Lincoln, NH: Where Fun Meets Adventure – The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do and Places to Visit!
Everything up here comes graded. The hiking trails run from easy right through to difficult and Franconia Ridge is the steep one of them all. The mountain biking runs from beginner right through to expert across that same network of trails. Alpine Adventures grades its zipline tours the very same way, running beginner right up through to advanced. Pick your own level and then start there instead.
Are you planning a trip to Lincoln, New Hampshire and wondering what to do and see? You are in the right place. This charming town sitting in the White Mountains runs a variety of activities and attractions for all ages and interests. Outdoor adventures through to family-friendly fun, Lincoln carries a version for you.
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you will love the abundance of hiking trails, scenic drives and water activities. Work through Franconia Notch State Park and the Flume Gorge or take a ride on the longest gondola in New Hampshire at Loon Mountain. For an adrenaline rush, try zip-lining, rock climbing, or white water rafting.
If you are looking to relax and slow down, Lincoln carries plenty of options for that too. Take a scenic drive through the Kancamagus Highway or settle into a spa day at one of the local resorts. For family-friendly fun, visit Clark’s Bears or the Ice Castles, or take a ride on the Hobo Railroad. And do not forget to work through the charming town of Lincoln, filled with unusual shops, restaurants and galleries.
Key Takeaways
- Lincoln, New Hampshire offers a variety of activities and attractions for all ages and interests.
- Outdoor enthusiasts will love the abundance of hiking trails, scenic drives, and water activities.
- Lincoln has plenty of options for relaxation, family-friendly fun, and exploring the charming town.
Embrace the Outdoors
Are you a nature lover? Do you crave the fresh air and scenic views that only the great outdoors can run? Then Lincoln, New Hampshire suits you exactly. With a variety of outdoor activities to choose from, you will never run out of fun things to do.
Hiking Trails in Lincoln
Take a hike. Literally. Lincoln runs some of the finer hiking trails in the White Mountains. With trails ranging from easy to difficult, there is a version for you. If you are up for a challenge, try hiking Franconia Ridge. The views run long, but be prepared for a steep climb.
Skiing at Loon Mountain
Hit the slopes. Loon Mountain suits skiing, snowboarding, or just settling into the winter wonderland. With over 300 acres of skiable terrain and 61 trails, you will not get bored. And if skiing is not your thing, they also run snowshoeing and ice skating.
Mountain Biking Adventures
Get your adrenaline pumping with a mountain biking adventure. Lincoln has some of the stronger mountain biking trails in the area. With trails ranging from beginner to expert, you can test your skills and have fun at the same time.
Kayaking on Pemigewasset River
Take a leisurely paddle down the Pemigewasset River. With long scenery and calm waters, it suits relaxing and settling into the outdoors. And if you are feeling adventurous, try whitewater kayaking on the nearby Swift River.
Snowmobiling in White Mountains
Zoom through the snow on a snowmobile. The White Mountains run some of the stronger snowmobiling trails in the country. With over 1,000 miles of trails, you can work through the winter wonderland and have fun at the same time.
So what are you waiting for? Get outdoors in Lincoln, New Hampshire and take home a trip that stays with you.
Adrenaline Pumping Activities
After some heart-pumping activities in Lincoln, New Hampshire? You are in the right place. Here are some of the stronger adrenaline-fueled adventures in the area.
Ziplining with Alpine Adventures
If you are after a thrilling way to take in the long scenery of the White Mountains, ziplining with Alpine Adventures is the way to go. Soar through the trees at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour on one of their many zipline tours. With options for all skill levels, beginner through to advanced, there is a version for you. Plus, their guides are hilarious and will keep you laughing the whole way through.
Anaconda Escape at Whale’s Tale Waterpark
After a challenge? Try the Anaconda Escape at Whale’s Tale Waterpark. This massive water slide is one of the more thrilling rides in the park. You will climb up to the top of the slide, then plummet down a steep drop and through a series of twists and turns before splashing into the pool below. It is not for the faint of heart, but if you are up for it, it is an experience you will not forget.
Treetop Canopy Tour
For a genuinely unusual adventure, try the Treetop Canopy Tour. This guided tour will take you through the treetops on a series of ziplines, sky bridges and rappels. You will get a bird’s eye view of the forest as you navigate your way through the course. It suits challenging yourself and working through the White Mountains at the same time.
No matter which adrenaline-fueled adventure you choose, you are sure to have a blast in Lincoln, New Hampshire. So grab your friends and family, and get ready for some heart-pumping fun.
