Things to Do in Lincoln, NH
Four seasons of adventure — Loon Mountain, Franconia Notch, the Kancamagus Highway, and much more right outside your door.
Browse All Rentals →Attractions Near Lincoln, NH
Lincoln sits at the heart of the White Mountains — Loon Mountain is right in town, the Kancamagus Highway starts at your doorstep, and Franconia Notch State Park is minutes away. Whether you’re here to ski, hike, or explore, there’s something every season within easy reach.
Planning a ski trip? Loon Mountain is right here in Lincoln, and a free ski shuttle runs to the mountain in season. Read our Loon Mountain ski guide, see family attractions in Lincoln, or browse our rentals.
Loon Mountain – Winter
In Lincoln❄️ Ski Season
World-class skiing and snowboarding right in Lincoln. 61 trails across 370 acres, modern high-speed lifts, and reliable snowmaking. The South Peak lift is walking distance from the Lodge at Lincoln Station.
Visit loonmtn.com →
Loon Mountain – Summer
In Lincoln☀️ Summer & Fall
Ride the Gondola Skyride to the summit, explore Glacial Caves, soar on the zipline 750 feet above the Pemi River, tackle the outdoor Ninja Wild course, or carve down the mountain bike trails. Summer at Loon is a full day.
Visit loonmtn.com →
Ice Castles
~2 miles · North Woodstock❄️ Winter only
Thousands of hand-grown icicles sculpted into tunnels, slides, fountains, and a frozen throne — all lit dramatically after dark. A winter must-see. Check dates before visiting as opening depends on weather.
Visit icecastles.com →
Whale’s Tale Waterpark
~3 miles☀️ Mid-June–Labor Day
The family summer staple — wave pool, water slides, lazy river, and splash areas. A full day out without leaving Lincoln.
Visit whalestalewaterpark.net →
Clark’s Bears
~2 miles☀️ Mid-June–late October
Trained bear shows, rides, and rich railroad history — a Lincoln institution. Look out for the Wolfman! Formerly Clark’s Trading Post, this has been entertaining families for generations.
Visit clarksbears.com →
Alpine Adventures
~1 mile☀️ May–October
Zip-line tours through the treetops, off-road UTV experiences, and aerial ropes courses. The closest thing to flying in the White Mountains.
Visit alpinezipline.com →
Hobo Railroad & Mini Golf
~1.5 miles☀️ Late May–October
Scenic train rides through the Pemigewasset River valley with themed excursions in fall foliage season. Mini golf is a great add-on for families.
Visit hoborr.com →
Café Lafayette Dinner Train
~3 miles☀️ May–October
A 5-course dinner on a two-hour ride in restored 1950s rail cars, through the Pemi River Valley and over three trestle bridges. Reserve ahead.
Visit nhdinnertrain.com →
Franconia Notch State Park
~8 miles⭐ Year-round
The crown jewel of the White Mountains — Flume Gorge, Cannon Mountain Tramway, Echo Lake, The Basin, and miles of trails all within one spectacular park.
Visit nhstateparks.org →
Flume Gorge
In Lincoln · Franconia Notch☀️ Late May–mid October
An 800-foot natural granite gorge at the base of Mount Liberty — one of the most dramatic geological features in New England. Wooden boardwalks take you through alongside cascading waterfalls.
Visit nhstateparks.org →
The Basin
~6 miles · Franconia Notch⭐ Year-round
A stunning 20-foot natural granite pothole carved by glacial meltwater at the base of a waterfall — one of the most photographed natural features in New Hampshire. A short, easy walk from the parking area makes it accessible for all ages.
Visit nhstateparks.org →
Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway
~8 miles☀️ Summer & Fall
Ride to the 4,080-foot summit for sweeping 360-degree views across Franconia Notch. America’s first aerial tramway — a New England icon. A new Tram III is being built; check cannonmt.com for current status.
Visit cannonmt.com →
Cannon Mountain – Skiing
~8 miles❄️ Winter
The highest ski area summit in NH at 4,080 feet — challenging terrain, excellent vertical, and a legendary New England character. Ideal for intermediate to expert skiers seeking real mountain skiing.
