The Memorial Day weekend marked the opening for many of NH’s State Park properties. Over the course of the weekend, State Parks had more than 29,000-day use visitors; the 21 parks that offer camping were 98% full. Mount Washington State Park reported Sunday as its busiest day, with visitors enjoying beautiful weather and 100-mile views. Staff at Jericho State Park in Berlin indicated this weekend was a “phenomenal” start to the summer season.
Entertainment venues, including local theaters and museums are open again with full schedules planned for the season ahead. The Music Hall in Portsmouth was sold out for their Sunday night show, the first in their Live Under the Arch outdoor summer series.
“At this point, summer reservations are looking very strong", says Thomas Prindle, Purity Spring Resort/Danforth Bay Campground. "We are not seeing any sense of discouragement by travelers based on the cost of gas. It’s probably more favorable for our typical markets because it’s more local and an easy drive from southern New Hampshire and Massachusetts. The warmer temps last week and this past weekend are making people think about enjoying the lake and planning a summer vacation.”
Coming out of the Memorial Day Holiday Weekend, the NH Division of Travel and Tourism Development is reporting favorable numbers This weekend traditionally marks the kick-off to the summer tourism season. Summer is the state’s busiest travel season.
“In general, the weekend in the White Mountains was good. As always, the weather forecast played a role, and admissions were “light” on Saturday at many of the attractions. We are fortunate that we have a strong drive market and gas prices are similar across New England.” Says Charyl Reardon, President of the White Mountain Attractions. “It is a bit worrisome if gas prices continue to rise, the effect it could have on visitors choosing to daytrip versus spending a couple of nights in the area. This is something we have seen in the past with gas price spikes.”
Inns and lodging properties are reporting positive numbers this past weekend with advance reservations looking strong for the upcoming summer. Many businesses are showing an increase in extended stays with multi-generational families traveling together.
“Demand going into the long holiday weekend was very high as it is truly the “kick off” to the busy summer season. We had a very strong weekend and were sold out Saturday and Sunday nights and were at 80 capacity Friday night, says Carol Sullivan, White Mountain Hotel & Resort. "All predictions for the summer season are that we will be busier than last year, which was a very busy season. We have seen a slight shift in reservations booking further out, indicating a longer lead time and advance planning on the rise. Length of stay has also increased since the pandemic. We are gearing up for a very busy summer and fall.”
“Demand going into the long holiday weekend was very high as it is truly the “kick off” to the busy summer season. We had a very strong weekend and were sold out Saturday and Sunday nights and were at 80 capacity Friday night,” Carol Sullivan, White Mountain Hotel & Resort. “All predictions for the summer season are that we will be busier than last year, which was a very busy season. We have seen a slight shift in reservations booking further out, indicating a longer lead time and advance planning on the rise. Length of stay has also increased since the pandemic. We are gearing up for a very busy summer and fall.”
Road trips are expected to continue to be a popular trend this summer season. The state is once again marketing to destinations within a 600-mile radius. Visitnh.gov provides road trip inspiration with itineraries for every region of the state.
For those planning to visit during the summer season, online and advanced reservations for activities and attractions are encouraged. Visitors and residents are also being asked to be familiar with the Granite State Promise and Leave No Trace Campaigns. The campaigns promote planning ahead, being patient, responsible and respectful to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Current Issue - May 2024