NH Ice Castles Review: A Magical Winter Experience
The New Hampshire Ice Castles offer a stunning winter attraction that combines massive ice sculptures, glowing lights, and seasonal activities into an unforgettable experience.
We recently had the chance to travel to Loon Mountain, and with a 5 inch snowstorm earlier in the day, the trip turned out to be even more magical than expected. From twinkling ice tunnels to a peaceful sleigh ride through a winter wonderland, here’s everything you need to know about visiting the NH Ice Castles and what made our trip so special.
We Stayed at a Cozy Lincoln, NH Airbnb
For our New Hampshire Ice Castles trip, we wanted a comfortable, conveniently located Airbnb that would let us fully embrace the winter vibes while staying close to the attraction. We ended up booking this condo in Lincoln, NH, just ten minutes away from the Ice Castles, and it turned out to be a great home base for our trip.
Why We Loved This Airbnb
Spacious & Family-Friendly Layout – The condo had plenty of room for our family, with a master bedroom featuring a king-sized bed and a loft space that doubled as a second family room. The kids loved the loft. It had three twin-sized beds and its own TV. We also had a private balcony overlooking Loon Mountain. Watching the skiers make their way down the slopes through the snowfall was one of the highlights of our stay.
Well-Stocked Kitchen – The kitchen had everything we needed to make meals, plus a few unexpected extras like energy bars and hot chocolate. A cozy touch for a winter getaway. Having a full kitchen made it easy to have lunch before heading out and wind down with warm drinks in the evening.
Breathtaking Views – The condo’s balcony was the perfect spot to take in the views of Loon Mountain, especially during the snowstorm. It felt like we were in the middle of a winter postcard, watching the ski lifts carry skiers up the mountain while fresh powder coated the slopes.
Location, Location, Location – Being just ten minutes from the Ice Castles made the experience so much better. Instead of worrying about a long drive in winter conditions, we got to relax all day at the condo, enjoy the snowfall, and head to the Ice Castles without stress.
Super Clean & Welcoming – The condo was immaculately clean, which made us feel instantly at home. From the cozy decor to the comfy blankets and bedding, everything felt well cared for.
A Few Things We Could Have Done Without
While we loved our stay, there were a couple of things that weren’t ideal:
The freezer didn’t keep things frozen – We bought ice cream sandwiches for the kids, only to realize the freezer wasn’t cold enough to keep them from melting. Even ice cubes didn’t last, so if you’re planning to bring frozen groceries, keep this in mind.
Super bright nightlights – There were built-in nightlights on the first floor that lit up the master bedroom at night. Since I usually sleep in complete darkness, this made it a little hard to fall asleep. If you’re like me, you might want to bring an eye mask to block out the extra light.
Noise from hallways & stairs – The condo itself was very peaceful, but we could hear people walking up and down the stairs on either side of the unit and conversations from people walking through the hallways. It wasn’t a huge issue, but if you’re a light sleeper, you might want to bring earplugs just in case.
Would We Stay Here Again?
Absolutely! Despite a couple of minor inconveniences, this Airbnb was a fantastic place to stay for a winter trip to Lincoln, NH. The views, location, and cozy layout made it the perfect home base for our Ice Castles adventure, and we’d gladly stay here again. If you’re looking for a comfortable and well-located stay near the Ice Castles, this condo is definitely worth considering.
Top 5 Breakfast Spots Near the NH Ice Castles
If you’re planning a visit to the New Hampshire Ice Castles and looking for a hearty breakfast to start your day, here are five excellent options in and around Lincoln, NH:
1. Flapjack’s Pancake House
Address: 149 Main Street, Lincoln, NH 03251
Phone: (603) 745-8226
Hours: Thursday to Monday, 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM; Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Popular Dishes - Known for their fluffy pancakes with various toppings like blueberries and chocolate chips. They also offer hearty omelets and classic breakfast combos.
2. Arnold’s Wayside Diner
Address: 90 US-3, Lincoln, NH 03251
Phone: (603) 745-9910
Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Popular Dishes - Famous for their “eggs benny” and homemade pancakes served with real maple syrup. A classic diner experience with generous portions.
3. White Mountain Bagel Company
Address: 25 Main Street, Lincoln, NH 03251
Phone: (603) 745-8576
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM; Sunday, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Popular Dishes - Freshly baked bagels with a variety of cream cheese flavors, breakfast sandwiches made with Boar’s Head meats, and a selection of specialty coffees.
4. Woodstock Inn Brewery
Address: 135 Main Street, North Woodstock, NH 03262
Phone: (603) 745-3951
Hours: Breakfast served daily from 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Popular Dishes: Over a dozen types of eggs benedict, unique pancakes, and French toast varieties. A cozy atmosphere with a diverse menu.
5. The Black Diamond Bar and Pub at Loon Mountain Club
Address: 60 Loon Mountain Road, Lincoln, NH 03251
Phone: (603) 745-2244
Hours: Breakfast served daily from 7:30 AM – 10:00 AM; Brunch on Sundays
Popular Dishes: Offers a range of breakfast options from yogurt parfaits and oatmeal to traditional dishes like hash and eggs, and buttermilk pancakes.