Visit cannonmt.com →
Mount Washington Cog Railway
~35 miles · Bretton Woods☀️ May–November
Ride the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway to the 6,288-foot summit of Mount Washington — the highest peak in the Northeast. Spectacular scenery and bragging rights included. The summit can be socked in with fog — call ahead.
Visit thecog.com →
Mount Washington Auto Road
~50 miles · Pinkham Notch☀️ Mid-May–late October
Drive to the 6,288-foot summit of Mount Washington on one of America’s oldest mountain roads. The bumper sticker says it all: “This Car Climbed Mt. Washington.” Guided tours available if you’d rather let someone else drive the 12% grades.
Visit mtwashingtonautoroad.com →
Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves
~7 miles☀️ Mid-May–mid October
Squeeze through narrow boulder caves and follow boardwalks over rushing waterfalls through a hidden glacial gorge. A genuinely fun adventure for older kids and adults.
Visit lostrivergorge.com →
Pemigewasset River
In our backyard!⭐ Year-round
The Pemi runs right behind the Lodge at Lincoln Station — stair access from the property puts you on the riverbank in 60 seconds. Fish, kayak, tube, or simply sit by the water.
The Cascades
~2 miles☀️ Best in summer
Small waterfalls and natural rock formations along a short easy walk — popular for swimming and relaxing in summer. A local spot that doesn’t make every guidebook but should.
Jean’s Playhouse
~2 miles⭐ Year-round
Professional theater, comedy, live music, and seasonal events in a beautifully renovated paper mill venue. From Broadway-caliber productions to the beloved Ghost Light experience — a cultural gem in the heart of Lincoln.
Visit jeansplayhouse.com →
Santa’s Village
~38 miles · Jefferson, NH☀️ Late May–December
A Christmas-themed amusement park the kids absolutely love. Worth the drive for families with younger children.
Visit santasvillage.com →
Story Land
~34 miles · Glen, NH☀️ Late May–early October
Fairy tale themed rides and attractions designed for younger children — a full family day trip well worth the drive.
Visit storylandnh.com →
No attractions match that filter — try another season.
Where to Eat in Lincoln, NH
From early breakfast at the diner to craft beer at the brewery — Lincoln’s Main Street has more going on than most guests expect. See more in our guide to restaurants in Lincoln, NH.
🥩 Seafood & Steak
🚶 Walking Distance
Gordi’s Fish & Steak House
📍 260 Main St, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-6635
A Lincoln institution — prime rib, lobster, fresh seafood, and steak in a warm, friendly setting. Reservations fill up fast; book well in advance for weekends.
Tue–Fri from 4pm · Sat–Sun from 3pm · Closed Monday
Visit gordisfishandsteak.com →
🍝 Italian · Wood-Fired Pizza
🏔️ Near Loon Mountain
La Vista Italian Restaurant
📍 22 S Mountain Dr, Lincoln (RiverWalk Resort) · 📞 (603) 745-7555
Upscale Italian in a beautiful setting at the base of Loon Mountain. Wood-fired flatbread pizzas, fresh pasta, Arancini, Shrimp Scampi, and chef-inspired entrees. Ranked #3 of 32 in Lincoln on TripAdvisor — reservations strongly recommended.
Thu–Tue 5pm–9pm · Closed Wednesday
Visit lavistaitalian.com →
🍕 Pizza & Pub Grub
🚶 Walking Distance
Pub 32
📍 264 Main St, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-3231
Casual wood-paneled pub serving gourmet pizzas, paninis, wings, and cold beer. Outdoor seating available. A great après-ski or après-hike spot with a relaxed vibe.
Mon–Thu 3pm–10pm · Fri–Sat 12pm–11pm · Sun 11:30am–10pm
🍔 Casual Dining
🚶 Walking Distance
Black Mountain Burger Co.
📍 Depot Marketplace, 264 Main St, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-3444
Excellent burgers, generous portions, casual vibe — perfect for a post-ski or post-hike meal. A local favorite that never disappoints. Closed Wednesdays.
Mon–Tue, Thu–Sun 11:30am–8:30pm · Closed Wed
Visit blackmtnburger.com →
🥩 Dinner
🚶 Walking Distance
The Common Man
📍 9 Main St, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-3463
A local favorite for hearty New England comfort food — chowders, prime rib, and classic dishes in a warm welcoming atmosphere.
