When the pace of life slows and the world turns quiet under a blanket of snow, it’s the perfect time to focus on your wellbeing. Whether you’re seeking stillness, inspiration, or a touch of rejuvenation, New Hampshire offers countless ways to unwind and reconnect.
1. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
A spa day may be an obvious choice, but New Hampshire’s collection of resort spas can transform simple relaxation into a rejuvenating escape. Enjoy luxurious amenities and mountain views at the Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa, Wentworth By the Sea, The Bedford Village Inn, and The Lake Estate on Winnisquam, among others.
You’ll also find unique wellness experiences throughout the state, like soaking up the healing properties of salt caves at Soleil’s Salt Cave in Exeter, The Copper Cave in Plaistow or Cedars Embrace in Londonderry. Or drift into serenity during a float session at NH Float Therapy in Londonderry, Eclipse Float Center in Claremont, or Flōte in Portsmouth. However you choose to unwind, you’ll leave feeling renewed and refreshed.
2. Get Outside
Winter is a natural invitation to slow down and breathe deeply. There’s no better way to embrace that than by stepping outside and finding peace in the hush of a snowy landscape. Strap on snowshoes to explore scenic trails or glide gracefully across freshly groomed paths on cross-country skis. With dozens of resorts and Nordic centers offering groomed trails, and many of New Hampshire state parks allowing snowshoeing, along with other quiet snowshoeing trails, there’s no shortage of serene spots to soak in the beauty and stillness of the season.
3. Dashing Through the Snow
Few experiences capture the simple joy of winter like a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Cozy up under a warm blanket and let the rhythmic sound of hooves on snow transport you to a slower, quieter time. Sleigh rides are offered across the state, from open meadows to peaceful forest paths, each one offering a delightful mix of nostalgia and tranquility that’s sure to bring a smile and a sense of calm.
4. Learn a New Craft to Find Your Inner Zen
Finding your Zen can also mean tapping into your creativity. Across New Hampshire, local artisans offer workshops where you can slow down, focus, and learn something new. Try your hand at basket weaving, glassblowing, crochet, or candle making at Sea Love in Portsmouth.
Explore art workshops at the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester or hands-on classes at The Craft School in Keene, where you can learn spoon carving, basket weaving, and more. The Picker Artists studios in Nashua often feature stained glass and jewelry-making sessions, while the Meredith Fine Art Gallery and the League of NH Craftsmen host a variety of creative workshops year-round.
5. Take in the Scenery Aboard a Winter Train
Sometimes the best way to find your Zen is to sit back and enjoy the journey. Scenic winter train rides in New Hampshire offer a chance to slow down and take in the quiet beauty of snow-covered forests and mountain views. The Conway Scenic Railroad offers Snow Train excursions through the heart of the White Mountains, while the Mount Washington Cog Railway takes passengers to Waumbek Station on Mount Washington—where panoramic views and a cozy fire make for a truly peaceful retreat.
Photo: Conway Scenic Railroad/Debbe Hill
