Orange New HampshireATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Orange, New Hampshire.
1. White Mountains
MAJESTIC NATURAL WONDER
The White Mountains offer some of New Hampshire's most spectacular natural scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic drives, and stunning mountain views throughout the year. The area is particularly popular during fall foliage season when the mountains are ablaze with vibrant autumn colors.
2. Mount Lafayette
CHALLENGING MOUNTAIN HIKE
Mount Lafayette stands as one of the most prominent peaks in New Hampshire's White Mountains. The mountain offers challenging hiking trails that reward climbers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Experienced hikers particularly enjoy the Franconia Ridge Loop which connects Mount Lafayette with nearby peaks.
3. Cannon Mountain
SKIING AND SCENIC VIEWS
Cannon Mountain is a popular destination for skiing in winter and hiking in summer with an aerial tramway offering year-round access. The mountain features challenging ski slopes and breathtaking views of Franconia Notch. Its historic significance includes being home to the former Old Man of the Mountain rock formation.
4. Flume Gorge
NATURAL GRANITE CHASM
The Flume Gorge is a natural granite chasm extending 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty. Visitors can explore this spectacular gorge via a wooden walkway system with numerous stairs that wind through the narrow ravine. The highlight of the gorge is Avalanche Falls, an impressive 45-foot waterfall that cascades dramatically through the narrow space.
5. Mount Washington Auto Road
HISTORIC SCENIC DRIVE
The Mount Washington Auto Road offers drivers a thrilling journey to the summit of the Northeast's highest peak. This historic attraction, dating back to 1861, provides spectacular views across the Presidential Range and beyond. Visitors can either drive their own vehicles or take a guided tour in specially equipped vans.
6. Kancamagus Highway
SCENIC MOUNTAIN BYWAY
The Kancamagus Highway is a 34.5-mile scenic drive that winds through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest. Known for its spectacular fall foliage, the route features numerous scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and historic sites. The highway connects Conway to Lincoln, providing access to pristine forests, mountain streams, and waterfalls along the way.
7. Santa's Village
CHRISTMAS-THEMED AMUSEMENT PARK
Santa's Village is a Christmas-themed amusement park that delights visitors with holiday magic year-round. The park features numerous rides including the Skyway Sleigh monorail, Peppermint Twist roller coaster, and the refreshing Yule Log Flume. Admission includes all rides, shows, 3-D movies, and live entertainment, making it an excellent value for families with children of various ages.
8. West Rattlesnake Mountain
FAMILY-FRIENDLY HIKING DESTINATION
West Rattlesnake Mountain offers one of New Hampshire's most rewarding short hikes with exceptional views of Squam Lake. The trail is moderately easy, making it accessible for families and casual hikers seeking spectacular scenery. Hikers particularly enjoy the rocky summit area which provides perfect spots for picnicking while taking in the panoramic vistas.
9. Mount Major
POPULAR SCENIC SUMMIT
Mount Major attracts hikers with its moderate difficulty and outstanding views of Lake Winnipesaukee. The mountain's well-maintained trails make it accessible for reasonably fit hikers of various experience levels. The summit rewards climbers with expansive panoramas that are especially stunning during fall foliage season.
10. Lost River Gorge
GLACIAL CAVES ADVENTURE
Lost River Gorge features a series of fascinating boulder caves formed by ancient glacial activity. Visitors navigate wooden walkways and stairs that wind through the rock formations and alongside cascading waterfalls. The attraction combines natural beauty with adventure, allowing guests to squeeze through tight cave passages or bypass them via alternate routes.
11. Ice Castles
WINTER WONDERLAND EXPERIENCE
Ice Castles transforms ordinary winter landscapes into magical frozen wonderlands with hand-crafted ice formations. Visitors can explore tunnels, slides, fountains, and caverns all crafted from ice and illuminated with color-changing LED lights. The seasonal attraction typically operates from January through early March, weather permitting.
12. Story Land
CLASSIC CHILDREN'S THEME PARK
Story Land has been enchanting families for generations with its fairy tale-themed attractions and rides designed specifically for young children. The park features gentle roller coasters, water play areas, live shows, and interactive exhibits based on classic children's stories. Character meet-and-greets and photo opportunities with storybook settings make this a favorite destination for families with children under 12.
13. Cathedral Ledge
ROCK CLIMBING PARADISE
Cathedral Ledge rises 700 feet above the surrounding valley, offering both challenging rock climbing routes and spectacular views. Visitors can either hike to the top or drive up the auto road for easy access to the summit overlook. The granite cliff face is popular with technical rock climbers while casual visitors enjoy the panoramic vistas of the Mount Washington Valley.
14. Hood Museum of Art
CULTURAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Hood Museum of Art houses Dartmouth College's impressive collection of diverse artworks spanning cultures and time periods. The museum features rotating exhibitions alongside its permanent collection of over 65,000 objects. Visitors appreciate the museum's thoughtful curation and free admission policy that makes art accessible to all.
15. Left Bank Books
CHARMING INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE
Left Bank Books offers bibliophiles a carefully curated selection of new, used, and rare books in downtown Hanover. The independent bookstore creates a welcoming atmosphere for readers to browse and discover literary treasures. Regular events including author readings and book clubs make this a cultural hub for the community.