Franconia is a picturesque town located in the heart of New England. It is known for its quaint Main Street, historic landmarks, and stunning natural scenery. The town is surrounded by the northern half of Franconia Notch State Park, offering visitors a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The eastern and southern portions of the town are home to parts of the White Mountain National Forest, where visitors can explore the vast wilderness of the area.
One of the highlights of Franconia is the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, which was built in 1938 and was the first passenger aerial tramway in North America. The red and yellow tram cars still run year-round today, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains as they rise to the 4,100-foot summit of Cannon Mountain. The original tramway carried 6.5 million passengers to the summit until its retirement in 1980 when it was replaced by a new 80-passenger tram.
Another must-visit attraction in Franconia is Echo Lake, a beautiful lake located at an elevation of 1,931 feet. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and renting a canoe, kayak, or pedal boat. The lake offers stunning views of Mt. Lafayette and Cannon Mountain and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.
For those interested in history, the Franconia Heritage Museum and the Frost Place Museum are both worth a visit. The former offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history, while the latter is the former home of the renowned poet Robert Frost.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking to relax and unwind, Franconia has something for everyone. From exploring the Franconia Notch State Park and hiking the Franconia Ridge Trail to strolling down Main Street and browsing the local shops and galleries, Franconia is the perfect destination for a New England getaway.
More things to do in Franconia, NH:
- Explore the Franconia Notch State Park: With its towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking vistas, Franconia Notch State Park is a must-visit for anyone who loves the outdoors.
- Hike to the summit of Cannon Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, or take a dip in the cool waters of Echo Lake.
- Visit the Flume Gorge: This natural wonder is a must-see for anyone visiting Franconia. Take a stroll along the boardwalk that winds through the gorge and marvel at the towering granite walls and cascading waterfalls.
- Go skiing or snowboarding: Franconia is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders in the winter. Hit the slopes at Bretton Woods or try your hand at cross-country skiing on one of the many groomed trails in the area.
- Sample local food and drink: Franconia is home to a vibrant culinary scene, with plenty of farm-to-table restaurants and cozy pubs to choose from. Take the chance to sample some of the local specialties, such as maple syrup, apple cider, and artisanal cheese.
Franconia NH rentals
We have many amazing homes in Franconia like these:
