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Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

23 Science Center Road · Holderness, NH

Why you should go…

This nature center in Holderness lets visitors walk a self-guided trail past black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, and river otters native to New Hampshire, all in naturalistic outdoor enclosures. The center also runs guided cruises on Squam Lake, made famous as the filming location for On Golden Pond.

  • #nature center
  • #wildlife
  • #squam lake
  • #golden pond

Good to know

General attractions guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Book the time slot, not just the ticket

    Timed entry is now the norm at big-draw attractions, and online tickets are often cheaper than the gate.

  • Grab the daily schedule on arrival

    Feeding times, keeper talks, and shows run on a posted timetable that changes day to day.

  • The first hour is the quietest

    Queues build through late morning and peak after lunch, so an early start buys you the shortest waits.

  • Budget past the ticket price

    Parking, lockers, strollers, and food inside the gates are common extras worth planning for.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Sandwich Fair

    Under $25

    A classic New Hampshire county fair with livestock, exhibits, and Columbus Day weekend crowds.

    9.3 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Local Gem

    The Loon Center

    Free

    A wildlife sanctuary and visitor center devoted to New Hampshire's common loons.

    9.8 mi awaySwitch it up: Sport & Outdoor

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Outdoor Adventure

    Fay's Boat Yard

    $50+

    Full service marina on Lake Winnipesaukee offering boat rentals, sales, storage and repair.

    14 mi awaySwitch it up: Sport & Outdoor

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Merrill Fay Arena

    Under $25

    Community ice arena in Laconia offering public skating, learn to skate classes and hockey leagues.

    17 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Western White Mountains

    Free

    Visitor hub for the Lincoln, Woodstock and Franconia Notch region of New Hampshire's White Mountains.

    21 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sightseeing
    Outdoor Adventure

    White Mountains

    Free

    New Hampshire's mountain playground, home to Mount Washington, Franconia Notch, and the Kancamagus Highway.

    21 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing