☀️ Top Summer Activities in Conway, NH

Summer in North Conway is one of New England’s best kept secrets. With warm days, cool mountain air, and endless outdoor activities, it’s the perfect destination for families, couples, and groups. Below are some of the top summer activities in Conway, NH

Even better when you stay in one of our North Conway vacation rentals, you’re just minutes from everything on this list.

🏞️ 1. Explore Diana’s Baths

The hike to Diana’s Baths is one of the most popular and family friendly summer activities in the White Mountains. It’s the perfect summer time activity. The trail is short, mostly flat, and well maintained, making it easy for kids and casual hikers to enjoy. You’ll follow a gentle path through the forest that leads to a series of beautiful cascading waterfalls and smooth granite pools. Perfect for exploring, relaxing, and even wading in during warmer months. With its easy access, scenic views, and natural play areas, Diana’s Baths offers a fun experience for all ages.

🛶 2. Kayaking & Canoeing on the Saco River

Floating down the Saco River near Conway is one of the most popular summer activities in the Mount Washington Valley. Whether you’re tubing, canoeing, or kayaking, the river is known for its crystal clear water and gentle current, making it perfect for beginners and families. Along the way, you’ll pass sandy beaches perfect for picnicking, swimming, and relaxing. Occasional small rapids and rope swings add a bit of adventure. Flexible trip lengths, calm conditions, and plenty of spots to stop and play, the Saco River offers a fun, scenic, and memorable outdoor experience for all ages.

Don’t own your own or don’t want to lug it with you on vacation? Saco Canoe Rental Company has you covered!

🚠 3. Adventure at Cranmore Mountain Resort

Cranmore isn’t just for winter, summer is packed with activities! Summer at Cranmore Mountain offers a perfect mix of adventure and family friendly fun. The resort transforms into a full outdoor playground with its Mountain Adventure Park. Featuring a mountain coaster, zip lines, giant swing, and summer tubing, scenic chairlift rides to the summit for panoramic views.  With a wide variety of activities in one convenient location, Cranmore makes it easy for families to spend an entire day creating unforgettable summer memories.

Staying in our North Conway rental just 5 min away makes it easy to come and go throughout the day.

🏔️ 4. Drive the Kancamagus Highway

The Kancamagus Highway is one of New England’s most scenic drives. Stretching through the heart of the White Mountains and offering endless opportunities to explore during the summer months. Along the route, you’ll find picturesque overlooks, easy hiking trails, and popular stops like waterfalls and swimming holes. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, picnicking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. With its mix of accessibility and natural beauty, the Kancamagus Highway is a must visit for anyone looking to experience the best of summer in the White Mountains.

🥾 5. Hiking for All Skill Levels

North Conway is surrounded by incredible hiking trails.

Popular options include:

Cathedral Ledge, A short hike with amazing views or you can even drive to the top! Echo Lake, an easy scenic hike with no elevation. Echo lake also has a recreational area for swimming(see more below). For more hiking check out our blog for the top family friendly hikes.

🚂 6. Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad

The Conway Scenic Railroad is a relaxing way to take in the beauty of the Mount Washington Valley. The scenic train rides run all year round. Offering excursions ranging from 11 to 60 miles, it’s a great low key option to mix in between more active days. During the summer, you’ll pass through forests, cross rivers, and enjoy views you can’t get to by car, while riding in a restored vintage rail car. It’s a laid back, family friendly experience that combines history, scenery, and comfort. Don’t forget your camera!

🛍️ 7. Shop at Settlers Green Outlet Village

Take a break from the outdoors and enjoy some shopping, dining, and coffee. Offering one of New England’s largest tax-free outlets. With dozens of brands, local shops, and a mix of dining options, it’s easy to spend an entire day browsing everything from clothing, home goods and souvenirs. The open air layout features landscaped walkways, mountain views, and even public art, creating a relaxed and scenic shopping atmosphere. 

Whether you’re hunting for deals or just enjoying a laid back afternoon between adventures, Settlers Green combines convenience, variety, and a true North Conway feel all in one place. Some of the stores are even pet friendly!

🌊 8. Relax at Echo Lake State Park

Echo Lake State Park is one of the most scenic and family-friendly spots in the Mount Washington Valley. Offering the perfect mix of relaxation and outdoor adventure. Set at the base of Cathedral Ledge, the park features a crystal clear lake and a sandy beach. Echo Lake is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding during the summer months. Visitors can also enjoy easy walking trails, shaded picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and forest. Whether you’re looking to cool off, take in the scenery, or spend a laid back day by the water, Echo Lake State Park is a great family friendly destination.

🍦 9. Enjoy Local Dining & Ice Cream

Summer is the perfect time to explore local restaurants, outdoor patios, and ice cream spots. Check out our Favorite Restaurants Blog and our recommended Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries Blog.

🌄 Why is Summer in North Conway is So Popular?

Summer in North Conway offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, small town charm, and scenic beauty. Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, visitors can enjoy everything from hiking, kayaking, tax free shopping, and family attractions. The warm weather brings the region to life, with lush green mountains, clear rivers, and easy access to iconic spots like Echo Lake State Park and Diana’s Baths. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, North Conway delivers a classic New England summer experience that keeps people coming back year after year.

🏡 Plan Your Summer Getaway!

Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water, North Conway is the ideal summer destination. Our North Conway vacation rentals are right in the center of it all. You can spend less time driving and more time enjoying your trip.