Lakes Region, NH

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Our Lakes

Where there is water, there is life. Truer words were never spoken.

The aptly named Lakes Region, just south of New Hampshire’s storied White Mountains, is home to no fewer than 273 bodies of water. Ideally situated less than two hours from Boston, the Lakes Region is perfect for an afternoon drive, a weekend rendezvous with your favorite fishing rod or a midsummer’s family beach vacation. The scenery is spectacular, the attractions are unmissable and the recreational opportunities are limitless. Ready to dive in?

Get to know our lakes
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At 72 square miles, Lake Winnipesaukee boasts more than 200 miles of shoreline.

Lake Winnipesaukee
Newfound Lake is said to be one of the cleanest lakes in the world.

Newfound Lake
Connected by a channel, Big Squam and Little Squam served as the setting for "On Golden Pond."

Squam Lake
Rainbow trout, lake trout and landlocked salmon are commonly found in Lake Winnisquam.

Lake Winnisquam
At 1,100 feet above sea level, Lake Sunapee is the highest lake of its size in the United States.

Lake Sunapee
The rural Highland Lake watershed remains forested and almost entirely undeveloped.

Highland Lake
Opechee is Lake Winnipesaukee’s quieter little sister, perfect for those seeking solitude.

Lake Opechee
Portions of Ossipee Lake remain undeveloped and are home to endangered animal species and rare plants.

Ossipee Lake
Kezar Lake has been an upscale summer retreat since the early 20th century.

Kezar Lake
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Trip Inspiration

No matter the reason or the season for your visit, there’s something for everyone here. To help you plan the perfect trip, we’ve put together some suggested itineraries.

Seeking trip ideas? Take a scroll…

A Fun-Filled Bachelor(ette) Weekend

Looking to make a splash before the big day? Plan a memorable bachelor or bachelorette weekend getaway with this handy guide to a warm-weather group celebration.
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A Hygge Wintertime Stay

New Hampshire’s Lakes Region sparkles in the wintertime, and we aren’t just talking about the snow-blanketed ski slopes. From cafes to antique shops, there’s no shortage of cozy experiences to fill up a cold-weather weekend itinerary.
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A Winter Adventure for Active Families

The “secret season” promises not to disappoint with events like sled-dog races, pond hockey and an annual ice-fishing derby with cash prizes.
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A Fido-Friendly New Hampshire Getaway

The Lakes Region has scores of dog-friendly restaurants and hotels, as well as lots of ways to explore the outdoors with your furry friend.
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A Summertime Girls’ Weekend Getaway to the Lakes Region

New Hampshire’s gorgeous Lakes Region surprises and delights with world-class spas, boutique retail shops, gourmet dining and more.
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A Multigenerational Summer Escape

With activities to satisfy a wide range of ages and interests, the Lakes Region holds the key to a memorable family vacation.
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A Late-Summer Stay

Trade the back-to-school frenzy for the quiet charm of long, lazy days by the water with a visit to the Lakes Region.
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A History Buff's Perfect Lakes Region Weekend

The area’s storied past dates back thousands of years with a roster of unique historic attractions that bring the yesteryears to life.
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A Wellness Seeker’s Guide to the Lakes Region

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A Foodie's Lakes Region Spring Sampler

Nowhere is the seasonal bounty of New Hampshire more abundant than in the Lakes Region with farmers markets and menus fit for a foodie.
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An Active Couple's Fall Getaway

Partners who adventure together will relish a fun-filled weekend set against a backdrop of autumn’s vibrant color palette.
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Upcoming Events

There’s always something happening in the New Hampshire Lakes Region

47th Great Meredith Rotary Ice Fishing Derby, Meredith NH

Popular 2-day regional event. Over $80,000 in prizes. For information call 603-279-7600 or - https://icefishingnh.com/ gear up for a weekend of fishing, fun, and friendly competition. Location: Any public fresh […]

Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway, Alton Bay NH

January 31, 2026 Opening day for the 2026 season! The weather was perfect for the 82 landings that we had, with the first one at 0802 in the morning! There […]

Frederick: a StoryWalk at Chamberlain-Reynolds Memorial Forest, Center Harbor NH

This winter’s story is Frederick by Leo Lionni. Frederick won the Caldecott Honor in 1968 for its unique illustrations of the heart warming tale about a mouse who prepares for […]
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Plan Your Trip

There are so many ways to spend your days in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire

Stay

The Perfect Accommodation Awaits
LIMITLESS LODGING OPTIONS

From campsites and cottages to brand-name hotels and resorts, there’s something for everyone in the Lakes Region.

Play

Fill Your Days With Fun Activities
RELAXATION & RECREATION

The only difficult thing about playing in the Lakes Region is deciding what to do first.

Dine

Tempt Your Taste Buds
DELICIOUS FOOD & DRINK

The flavors of New Hampshire come alive with a variety of dining options, from bistros to barbeques.

Shop

Treat Yourself to Retail Therapy
FINELY CRAFTED FUN

From art galleries to gourmet groceries, shoppers just can’t seem to get enough of the Lakes Region.

Live

Put Down Roots
REGIONAL REAL ESTATE

Relocating or searching for the perfect waterfront cottage? The Lakes Region is your home for all seasons.

Host

Celebrate Life, Love, Friends and Family
WEDDINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS

Your guests will delight in a true vacation experience when you host your event in the Lakes Region.
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