Relax and Unwind
Feeling stressed and need to slow down? Lincoln, New Hampshire has got you covered. Take a break from your busy schedule and indulge in some of the stronger relaxing activities that this town carries. Here are a few options to help you relax and settle:
Soak in the Scenery at Franconia Notch State Park
Take a deep breath and soak in the long scenery at Franconia Notch State Park. The park runs a variety of outdoor activities, hiking, fishing and swimming included. Take a leisurely hike along the Flume Gorge trail and settle into the waterfalls and rock formations. Or, head over to Echo Lake Beach and take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters. This park suits those who want to connect with nature and slow down in a peaceful setting.
Wine Tasting at Seven Birches Winery
What better way to relax than with a glass of wine in hand? Head over to Seven Birches Winery for a wine tasting experience like no other. The winery runs a variety of handcrafted wines, made from locally grown grapes. Take a tour of the winery and pick up the winemaking process, or simply sit back and settle in with a glass of wine on the outdoor patio. This suits a romantic date or a fun outing with friends.
Dining at Family-Owned Restaurants
When it comes to dining in Lincoln, you cannot go wrong with family-owned restaurants. The Common Man is a local favorite, serving up delicious comfort food in a cozy atmosphere. Try their famous pot roast or mac and cheese for a hearty meal. For seafood lovers, Gordi’s Fish and Steak House belongs on the list. Their seafood chowder and lobster rolls are out of this world. These family-owned restaurants run an unusual dining experience, with friendly service and delicious food.
Whether you prefer to soak in the scenery, sip on some wine, or indulge in delicious food, Lincoln, New Hampshire carries a version for you. Take some time to relax and settle in around this charming town.
This is not an expert-only mountain at all. Loon Mountain runs over 300 acres of terrain across its 61 separate trails at every possible grade. The gondola there is the longest in New Hampshire and it does all of the climbing for you. Snowshoeing and ice skating are both there for all the people who never learned to ski. Nobody is checking your form up here.
Family Fun
After some family-friendly activities to do in Lincoln, NH? You are in the right place. Here are some fun options that will keep everyone entertained:
Train Ride on Hobo Railroad
All aboard the Hobo Railroad. This scenic train ride belongs on the list for families. You will chug along the Pemigewasset River and through the White Mountains, taking in the long scenery along the way. Plus, the train is equipped with an open car, so you can feel the wind in your hair and really soak up the experience.
Visit Clark’s Trading Post
If you are after an unusual experience, head to Clark’s Trading Post. This attraction carries a version for you, a trained bear show through to a water raft ride called the Anaconda Escape. But the real highlight is the Chinese acrobats, who will leave you in awe with their striking feats of strength and agility. And do not forget to visit the gift shop on your way out, because you will find all sorts of fun souvenirs to take home.
Mini Golf and More
For a more laid-back activity, head to one of Lincoln’s mini golf courses. You will find plenty of options, Hobo Hills Adventure Golf and Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf included. But mini golf is not the only thing these places carry, because you will also find batting cages, go-karts and more. It suits spending a lazy afternoon with the family.
So there you have it, some of the stronger family-friendly activities in Lincoln, NH. After a scenic train ride, an unusual attraction, or just some good old-fashioned mini golf, you are sure to find something that everyone will settle into.
Explore the Town
Lincoln, New Hampshire is a charming town with plenty of fun activities to work through. Here are a few ways to make the most of your time in this town.
Shopping at Lincoln Village Shops
If you are a shopaholic, you will love the Lincoln Village Shops. Sitting in the heart of Main Street, Lincoln, the shops run an unusual shopping experience with a variety of stores to choose from. You can find everything from handmade jewelry to antique furniture. The strongest part? You can support local businesses while you shop.
Brewery Hopping
If you are a beer lover, you will not want to miss out on brewery hopping in Lincoln. One Love Brewery is a strong place to start. They run a long list of craft beers and delicious food. Plus, their outdoor seating area suits settling in with a cold beer on a sunny day. Other breweries in the area include Schilling Beer Co. and Woodstock Inn Brewery.
Cultural Experience at Jean’s Playhouse
Jean’s Playhouse is a cultural gem in Lincoln, New Hampshire. This community theater runs a variety of shows throughout the year, musicals through to plays. The theater is small and intimate, which makes for an unusual experience that stays with you. Be sure to check their schedule and book your tickets in advance.
So, in the mood for shopping, beer, or cultural experiences, Lincoln, New Hampshire carries a version for you. Get out there and work through it.
Seasonal Attractions
Lincoln, New Hampshire, is a strong destination all year round, with a variety of seasonal attractions to keep you entertained. Here are some of the stronger things to do in Lincoln, NH, depending on the season.
