Coos County, New Hampshire Travel Guide
Discover the untouched beauty of Coos County, New Hampshire, where outdoor adventures, historical charm, and serene landscapes await in every season.
Coos County in New Hampshire is a captivating blend of natural beauty and rustic charm. Nestled in the northern part of the state, it offers a serene escape for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind in a tranquil setting. The county is home to the White Mountain National Forest, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can hike along scenic trails, enjoy breathtaking views from the peaks, and discover hidden waterfalls. Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast, stands proudly within the county, offering challenging climbs and a famous cog railway ride to its summit. For those who prefer water activities, the Androscoggin River provides excellent opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The area is also known for its picturesque lakes, perfect for a peaceful day of boating or simply relaxing by the shore. History buffs will appreciate the region's rich heritage. The town of Lancaster, with its historic buildings and charming main street, offers a glimpse into the past. Don't miss visiting the Great North Woods, where you can explore quaint villages and learn about the area's logging history. In winter, Coos County transforms into a snowy wonderland. Snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing are popular activities, drawing visitors to the region's pristine landscapes and well-maintained trails. The town of Gorham serves as a gateway to these winter adventures, providing cozy lodgings and warm hospitality. Whether you're seeking outdoor excitement, historical insights, or a peaceful retreat, Coos County delivers an unforgettable experience. Its unspoiled beauty and welcoming communities make it a must-visit destination in New Hampshire.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Coos County.
- Visit in autumn for stunning foliage views, especially along the Kancamagus Highway.
- Pack layers, as weather can change quickly in the mountains.
- Reserve accommodations in advance during peak seasons, especially in winter and summer.
- Check local regulations and permits if planning to fish or hunt.
- Bring a map and compass for hiking, as cell service can be spotty in remote areas.
Destinations in Coos County
Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.
Explore Coos County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Coos County
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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White Mountain National Forest
Explore the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and outdoor activities in the picturesque White Mountain National Forest, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
The Mount Washington Cog Railway
Discover the breathtaking ride of The Mount Washington Cog Railway, a historic journey to New Hampshire's iconic peak with stunning views and rich heritage.
Story Land
Experience the enchantment of Story Land, a family-friendly amusement park in Glen, New Hampshire, filled with rides, shows, and magical moments.
Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves, a natural wonder in New Hampshire's White Mountains perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Best restaurants in Coos County
Top-rated picks
Best Restaurants
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Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub
Discover delicious American cuisine and a lively pub atmosphere at Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub in North Conway.
Delaney's Hole In the Wall
Experience authentic American grilling at Delaney's Hole In The Wall in North Conway—where every meal feels like home.
The Common Man Lincoln
Discover the flavors of New Hampshire at The Common Man Lincoln - where American cuisine meets local charm.
May Kelly's Cottage
Discover the warmth and flavor of Ireland at May Kelly's Cottage in North Conway – where every meal is a celebration.
Best bars in Coos County
Top-rated picks
Best Bars
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Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub in North Conway, a perfect spot for families and friends.
Red Fox Bar and Grille
Discover the flavors of New Hampshire at Red Fox Bar and Grille, where delicious American cuisine meets a cozy atmosphere in Jackson.
Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing Co.
Experience the best of craft brewing and delicious smokehouse flavors at Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing Co. in North Conway, NH.
Schilling Beer Co.
Discover the vibrant flavors of craft beer in a welcoming atmosphere at Schilling Beer Co. in Littleton, New Hampshire.
Best shops in Coos County
Top-rated picks
Best Shops
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Zeb's General Store
Discover unique gifts and local flavors at Zeb's General Store in North Conway, the perfect stop for all your souvenir needs.
Settlers Green Outlet Village
Discover unbeatable deals at Settlers Green Outlet Village in North Conway, where shopping meets stunning mountain views.
The Old Country Store and Museum
Explore the delightful fusion of history, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs at The Old Country Store and Museum in Moultonborough, NH.
Chutters
Experience the sweetest gift shop in Littleton, NH, with its extensive candy selection and unique gift offerings.
Explore Coos County on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Coos County, mapped for you.
Coos County Essentials
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Coos County is located in the northern part of New Hampshire. The nearest major airport is Portland International Jetport (PWM) in Maine, approximately 100 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach Coos County. If traveling by car, Interstate 93 and U.S. Route 3 are the primary highways leading into the county. The Amtrak Downeaster train service also offers routes to nearby cities, from which you can rent a car or take a bus to Coos County.
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Transportation within Coos County is primarily via car, as public transportation options are limited. Car rentals are available at nearby airports and in larger towns. For local travel, towns like Berlin and Gorham have taxi services. Biking and hiking are popular modes of transportation for outdoor enthusiasts, especially within the White Mountain National Forest. During winter, snowmobiles and skis are also common.
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The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops throughout Coos County. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting more remote areas or engaging in outdoor activities where card payments might not be accepted. ATMs are available in larger towns such as Berlin and Lancaster.
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Coos County is generally a safe destination for travelers. Violent crime rates are low, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables in your car and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Some remote areas may have limited cell phone reception, so plan accordingly. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
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In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Coos County has several hospitals and medical facilities, including Androscoggin Valley Hospital in Berlin and Weeks Medical Center in Lancaster. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in larger towns. Always inform someone of your travel plans if you are exploring remote areas.
