The Perfect Winter Day in Littleton, NH
If you’re looking for a magical winter day trip or overnight getaway in New Hampshire, Littleton is the perfect destination. With delicious eats, charming shops, and outdoor adventure, this small town in the White Mountains has everything you need for a memorable winter escape.
Here’s the perfect winter itinerary to make the most of your day in Littleton—whether you're heading home after dinner or cozying up in a local Airbnb for the night.
Morning: Breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor
Start your day with a classic New England breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill, just a 20-minute drive from Littleton. Known for their made-from-scratch pancakes, real maple syrup, and cozy farmhouse vibes, Polly’s is an absolute must-visit.
Must-try: Their buttermilk pancakes topped with local maple syrup and a side of crispy bacon. I love Trot Trot Maple Toast, which is toasted, buttered, bread sprinkled with
Polly’s Pure Maple Sugar! Delicious!
👉 Pro Tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends—it’s a VERY popular spot!
Late Morning: Outdoor Winter Adventure
After a hearty breakfast, it’s time for some outdoor winter fun! Choose from one of these adventures depending on your vibe:
Outdoor Ice Skating at Remich Park – Glide across the outdoor rink and soak in the crisp winter air. Perfect for families, couples, or just enjoying a classic winter experience.
👉 Save this curated list of ice skating rinks around NH
Snowshoeing & Winter Hikes – Take a peaceful walk along the Ammonoosuc River or head to Franconia Notch State Park for a more immersive winter hike.
Skiing at Cannon Mountain – Just a 20-minute drive from Littleton, Cannon Mountain offers incredible skiing and snowboarding with breathtaking views of Franconia Notch.
🚠 Midday: Take the Winter Aerial Tramway at Cannon Mountain
Not into skiing but still want to take in the stunning mountain scenery? Hop on the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, which whisks visitors to the 4,080-foot summit in under 10 minutes. From the top, you’ll get panoramic views of four states and Canada, making it a must-see attraction for all ages.
At the summit, Café 4080' serves up warm drinks and beer taps —the perfect place to soak in the views before heading back down.
Important info:
📅 Winter 24/25 Schedule: Open weekends and holidays only.
🕘 First tram up: 9 AM | Last tram up: 3 PM | Last tram down: 3:45 PM.
🔥 Dress warmly! The tram is not heated, and summit conditions can be much colder than at the base.
🍫🛍️ Midday: Hot Cocoa & Shopping Downtown
After your winter adventure, it’s time to warm up and explore Littleton’s charming downtown.
Hot Cocoa Stop – Head to Crumb Bum Bakery and grab a North Woods Latte (maple-infused deliciousness!) or a steaming hot chocolate.
Shopping on Main Street – Wander through the local shops, including:
Little Village Toy & Book Shop – Browse books, puzzles, and their fun Blind Date with a Book section.
Just L Modern Antiques – Hunt for vintage finds and one-of-a-kind treasures.
Chutters – Check out the world’s longest candy counter and grab some sweet treats to take home.
Walk Across the Riverwalk Covered Bridge – Stroll over the snow-covered bridge for a picture-perfect winter moment before heading to dinner.
🍕Evening: Pizza & Drinks at Schilling Beer Co.
After a day of adventuring and exploring, it’s time to wind down with amazing food and drinks.
Schilling Beer Co.is the best spot for wood-fired pizza, house-made charcuterie boards, and craft beer, all served in a cozy riverside setting.
Must-try: Start with their crispy, herb-infused pita and hummus, a perfect light bite to pair with one of their signature European-inspired lagers. If you're craving something heartier, their bratwurst is a standout, offering rich, savory flavors that pair beautifully with their German-style brews. And don’t sleep on the mac & cheese—creamy, cheesy, and perfectly comforting. Of course, any of their wood-fired pizzas is a solid choice, with a crisp crust and fresh ingredients that make every bite delicious. Be sure to check out their rotating seasonal brews for the perfect pairing!
Pro Tip: If there’s a wait, grab a drink at their heated outdoor seating area while enjoying the wintery views.
🛌 🍷 Night: Cozy Up in an Airbnb (Optional Stayover!)
If you want to turn your day trip into an overnight getaway, Littleton has some of the cutest Airbnbs that offer cozy fireplaces, mountain views, and all the charm of a New England winter retreat.
Here’s a few favorites that I’d recommend:
Looking for an extended New Hampshire Itinerary?
Winter in New Hampshire is nothing short of magical, offering a playground of snowy adventures for those willing to bundle up and explore! From thrilling snowmobile rides and scenic winter hikes to cozy après-ski moments, this guide highlights the best outdoor activities to embrace the season. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush or a peaceful escape, New Hampshire’s winter wonderland has something for everyone.
Although it can be great for just a day trip if you’re local, New Hampshire makes the perfect long weekend or week stay and there’s so much to do and see along the way.
If you’re looking for an extended New Hampshire winter itinerary, CLICK HERE to start planning your cold weather adventure!
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