Need a peaceful lakeside getaway with New England charm? Head to Meredith, New Hampshire! Set on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, Meredith offers stunning scenery, boutique shopping, and cozy inns. Whether you're boating in summer, leaf-peeping in fall, or enjoying fireside relaxation in winter, this resort town is a year-round treasure.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Meredith is from late spring to fall (May through October). Enjoy lake activities, hiking, and festivals in summer, or admire breathtaking foliage and cooler temperatures in autumn. Winter also offers skiing and cozy getaways.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Meredith is accessible via U.S. Route 3 and NH Route 25. It's about 2 hours from Boston and 1.5 hours from Concord.
- By Air: The closest major airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), about 1.5 hours away by car.
- By Bus: Concord Coach Lines offers service to nearby towns, with local connections into Meredith.
Where to Stay
- Mill Falls at the Lake – Lakeside resort with four unique inns, a spa, and beautiful views of Lake Winnipesaukee.
- The Nutmeg Inn – A charming, historic bed-and-breakfast known for hospitality and homemade breakfast.
- Ballard House Inn – Peaceful inn with panoramic mountain views and easy access to area attractions.
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Lake Winnipesaukee – Go boating, fishing, paddleboarding, or take a scenic cruise aboard the M/S Mount Washington.
- Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad – Ride a vintage train along the lake with beautiful shoreline views.
- Downtown Meredith – Stroll along Main Street to find boutiques, cafés, and artisan shops in a charming setting.
- Meredith Sculpture Walk – Outdoor art exhibit winding through town, featuring rotating sculptures and local artists.
- Hermit Woods Winery & Deli – Taste small-batch fruit wines and enjoy local food in a cozy downtown tasting room.
Unique Attractions
⮕ Sip Handcrafted Wines at Hermit Woods Winery
Hermit Woods Winery produces a selection of award-winning, hand-crafted wines which are sure to become favorites in your cellar. The boutique winery strives to produce outstanding wines which have been made using the best local organic fruit, flowers and honey. Most of the grapes come from their small vineyard in Sanbornton (where the famous Hermit lived) and from other local farms. Visitors are always welcome at their tasting room where you can take a tour of the winery and enjoy a fun and educational tasting in a very relaxed and unassuming setting. You will also learn all about the Hermit. There is an on-site deli where you can order a variety of charcuterie and cheese platters to enjoy alongside your wines.
Hermit Woods Winery, 72 Main Street, Meredith, NH 03253, Phone: 603-253-7968
⮕ Relax with Local Brews at Twin Barns Brewing Company
Twin Barns Brewing Company was formed when friends Dave and Bruce decided to turn their passion for home brewing into a business in 2018. The brewery is located in a character-full antique barn, close to the scenic shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, where visitors are always welcome to drop by for a tasting. The tap room offers something for everyone including pale and dark lagers, IPA’s, ales, porter and witbier. You can order tasty eats to accompany your brew – these include tasty flatbreads, salads, sandwiches and burgers. The brewery hosts Trivia Nights and Burger & Pint nights from Thursday to Sunday, with live music on Saturdays.
Twin Barns Brewing Company, 194 Daniel Webster Hwy, Meredith, NH 03253, Phone: 603-279-0876
⮕ Step Into the Past at the Meredith Historical Society
The Meredith Historical Society was established in 2005 to collect, preserve and showcase the history of Meredith and the wider local area. The society showcases its substantial collections in the Hanford Mills Museum in East Meredith. The most efficient way to see several of the historic buildings in Meredith is to set off on foot along Main Street, following the Historic Walking Tour Map, which can you pick up from the Historical Society or the Town Hall. Just of few of the interesting historic buildings you will encounter include the Congregational Church, Sanborn House/Drug Store, the John Bond Swaney House and the Lang Mansfield Store.
