There are plenty of reasons to plan a trip to Mt. Washington Valley, from hiking and biking to scenic drives and family attractions. But between time on the trails and stops at favorite restaurants, the Valley has also earned a reputation for being a premier tax-free shopping destination.
A mix of name brands and longstanding local shops gives the area a wide variety of options. From back-to-school shopping and New Hampshire-made goods to a bakery for your four-legged friends and plenty of unexpected finds, there’s always room in the itinerary for a shopping day.
Back-to-School Shopping: Settlers Green
For families squeezing in one more trip before the school year begins, Settlers Green makes it easy to pair a summer getaway with some back-to-school shopping.
The iconic outlet mall attracts shoppers from all over New England and Canada who are looking for tax-free deals. Located right in North Conway, Settlers Green brings together outlet stores and name brands covering clothing, shoes, accessories and everyday essentials. There are plenty of options for first-day outfits and other back-to-school staples.Â
Settlers Green is hosting a Back-to-School Blitz on Aug. 14 with family activities and special promotions. As we head into fall and the holiday season, be sure to check out their event calendar for their famous sales events.Â
A North Conway Classic: Zeb's General Store
Zeb’s is an iconic store located in the heart of North Conway Village. Shelves packed with New England specialty foods, old-fashioned candy, locally themed apparel, souvenirs—it’s the type of place you can spend hours in. Their collection of local products and old-fashioned atmosphere has made it a familiar stop for generations of visitors to the Valley.
Holiday Season Year-Round: The Christmas Loft
There’s no need to wait until December to get into the holiday spirit.
The Christmas Loft has been part of North Conway since 1984 and turns Christmas shopping into an experience of its own. Inside are rooms filled with ornaments, Christmas villages, lights and seasonal decor from a wide range of holiday brands.
Make an Afternoon of it: North Conway Village
Zeb’s may be one of the best-known stores on Main Street, but shopping in North Conway Village doesn’t stop there.
The compact village center has a mix of locally owned shops that are perfect for an afternoon spent browsing on foot. White Birch Books offers an independent bookstore within walking distance of Schouler Park, while Poppy & Vale carries botanically inspired gifts across from the Conway Scenic Railroad station. The Penguin Gallery, Spruce Hurricane, Beggar’s Pouch Leather and other longtime shops add everything from apparel and accessories to gifts and locally inspired finds.
Bring Something Home for the Dog: For Your Paws Only
For Your Paws Only (FYPO) in North Conway is a locally owned pet specialty store and bakery that has served pets since 1994. The store carries supplies for dogs and cats, gifts for pet lovers and a full pet bakery, including custom treats. You know the incredible smell of a bakery in the morning? That’s what it’ll be like for your pup when walking into FYPO.Â
Stops Beyond Traditional Shops
Some of the best places to pick up something from the White Mountains are not traditional stores at all.
At Appalachian Mountain Club’s Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, hikers stopping for trail information can also browse a retail shop with outdoor gear, clothing and AMC merchandise.
Back in North Conway Village, the New England Ski Museum is another spot worth browsing beyond the exhibits. Its museum shop carries books on ski history, artwork and vintage-inspired prints, housewares, puzzles, apparel and other items connected to New England’s skiing history. Purchases also support the museum’s work preserving and sharing that history.
Make shopping part of your trip to Mt. Washington Valley
The Valley is a great place to spend a day tax-free shopping, whether that means a back-to-school trip at Settlers Green, spending an afternoon browsing North Conway Village or heading home with a treat for your four-legged friends.Â
Browse more shopping options here.
