Vacation like a local
When autumn draws to a close and flakes begin to fall, Waterville Valley undergoes an enchanting transformation. A carpet of snow envelops the Valley, rivers freeze over, and twinkling lights are hung from evergreens and snow-capped buildings. Town Square converts into a dream-like wonderland, with festive light displays extending all the way to the shores of Corcoran Pond. Stunning wintry vistas are visible at every turn and intersection. Waterville Valley is much more than a picturesque ski town, as excitement & adventure extend well beyond the ski slopes. Below is some local insight into our winter wonderland, and some tips on how to make the most of your snowy getaway.
Sometimes, the little ones need a break from the slopes. And that's okay! We all need a little break now and again. Here in the Valley, there's no shortage of ways to keep your kids entertained.
If you’re staying in one of the Valley’s lodges, condos, or hotels, you’ll receive a complimentary Freedom Pass. This all-access pass unlocks the best of Waterville Valley’s activities, amenities, & discounts. You’ll get unlimited access to hot tubs, whirlpools, an indoor pool, weight & cardio rooms, and an indoor walking/running track - all provided by the White Mountain Athletic Club. Practice your ice-skating skills with free skating sessions, or work on your forearm with free indoor tennis sessions (ball & racquet included).
For adventurous kids that seem to never run out of energy, the Waterville Valley Clubhouse offers snow tubing from Thursday-Sunday (also offered during holidays & vacation periods). The old-fashioned tubing hill boasts multiple lanes carved into the slope with lighted evening sessions. The warming center offers cozy fireplaces, tasty food, cocoa, beer, wine & spirits.
For those little gamers, Legends Adventure Arcade is a family-friendly arcade game room where you’ll get $5 of free play every day! Located on the lower level of Town Square, across from Olde Waterville Pizza, this arcade has an extensive selection of videos games that will enthrall your children, ranging from kid-friendly slot machines to hot-shot basketball to cranes, and much more!
After adventuring in the brisk mountain air all day, there’s nothing better than a cozy, warm, safe place to rest your body and mind. From country inns to fully furnished condos, to modern lodge-style hotels, cozy accommodations of all kinds can be found in Waterville Valley. For families looking to be close to the action of Town Square but maintain some seclusion, the Snowy Owl Inn is the perfect spot for you! Located directly adjacent to Town Square, set back on the banks of the Mad River, the Snowy Owl Inn is a serene locale with adventure right on its doorstep. With an indoor pool, a sauna, a gym, as well as a wood-paneled atrium featuring a 3-story stone fireplace, relaxation & rehabilitation are guaranteed.
Family meals may seem mundane, but, they're critical for strengthening bonds and building better relationships. Even on vacation, family meals still foster a sense of camaraderie and belonging.
Luckily, there are many different dining establishments here in the Valley to choose from.
Enjoy Family Dinner at the Coyote Grille, where kids eat for free every Sunday. This incredible bar & grill is a short walk from Town Square, providing exceptional views of Mount Tecumseh.
With a Freedom Pass, you'll get 10% off your food order at two restaurants: Valley Pub - the local sports bar - and La Hacienda - a Mexican restaurant famous for their Guacamole de Molcajete (fresh guacamole prepared tableside).
Brunch enthusiasts are encouraged to check out breakfasts at the Clubhouse. Located at the Golf Course, the clubhouse serves up breakfast classics every Saturday & Sunday, offering stunning views of the White Mountains through their glass-walled dining room. Locale-lovers can enjoy a family dinner at the Clubhouse Restaurant on Saturday & Sunday evenings.
For those looking for a caffeine fix and a quick bite, La Tasse Café serves specialty coffees as well as a variety of loose-leaf teas, hot chocolate, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches.
Both La Tasse Café & Jugtown Country Store are fabulous options for grab-n-go lunches.
Looking to enjoy some live sports with the family? Feast on hot wings and craft beer at the Olde Waterville Pizza Company. This is the go-to spot for takeout pizza and subs!
The Snowy Owl Pub & Restaurant is perfect for delectable food, craft cocktails, and a cozy ambiance. Locals rave about their Brown Sugar & Bourbon Chili, which won first place in the 2021 Annual Waterville Valley Chili-fest.
No car is needed here in the Valley! Moving around town is effortless, especially when you can hop on the free resort shuttle at any time! Ditch the stress of driving and take advantage of the Resort Shuttle - or “Schuss Bus” as some locals like to call it, which makes numerous stops throughout Waterville Valley, including at the ski area, lodges, condominiums, hotels, golf course, White Mountain Athletic Club, Town Square, and more.
It's time to make time for the family. No matter what you do here on vacation in Waterville Valley, you'll return home with a myriad of priceless memories.
