Start from 30 curated places around Laconia, NH, then choose the recommendations that fit your guests.
Restaurants & cafés
Tavern 27
Americana farm-to-table tapas restaurant and piano bar set in a 231-year-old farmhouse on 20 acres. The kitchen maintains its own organic garden and sources from New England producers — small plates rotate with the season, and the piano bar adds a rare evening energy for the Lakes Region.
O Steaks & Seafood
Upscale steakhouse in downtown Laconia with a broad wine list and a seafood side that takes the New England waters seriously — lobster, haddock, and clams share the menu with dry-aged beef. A proper date-night option in a region otherwise dominated by lakeside bar food.
Trails & outdoors
Piper, Belknap, and Gunstock Loop
The premier hike in the Belknap Range — a 5.4-mile moderate loop that tags three summits (Piper, Belknap, and Gunstock) with sweeping views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the White Mountains from multiple high points. The best hike in the Lakes Region for serious walkers.
Red Hill Fire Tower Loop
A 3.3-mile moderate loop near Moultonborough ascending to a restored fire tower between Lake Winnipesaukee and Squam Lake — the 2,031-foot summit gives a 360-degree view across 15 miles of water, with the White Mountains behind. One of the best fire-tower hikes in New Hampshire.
Things to do
Funspot
The largest arcade in the world by Guinness World Records — over 600 games spanning every era from vintage 1970s classics to modern simulators, plus bowling lanes and mini-golf. Open since 1952, it's an institution at Weirs Beach and worth a visit regardless of age.
Bank of NH Pavilion
An 8,000-seat outdoor amphitheater on Lake Winnipesaukee at Weirs Beach — one of New England's premier summer concert venues, nominated for Music Venue of the Year by the Academy of Country Music five times. Major national touring acts fill the calendar from May through September.
Landmarks & sights
Weirs Beach Boardwalk
The classic Lakes Region beach destination: a 1920s-era wooden boardwalk stretching along a wide sandy strand on Lake Winnipesaukee, flanked by amusement arcades, ice cream stands, and boat rentals. In summer, the energy is pure Americana — crowded, loud, and genuinely fun. During Laconia Bike Week (June), this becomes the center of one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the world.
Lake Winnipesaukee
New Hampshire's largest lake — 72 square miles, 274 islands, and 183 miles of shoreline in the heart of the Lakes Region. Swimming, boating, kayaking, and fishing define summer here; the lake freezes solid enough for ice fishing in winter. Nearly every activity in the region connects back to the water.