Tucked between Lake Winnipesaukee and the White Mountains, this two-day itinerary blends scenic beauty, light adventure, and small-town charm. From glacial caves and wildlife encounters to lake cruises and mountain views, it’s a relaxed, well-rounded escape in the heart of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region.
Check the dates of operation for the White Mountains' 17 major attractions prior to your visit; spring hours vary.
Day 1: Caves, Lakeside Charm & Classic Winnipesaukee Views
Ease into your Lakes Region/Southern White Mountains getaway with a morning adventure at Polar Caves in Rumney, where towering granite boulders form a series of glacial caves waiting to be explored. Wooden boardwalks and staircases guide you through narrow passages and interesting rock corridors. Scenic viewpoints gives one a sense of the region’s rugged beauty. After checking out the boulder caves, be sure to feed the fallow deer and ducks and enjoy their peaceful nature trails. A visit to Polar Caves is a playful, slightly off-the-beaten-path start to the day.
From there, follow winding backroads toward the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and arrive in the quintessential lakeside town of Meredith. Settle in for lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can dine with uninterrupted views of the lake and passing boats. You may see some geese and ducks as well!
After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the Meredith Sculpture Walk. This rotating outdoor exhibit blends art with nature, guiding you through the downtown area of Meredith with creative sculptures along the way, each piece thoughtfully placed to complement the surrounding landscape. It’s an easy, reflective walk that adds a touch of culture to your afternoon.
As the day unfolds, make your way to nearby Laconia for a different perspective on the lake. For a classic New Hampshire experience, step aboard the M/S Mount Washington Cruise Ship. This historic vessel has been cruising Lake Winnipesaukee since the 19th century, offering narrated tours, sunset dinner cruises, and panoramic views of the lake’s islands and shoreline. It’s a relaxing way to take in the scale and beauty of New Hampshire’s largest lake.
If you’re traveling with kids—or just feeling nostalgic—swap the cruise for a visit to Funspot, proudly known as one of the largest arcades in the world. Inside, you’ll find everything from vintage pinball machines to modern games, bowling lanes, and even an indoor mini golf course. It’s lively, colorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
As evening settles in, return to Meredith for the night. Whether you choose a cozy inn or a lakeside resort, this is the perfect place to unwind—perhaps with a quiet walk along the docks or simply enjoying the stillness of the water at dusk.
Day 2: Wildlife, Mountain Thrills & A Touch of Shopping
Begin your morning surrounded by nature at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, one of New Hampshire’s most beloved educational attractions. The Live Animal Exhibit Trail winds through forested terrain, introducing you to native wildlife such as black bears, mountain lions, river otters, and birds of prey—all rehabilitated animals living in thoughtfully designed enclosures. The experience feels immersive rather than zoo-like, with interpretive signs and interactive elements that deepen your understanding of the region’s ecosystems.
If you’re up for a bit more movement, take a short hike up Mount Fayal. This loop trail is approximately 1.4-miles round-trip and rewards you with a peaceful view of Squam Lake—an ideal spot to pause and take in the quiet beauty of the surrounding woods.
Visiting in early summer? Consider enhancing your morning with a guided cruise through Squam Lake with Experience Squam Private Excursions. These boat tours offer a deeper look at the lake’s ecology, with a knowledgeable guide pointing out wildlife, sharing local history, and even highlighting filming locations from On Golden Pond. On warm days, some excursions include the chance to take a refreshing swim—an unforgettable way to connect with the lake.
From there, make your way toward the town of Gilford, grabbing lunch along the route—think casual lakeside cafés or classic New England diners. Then it’s time to shift gears and head up to Gunstock Mountain Resort.
Gunstock’s Mountain Adventure Park offers a choose-your-own-adventure kind of afternoon. Soar through the treetops on a zipline, twist and turn down the mountain coaster, or take a scenic chairlift ride for sweeping views of Lake Winnipesaukee and surrounding mountain peaks. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or just want to enjoy the scenery from above, there’s something here for every pace.
As your trip winds down, you have the option to make a final stop at Tanger Outlets Tilton. It’s a convenient place to stretch your legs, browse well-known brands, and perhaps pick up a few deals before heading home.
By the end of these two days, you’ll have experienced a little bit of everything—caves and wildlife, lakes and mountains, quiet walks and high-energy fun—all woven together by the easy rhythm of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region.
Ready to experience this part of the White Mountains in another season? Scroll through our summer itinerary!