Meredith Historical Society, 45 Main Street, Meredith, NH 03253, Phone: 603-279-1190
Where to Eat
⮕ Feast on Comfort Classics at Hart’s Turkey Farm Restaurant
For 67 long years the Hart family has been pleasing palates in the Lakes Region with their distinctive brand of delicious home-style food. Although there will always be turkey at the heart of this farm and eatery, you can also look forward to trying a wide selection of other tasty treats like steaks, prime rib and burgers. However, the turkey choices are many and varied and folks come from near and far to enjoy unique dishes like their Turkey Tempura, Turkey Shepherd’s Pie and Spaghetti with Turkey Meatballs. If you are passing by you can stop by to stock up on a wide range of frozen meals, pies, cakes and more.
Hart’s Turkey Farm Restaurant, 233 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, NH 03253, Phone: 603-279-6212
More Places to Eat
- Lago – Lakeside dining with upscale Italian cuisine and beautiful water views.
- George’s Diner – A no-frills classic spot for hearty breakfasts and hometown comfort food.
- Town Docks Restaurant – Seasonal open-air eatery right on the lake, known for seafood, burgers, and tiki drinks.
If you are interested in local events:
- Meredith Bay Ice Fishing Derby (February) – Popular winter event attracting anglers from across New England.
- Great Rotary Fishing Derby (July) – Family-friendly fishing competition with prizes and lake fun.
- Autumn Craft Festival at Mill Falls (October) – Celebrate fall with handmade goods, live music, and foliage views.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Meredith, New Hampshire:
- Center Harbor (5–10 min) – Quiet lakeside village with shops, bakeries, and a picturesque marina.
- Weirs Beach (15 min) – Visit arcades, enjoy the boardwalk, or catch a boat cruise on the lake.
- Funspot (15 min) – The world’s largest arcade, packed with vintage games and family-friendly fun.
- Squam Lake Natural Science Center (25 min) – Learn about local wildlife through outdoor exhibits and nature trails.
- Gunstock Mountain Resort (30 min) – Ski in winter or try ziplining, hiking, and mountain biking in warmer months.
- Mount Major (30 min) – Hike this scenic summit for incredible views over Lake Winnipesaukee.
FAQ:
- What is Meredith, and where is it located?
- Meredith is a small rural town in Delaware County, composed of three hamlets: East Meredith, Meredith, and Meridale.
- What historic attractions can visitors see in Meredith?
- The town originated in 1748, and today you can admire several interesting historic buildings as you take a leisurely stroll along Main Street.
- What outdoor activities are available in Meredith?
- Outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to exploring the surrounding scenic area on foot along several walking/hiking trails.
- Where can visitors enjoy food and drinks in Meredith?
- Once you have worked up a thirst, you can make your way to the Hermit Woods Winery or the Twin Barns Brewing Company for a relaxing tasting and a delicious meal.
- What is a unique way to experience the Lakes Region?
- A good way to enjoy the beauty of the Lakes Region is to hop aboard the Lake Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad for a two-hour fun ride.
At a Glance:
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Mild weather, blooming flowers, and lakeside tranquility. | Mill Falls at the Lake – Charming waterfront accommodations with scenic views. | Visit Meredith Sculpture Walk – Enjoy outdoor art installations along Main Street. |
| Summer (June-August) – Warm temperatures ideal for boating and lake activities. | Church Landing at Mill Falls – Luxury lakeside hotel with exceptional amenities. | Explore Lake Winnipesaukee – Rent a kayak or enjoy a scenic boat cruise. |
| Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, stunning foliage, and local harvest events. | The Inn at Mill Falls – Cozy rooms centrally located near shops and restaurants. | Take a scenic drive around the lake – Experience spectacular fall colors and picturesque views. |
| Winter (December-February) – Snowy landscapes perfect for winter sports and relaxation. | Bay Point at Mill Falls – Comfortable accommodations offering beautiful lake vistas. | Enjoy ice fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee – Experience this unique winter tradition. |
Plan Your Trip