Blake Walsh

25 Best Things to Do in Lincoln, NH

  • Published 2023/02/22

Lincoln in New Hampshire is the second largest town in the state.

The town is a popular destination for travelers thanks to the wonderful landscape.

Visitors throng this town throughout the year but more so in winter to enjoy skiing.

With many theme parks located nearby, it is no wonder that Lincoln is one of the favorite family tourist destinations.

Interested to know more about this stunning place?

Here are the 25 best things to do in Lincoln, New Hampshire:

Hop on a ride at Clark’s Bears

Clark’s Bears

Felix Lipov / Shutterstock.com

If you are visiting Lincoln with your family, Clark’s Bears (also known as Clark’s Trading Post) must be on your list of places to visit.

It is a theme park with many attractive rides and shows, including the top-rated Black Bear show.

Enjoy a white Mountain Central RR train ride and visit Merlin’s Mystical Mansion.

Museum lovers would enjoy visiting the five museums in the park.

Experience a Water Adventure with Out Back Kayak

Out Back Kayak, located in the small, scenic town of Lincoln, NH, is a kayaking experience you will never forget!

This premier kayaking destination offers guided tours and rentals for those who prefer to explore the stunning mountain and lake scenery independently.

From short two-hour excursions along quiet rivers and streams to multi-day adventures down white water rapids, there’s an adventure for everyone!

With safety paramount at Out Back Kayak, all equipment is regularly updated and inspected by certified technicians.

Professional guides are also present during every outing so visitors can enjoy their time without worrying.

Buy High-Quality Drinks at Rhythm Handcrafted Beverages Studio

For residents of Lincoln, there is a new place to find something truly unique.

Rhythm Handcrafted Beverages Studio is a family-owned business that produces an array of handcrafted non-alcoholic drinks.

This studio has everything from root and ginger beer to shrubs and probiotic sodas!

For customers of you who prefer traditional fine wine, they have you set with their Seven Birches wine brand.

Nevertheless, go beyond the Rhythm Handmade Drinks line if you’re looking for something fresh and new.

Aside from producing high-quality beverages for sale at local markets and restaurants, Rhythm also offers classes on home brewing techniques for those who want to learn more about crafting their drinks.

Learn the History Behind Flume Gorge

Flume Gorge

J. S. Wolf Photography / Shutterstock.com

This 800-foot natural gorge is one of the popular tourist attractions in Lincoln.

It has a fascinating history to it. A 93-year-old lady accidentally discovered this gorge in 1808 while she was fishing.

She reportedly had difficulty convincing people that she had discovered something big!

Hikers walking on the boardwalk at Flume Gorge

Yunsun_Kim / Shutterstock.com

Since then, the place has seen visitors crowd to enjoy the fantastic scenery.

You can have a great hike while visiting the Gorge.

Wooden bridge at Flume Gorge

Martina Birnbaum / Shutterstock.com

Spend a Relaxing Stay at InnSeason Resorts Pollard Brook

InnSeason Resorts Pollard Brook offers the perfect getaway for outdoor adventurers.

The picturesque resort provides visitors with abundant opportunities to explore and relax.

The resort is designed to provide guests with all the comforts of home, featuring spacious accommodations ranging from deluxe studios to three-bedroom suites.

All rooms feature a fully equipped kitchen, daily maid service, and private balconies with views of the surrounding mountains.

Other amenities include an indoor pool, hot tubs, and saunas.

Guests can also take advantage of onsite dining options offering flavorful meals from fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers.

Check Out the Various Attraction at Whale’s Tale Waterpark

Whale’s Tale Water Park

Ken Gallager, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Theme park fans would love Whale’s Tale Waterpark.

The award-winning water park is spread over an area of 17 acres.

There are different kinds of attractions that visitors would enjoy.

A wave pool and lazy river are famous attractions of the water park.

There are various kinds of rides suitable for people of all ages.

Families, couples, and large groups visit the water park to enjoy the varied rides.

Kids would enjoy playing at Whale Harbor, which has many water slides and fountains.

Visitors will enjoy the surf simulators.

Taste the Best Wines atSeven Birches Winery

Visiting Seven Birches is a treat for wine lovers.

They can meet the winemakers during the winery tour and understand their work.

The tasting room allows visitors to enjoy some of the best wines from local fruits and European grapes.

Hand-crafted wines can be tasted at their wine bar near the Lincoln Village Shops.

Join a Trip withArt’s Outdoor Outfitters

If you love canoeing and kayaking, then a trip with the Pemigewasset River is an excellent way to spend time.

When you are in Lincoln, you can visit Art’s Outdoor Outfitters.

They offer canoes and kayaks for rental.

They have four different trips that allow you to enjoy an excellent river ride experience.

Kayaking is a fun adventure activity for groups.

Explore the beautiful places along the riverside and have an enjoyable time.