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Fashion: Do dress in layers, as weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Don't wear open-toed shoes when hiking. Religion: Do respect local churches and historical sites. Remove hats when entering religious buildings. Public Transport: Do be patient, as public transport options are limited and schedules can be sparse. Don't rely solely on public transport for getting around. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Good morning.' Don't be surprised if people wave to you, even if they don't know you. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like maple syrup and poutine. Don't forget to tip your servers, typically 15-20%.
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To experience Coos County like a local, visit the numerous farmers' markets and roadside stands for fresh produce and homemade goods. Engage with locals at community events like the Lancaster Fair or the Berlin RiverFire Festival. For a true local experience, take part in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and snowmobiling. Don't miss out on visiting the scenic overlooks along the Kancamagus Highway and exploring the historic Mount Washington Auto Road.
When is the best time to visit Coos County?
Useful Local Phrases for Coos 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
Here are the phrases I use most often in Coos County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHowdy
[haʊdi] - GoodbyeSee ya
[si jə] - YesYup
[jʌp] - NoNope
[noʊp] - Please/You’re welcomeNo problem
[noʊ ˈprɒbləm] - Thank youThanks
[θæŋks] - Excuse me/SorrySorry 'bout that
[ˈsɔri baʊt ðæt] - How are you?How ya doin'?
[haʊ jə ˈduɪn] - Fine. And you?Good, you?
[ɡʊd, ju?] - Do you speak English?Can ya talk English?
[kæn jə tɔk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ] - I don't understandI don't get it
[aɪ doʊnt ɡɛt ɪt]
- HelloHowdy
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- I’d like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
[kæn aɪ si ðə ˈmɛnju] - I don’t eat meatI’m a vegetarian
[aɪm ə ˌvɛdʒəˈtɛriən] - Cheers!Cheers!
[ʧɪrz] - I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the bill?
[kæn aɪ ɡɛt ðə bɪl]
- I’d like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
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- Help!Help!
[hɛlp] - Go away!Get lost!
[ɡɛt lɔst] - Call the Police!Call the cops!
[kɔl ðə kɑps] - Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
[ɡɛt ə ˈdɑktər] - I’m lostI'm lost
[aɪm lɔst] - I’m illI ain't feelin' well
[aɪ eɪnt ˈfilɪn wɛl]
- Help!Help!
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- I’d like to buy...I wanna buy...
[aɪ ˈwɑnə baɪ] - I’m just lookingJust browsing
[dʒʌst ˈbraʊzɪŋ] - How much is it?What’s the price?
[wʌts ðə praɪs] - That’s too expensiveThat’s a bit pricey
[ðæts ə bɪt ˈpraɪsi] - Can you lower the price?Can ya bring down the price?
[kæn jə brɪŋ daʊn ðə praɪs]
- I’d like to buy...I wanna buy...
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- What time is it?What time is it?
[wʌt taɪm ɪz ɪt] - It’s one o’clockIt’s one
[ɪts wʌn] - Half past (10)Half past ten
[hæf pæst tɛn] - MorningMornin'
[ˈmɔrnɪn] - AfternoonAfternoon
[ˌæftərˈnun] - EveningEvenin'
[ˈivnɪn] - YesterdayYesterday
[ˈjɛstərdeɪ] - TodayToday
[təˈdeɪ] - TomorrowTomorrow
[təˈmɑroʊ] - 1One
[wʌn] - 2Two
[tu] - 3Three
[θri] - 4Four
[fɔr] - 5Five
[faɪv] - 6Six
[sɪks] - 7Seven
[ˈsɛvən] - 8Eight
[eɪt] - 9Nine
[naɪn] - 10Ten
[tɛn]
- What time is it?What time is it?
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- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
[wɛrz ðə] - What’s the address?What’s the address?
[wʌts ði əˈdrɛs] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me on the map?
[kæn jə ʃoʊ mi ɑn ðə mæp] - When’s the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
[wɛnʔs ðə nɛkst bʌs] - A ticket (to ....)One ticket to...
[wʌn ˈtɪkɪt tə]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
Neighbouring Regions of Coos County
The closest regions to Coos County, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of New Hampshire
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Explore New HampshireCoos County in Photos
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The Wilderness and Wonders of Coos County, New Hampshire
Coos County in New Hampshire is a captivating blend of natural beauty and rustic charm. Nestled in the northern part of the state, it offers a serene escape for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind in a tranquil setting. The county is home to the White Mountain National Forest, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can hike along scenic trails, enjoy breathtaking views from the peaks, and discover hidden waterfalls. Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast, stands proudly within the county, offering challenging climbs and a famous cog railway ride to its summit. For those who prefer water activities, the Androscoggin River provides excellent opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The area is also known for its picturesque lakes, perfect for a peaceful day of boating or simply relaxing by the shore. History buffs will appreciate the region's rich heritage. The town of Lancaster, with its historic buildings and charming main street, offers a glimpse into the past. Don't miss visiting the Great North Woods, where you can explore quaint villages and learn about the area's logging history. In winter, Coos County transforms into a snowy wonderland. Snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing are popular activities, drawing visitors to the region's pristine landscapes and well-maintained trails. The town of Gorham serves as a gateway to these winter adventures, providing cozy lodgings and warm hospitality. Whether you're seeking outdoor excitement, historical insights, or a peaceful retreat, Coos County delivers an unforgettable experience. Its unspoiled beauty and welcoming communities make it a must-visit destination in New Hampshire.