Sun–Thu 11:30am–9pm · Fri–Sat 11:30am–10pm
Visit thecman.com →
🍳 All-Day Breakfast & Diner
🚶 Walking Distance
Lincoln Diner
📍 6 Pollard Rd, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 629-0100
A classic 1950s diner car with all-day breakfast, homestyle lunch and dinner classics, and warm hospitality. Right next door to The Common Man — the perfect spot to start your day.
Mon–Fri 7am–7pm · Sat 7am onwards
Visit thecman.com/lincoln-diner →
🎸 Live Music & Karaoke 🚶 Walk from the Lodge
The Grateful Skier
📍 11 Pollard Rd, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-4899
Live music, karaoke and good bar food, an easy walk from the Lodge at Lincoln Station. One of our favorites!
Call for hours and the music schedule
🍳 Breakfast
Flapjack’s
📍 127 Main St, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-5013
The go-to breakfast spot — pancakes, waffles, eggs, and a full menu served all morning. Expect a line on weekends but it moves fast.
Daily 7am–2pm
Visit flapjacksnh.com →
☕ Breakfast & Coffee
White Mountain Bagel Company
📍 48 Main St, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-8000
Fresh bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee — perfect for fueling up before a day on the slopes or trails.
Daily 6am–2pm
Find on Google Maps →
☕ Café & Bakery
The Moon Café & Bakery
📍 107 Main St, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-8000
From-scratch bakery and café with homemade pastries, soups, and sandwiches in a cozy atmosphere.
Daily 7am–2pm
Visit themoonnh.com →
🍺 Brew Pub & Breakfast
Woodstock Inn & Brewery
📍 135 Main St, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-3951
A Lincoln institution — pub food, craft beer brewed on-site, live music Fridays and Saturdays, and one of the best breakfasts in town.
Sun–Thu 7:30am–9pm · Fri–Sat 7:30am–10pm
Visit woodstockinnnh.com →
🌍 International
Gypsy Café
📍 117 Main St, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-4395
Creative international menu with eclectic dishes from around the world with a New England touch. Outdoor seating available. A nice change of pace from typical mountain town fare.
Call for current hours
Visit gypsycaferestaurant.com →
🍕 Pizza
Enzo’s Pizzeria
📍 165 Main St, Lincoln Square Mall · 📞 (603) 745-8817
Authentic New York-style thin crust pizza, Sicilian pizza, pasta, and subs. Generous portions — always hits right after a long day on the mountain.
Wed–Sun 11am–8pm or 9pm · Closed Mon–Tue
Visit enzospizzanh.com →
🍝 Italian
Jimmy Seas Pan Pasta
📍 The Village Shops (2nd floor), 25 S Mountain Dr, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-7308
The beloved Martha’s Vineyard institution — now at Loon Mountain year-round. Famous for heaping pan-cooked pastas including butternut squash ravioli and Lobster Fra Diablo, all served straight from the pan with fresh salad and bread. Reservations recommended.
Daily 5pm–9pm
Visit jimmyseaspanpastas.com →
🍺 Craft Brewery
Base Camp Brewery
📍 25 S Mountain Dr, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-7290
In-house brewery crafting small-batch rotating taps alongside a solid pub menu — smash burgers, bang bang shrimp, and bold flavors. Spacious outdoor patio and deck perfect for summer evenings.
Mon–Thu 4pm–9pm · Fri–Sat 12pm–10pm · Sun 12pm–8pm
Visit basecampbrewing.com →
🍷 Wine & Beer
Seven Birches Winery & Brewery
📍 25 Main St, Lincoln · 📞 (603) 745-2323
Tastings of local wines and craft beers — the kind of place you stop in for one glass and stay for three.
Mon–Thu 12pm–6pm · Fri–Sat 12pm–7pm · Sun 12pm–5pm
Visit sevenbirches.com →
Hiking Trails Near Lincoln, NH
Lincoln sits at the gateway to Franconia Notch State Park — home to some of the most celebrated hikes in New England. These 15 trails range from a one-mile family stroll to the legendary Franconia Ridge Loop, and nearly all start within 12 miles of the Lodge. See more in our guide to hiking and waterfalls.
