Need a lakeside escape or mountain adventure in New England? Head to Gilford! Nestled between Lake Winnipesaukee and the Belknap Mountains, Gilford is perfect for outdoor fun, seasonal festivals, and scenic relaxation. Whether you're boating, skiing, or rocking out at a summer concert, Gilford delivers year-round charm in the Lakes Region.
Gilford, NH Highlights:
- For Families: Spend a day at Ellacoya State Park – Swim, sunbathe, and picnic along the sandy shores of Lake Winnipesaukee.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike Mount Major – Take in sweeping lake and mountain views on this rewarding, family-friendly hike.
- For Kids: Splash around at Gunstock Mountain Resort Adventure Park – Try ziplining, a mountain coaster, treetop ropes courses, and more.
- For an Adventure: Ski or snowboard at Gunstock – Carve through winter snow at one of New Hampshire’s top ski resorts.
- For Music Lovers: Catch a show at Bank of NH Pavilion – Enjoy major outdoor concerts at one of New England’s best live music venues.
Best Time to Visit Gilford, NH
The best time to visit Gilford depends on your interests. Summer (June–August) is perfect for lake activities, hiking, and concerts. Fall (September–October) brings stunning foliage. Winter (December–March) is ideal for skiing and snow sports at Gunstock.
How to Get to Gilford, NH
- If you are traveling by car: Gilford is located off Route 11, about 30 minutes from I-93, 1 hour from Concord, and 2 hours from Boston.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), about 1 hour and 15 minutes away. Boston Logan (BOS) is about 2 hours away.
- By Bus: Concord Coach Lines offers service to nearby Laconia, with local transportation options into Gilford.
Where to Stay in Gilford, NH
- Misty Harbor Resort – Lakeside suites with beach access, indoor pool, and tennis courts, great for families and couples.
- Gunstock Inn & Resort – Cozy lodge near the mountain with rustic charm and easy trail access.
- Fireside Inn & Suites – Comfortable hotel just minutes from Lake Winnipesaukee and Bank of NH Pavilion.
Best Things to Do in Gilford, NH
⮕ Attend a concert at Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion
Formerly known as Meadowbrook, the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion is a stunning indoor/outdoor amphitheatre, scenically located right on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee (video).
The pavilion started off as a much smaller summer music venue with a temporary stage and seating for around 3,000 visitors. Today the pavilion can seat 9,000 avid concert-goers and is the prime concert venue in New England, as well as being named as one of the best concert venues in the U.S.
If you happen to live close by you can buy season tickets to all the shows and there is an on-site campground available for every show.
Address: Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, 72 Meadowbrook Lane, Gilford, NH 03249, Phone: 603-293-4700
⮕ Go skiing at Gunstock Mountain Resort
Located on Gunstock Mountain, the Gunstock Mountain Resort was built by the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression. It originally opened to the public in 1937 and was the first U.S. ski resort to own a chairlift. Today visitors flock to the resort to enjoy a wide range of activities in summer and winter.
Primarily a ski resort, Gunstock Mountain Resort boasts an excellent selection of exciting snow sports including tubing, a thrilling Mountain Coaster, Cross Country, ski lessons and three terrain parks. In summer you can visit to enjoy great hiking trails, camping, biking, fishing and scenic lift rides.
Address: Gunstock Mountain Resort, 719 Cherry Valley Road, Gilford, NH 03249, Phone: 603-293-4341
Where to Eat:
⮕ Have lunch at Patrick’s Pub and Eatery
Since 1987 Patrick’s Pub and Eatery has been a popular meeting place for Gilford locals and their visitors.
The pub is named for the original owner’s Irish father who hailed from County Cork in Ireland. Today the pub/restaurant is owned and operated by the Beetle family who have made a few changes but still maintain the original ethos of the pub, namely Irish Roots – American Spirit. The menu features a good selection of predominantly American dishes, with a few Irish classic like Guinness Braised Short Rib, Shepherd’s Pie and fried Fish and Chips.
The pub is open daily and hosts regular live entertainment.
Address: Patrick’s Pub and Eatery, 18 Weirs Rd, Gilford, NH 03249, Phone: 603-293-0841
⮕ Dine at Ellacoya Bar and Grill
Located in a historic old barn which dates back to 1843, the Ellacoya Bar and Grill extends a warm welcome to guests. The barn provides the ideal rustic yet welcoming ambiance and the food is an electric mix of fresh and delicious flavors and textures.
