln is beckoning you to explore its natural wonders. Whether you’re adventurous enough to zip line over the Pemigewasset River, or prefer riding up toward the mountain’s summit in a gondola, there’s an activity to suit everyone. A visit to Lonesome Lake is a beautiful hike for all skill levels, kids will have fun all day at Clark’s Trading Post Theme Park where you can watch a famous Black Bear Show, ride a Steam Train, be chased by the Infamous Wolfman, and be amazed by Chinese Acrobats all in the same day!
7. Lake Winnipesaukee
Lake Winnipesaukee is especially exciting on July 4th. In addition to multiple zip line and high ropes, off-road Segway tours, and just cruising the lake, small boats light up the lake while they wait for fireworks. You can even join a dinner cruise with dancing while you get front row seats for the fireworks show at night.
8. Waterville Valley
Come to Waterville Valley Resort for the ultimate summer vacation. There’s boating, golf, tennis, camping, an ice arena, biking, and more! Your kids can even attend summer day camp that runs from June 20 to August 26. Drop them off so the adults can have some of their own fun. Then join back together for the Fourth of July parade. Grab dinner, enjoy some live music and then watch the fireworks.
9. Stoddard
Pitcher Mountain, located near the town of Stoddard is a family favorite hiking destination with a simple and straightforward hike of less than a mile round trip. It’s perfect for those young and old. Don’t be mislead by the easy climb because you’ll be rewarded big time. Pitcher Mountain’s views rival some of the nearby 4,000 foot high mountains. Take in the bird’s eye views of the Green Mountains and Monadnock regions as you grab a quick snack from the wild blueberries and raspberries that grow at the summit.
10. Ashland
Ashland is a picturesque rural community and the perfect place for a quiet getaway to spend special time with your family. Ashland offers historical places, outdoor recreational opportunities, local artists and businesses to visit, as well as dining, shopping, and more. Join the fun at the Fourth of July Parade. There will be cash prizes for floats bands, antique cars, and firetrucks.