Mt. Washington Valley Sees Sunny Weather, Strong Tourism Numbers for Labor Day Weekend

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North Conway, NH - Labor Day Weekend 2023 saw visitors flocking to the Mt. Washington Valley, and tourism and hospitality-related businesses reported strong visitation and sales for the last “official” weekend of summer. According to a survey by the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce (MWVCC), many member businesses reported sold-out crowds, double-digit increases in revenue and greater visitation compared to 2022. While the increase in business was not across the board, a consistent upbeat vibe was reported throughout the area.

MWVCC Executive Director Michelle Cruz stated, “Visitors celebrated the end of summer 2023 by booking hotel stays, exploring local attractions, and enjoying the sunny summer weather that we’ve been waiting for. It’s certain to serve as a springboard to a strong fall foliage season for Valley businesses.”

Eighty-six percent of those responding reported average to above-average business levels for the three days. Family attractions like Storyland and White Mountain Speedway stated while it was not a sell-out, it was “a strong weekend” and “busier than expected.” Similar sentiments were shared by the Mt. Washington Auto Road who reported that they were about 85% sold out for all guided tours, and were very busy on Sunday, as were the Great Glen Trails biking and kayaking bookings. Those reporting a sell-out weekend included the Denmark Arts Association’s The Bruce Marshall Group concert, and The Christmas Farm Inn which was booked solid for both lodging and spa services. 

Visitors were also reported to be spending more money than in previous years. Over two-thirds of those surveyed reported an increase in sales for the weekend. Fishing purveyor North Country Angler shared that sales were up double digits over the prior year. Owner Steve Anger stated that his sales were “the strongest since COVID” as they were close to sold out for the dates. O’Reilly House Bed and Breakfast also enjoyed a double-digit increase in sales over last year. Good weather was frequently cited as the reason for the improved performance.

While most visitors to the area were from Massachusetts (76% of respondents reported visitors from the state), many also traveled further including Rhode Island and Connecticut (62%); New York and New Jersey (33%); or taking a flight to get here (14%). 

As summer turns to fall, Valley businesses are bullish for the upcoming leaf-peeping season. North Conway area hotels report seeing a return of European visitors, more family reunions, and lots of bus tours. Many properties have started selling out key weekends in late September/early October, predicted to be peak foliage season. Indigenous Peoples’ Day typically sees the highest traffic to the area. This year this three-day-weekend falls on October 6-9, 2023. 

For more information about the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce and their member businesses, visit them online at www.visitmwv.com.

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The Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization, dependent on membership to deliver valuable services, providing resources and events to support our membership and local community at large, and marketing the Mt. Washington Valley as a premier and vibrant New England vacation destination. This cultivates a business climate promoting growth, collaboration, and innovation supporting the opportunity to live, work, play, and stay in the Mt. Washington Valley.

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