'America's Oldest Summer Resort' Is A Charming New Hampshire Lake Town For A Fun Getaway

As many travelers know, there's nothing quite like spending a few weeks vacationing in one of America's charming lake towns. Whether you're looking to kick back and relax, enjoy some seasonal recreation, learn about local history, or enjoy delicious regional cuisine, Wolfeboro, New Hampshire has it all. Set along the shores of New England's third-largest lake, Lake Winnipesaukee, Wolfeboro is a great little vacation spot better known as "America's Oldest Summer Resort."

It first garnered attention in 1769 when Governor John Wentworth built a summer mansion on the water's edge, and Wolfeboro has since become a New England favorite among locals and visitors alike. Come in the spring or summer for activities on and off the lake or visit in the winter months for skiing, ice fishing, or snowmobiling. However you choose to spend your vacation, Wolfeboro is the perfect charming destination for year-round activities. 

Wolfeboro is a perfect place to enjoy a multitude of recreational, leisurely, and historical activities. While Wolfeboro is great for exploring year-round, summer is the best time to visit this lake town, and is when all of the shops and restaurants are open. Not to mention that it's the perfect time to take a dip in the lake! With more than 70 square miles of open water, there is ample opportunity for boating, fishing, kayaking, swimming, lounging, and simply exploring one of the many neighboring trails. While the weather is warm, take advantage and enjoy a free concert at Cate Park, or explore one of the many bar or restaurant patios in the downtown area. Visitors can also spend a day out on the lake via one of the many cruises available, or on one of two historic mahogany boat replicas known as "woodies."

For those who prefer learning a bit of history while on vacation, Wolfeboro offers the chance to explore the Wright Museum of World War II, the Libby Museum of Natural History, the Clark Museum complex of historical buildings, and the NH Boat Museum. Governor John Wentworth's famous country home burned down during the American Revolution, but you can still visit the historic site where some artifacts have been recovered.

About a 30-minute drive from Wolfeboro is another interesting piece of historic architecture — a beautiful estate built in 1913 on a mountaintop. Aptly named the Castle in the Clouds, this beautiful mansion is surrounded by 28 miles of hiking trails on more than 5,200 acres. Visitors can also learn more about the town on Molly the Trolley, a hop-on hop-off route offering a narrated tour past different points of interest.

There are many different accommodations available to choose from for those looking to spend a few days on the lake — everything from higher-end lodges and inns (such as The Windrifter Resort or The Lake Wentworth Inn) to cute and quaint bed and breakfasts and cottages (like 1810 House Bed & Breakfast). Those looking to spend even more time out in nature can also book a stay at the nearby Wolfeboro Campgrounds, which boasts 50 wooded camping spaces for both tents and RVs. Tent site rates go for $35 a night, and RV sites are around $40. All RV sites have water, sewer, and electric hookups, and the campground is dotted with amenities including restrooms, picnic tables, and a small convenience store. 

Those looking to access Wolfeboro will have to do so by car or bus from one of the nearest airports. It is about a two-hour drive from Boston Logan International Airport and about an hour and a half from Manchester-Boston Regional Airport or Portland International Jetport. The closest major New Hampshire town is Portsmouth, located about 50 miles east of Wolfeboro.