Lincoln Woods Trail
Easy4 mi one way📍 ~5 mi
Wide, flat rail trail following the East Branch Pemigewasset River deep into the wilderness. One of the most popular hikes in the White Mountains — stunning in every season and great for all ages.
📍 Kancamagus Hwy, Lincoln, NH
View on AllTrails →
Lost River Gorge Trail
Easy~1.5 mi loop📍 ~7 mi
Nature walk through a glacial gorge with boulder caves you can squeeze through. Kids absolutely love the cave exploration. Admission fee required.
📍 1712 Lost River Rd, North Woodstock, NH
View on AllTrails →
Greeley Ponds Trail
Easy–Moderate3.5 mi round trip📍 ~5 mi
Through beautiful boreal forest to two tranquil mountain ponds ringed by cliffs. A quieter alternative to the Franconia Notch trails — excellent for solitude and wildlife viewing.
📍 Kancamagus Hwy, Lincoln, NH
View on AllTrails →
Bald Mountain & Artists Bluff
Easy1.7 mi loop📍 ~10 mi
Short, satisfying loop above Echo Lake with big views of Cannon Mountain and Franconia Notch. One of the best easy summits in the park — a perfect family hike that punches well above its length.
📍 Echo Lake, Franconia Notch State Park, NH
View on AllTrails →
Flume Gorge Trail
Easy–Moderate2.2 mi loop📍 ~8 mi · ⭐ 4.8
Wooden boardwalks take you through an 800-foot natural granite gorge with waterfalls cascading alongside. One of the most dramatic short hikes in New England. Admission fee required.
📍 Franconia Notch State Park, Lincoln, NH
View on AllTrails →
Basin Cascade Trail
Moderate2.6 mi📍 ~6 mi · ⭐ 4.6
Passes multiple cascading waterfalls and deep pools popular for wading. Starts at The Basin — the deepest glacial pothole in the White Mountains. A gem that’s easy to miss but shouldn’t be.
📍 The Basin, Franconia Notch State Park, NH
View on AllTrails →
Mount Pemigewasset Trail
Moderate3.4 mi round trip📍 ~8 mi · ⭐ 4.7
Steep but rewarding — the open summit offers sweeping views of Franconia Notch and the surrounding White Mountains. Starts at the Flume Gorge parking area. A great half-day summit hike for families with older kids.
📍 Flume Gorge Parking, Franconia Notch State Park, NH
View on AllTrails →
Lonesome Lake Trail
Moderate3.1 mi round trip📍 ~8 mi
A classic White Mountains hike to a pristine mountain lake ringed by peaks. The AMC hut at the lake serves snacks and hot drinks. Views of Franconia Ridge from the shoreline are exceptional.
📍 Lafayette Place Campground, Franconia Notch, NH
View on AllTrails →
Cannon Mountain
Moderate–Strenuous4–5 mi round trip📍 ~8 mi
Hike to the 4,080-foot summit via Kinsman Ridge Trail for panoramic views across Franconia Notch. Or ride the aerial tramway up and hike down — one of the most satisfying combinations in the park.
📍 Franconia Notch State Park, NH
View on AllTrails →
Little Haystack via Falling Waters Trail
Hard5.9 mi📍 ~8 mi · ⭐ 4.6
Follows rushing Dry Brook past Stairs Falls and the spectacular 80-foot Cloudland Falls to the Franconia Ridge. Often used as the ascent leg of the famous Ridge Loop. A stunning waterfall hike that earns every view.
📍 Lafayette Place Campground, Franconia Notch, NH
View on AllTrails →
North & South Kinsman via Fishin’ Jimmy Trail
Hard9.6 mi📍 ~8 mi · ⭐ 4.7
Takes you past Lonesome Lake and the AMC hut, then up and over both Kinsman peaks on the Appalachian Trail. One of the longest and most rewarding day hikes from Franconia Notch. Arrive by 7am on weekends for parking.
📍 Lafayette Place Campground, Franconia Notch, NH
View on AllTrails →
Mount Lafayette via Old Bridle Path
Hard7.9 mi round trip📍 ~8 mi · ⭐ 4.8
Climbs through hardwood forest past the Greenleaf AMC Hut (great water stop) to the exposed summit of Mount Lafayette with sweeping 360° views. A classic Franconia Notch summit hike with steady views throughout.