The extensive menu features a good selection of appetizers followed by soups and salads. The entrée list is also extensive, featuring steaks, lamb shanks, ribs, chicken dishes and several seafood options like Panko Crusted Haddock, Seared Ahi Tuna, Grilled Salmon and Seafood Saffron, a selection of fresh seafood tossed in a saffron cream sauce. A lighter lunch menu features sandwiches, burgers, pizza and wraps.
Address: Ellacoya Bar and Grill, 2667 Lakeshore Rd, Gilford, NH 03219, Phone: 603-293-8700
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ Purchase fresh produce at Beans and Greens Farm
Founded 30 years ago by local dairy farmers Andy and Martina Howe, Beans and Greens Farm has been supplying the Gilford community with premium quality, freshly harvested produce.
The farm was bought by Lindy and Chris in April 2021 and they strive to continue the old traditions and add some new and exciting enhancements to the farm. These have included the Flying Bean kid’s adventure park and a weekend Beer Garden. Their farm stall is packed with nutritious, sustainably farmed veggies all year round as well as farm-raised, hormone-free meats, free-range eggs, and home-made bakery goods.
In fall you can visit the pumpkin patch and bring the kids to enjoy the corn maze.
Address: 245 Intervale Rd, Gilford, NH 03249, 603 293 2853
⮕ Challenge yourself at Hour House Escape Room
Hour House Escape Room in Gilford is designed to offer an hour of challenging entertainment for everyone over the age of 15 (or over 5 accompanied by an adult). There are 3 escape rooms to choose from.
including The Russian Connection, which is ideal for 4-8 players and is rated as difficult. The Swan Song room revolves around a band which seems to be missing their lead singer – you will need to find him before the curtain rises – perfect for 4-8 players and also rated 8 out of 10 for difficulty.
Lastly there is the Mission Impossible room, where players are tasked with finding a hidden formula which can save the world. If you think you have what it takes you can book online.
Address: Hour House Escape Room, 401 Gilford Ave, Suite 103, Gilford, NH 03249, 603 707 1254
If you are interested in local events:
- Concert Season at Bank of NH Pavilion (May–September) – Major music acts perform throughout the summer.
- Gunstock Summer Adventure Series – Weekly mountain events including night rides, food trucks, and live music.
- New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival (October, nearby Laconia) – Jack-o’-lantern towers, street performers, and fall festivities.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Gilford, New Hampshire:
- Weirs Beach (15–20 min) – Boardwalk amusements, arcades, and boat cruises on Lake Winnipesaukee.
- Meredith (25–30 min) – Stroll lakefront shops, dine by the water, or explore the sculpture walk.
- Laconia (10–15 min) – Visit the historic Belknap Mill, browse local shops, or attend seasonal festivals.
- Alton Bay (20–25 min) – Quaint lake village with scenic views and access to the Mount Washington cruise ship.
- Tilton (25–30 min) – Outlet shopping, dining, and access to the Winnisquam Lake area.
- Belknap Mountain Trails (10–15 min) – Hike through forests and rocky outcrops with rewarding views from the fire tower.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Why is Gilford, NH a popular getaway destination?
- Offering year-round outdoor recreational facilities at the Gunstock Mountain Resort, Gilford, NH is a popular weekend getaway for outdoor enthusiasts.
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What activities can visitors enjoy in Gilford during the summer?
- In summer, visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, biking, and more.
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What winter activities are available in Gilford?
- During winter, Gilford offers the full gamut of exciting snow sports.
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What outdoor recreation is available at Ellacoya State Park?
- Ellacoya State Park offers a range of outdoor recreational facilities, including boating, canoeing, and kayaking.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
Misty Harbor Resort – A comfortable lakeside stay near Lake Winnipesaukee.
Explore Gunstock Mountain Resort – Enjoy hiking, zip-lining, and scenic views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for boating and lake activities.
The Margate Resort – A lakeside retreat with a private beach.
Relax on Ellacoya State Park Beach – Swim, picnic, and enjoy breathtaking lake views.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, fewer crowds, and stunning foliage.
Fireside Inn & Suites Gilford – A cozy and welcoming stay near outdoor attractions.
Drive the Lakes Region Scenic Byway – Experience beautiful autumn colors and charming small towns.
Map:
Plan Your Trip