Daytime Activities Before Visiting the NH Ice Castles
To make the most of your day before experiencing the enchanting New Hampshire Ice Castles, consider exploring these engaging activities in the Lincoln area:
1. Skiing at Loon Mountain Resort
For winter sports enthusiasts, Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln offers a variety of activities. With 61 trails and 2,100 feet of vertical drop, the resort caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Beyond skiing, Loon provides snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snow tubing. Equipment rentals and lessons are available for beginners. After a day on the slopes, relax at one of the resort’s dining establishments or enjoy the scenic views from the gondola.
Address: 60 Loon Mountain Road, Lincoln, NH 03251
Phone: (603) 745-8111
Hours: Open daily during the winter season; hours may vary. Check their website for the most up-to-date information.
2. Snowshoeing Adventures
If you prefer a more tranquil experience, snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore the winter landscape. The Loon Mountain Adventure Center offers guided snowshoe tours suitable for all skill levels. Trails range from beginner-friendly paths along the Pemigewasset River to more challenging routes leading to high-alpine areas with stunning views. Snowshoe rentals are available, and guided tours provide insights into the local flora and fauna.
Address: 60 Loon Mountain Road, Lincoln, NH 03251
Phone: (603) 745-8111
Hours: Open daily during the winter season; tour times vary. Visit their website for details and reservations.
Arriving at the New Hampshire Ice Castles: Parking and Ticketing Experience
When visiting the New Hampshire Ice Castles, it’s helpful to know what to expect regarding parking and ticketing to ensure a smooth experience.
Parking
We opted for the earliest time slot at 4:00 PM, aiming to beat the crowds. Upon arrival, parking attendants guided us to diagonal parking spots, making the process straightforward. Arriving early not only secured us a convenient spot but also allowed us to enjoy the attraction with fewer visitors.
Ticketing
Having purchased our tickets online in advance, we joined a queue resembling those at amusement parks, leading up to several ticket windows. At the window, staff scanned our barcodes for entry, as well as for additional experiences we had selected.
Additional Experiences
Sleigh Ride - We added a sleigh ride to our visit, which took us through an illuminated wooded trail before returning to the castle area. Tickets for the sleigh ride are sold separately for $10 per person plus a service fee and can be purchased during the ticketing process.
Souvenir Photo - To capture the memory, we opted for a souvenir photo, which was also available as an add-on during ticket purchase for $30 plus a service fee.
Ticket Pricing
Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time. As of 2025, peak pricing ranges between $23 and $31, while off-peak pricing is between $15 and $21. There is also a service fee for each ticket. Check the official website for the most current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance, as they can sell out quickly.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival
Given the popularity of the Ice Castles, especially during peak times, it’s recommended to purchase tickets online ahead of time. This ensures you secure your preferred time slot and any additional experiences you’d like to include.
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled entry time to account for parking and ticket processing. This buffer helps ensure you can start your visit promptly.
Food and Drink Options at the NH Ice Castles
One of the first things we did when we arrived at the New Hampshire Ice Castles was grab some warm drinks and snacks to enjoy while we explored. The cold air made a hot drink an absolute must, and the food trucks on-site offered plenty of classic winter comfort foods to choose from.
What We Ordered
Hot Chocolate & Apple Cider – We got three hot chocolates and one hot apple cider, which came in tiny 8-ounce cups. At $4.75 each, they were a bit pricey for the size, but they were warm, sweet, and exactly what we needed to start the night.
Corn Dogs & Cajun Fries – The kids were immediately drawn to the corn dogs, so we grabbed two of them along with an order of Cajun fries to share. The fries had a nice kick of seasoning and were crispy and hot, making them a perfect snack on a cold night.
Total Cost: $56 for our order, which, given the event pricing, was about what we expected.
Other Food Options
Beyond what we ordered, the food truck near the entrance had a variety of other comfort food options, including:
Nutella Churros – A popular warm and crispy treat, perfect for a quick sweet bite.
Chicken Tenders & Soft Pretzels – A few classic hot meal options if you’re looking for something heartier.
Other Snacks – From candied pecans to warm chocolate chip cookies, there were plenty of grab-and-go options.
At the opposite end of the park, there was a separate food area selling alcoholic beverages, but since we don’t drink, we didn’t check it out. However, if you’re looking for a spiked cider or a warm boozy drink, there are options available for adults who want to sip something stronger while walking through the ice sculptures.
Was It Worth It?
While the prices were on the high side, as expected at an event like this, the food itself was halfway decent and kept us warm as we wandered through the Ice Castles. Overall, the food was a fun part of the experience, but the real magic of the Ice Castles is in the sights, not the snacks. If you’re on a budget, consider bringing your own hot drinks in a thermos to sip while you walk through!
Exploring the Ice Castles: A Magical Winter Wonderland
As soon as we stepped inside the New Hampshire Ice Castles, we were completely in awe. It honestly felt like stepping into another world- one made entirely of ice, glowing lights, and winter magic.
