Belknap County, New Hampshire Travel Guide

Discover the scenic beauty and rich culture of Belknap County, New Hampshire, where outdoor adventures and charming towns await in the Lakes Region.

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Belknap County

Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire, Belknap County is a gem waiting to be discovered. Known for its stunning natural beauty, this region boasts a variety of outdoor activities, from scenic hikes to thrilling water sports. The county is home to the famous Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in New Hampshire, offering endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The picturesque towns surrounding the lake, such as Laconia and Meredith, provide charming spots for dining, shopping, and relaxing. Belknap County is not just about water adventures. The region is also rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore the Belknap Mill, a historic textile mill in Laconia that has been transformed into a vibrant community center. The county also hosts the annual Laconia Motorcycle Week, attracting bikers from around the country. For a touch of local culture, don't miss the Winnipesaukee Playhouse, where you can enjoy a variety of theatrical performances throughout the year. The natural beauty of Belknap County extends beyond its lakes. The Belknap Mountain Range offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views. Gunstock Mountain Resort is a year-round destination, offering skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and zip-lining and mountain biking in the warmer months. Whether you are an adventure seeker or someone looking to unwind in nature, Belknap County has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Belknap County.

Visit during autumn for stunning fall foliage around Lake Winnipesaukee.
Check the schedule for Laconia Motorcycle Week if you plan to visit in June.
Book tickets in advance for popular shows at the Winnipesaukee Playhouse.
Bring layers; weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Try local seafood at one of the lakeside restaurants in Meredith.

Top City Travel Guides in Belknap County

The cities of Belknap County, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Concord

Laconia

Destinations in Belknap County

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Central New Hampshire

Lake Winnipesaukee

Lakes Region

Explore Belknap County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Belknap County

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves

Discover the breathtaking beauty and unique geological wonders of Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves, an unforgettable natural attraction in New Hampshire.

4.8

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Explore the beauty of nature and wildlife at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, a premier destination for education and outdoor adventure in New Hampshire.

4.7

Castle in the Clouds

Explore Castle in the Clouds: A historic estate with breathtaking views, hiking trails, and rich history in New Hampshire.

4.6

Endicott Rock State Historic Site

Explore the beauty and history of Endicott Rock State Historic Site, a tranquil lakeside park steeped in colonial significance.

4.6

Best restaurants in Belknap County

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Hart's Turkey Farm Restaurant

Experience the heartwarming flavors of traditional American cuisine at Hart's Turkey Farm Restaurant in Meredith, NH.

4.4

Patrick's Pub & Eatery

Discover the charm of an authentic Irish pub experience at Patrick's Pub & Eatery in Gilford—great food, drinks, and live music await!

4.4

T-BONES Great American Eatery

Experience the heart of American cuisine at T-BONES Great American Eatery in Laconia - where every dish tells a story.

4.3

Covered Bridge Farm Table

Experience the unique flavors of American cuisine at Covered Bridge Farm Table in beautiful Campton, NH, with live music and seasonal delights.

4.5

Best bars in Belknap County

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Patrick's Pub & Eatery

Savor authentic Irish cuisine and lively entertainment at Patrick's Pub & Eatery, the heart of Gilford's dining scene.

4.4

T-BONES Great American Eatery

Savor the flavors of classic American cuisine at T-BONES Great American Eatery in Laconia, NH, where quality meets hospitality.

4.3

High Octane Saloon

Discover the lively High Octane Saloon in Laconia, NH, where delicious grilled dishes and a fun atmosphere await every visitor.

4.5

Tower Hill Tavern

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors at Tower Hill Tavern in Laconia, NH, where great food meets unforgettable entertainment.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Belknap County

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

DUBAI CIGAR AND HOOKAH CLUB LLC

Discover Manchester's lively nightlife at Dubai Cigar and Hookah Club, where premium cigars meet exquisite hookah and vibrant entertainment.

3.2

Bike Week

Experience the thrill of camaraderie and adventure at Laconia Bike Week, a premier motorcycle rally in the heart of New Hampshire's natural beauty.

4.7

Club Madison

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Club Madison at Hampton Beach - where music, dance, and ocean views unite for an unforgettable experience.

3.6

Island Boi’s Club

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Island Boi’s Club in Strafford, NH, where unforgettable music and dancing await every night.

5.0

Best shops in Belknap County

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Tanger Outlets Tilton

Discover incredible savings on top brands at Tanger Outlets Tilton, New Hampshire's premier outlet shopping destination.

4.4

The Old Country Store and Museum

Explore unique gifts, gourmet treats, and local history at The Old Country Store and Museum in Moultonborough, NH.

4.7

Belknap Marketplace

Discover the vibrant Belknap Marketplace in Belmont, NH, where shopping, dining, and relaxation come together for an unforgettable experience.

3.5

Chaos & Kindness

Discover the vibrant clothing store Chaos & Kindness in Laconia, NH, where urban style meets local artistry in a unique shopping experience.

4.8

Explore Belknap County on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Belknap County, mapped for you.

