Franconia New HampshireATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Franconia, New Hampshire.
1. Franconia Notch State Park
NATURAL MOUNTAIN PARADISE
Franconia Notch State Park is a scenic state park offering diverse trails and natural attractions in the White Mountains. Visitors can explore the first North American passenger aerial tramway, picturesque lakes, and follow a historic parkway drive through stunning mountain scenery. The park serves as a hub for outdoor recreation throughout all seasons, making it one of the top attractions in New England.
2. Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway
PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway offers an elevated tram ride to the summit, featuring breathtaking panoramic landscapes of the White Mountains. At the peak, visitors can enjoy a scenic rim trail and view a historical tram car display documenting the tramway's significance. The summit also offers casual dining options where guests can relax while taking in the magnificent views.
3. The Basin
GLACIAL ROCK FORMATION
The Basin is a stunning glacial formation in Franconia Notch State Park where water has carved smooth bowls into the granite over thousands of years. Visitors can access this natural wonder via easy walking paths that wind through the surrounding forest with wooden railings for safety. The mesmerizing swirling waters and polished rock formations make it one of the most photographed natural attractions in the White Mountains region.
4. Flume Gorge
NATURAL GRANITE CANYON
Flume Gorge is an 800-foot natural gorge with towering granite walls that narrow to just 12 to 20 feet apart in some sections. Visitors can explore this natural wonder via a wooden boardwalk system that allows for up-close viewing of the mossy walls, cascading waterfalls, and unique plant life. The gorge is part of Franconia Notch State Park and is considered one of the most spectacular natural attractions in New England.
5. Echo Lake
MOUNTAIN-RINGED SWIMMING SPOT
Echo Lake offers a pristine mountain-surrounded swimming area with a sandy beach perfect for summer relaxation. Visitors can rent canoes and paddleboats to explore the crystal-clear waters while enjoying spectacular views of surrounding peaks. The lake is especially popular during fall foliage season when the surrounding mountains burst with vibrant autumn colors.
6. The Frost Place
POET'S HISTORIC HOME
The Frost Place is a nonprofit house-museum and center for poetry based at Robert Frost's former farmhouse in the White Mountains. Unlike typical modern museums, this humble historic home preserves the atmosphere that inspired some of Frost's most famous works during his residence from 1915 to 1920. Visitors can explore the poet's home, walk a poetry-lined nature trail, and participate in various poetry programs and events held throughout the year.
7. Profile Lake
OLD MAN'S REFLECTING POOL
Profile Lake sits at the base of where the famous Old Man of the Mountain rock formation once stood before collapsing in 2003. This serene lake offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for fly fishing enthusiasts seeking brook trout in its clear waters. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while reflecting on the historical significance of the area once dominated by New Hampshire's iconic natural profile.
8. Artist Bluff
ICONIC PHOTOGRAPHY SPOT
Artist Bluff is a popular hiking destination offering one of the most photographed views in the White Mountains. The moderate trail leads to a spectacular overlook featuring Franconia Notch, Echo Lake, and Cannon Mountain in one sweeping panorama. This location is especially breathtaking during fall foliage season when the landscape transforms into a canvas of vibrant autumn colors.
9. Mount Lafayette
MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN HIKE
Mount Lafayette stands as the tallest peak in the Franconia Range at 5,260 feet, offering challenging hiking trails and rewarding summit views. The mountain is part of the famous Franconia Ridge Loop, one of New England's most spectacular day hikes featuring miles of above-treeline ridge walking. Hikers who reach the summit are treated to panoramic views spanning multiple states on clear days.
10. Bridal Veil Falls
CASCADING FOREST WATERFALL
Bridal Veil Falls is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the White Mountains, accessible via a moderately challenging 2.6-mile round trip hike. The waterfall features a distinctive 80-foot cascade that spreads out over a series of ledges, creating a veil-like appearance that gave the falls their romantic name. Hikers are rewarded with not only the beautiful main falls but also several smaller cascades and pools along the trail.
11. New England Ski Museum
WINTER SPORTS HISTORY
The New England Ski Museum presents a fascinating timeline of skiing development from its prehistoric origins to modern times. Visitors can view impressive exhibits including the five Olympic medals won by local skiing legend Bode Miller, a native to the area. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of winter sports equipment, fashion, and the cultural significance of skiing in New England.
12. Polly's Pancake Parlor
LEGENDARY MOUNTAIN BREAKFAST
Polly's Pancake Parlor is a beloved culinary institution dating back to 1938, serving handmade pancakes in nearby Sugar Hill just minutes from Franconia. The restaurant grinds their own flour on-site and sources local ingredients for their famous pancakes, which come in six different batters with various mix-ins. Diners enjoy spectacular mountain views while savoring breakfast specialties that have earned the restaurant national recognition, including a James Beard America's Classic Award.
13. Harman's Cheese & Country Store
ARTISANAL CHEESE SHOP
Harman's Cheese & Country Store has been a local institution since 1955, famous for their signature Harman's Really-Aged Cheddar. The charming country store offers not only exceptional cheese but also New Hampshire-made products, maple syrup, and unique gifts in a historic building. Visitors can sample various cheese options while browsing the carefully curated selection of local food products and souvenirs.
14. The Rocks Estate & Christmas Tree Farm
HISTORIC FARM EXPERIENCE
The Rocks Estate & Christmas Tree Farm is a historic 1,400-acre property offering seasonal activities throughout the year just a short drive from Franconia. Visitors can explore scenic trails through the property, participate in maple sugaring tours in March, or select and cut their own Christmas trees starting in late November. The estate combines natural beauty with historical significance as it undergoes restoration following a fire, with plans to fully reopen its historic buildings by 2025.
15. Crawford Notch State Park
HISTORIC MOUNTAIN PASS
Crawford Notch State Park encompasses a spectacular mountain pass with dramatic cliffs, cascading streams, and lush forests near Franconia. The park features numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty, including paths to scenic waterfalls like Arethusa Falls and Ripley Falls. Visitors can also explore the park's rich history at the Crawford Notch Depot and Willey House site, which tell the story of early settlement and tourism in the White Mountains.