📍 Lafayette Place Campground, Franconia Notch, NH
View on AllTrails →
Flume Slide Trail to Liberty Spring Loop
Strenuous9.3 mi loop📍 ~8 mi · ⭐ 4.7
One of the most challenging routes in Franconia Notch — scrambles up steep water-scoured granite slabs (four-point contact required) to the summits of Mount Flume and Mount Liberty. Expert hikers only. Absolutely spectacular.
📍 Flume Gorge Parking, Franconia Notch State Park, NH
View on AllTrails →
Franconia Ridge Loop — Mount Lafayette ⭐
Hard8.6 mi loop📍 ~8 mi · ⭐ 4.9 #1
The crown jewel of New Hampshire hiking and one of the best day hikes in New England. Ascend via Falling Waters past Cloudland Falls, traverse two miles of exposed ridge above treeline over three summits including Lafayette, then descend the Old Bridle Path. A bucket-list hike right from Lincoln.
📍 Lafayette Place Campground, Franconia Notch, NH · Arrive by 7am on weekends
View on AllTrails →
Mount Moosilauke
Moderate–Strenuous7–8 mi round trip📍 ~30 mi
Worth the drive — the broad, treeless summit offers a full 360° panorama stretching toward Vermont. One of the most rewarding big hikes in the White Mountains and a perennial favorite among guests staying in Lincoln.
📍 Ravine Lodge Rd, Warren, NH (~30 min from Lincoln)
View on AllTrails →
No trails match that difficulty — try another level.
Kancamagus Scenic Byway — Starts in Lincoln, NH
The 34.5-mile “Kanc” is a federally designated National Scenic Byway running from Lincoln east to Conway through the heart of White Mountain National Forest — no traffic lights, no commercial development, just one of the most scenic drives in America. It’s free, open year-round, and starts right at your doorstep. Read our guide to driving the Kancamagus.
Sabbaday Falls ⭐ Rick’s Pick
~17 miles from Lincoln⭐ Year-round
A short flat trail leads to stunning cascading waterfalls through a narrow granite flume. One of the most photogenic spots on the entire highway. Best in spring when snowmelt swells the falls.
Visit fs.usda.gov →
Diana’s Baths
~30 miles from Lincoln☀️ Best in summer
Small waterfalls and natural rock pools carved into granite — accessible via an easy family-friendly trail. Popular for wading and photography in summer.
View on AllTrails →
Albany Covered Bridge
~23 miles from Lincoln⭐ Year-round
A picturesque 19th-century covered bridge spanning the Swift River — one of the most photographed spots on the Kanc, especially during fall foliage season.
Kancamagus Foliage Drive
Full 34.5-mile route🍂 Peak: late September–mid October
Considered one of the top fall foliage drives in the United States. Go early on weekday mornings to avoid traffic — weekends in peak season can get congested.
Read our Kancamagus guide →
Swift River Swimming Holes
Various points along the Kanc☀️ Summer only
Multiple pull-offs give access to the Swift River for swimming in summer. Rocky Brook and Lower Falls are popular spots with natural pools and easy wading access for families.
North Conway Day Trip
~34 miles · End of the Kanc⭐ Year-round
The eastern end of the Kanc empties into North Conway — the region’s top shopping, dining, and outdoor hub. Factory outlets, boutiques, craft breweries, and restaurants line the main street. Pair a scenic Kanc drive with an afternoon in the village.
Visit visitmwv.com →
C.L. Graham Wangan Ground Overlook
~20 miles from Lincoln⭐ Year-round
One of the most dramatic panoramic pull-offs on the Kancamagus — sweeping views of the Sandwich Range and surrounding peaks. No hiking required, just pull over and take it in. Absolutely spectacular during fall foliage.
Lower Falls Scenic Area
~25 miles from Lincoln☀️ Best in summer
A beloved USFS swimming and picnicking area on the Swift River. Shallow natural pools and small waterfalls make it ideal for families. One of the most popular warm-weather stops on the entire highway.
Kancamagus Pass
~14 miles from Lincoln⭐ Year-round
At 2,855 feet — the highest point on the highway — the pass offers a small pull-off with open mountain views. First to see snowfall in fall and last to clear in spring. Watch for moose near dawn and dusk.