Belknap County Essentials

Belknap County is located in central New Hampshire, easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), located approximately 50 miles south of the county. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or use ride-sharing services to reach Belknap County. Additionally, you can drive from Boston Logan International Airport, which is about 90 miles away. For those traveling by train, the Amtrak Downeaster services nearby cities like Dover and Durham, from where you can rent a car or use local transportation to reach Belknap County.
Belknap County offers several transportation options to get around. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area, as it allows you to visit attractions at your own pace. Local taxi services and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are also available. The Lakes Region Community Services provides limited public transportation within the county, mainly serving senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. For a more scenic and leisurely experience, consider renting a bicycle or taking a boat tour on Lake Winnipesaukee.
The official currency in Belknap County, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the county, but it's wise to carry some cash, especially when visiting rural areas or small businesses that may not accept cards. Traveler's checks are less commonly used but can be cashed at most banks.
Belknap County is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While the county does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice. In case you need assistance, local police are approachable and helpful.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Belknap County has several medical facilities, including Lakes Region General Hospital in Laconia and other urgent care centers. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies throughout the county where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always keep a list of emergency contacts and the address of your accommodation.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities. Avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions if you visit religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and specialties. Don't forget to tip, as it is customary in the US.
To experience Belknap County like a local, consider visiting the local farmers' markets to buy fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share their knowledge about the region. Don't miss out on attending local events and festivals, which offer a glimpse into the community's culture and traditions. For a unique experience, take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway or go hiking in the Belknap Mountain Range for stunning views and outdoor adventure.

When is the best time to visit Belknap County?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Belknap County

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Belknap County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey there
  [Hay thair]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [See yah]
- YesYup
  [Yup]
- NoNope
  [Nope]
- Please/You're welcomeSure thing
  [Shur thing]
- Thank youThanks
  [Thangs]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [Pardon mee]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [How yah doin'?]
- Fine. And you?Good, and you?
  [Good, and you?]
- Do you speak English?You speakin' English?
  [Yoo speekin' English?]
- I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [I ain't gettin' it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [Can I see the menoo?]
- I don't eat meatI ain't into meat
  [I ain't into meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
  [Can I get the check?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [Get lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI’m turned around
  [I’m turned around]
- I'm illI ain't feelin' good
  [I ain't feelin' good]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [Just browsin']
- How much is it?What’s the price?
  [What’s the price?]
- That's too expensiveThat’s way too pricey
  [That’s way too pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya knock it down?
  [Can ya knock it down?]
- What time is it?What time's it?
  [What time's it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a...?
  [Where's a...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me the map?
  [Can ya show me the map?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to ...
  [A ticket to ...]

History of Belknap County

Belknap County, established in 1840, was named after Dr. Jeremy Belknap, a noted historian and clergyman. The county was carved out from parts of Strafford County to better manage the growing population and economic activities in the central New Hampshire region.
The early settlers of Belknap County were predominantly of English descent, arriving in the mid-18th century. They established agricultural communities, growing crops like corn, wheat, and potatoes. The fertile land and abundant natural resources made farming a sustainable way of life. These communities laid the groundwork for the county's future development.
The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to Belknap County. In the 19th century, the construction of textile mills along the Winnipesaukee River transformed the local economy. Towns like Laconia became industrial hubs, attracting workers and fostering urban growth. The Belknap Mill in Laconia, built in 1823, stands as a testament to this pivotal era.
The introduction of the railroad in the mid-19th century was a game-changer for Belknap County. The Boston, Concord & Montreal Railroad reached Laconia in 1848, connecting the county to larger markets and facilitating the movement of goods and people. This development spurred economic growth and the expansion of communities throughout the county.
Lake Winnipesaukee has been a central feature of Belknap County's identity. The lake, with its 72 square miles of pristine water, has attracted tourists and residents alike. The steamboat era in the late 19th and early 20th centuries saw vessels like the 'Mount Washington' ferrying passengers across the lake, boosting the local tourism industry and establishing the county as a summer destination.
Laconia Motorcycle Week, one of the oldest motorcycle rallies in the United States, began in 1916. Originally a modest gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts, it has grown into a major annual event that attracts tens of thousands of visitors from around the world. This event highlights Belknap County's cultural vibrancy and its role in the broader motorcycling community.
During World War II, Belknap County played a crucial role in supporting the war effort. Local factories converted their production lines to manufacture war materials, and many residents enlisted in the armed forces. The county's contributions to the war effort are memorialized in local monuments and historical societies.
The latter half of the 20th century saw a boom in outdoor recreational activities in Belknap County. With its picturesque landscapes, including the Belknap Mountain Range, the county became a haven for hiking, skiing, and boating enthusiasts. The development of recreational areas like Gunstock Mountain Resort has solidified the county's reputation as an outdoor adventure destination.
Efforts to preserve Belknap County's rich history have led to the restoration and maintenance of numerous historical sites. The Belknap Mill, the oldest unaltered brick textile mill in the United States, has been converted into a museum and cultural center. Other sites, such as the Ahern State Park and the New Hampshire Veterans Association grounds, offer glimpses into the county's storied past.