Finish the Trail atFranconia Falls

Water flowing from Franconia Falls

Sergey and Marina Pyataev / Shutterstock.com

Franconia Falls is a popular attraction located in White Mountain Forest Park.

It is a popular trail for families since it does not have a significant elevation.

This makes it easy to visit, even during the winter months.

Scenic view of Franconia Falls

Jason Heid / Shutterstock.com

The falls do not have one big waterfall but have several minor falls spread across the area.

If you go upstream of the falls, you will find a large pool that is great for swimming.

View of Franconia Falls

Sergey and Marina Pyataev / Shutterstock.com

Savor Classic Burgers at Black Mtn Burger Co.

The Black Mtn Burger Co. is the latest restaurant to hit the local food scene.

With its modern decor and traditional New England-style cooking, this family-friendly eatery has quickly become the must-try spot for locals and tourists alike.

The menu features delicious dishes with only fresh ingredients from local farmers and producers.

From classic burgers to creative sandwiches to hearty salads, guests can savor various flavors while dining indoors or at al fresco on their spacious outdoor patio.

For those looking for a unique experience, they also offer special events such as paint nite and trivia nights, which will surely be a hit with families, friends, or couples looking for something different.

Stop by today and see what all the buzz is about!

Admire the Scenic Route at Hobo Railroad

Hobo Railroad

Bob Pool / Shutterstock.com

The Hobo Railroad comprises heritage train rides through the White Mountains.

If you enjoy railway rides or have children with you, don’t miss this ride.

The train runs through some of the most scenic locations allowing you to enjoy nature at its best.

Junction at Hobo Railroad

Jyothis, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The train ride takes you into the mountains, past lakes, and forests.

Taking this train ride during the fall offers you a rich experience.

View of Hobo Railroad

Robert Linsdell from St. Andrews, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Try the Zipline atAlpine Adventures Outdoor Recreation

Alpine Adventures Outdoor Recreation is a mountain park with adventure rides and other attractions.

High ropes and ziplining are some of the popular attractions at Alpine Adventures.

If you like to get your adrenaline racing, try the well-managed zipline rides.

The treetop canopy tour is an excellent attraction for families.

You can try out their off-road safari tour for a great experience.

During winter, don’t miss the snowmobiling and snowshoeing attractions on offer.

Pay a Visit toBetty and Barney Hill Incident Historical Marker

Sign about the Betty and Barney Hill

Kenneth C. Zirkel, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In 1961, a couple named Betty and Barney Hill made a sensational claim that aliens abducted them.

Their story was made into a TV movie called ‘The UFO incident.’

While many claims of such alien abductions have been made, this has been one of the most publicized.

This is why the New Hampshire Historical Resources Division placed a historical marker in the area.

In 1961, they placed a marker where the abduction reportedly happened.

You can also take a look at all the newspaper articles pasted on the walls of the adjoining gas station.

Order Tasty Food atGordi’s Fish & Steak House

A hearty meal is one thing to enjoy on holiday.

When in Lincoln, you can drop at Gordi’s Fish & Steak House.

Fish and steak are the attractions here, as the restaurant name suggests.

Other popular items on the menu are beef, seafood, pasta, burgers, and chicken.

Interestingly, the hotel owners used to be part of skiing in the Olympics.

Apart from in-house dining, you can choose to enjoy outdoor dining.

Don’t miss their Thursday special of “all you can eat” fish and chips.

Participate inPemi Valley Moose Tours

If you are interested in a moose tour, you can opt for the time offered by Pemi Valley Tours.

This is the only tour with a step-on tour guide.

The time would take you for a 3-hour ride in the White Mountains.

Enjoy the ride in their air-conditioned bus while you spot moose and enjoy nature.

They also offer a night tour to see a well-made video about Moose.

Keep your eyes open and your cameras ready to capture the moment you spot the elusive moose.

This is a tour that is fun and educative.

Grab a Lager atOne Love Brewery

The Henry Paper Mill is one of the historical places in Lincoln.

Located within the mill is a German brewery named One Love Brewery.

It is a gastropub and a larger house.

The family-owned brewery offers several house-brewed lagers for you to enjoy.

Also on the menu is a range of delicious snacks.

The firecracker nachos and fried avocados are specialties that you must try.

The renovated brewery uses recycled and eco-friendly materials.

You will surely enjoy your time here and will be back for more.

Enjoy a Snowmobile Ride atSledVentures Snowmobile Rentals

Winter is peak season in Lincoln, thanks to skiing and other winter activities.

If you wish to enjoy a snowmobile ride, you can opt for the tours from SledVentures Snowmobile Rentals.

They offer guided tours for visitors. They also offer exclusive private tours.

Don’t worry if you have never tried snowmobiling before; beginner-level activities are also available.

You get all the resources needed to enjoy your snowmobile ride.

