North Conway, NH is the gateway to the White Mountains. Full of fun family activities and restaurants. Be sure to carve out time to experience the charming Conway Scenic Train ride. The trip starts at the historic North Conway Station, built in 1874.
Excursions run all year, so this trip can be enjoyed in every season. Rides run from 1 hour to 8 hours. We were short on time and took the 1 hour Conway Valley train, which uses vintage railcars. We visited in June and the weather was wonderful.
Our ride took us through the valley, passing golf courses, farms, and mountains. it was an out and back excursion, only 1 hour long which about the right amount for our children. Seats are bench style and a family can set them up to be facing one another during the trip. The interior of the vintage car was charming, with lots of carved wood. Kids enjoyed the authentic touches like the conductor checking their tickets.
We really enjoyed our train trip and intend to take a longer trip in the future to see more of the White Mountains.
Harvey Down Gibson Playground
For antsy kids before or after the train ride, head to the playground. The Harvey Dow Gibson Playground is walking distance to the train station. It sits right in the center of town. There are often food trucks, musicians, or other events going on in the area. It’s about a 5 min walk between the the train station and the playground.
TIPS:
North Conway Station – Google Maps
No outside food allowed on the train ride we took. There is a snack bar on board (cash only). I suggest eating before or after at any of the numerous North Conway Restaurants.
During busy weekends, train tickets may sell out. Consider ordering tickets online ahead of time.
Make use of the restrooms within the train station before boarding.
Santa’s Holiday Express train ride They offer a popular Santa’s Holiday Express excursion. This is fun for younger kids, but be sure to book ahead.
For toddler kids who enjoy trains consider this Thomas the Train starter pack. It’s a perfect Christmas or birthday gift after taking the train ride. We love the wooden sets that go together and break down easily, feel solid, and are visually appealing. The engines that go with the wooden track are push only (no batteries or sounds)! They can be handed down for many years and are collectible. Thomas the train starter set (#ad)
The Thomas the train sets have limitless expansion packs, extra tracks and engines. It is a great way for relatives to add to a young child’s collection for the inevitable “What should we get them?” Thomas and Friends track expansion pack. (#ad)
*Our specific track set in picture is different from links posted, and shown here only as an example, (newer sets is listed in links).
We received a train/activity table as a gift when the twins were young. It had drawers for storage which is so useful. It has morphed over the years into a jigsaw puzzle table, and now a Lego table. Although the table we have is no longer available, this one is the same size and has a reversible top with built in storage. It is the same company that made ours. KidKraft Wooden Train/activity table – large and double sided. (#ad)
I hope you enjoy the fun Conway Scenic railroad. Send me your “Can’t miss” family destinations!
kit@astrayfish.com
Unless otherwise stated, all photos throughout this blog are my own and cannot be printed or distributed without my permission.
Astray Fish 
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