New Hampshire shines during the holiday season with charming downtowns, twinkling lights, and snow-dusted landscapes that feel straight out of a classic New England postcard. Whether you're drawn to cozy boutiques, festive parades, or peaceful winter scenery, the Granite State offers some truly memorable places to take a holiday stroll — all within easy reach of Steele Hill Resort, the Summit Resort, and the Center Harbor Inn.

Here are the most magical towns to explore during your Path Vacations winter getaway.

Meredith, NH

(10–20 minutes from Steele Hill & the Summit; 5 minutes from Center Harbor Inn)

Meredith transforms into a lakeside wonderland during the holidays. The town’s charming shops, seasonal decor, and waterfront views make it one of the most picturesque strolls in the Lakes Region.

Don’t miss:

  • The Mill Falls marketplace draped in lights

  • Meredith’s lakefront boardwalk glowing at dusk

  • Local boutiques filled with handcrafted holiday gifts

Wolfeboro, NH

(20–30 minutes from Center Harbor Inn)

Wolfeboro delivers pure small-town holiday magic. Historic buildings, twinkling windows, and festive décor line its Main Street in a way that feels both nostalgic and heartwarming.

Don’t miss:

  • Wolfeboro Festival of Trees

  • Holiday parade and seasonal celebrations

  • Lakeside strolls with reflections of holiday lights

Laconia, NH

(10–15 minutes from Steele Hill & the Summit)

Laconia offers a lively yet cozy holiday atmosphere, perfect for a laid-back downtown stroll.

Don’t miss:

  • Light displays throughout Rotary Park

  • Seasonal drinks and treats from local cafés

  • Winter window displays along Main Street

Plymouth, NH

(25–30 minutes from Steele Hill & the Summit)

With its walkable square, historic charm, and vibrant energy, Plymouth creates a cheerful holiday backdrop for families and couples alike.

Don’t miss:

  • Plymouth’s Hometown Holiday Celebration

  • Tree lighting events in the town common

  • Shops and eateries dressed up for the season

Canterbury Shaker Village (Canterbury, NH)

(35–40 minutes from Steele Hill & the Summit)

While not a traditional Main Street stroll, Canterbury Shaker Village offers a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that feels peaceful, nostalgic, and beautifully atmospheric.

Don’t miss:

  • Christmas at Canterbury festivities

  • Lantern-lit pathways among historic Shaker buildings

  • Carolers, craft demos, and hot cider by the fire

Concord, NH

(45–55 minutes from Steele Hill & the Summit; about 1 hour from Center Harbor Inn)

New Hampshire’s capital city blends historic charm with modern holiday sparkle — and it’s wonderfully walkable. Concord’s downtown is alive with festive lights, decorated storefronts, and cozy spots to warm up with a treat between shops.

Don’t miss:

  • Intown Concord’s Midnight Merriment holiday event

  • Strolling Main Street lined with boutiques and glowing window displays

  • Delicious stops like The Crust & Crumb or Revelstoke Coffee

Concord offers a bigger-city holiday feel while still maintaining the heart and warmth of classic New Hampshire.


Make Your Holiday Shine With Path Vacations

After wandering through New Hampshire’s most festive towns, return to the comfort of a Path Vacations resort, where cozy fireplaces, indoor pools, snowy trails, and spacious suites make every moment feel special.

Whether your perfect holiday stroll is peaceful and quiet or festive and bustling, our resorts are the ideal home base for your winter adventures. Click here to learn more about each property and start planning your next getaway,