Ice Castles in Winter
When the temperature drops and the snow starts to fall, Lincoln turns into a winter wonderland. One of the better-known attractions during the winter months is the Ice Castles. These striking ice formations are created by professional ice artists who use icicles, sprinklers and lights to build a winter wonderland. You can work through the ice tunnels, slides and sculptures, and even sit on an ice throne. It is an unusual experience that stays with you and suits the whole family.
Fall Foliage Viewing
When the leaves start to change color in the fall, Lincoln becomes a well-used destination for leaf-peepers. The White Mountains are known for their long fall foliage, and there are plenty of ways to settle into it in Lincoln. You can take a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway, hike one of the many trails in the area, or take a ride on the Loon Mountain Gondola. Whatever you choose, you are sure to be surrounded by fall colors.
Spring Activities in Lincoln
As the snow melts and the flowers start to bloom, Lincoln comes alive with spring activities. One of the stronger things to do in the spring is to take a scenic drive along the White Mountains Trail. You can also go hiking, biking, or fishing in the area. If you are after something more adventurous, you can try zip-lining, rock climbing, or whitewater rafting. There is a version for you in Lincoln, no matter what your interests are.
So, visiting in the winter, fall, or spring, Lincoln carries plenty of seasonal attractions to keep you entertained. Ice castles through to fall foliage to spring activities, there is always something fun to do in this charming New Hampshire town.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the scoop on Lincoln, NH’s rainy day activities?
Ah, the dreaded rainy day. Luckily, Lincoln, NH has plenty of indoor activities to keep you entertained when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Check out the indoor water park at the Kahuna Laguna or challenge your friends to a game of laser tag at Jean’s Playhouse. Feeling artsy? Head to The Gallery at WREN and admire the work of local artists. And if all else fails, grab a good book and cozy up by the fireplace in your cabin.
Can’t-miss experiences for visitors to Lincoln, NH
You’re in Lincoln, NH, so of course, you have to experience the great outdoors! Take a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway, hike to the top of Mount Pemigewasset, or go ziplining with Alpine Adventures. For a more relaxed experience, take a ride on the Loon Mountain Gondola and enjoy the stunning views.
Where can I find the best grub in Lincoln, NH?
You won’t go hungry in Lincoln, NH. Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast at Flapjack’s Pancake House. For lunch, grab a sandwich or salad at Gypsy Cafe. And for dinner, indulge in some comfort food at Black Mtn. Burger Co.. Don’t forget to save room for dessert at One Love Brewery where you can enjoy a cold beer and a slice of cake.
What’s the deal with Woodstock, NH? Is it worth a visit?
Woodstock, NH is a charming town located just a short drive from Lincoln. It’s definitely worth a visit if you have the time. Check out the Pemi Valley Moose Tours for a chance to see some of New Hampshire’s wildlife up close. Visit the Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves and explore the caves and waterfalls. And if you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Clark’s Trading Post where you can learn about the history of the White Mountains and even watch a bear show.
Frequently asked questions about Lincoln, New Hampshire
Which park near Lincoln is the one that you should really be starting at?
Franconia Notch State Park. The Flume Gorge trail is the graded one of them, with all the waterfalls and the rock formations on it. Echo Lake Beach handles the swimming end of it once the walking is done for the day. Hiking, fishing and swimming all sit inside that one same park boundary out there together, which is the point of it. Flume Gorge first, and then the lake after it.
Which trail near Lincoln is the one that genuinely beats you up?
Franconia Ridge. The views run long from up on top there but the climb itself is steep the entire way up. The rest of the Lincoln trails grade from easy right up to difficult instead of that. The Kancamagus Highway is the version of it that you do sitting down inside a car. Ridge if you have done the training.
Which brewery in Lincoln is the one that you should be starting at?
One Love Brewery. They run a long list of craft beers and all of the food comes out of the same kitchen. The outdoor seating out there is the reason that people end up staying on for a second and a third round. Schilling Beer Co. and Woodstock Inn Brewery are the other two on that very same circuit. One Love first, then walk it.
Keep exploring Lincoln, New Hampshire
More places to visit in New Hampshire
- Things to do in Manchester, New Hampshire
- Meredith, New Hampshire: what to do
- Merrimack, New Hampshire: what to do
- Nashua, New Hampshire: what to do
- New London, New Hampshire: what to do
Top destinations in New Hampshire
- Our Portsmouth, New Hampshire travel guide
- Things to do in Concord, New Hampshire
- Dover, New Hampshire: what to do
All things to do in New Hampshire