The Five Best New England Ski Towns

The inclusion of Stowe on this list is a given. Stowe is stunning and idyllic. It’s the winter wonderland of your dreams. But here’s the thing: It’s also quite pricey, and you’ll find plenty of hoity-toity Manhattanites. Point is, Stowe is often referred to as the Aspen of New England for a reason. But don’t let that deter you from skiing Mount Mansfield or Spruce Peak. Check into Field Guide, a unique and cozy lodge-style hotel that’s just 15 minutes from most of the of the slopes and 10 minutes from the best shopping in Stowe. (It also has a free bus that stops out front to take you to the mountains.) While you’re there, stop by Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea for a hot cup, and be sure to snag a pound of two of beans to bring home with you.

Field Guide / Photo courtesy of Lark Hotels

Bethel/Newry, Maine

North Conway, New Hampshire

If you’re hoping to be charmed, look no further than North Conway, tucked in Mt. Washington Valley. Just a half-hour from a variety of mountains like Cranmore and Attitash, North Conway has that whole “bustling village” vibe down pat. A nine-minute drive from North Conway in the town of Glen is the Red Parka Steakhouse & Pub, where you can catch live bands and enjoy the apres ski scene. Also close by in neighboring Jackson is The Shannon Door, a famed Irish pub with Boston roots where you can enjoy classic South Shore-style bar pizza.

North Conway photo by wiseguycreative.com

Lincoln, New Hampshire

Whether it’s emblazoned on t-shirts or car stickers, folks love to share their passion for Exit 32. You’ll find lots of skiers in Lincoln, whether they’re heading to Loon Mountain or over to Cannon in Franconia. Wait in line for breakfast at Flapjack’s Pancake House, or curl up by the massive stone fireplace at The Common Man, a cozy and unpretentious restaurant. Stroll the shops, and don’t skip Chutters, home to the world’s longest candy counter. When you’re stuffed, catch a nighttime moose tour through the White Mountains.

Manchester, Vermont

Just two hours from Boston, Manchester is the perfect spot to rest your head before you hit the slopes at Killington, Stratton, or Bromley. The town has great pockets of culture, with a variety of art galleries and antique shops. (We’d regret it if we didn’t mention the excellent outlet shopping, too.) For a delicious meal and craft cocktails, head to The Copper Grouse Restaurant & Bar at the Kimpton Taconic Hotel.