In many ways, Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire is a place that seems to have been frozen in time. Just take a stroll along the wooden boardwalk at Weirs Beach in the town of Laconia, and you might easily mistake it for the 1980s rather than the 21st century. Not only is Lake Winnipesaukee New Hampshire’s largest lake, but it also holds the distinction of being home to the country’s oldest floating post office. This mail boat service began back in 1892, and the M/V “Sophie C,” which was launched in 1945, currently delivers mail to nine of the lake’s islands between June and September on a daily basis.
The beauty of the lake can be admired at any time of the year. The fall foliage puts on a spectacular show, and in the winter, it brings a serene stillness. However, it is during the summer that the lake truly takes center stage. Anne Nix, the mail clerk for the “Sophie C” for the past 24 years, says, “We’re just one big summer community, and that’s what we are.” Nix’s family has had a summer residence on the islands since the late 1800s, but even if you’re not a local, you can still enjoy a visit to this iconic lake.
Here are some tips to make the most of your trip:
Travel Time:
It takes 1 hour 53 minutes from Boston and 5 hours 27 minutes from New York City.
If You Don’t Do Anything Else: Take the Mail Boat Lake Cruise
Nix emphasizes that you simply must take a trip on the mail boat. Not only is it a nostalgic experience, but it also gives you a close-up and personal view of the lake. You can get a glimpse of what it’s like to live on the islands during the summer. The mail cruise departs from the dock at Weirs Beach in Laconia twice daily at 11 am and 2 pm, rain or shine, every day except Sunday. This two-hour cruise is extremely popular with visitors, so it’s important to purchase tickets in advance to ensure you don’t get left behind. The dock is right along the Weirs Beach boardwalk, and it’s also where the train leaves, so you can’t miss it. The mail cruise is not the only lake cruise option, but it’s definitely the most distinctive. Where else can you ride along with a mail carrier while enjoying a ride around a pristine lake?
Passengers board the “Sophie C” and follow the delivery route while taking in the stunning views of the lake, including pontoon boats, massive summer homes, tiny lake cottages, and soaring fish birds. At some stops, the mail is simply dropped off at the dock, but at others, the “Sophie C’s” visit becomes a social event. Island residents, like Barbara Laround from Bear Island, often come to the dock to say hello. “You get to meet people on all the different islands, and it’s just a lot of fun,” Nix says. Barbara’s husband enjoys standing at the dock to help the deckhand.
During the voyage, passengers are invited to fill out and mail postcards right on board, using the Sophie’s own unique and collectible cancellation stamp. You can also purchase shirts and hats. The morning and afternoon routes are different. In the morning, the boat stops at Loon Island, Bear Island, Three Mile Island, and East Bear Island. In the afternoon, Camp Lawrence, Birch Island, Sandy Island, Cow Island, and Jolly Island are visited, although some islands may not be inhabited every day. Throughout the route, the “Sophie C” can be seen and waved to as it passes by.
Tiny Loon Island has only one house, and it has been in the same family for six generations. On a beautiful day, don’t be surprised if the current owner greets you, and he might even take a dip in the lake as you approach. “It’s a tradition,” Nix says. “The islanders love to jump into the wake because of the agitation of the water and the feeling it gives on their skin.”
Three Mile Island has a distinct teenage vibe, but in a charming old-fashioned way. The property, which includes a lodge and 47 cabins, has been owned by the Appalachian Mountain Club since 1900, and on sunny days, you can find campers lounging on the dock. “The island kids love to come down to meet Sophie so they can get a delicious ice cream treat,” Nix says. When the islanders go to town to shop, they have to put everything in freezer bags to keep it cool, so even today, it can be a bit of a challenge to transport things on hot days.
Fill Your Days:
Outdoor Activities Near Lake Winnipesaukee
When visiting Lake Winnipesaukee, make sure to set aside plenty of time to enjoy Weirs Beach. The calm waters are perfect for kayaking or canoeing, and the sandy shores are an ideal place for a picnic. The boardwalk area is lined with shops, games, and places to eat.
Another popular activity for both visitors and locals is hiking to the top of Mount Washington, which can be easily seen from the lake. Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeast east of the Mississippi River. On a clear day, you can see five states and Canada from the top of the mountain.
Located in Moultonborough, Castle in the Clouds was once an early 1900s estate, also known as the Lucknow Mansion. Between mansion tours, hiking and equestrian trails, and a brewery, you can easily spend an entire day at the estate, enjoying amazing lake views.
Other Places to Explore
If you have ever enjoyed playing a video game in your life, Funspot Arcade in nearby Laconia is a must-visit. Both young and old will find something to keep them entertained with three stories of every imaginable game – pinball, classic arcade games like Ms. Pac-Man, skee ball – plus a bowling alley and indoor putt putt course. Across the street, take a spin on the quarter-mile go kart track at Weirs Beach Go-Kart Track.
If hiking to the top of Mount Washington seems daunting, another way to explore the majestic peak is by The Mount Washington Cog Railway. The oldest cog railway in the United States departs from the station at the dock for the “Sophie C” and operates year-round. For those who prefer to drive, the Mt. Washington Auto Road is another option to reach the summit.
Eat, Drink, and Sleep:
Restaurants & Bars in Lake Winnipesaukee
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, Lakehouse Grille, located at Church’s Landing in Meredith, is worth a visit. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes like lobster rolls and New England haddock, as well as steaks. However, if you prefer a more casual and affordable option, grab a slice of pizza at Giuseppe’s Pizzeria & Ristorante.
When you come to the lake, most people want to see the water. Town Docks Restaurant, which is open only during the summer, is a fun place with an outdoor tiki bar and boat tie-up. Boardwalk Bar & Grill, with a deck overlooking the lake and live entertainment, is another great option on the water.
After the mail cruise, cross the street to Ivy’s Ice Cream for a sweet treat. Owners Jen and Ryan Slater opened the shop in 2024 and named it after their daughter. Ryan, a Navy veteran, also helps keep the arcade next door running.
Weirs Beach is very family-friendly, so keep in mind that most dining locations close around 9 pm.
Where to Stay in Lake Winnipesaukee
There are eight small towns surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee, offering a variety of inns, cottages, and campgrounds to suit your personal preferences. If you’re looking for a more traditional, retro lake cottage, Half Moon Motel & Cottages is located directly across the street from the Weirs Beach boardwalk, just a short walk from the docks.
Mill Falls at the Lake is a lakeside resort with four different accommodation options in the town of Meredith, just a short drive from the dock for the lake cruise. The four inns are within walking distance of each other and share hotel amenities, including lake activities like kayaking, aqua cycling, and stand-up paddle boarding. Church Landing is designed for luxury, with fireplaces and gardens, while Bay Point and Chase House focus on the views of the lake and the town docks. The Inn at Mill Falls, housed in a restored 19th-century linen mill, is particularly popular with families because it has an indoor pool and easy access to dining and shopping, as well as a 40-foot waterfall.
On the northwest shores of the lake, Center Harbor Inn is an upscale lodging option with an all-season hot tub overlooking the lake.