We couldn’t stop talking about how these massive structures were made. They almost looked like glaciers that had been sculpted into a castle, with towering walls of solid ice that shimmered under color-changing lights. The entire place had an otherworldly feel, with pathways leading through archways, tunnels, and open courtyards, all bathed in shifting hues of blue, purple, yellow, and pink.
The Ice Slides
One of the biggest highlights for the kids was the ice slides. Several of the Ice Castles were carved into gigantic slides, letting the kids literally slide down massive chutes of ice. My daughter Ellie, who is normally afraid of heights and thrill rides, was surprisingly brave and decided to give it a try. Not only did she conquer her fear, but she ended up loving it and going down the slides multiple times.
The slides were well-maintained, smooth, and fast, making them a favorite for kids and adults alike. There were no staff members at the top helping regulate the lines, but even though it was a little chaotic, everything moved smoothly.
Ice Tunnels & Sculptures
Aside from the slides, the kids also loved walking through the ice tunnels, which added an extra layer of adventure. It felt like we were weaving through a frozen maze, ducking under ice arches and stepping through illuminated passageways.
Throughout the Ice Castles, there were also intricate ice sculptures. Some looked like spiraling towers, others like giant frozen waves. The level of craftsmanship in these structures was beyond impressive. It was just as much of an art exhibit as it was an immersive experience.
A Trail of Twinkle Lights
At the back of the Ice Castles, we found a quarter-mile-long trail leading through the woods, and it honestly felt like something out of a fairytale. The trail was lined with twinkling lights, with mushroom-shaped lanterns that looked like they were hanging from the night sky. It gave the whole area a whimsical, enchanted forest kind of vibe.
Since everything was covered in fresh snow, the entire walk felt quiet and peaceful, except for the soft music playing over the speakers in the background. The trees and snowbanks were lit up with blues, purples, and soft golden hues, making the trail feel like a winter dreamland.
That being said, as the night went on, it did get significantly busier. The later it got, the more it felt like we were being herded through the trail like a pack of cows (in the most polite, family-friendly way possible). Everyone was incredibly kind and patient, but it was definitely crowded, so if you prefer a quieter, more open experience, going earlier in the evening is definitely your best bet.
Snow Tubing and Sleigh Rides at the NH Ice Castles
Beyond the ice sculptures, slides, and twinkle light trails, the New Hampshire Ice Castles offer additional winter activities, including snow tubing and sleigh rides. These experiences add to the magic of the night, especially for kids who love playing in the snow.
Snow Tubing: A Fun (But Cold) Adventure
The snow tubing hill was a huge hit with the kids. The line was about 15 minutes long, which wasn’t too bad, but given the cold temperatures, we only ended up going down two or three times before calling it quits.
The kids had an absolute blast, laughing the whole way down and running back up to do it again. Even when we weren’t tubing, the kids were fully entertained rolling around in the snow, making snow angels, and throwing snowballs.
Sleigh Rides
The sleigh ride was available as an add-on, and from what we saw, two sleighs were running continuously throughout the night. We only had to wait about five minutes in line before getting on. The ride itself was nice but fairly quick, making a loop through a winter-lit trail before bringing us back. If you’re expecting an elaborate, scenic Christmas light ride, this one is a bit more understated, but it still added to the overall ambiance.
What made the sleigh ride even more memorable for us was the couple we met in line- they had just gotten married earlier that day and were still wearing their tuxedo and wedding dress! Seeing them celebrating their wedding night at the Ice Castles was such a fun and unexpected moment.
Final Thoughts on the Extra Activities
Both the snow tubing and sleigh ride were great additions to our Ice Castles experience. While the cold and wait times made us limit how long we participated, they were still fun ways to make the most of the winter wonderland atmosphere.
If you’re visiting the Ice Castles, we’d recommend:
Trying the tubing early before it gets too crowded and cold.
Dressing in extra warm layers if you plan on waiting in line.
Booking the sleigh ride if you want a festive touch, but knowing that it’s more of a quick loop than a long scenic tour.
NH Ice Castles Are A Truly Magical Experience & Worth a Visit
Looking back on our visit to the New Hampshire Ice Castles, the experience was both enchanting and memorable. The snow coming down all day leading up to the Ice Castles really made the experience for us. While the admission and additional activities did come at a notable cost, this is typical for such unique attractions, and the immersive experience more than justifies the cost.
Though the Ice Castles were illuminated with color-changing lights, standing like majestic, natural skyscrapers, the twinkle light trail behind the main ice structures was a delightful surprise. With its whimsical lighting and peaceful surroundings, it became our favorite part of the event.
Our kiddos (ages 6-8) thoroughly enjoyed the experience and are already asking if we can go back before the season ends. As full-time digital nomads, we’re excited about visiting the other Ice Castles locations across the U.S., including Eagle, Colorado, Cripple Creek, Colorado, Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Midway, Utah.
A few things we’d do differently next time:
Layer up! – Standing in line for tubing and the sleigh ride made us feel way colder than we expected.
Book an earlier time slot again – It was much less crowded at the beginning, and we were glad we arrived early.
Overall, we give it a 4/5 star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you’re on the fence about going, we say do it. It’s a one-of-a-kind winter experience, and it’s even better if you can share it with family or friends.
