Hey, Granite Staters. Happy Wednesday!

Did you know Americans will pay around $7,249 for a vacation this year? That’s a 24% increase from 2024, according to according to Squaremouth Travel Insurance!  

When the temps rise and the traffic backs up, there’s something refreshing (and cost-saving) about keeping your summer adventures close to home.

A recent survey found that 67% of Americans are planning or have already taken a staycation this year, according to Radical Storage. Nearly half of staycationers (47.4%) head to the beach, and 41% choose national or state parks.

Given all that, we’re highlighting some easy, affordable, and fun ways to soak up summer without leaving New Hampshire. 

Here’s what’s inside today’s newsletter:

🎉 5 beautiful NH inns for the perfect summer staycation

📅 Can’t-miss events for your calendar

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Wentworth by the Sea. (Kirkikis/Getty)

White Mountain Hotel and Resort, North Conway
A family-owned resort with stunning mountain views and vacation packages perfect for midweek or weekend getaways.

Bedford Village Inn, Bedford
This luxurious 10-acre estate offers 64 elegant suites with premium amenities like an outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

Wentworth by the Sea, New Castle
A historic coastal retreat opened in 1874, this top-rated resort by Condé Nast blends luxury with New England charm.

Lake Opechee Inn and Spa, Laconia
Overlooking the lake, this boutique hotel features 34 unique rooms, a spa, pool, and complimentary breakfast.

Sugar Hill Inn, Sugar Hill
Set in an 18th-century farmhouse, this romantic bed and breakfast offers elegant rooms, massage therapy, and yoga sessions.

What does being a “Granite Stater” mean to you?

🎪 Hillsborough Summer Festival
Hillsborough, July 10–13
Live music, food vendors, a carnival, fireworks, and more take over Grimes Field for this multi-day summer celebration.
More info

🐾 Animal Encounter Series
Waterville Valley, Sundays and select Mondays
Live animal presentations from the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center take place under the Town Square tent at 10 a.m. Kids and families can meet native wildlife and learn from expert naturalists.
More info

🎸 Roomful of Blues
Portsmouth, July 11
This Grammy-nominated band brings high-energy jump blues and R&B to Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club. Known for their powerhouse horn section and infectious stage presence.
More info

🎭 My Fair Lady at M&D Playhouse
North Conway, July 11
A production of the beloved musical about a cockney flower girl transformed into a proper lady. Performed at Eastern Slope Inn Playhouse.
More info

🧸 New England Toy and Record Show
Dover, July 12–13
Features collectibles from franchises like “Star Wars,” “Jurassic Park,” and DC Comics, plus an appearance by “Love on the Spectrum” star James Jones.
More info

🎶 Great Waters Music Festival
Wolfeboro & Moultonborough, July 12–Aug. 27
This summer music series brings classical, jazz, and pop concerts to venues like Brewster Academy and Castle in the Clouds.  
More info

🌊 Piscataqua Riverfest
Portsmouth, July 12
Hosted at Strawbery Banke Museum, this river-themed festival features live music, maritime activities, and family-friendly fun. Celebrates the working waterfront and local history.
More info

🇺🇸 American Independence Festival
Exeter, July 12
Colonial reenactors, cannons, live music, and historical demonstrations fill the streets near the American Independence Museum. Celebrates New Hampshire’s role in the Revolutionary War.
More info

🎟 Disney’s Freaky Friday
Portsmouth, through Aug. 10
This modern musical about a mother and daughter who swap lives is on stage most Thursdays through Sundays at Prescott Park. Includes ASL-supported performances on select dates.
More info

Do you have more events to share? Reply to this email and let us know!

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