🍂 Fall in the Lakes Region: Things to Do When the Summer Crowds Go Home

Fall in the Lakes Region is one of those times you just have to experience. The mornings are cool and crisp, the trees put on their best show, and suddenly there’s space to breathe again after the busy summer. If you’re wondering what to do around Winnipesaukee, Squam, or Newfound once the docks are pulled out, here’s your fall playbook.

🍁 Chase the Colors

You don’t have to drive all the way to the White Mountains to see incredible foliage — we’ve got some of the best views right here.

• Mount Major in Alton – It’s a bit of a climb, but the view of the lake from the top is worth every step.

• Red Hill Fire Tower in Moultonborough – This one is a little quieter, but the 360° view of Winnipesaukee and Squam will blow you away.

• Scenic Drive Loop – Hop in the car, grab a coffee, and take the Lakes Region Tour Scenic Byway. The drive through Meredith, Center Harbor, and Alton Bay feels like driving through a postcard.

🎃 Go Full Fall Mode

This is the season for cider, pumpkins, and hayrides — and we’ve got plenty of options.

• Beans & Greens Farm (Gilford) – Get lost in the corn maze, grab some cider donuts, and let the kids run around.

• Moulton Farm (Meredith) – A must-visit for pumpkin picking and their Haunted Maze Nights if you like a little scare.

• Stone Brook Hill Farm (Gilford) – Great spot for hayrides and picking the perfect pumpkin for your porch.

☕ Slow Down & Get Cozy

Once the sun sets a little earlier, it’s the perfect excuse to stay in or gather with friends.

• Host a Game Night – Pick up a new board game (BoardGameGeek is a gold mine for ideas) and make it a weekly tradition.

• Coffee Shop Hopping – Warm up with a latte at Wayfarer Coffee Roasters in Laconia or grab a bagel and watch the leaves fall at Winnipesaukee Bay Gulls in Meredith.

🥘 Savor the Season

Fall flavors are everywhere — go find them!

• Pumpkinfest in Laconia – Giant pumpkins, food vendors, and live music make this a must-see event.

• Harvest Dinners – Restaurants like Canoe (Center Harbor) and O Steaks & Seafood (Laconia) often roll out special fall menus.

• Farmers’ Markets – Stock up on maple treats, squash, and other goodies before the frost sets in.

🌅 Catch a Fall Sunset

The crowds are gone, the lakes are quiet, and the sunsets seem even better. Bring a blanket, pour some hot cider in a thermos, and just enjoy the peace of a cool autumn evening by the water.

✅ Pro Tip

Make a Fall Bucket List — five things you want to do before Thanksgiving. Post it on the fridge and check them off as you go. It’s a simple way to make sure you soak in the season before winter sneaks up.