Lakes Region, New Hampshire
Making a day of it? Belmont Village sits in the heart of New Hampshire’s beautiful Lakes Region, surrounded by trails, farms, history, and family-friendly attractions. Here are some of our favorite things to see and do while you’re in the area.
Canterbury Shaker Village is a National Historic Landmark and living museum dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the Shaker community that once called this place home. It was also the home of the 2025 NH Monarch Festival — so it holds a special place in our hearts! Well worth a visit any time of year.
Visit shakers.org →Get Outside
The Lakes Region is an outdoor lover’s paradise — whether you prefer a leisurely lakeside stroll or a summit hike.
A beautiful 1.8-mile paved rail trail running along the shores of Lake Winnisquam. Completely flat and perfect for walking, running, or biking with stunning lake views. Connects to the Laconia WOW Trail for even more miles of adventure.
Learn more → 🏔 Recreation AreaJust a short drive from Belmont, Gunstock offers year-round fun including hiking and biking trails, camping, zip lines, and a scenic chairlift ride in summer. A Lakes Region favorite for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
gunstock.com → ⛰ HikingA popular local hiking trail that takes you through wooded terrain and opens out onto a beautiful bedrock ridge near the summit. A rewarding hike with lovely views of the surrounding Lakes Region landscape.
Trail info → 🏃 Rail TrailA hidden gem right in Belmont Village! This scenic four-mile round-trip trail follows the route of a historic 1889 railroad branch line along the banks of the winding Tioga River. The trail features two charming covered bridges, peaceful riverside views, and even a stretch through cattle pasture. Parking is available at the Belmont Mill on Mill Street. A lovely walk or bike ride for all ages.
traillink.com → 🌳 Town ForestA 65-acre town forest right in Belmont, managed by the Belmont Conservation Commission and named in memory of beloved community conservationist Jeff Marden. The forest features walking trails, including universally accessible paths, through beautiful New Hampshire woodland. A quiet, peaceful escape just steps from the village.
Learn more → 🌊 LakesideOne of New Hampshire’s most beloved lake destinations on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. A classic New England summer scene with a beach, boardwalk, arcades, boat cruises, and plenty of waterfront dining just minutes from Belmont.
weirs.com →Eat & Explore
The Lakes Region has some wonderful farm stands and local food destinations that are perfect for a stop before or after the festival.
A beloved Lakes Region institution in nearby Gilford, Beans & Greens is a family-run farm offering fresh produce, a bakery, deli, barnyard animals, a coffee carriage, and live events. Named Best Farmstand in the Lakes Region four years in a row. Fun for the whole family!
beansandgreensfarm.com → 🍎 Pick Your OwnA charming family-run orchard right here in Belmont, with roots going back to 1929 when Charlie Smith first planted 800 apple trees. Today the orchard offers pick-your-own apples and blueberries, fresh cider, cider donuts on weekends, jams, jellies, honey, and tractor rides. A New Hampshire Farm of Distinction and a wonderful local tradition!
smithorchard.net → 🍕 Local DiningA Belmont staple since 1998, Brookside Pizza II is a go-to spot for delicious thin-crust pizza, hearty subs, pasta, and more. Connected to The Tap Public House with a full bar and plenty of beer on tap. Dine in, take out, or delivery — a perfect stop before or after the festival!
thetappublichouseinc.com → 🏭 FarmA charming local farm in the Belmont area offering fresh, locally grown products. A great stop for those who love supporting local agriculture and finding quality New Hampshire-grown goods.
Visit Stone Mountain Farm →Learn & Discover
From wildlife education to natural history, the Lakes Region has plenty of enriching experiences for curious minds of all ages.
A 160-acre nonprofit environmental education center in nearby Laconia, Prescott Farm is a wonderful complement to the spirit of the NH Monarch Festival. Explore 3+ miles of nature trails through woodlands, ponds, and fields with views of Lake Winnipesaukee, visit the Natural Playscape, and discover native plants and wildlife. Open 365 days a year from dawn to dusk — free to explore the trails!
prescottfarm.org → 🌻 A Special ConnectionThe birthplace of the NH Monarch Festival! Donna Miller’s beloved 7-acre property in Canterbury is where it all began in 2012. A certified Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom, registered Monarch Waystation, and certified Pollinator Habitat, Petals in the Pines offers 2+ miles of trails, woodland labyrinths, a Pollinator Meadow, pick-your-own flowers, and nature programs for all ages. A very special place in our hearts.
petalsinthepines.com → 🦍 Wildlife & EducationAn outstanding wildlife and environmental education center where visitors can walk a nature trail and observe live native animals including black bears, mountain lions, otters, and raptors up close. A wonderful family experience that pairs perfectly with the spirit of the festival.
squamlakesciencecenter.org → 🏭 Historic LandmarkA National Historic Landmark and living museum preserving the extraordinary legacy of the Shaker community. Explore beautifully preserved buildings, gardens, and exhibits telling the story of this remarkable group of people. Also the home of the 2025 NH Monarch Festival!
shakers.org →Fun for Everyone
Whether you’re looking for live music, a little excitement, or a relaxing afternoon, there’s something for everyone in the Belmont area.
One of New England’s premier outdoor concert venues, hosting major national acts throughout the summer. If you’re planning a trip around the festival, check their summer lineup — you might catch a great show while you’re in the area!
banknhpavilion.com → 🎮 Family FunOfficially the largest arcade in the world according to Guinness World Records, Funspot has been a Lakes Region institution since 1952! With over 600 games, 20-lane bowling, indoor and outdoor mini-golf, kiddie bumper cars, and a restaurant, it’s a rainy day dream and a sunny day bonus. Fun for all ages — kids and grown-ups alike.
funspotnh.com → 🏎 Outdoor FunA classic Lakes Region destination packed with family-friendly thrills — go-karts, bumper boats, a high ropes adventure course, mini-golf, batting cages, and arcade games. Perfect for burning off energy after a day at the festival!
daytonafunparknh.com → 🚂 Scenic RailroadAll aboard for a beautiful train ride along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee! The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad offers relaxing excursions for the whole family through stunning Lakes Region scenery. A wonderful, unique experience that kids absolutely love.
hoborr.com →