They have various tours on offer for you to enjoy.

Savor Some Comfort Food at the Common Man Lincoln

Here is an exciting restaurant that offers almost everything you want.

Located in the town, the ‘Common Man Lincoln’ offers a warm place to relax and enjoy a hot meal.

The comfortable seating will make you want to spend more time savoring all the restaurant offers.

You can get it here whether you prefer comfort food, Italian, or classic American food.

Try their favorites like crab cakes, prime rib, and baked mac with cheese.

The food is excellent, and so is the service.

Admire the Views atNew Hampshire Route 112

New Hampshire Route 112

Elizabeth A Gloeggler / Shutterstock.com

Here is a popular scenic route since it allows visitors to enjoy the incredible views of the White Mountains.

The 60-mile route is famous throughout the year.

September and October are when the course sees more footfalls.

A car passing by the scenic New Hampshire Route 112

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock.com

This is thanks to the beautiful foliage of autumn on display.

The spectacular ride through the highway is open throughout the year.

Sometimes the road may be closed in winter due to snowfall.

See a Show atJean’s Playhouse

If you are a fan of the arts, you will love watching theater performances at Jean’s Playhouse.

It is the premier entertainment venue in the area.

The North Country Center for Arts showcases musicals, children’s theater, and Broadway-themed shows.

The theater is open from Memorial Day until the end of the year.

The variety of shows on offer ensures there is something for everyone.

Wander around the Franconia Notch State Park

Franconia Notch State Park during autumn

Winston Tan / Shutterstock.com

Situated in the White Mountains, Franconia Notch State Park is an outdoor lover’s paradise.

The park offers various recreational activities, from hiking trails to swimming holes and scenic vistas.

Pool at Franconia Notch State Park

Pierre Leclerc / Shutterstock.com

Furthermore, it features several historical landmarks that offer insight into New England’s past.

It has a small campground with campsites for tents, trailers/RVs up to 35 feet, cabins, and yurts.

Franconia Notch State Park is open year-round from 9 am to sunset.

Lake at Franconia Notch State Park

John Penney / Shutterstock.com

Other Things to Do Nearby

Spend Time with Nature atWhite Mountain National Forest

White Mountain National Forest during fall

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

This US Forest Service-managed forest is a destination you can visit any time of the year.

If you love nature and want to relax, include this destination in your itinerary.

Enjoy the unique colors of nature during fall. During winter, skiing is one of the attractions offered in the mountains.

Winter view of White Mountain National Forest

Corey T Burns / Shutterstock.com

There are beautiful lakes and many places to explore in the forest.

You can also ride on the cog railway to the mountain peak.

Stunning view of White Mountain National Forest

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock.com

Go Skiing at Attitash Mountain Resort

Skiing area at Attitash Mountain Resort

Ed Dods / Shutterstock.com

For all ski fans, the Attitash Mountain Resort is the perfect destination.

During winter, visiting this resort will allow you to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and various other winter sports.

Operational since 1938, this is one of the popular tourist attractions near Lincoln.

Facade of the Attitash Mountain Resort

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

There are 68 different trails that can be accessed through the network of 11 lifts.

Whether you are new to skiing or an expert, there are trails that you can enjoy.

The resort has accommodation if you wish to spend the night. It is also popular during the fall.

Aerial view of Attitash Mountain Resort

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Feel the Cold Breeze at the Ice Castles

Ice Castles

Keith J Finks / Shutterstock.com

Ice Castles is a frozen attraction located at four different places in the US, including Lincoln.

This winter attraction features castles and sculptures built out of ice.

Professional artists use thousands of icicles to create attractions that bring in visitors from all over the country.

Fountain at  Ice Castles

Keith J Finks / Shutterstock.com

The LED-lit castles feature frozen thrones, slides, fountains, and tunnels.

There are also sleigh rides available for visitors. The forest light walk is one of the top attractions at Ice Castles.

View of  Ice Castles

802VTPhoto / Shutterstock.com

Explore Santa’s Village

Entrance to Santa’s Village

Alex McLeod, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Here’s another theme park in Lincoln that offers a fun experience for visitors.

Don’t go by the Santa name and assume it is open only in winter!

The park is open throughout the year. The name is an indicator of the winter theme of the park.

A happy kid posing at Santa’s Village

Abigail Batchelder, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

There are more than 23 rides of different kinds for people of all ages to enjoy.

This is a theme park best suited for families. You can also spot Santa with his reindeer.

The food court offers a great selection of snacks and food. You can even bring your food with you.

Final Thoughts

With its peaceful atmosphere and abundance of nature, Lincoln, NH, is a great place to explore and discover the wonders of the White Mountains.

From outdoor activities like hiking and skiing to shopping and dining to immersing yourself in local history, there’s something for everyone in this small mountain town.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, discover why Lincoln is one of New England’s best places.

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