The picturesque town of Meredith New Hampshire is in the heart of the Lakes Region. It has shorelines on both Lake Winnipesaukee (largest of the Lakes Region lakes) and the smaller lake of Waukewan. One of the appeals of a Meredith vacation is this location with access to both bodies of water. The larger lake provides the excitement and attractions of a major resort, with big, fast motorboats, sailing regattas, and plenty of things to do. The smaller lake allows for quieter enjoyment of pristine New England. Most major Meredith events and things to do in Meredith occur in and around the Winnipesaukee bay, but more sedate events can be found on Waukewan.

These two Meredith New Hampshire lakes are joined by a natural canal that runs right through the center of town. It’s possible to canoe from Waukewan all the way down this canal, but you cannot go further than the little falls that spills into the larger lake. This waterfall reflects the state’s 20th century history as a center of manufacturing. Many mills and factories were set on falls along the rivers and on lakes, and this was their source of electrical power. Most of these historic mills are no longer operative as factories, and have been converted into upscale condominiums and shops. You’ll see these along the rivers and lakes throughout the state, especially in Concord, Manchester, and smaller towns as you drive north from Boston. The old Meredith New Hampshire mill (now called the Inns at Mills Falls) is today a complex of shops, restaurants, and four Meredith hotels with lake views. If you’re enjoying a Meredith vacation you are sure to spend some time here.

There are plenty of things to do in Meredith and the surrounding area throughout the year. If you’re deciding when to go, remember that this is a year round destination. The lakes play an important role even in the winter, with Meredith events like ice fishing tournaments, and small skating rinks dot the shoreline. If the ice is thick enough, it’s not unusual to see car racing in the bay. This is a big skiing town, and there are several ski resorts in the area, with Gunstock Mountain being the closest. North of town are the White Mountains and more ski resorts. At the highest elevations, it’s possible to ski in New Hampshire through July and into August.

Other things to do in Meredith include boarding the M/V Doris E right at the town pier for a scenic cruise around Winnipesaukee. Her sister ship, the historic M/S Mount Washington, sails from nearby Weirs Beach. The original steamship “Mount” first sailed the lake in 1897. She burned in 1939, and was replaced by the current ship. The sailing season begins in May, and runs through the beautiful autumn foliage season in October. Meredith events include the October “leaf peeper” season, as the town is on the main north-south highway, the route used by the many thousands who come to view the beautiful spectacle of the White Mountains in glorious color. Also in October is the popular three-day Sandwich Fair, that’s been going strong since 1886.

You can enjoy Meredith events throughout the year – from viewing Fourth of July fireworks from the deck of a boat and the December Festival of Tress to free summer concerts from the bandstand on the bay. For two days in August, you can enjoy the Annual Lakes Region Fine Arts and Crafts Festival. The town’s Main Street is closed to vehicles, and more than 100 artists and craftspeople from around New England exhibit and sell their works from stalls and booths lining the street.

A Meredith vacation in the summer, late spring, and early autumn will obviously provide you with all the water activities you can imagine – from boating and fishing, to swimming off lake beaches and camping on lake islands. There is also golfing, and a choice of diverse restaurants and dining venues.