The best parks & outdoor spots in Laconia

Tarbin Gardens is a hand-built, five-acre botanical escape with tropical greenhouses, ponds, butterflies and hummingbirds, plus a few friendly resident cats. Pack a picnic, wander the paths, book a photoshoot or guided tour, and let the kids marvel at goats, rabbits, chickens and a summer cockatoo cameo.

From the Franklin newsletter, October 14, 2026

Northern Rail Trail Parking Area is the reliable hop-on spot when you want a quick out-and-back without bushwhacking, perfect for after-work leg stretches or an easy catch up with a friend. Local tip, keep it simple and let the straightaway clear your head.

From the Franklin newsletter, October 16, 2026

Whiteface Trailhead is a moderate 3 mile out-and-back with 790 feet of gain and big north-facing looks over Lake Winnipesaukee. It also checks a box on the Belknap Range 12-peak challenge, with a Piper Mountain detour if you’re feeling ambitious.

From the Gilford newsletter, October 13, 2026

Stone Mountain Farm in Belmont runs a high-density PYO orchard with more than 45 apple varieties, so you can actually compare crisp, sweet, and tart side by side. Swing by the farm stand for apple cider donuts, pumpkins, gourds, maple syrup, and local honey to round out the haul.

From the Tilton newsletter, October 12, 2026

Belknap Range Trails pack a lot into our backyard... 6-mile one-way Belknap Range Trail that tags eight summits and climbs 3,520 feet from the Mount Major Trailhead or 3,250 from Gunstock Mountain Resort. Trailspotting’s free offline Map Pack makes the whole thing easier.

From the Gilford newsletter, October 6, 2026

Beans & Greens Farm is where Gilford folks stock up on just-picked produce, grab bakery treats like those cider donuts, and let the kids run wild with barnyard animals, a fun park, and the corn maze. Watch for the wood fired pizza wagon, taco truck, cafe fare, and CSA shares.

From the Gilford newsletter, October 4, 2026

When you need low-effort summer joy, Weirs Beach delivers the boardwalk, a sandy swim spot, classic arcades, bumper cars, and mini golf, plus regular music and fireworks. Drift over for a picnic, people-watching, or that Laconia Motorcycle Week energy when the mood strikes.

From the Laconia newsletter, October 23, 2026

When you just want fresh air, a quick lap, or a place to let the kids burn off steam after school, Drake Field fits the bill. Low-key, reliable, and right where you need it, it’s the kind of everyday park you end up using more than you plan.

From the Barnstead newsletter, September 29, 2026

Red Manse Farm keeps it local with seasonal vegetables and tree fruit that actually taste like something, plus a Farm Patron Program if you want a steady supply. They were certified organic from 2007 until a state suspension in November 2023, and still provide produce to low income food programs.

From the Concord newsletter, October 3, 2026