Shopping, Dining & Events

Center Harbor’s main industry is tourism. The economy is strong, and several shops and stores are located in the center of the Village with lodging and a B&B nearby. A public beach, playground and dock complex with a boat landing are a short walk from the Village Green. The Town prides itself as having virtually everything you might need within a mile of the village which includes a supermarket, hardware store, book store, gas station, clothing store, artisan crafts and art, furniture and home furnishings, canoe and kayak sales and rentals, specialty clothing, jewelry, a state liquor store, real estate offices, even computers and cell phones. Several wonderful upscale restaurants, a diner and an ice cream shop serve the village and visitors.

Visit the Business page for a complete listing of businesses and links to their websites, or discover Center Harbor at your own pace by using our Village Map.

In February in conjunction with the Center Harbor Community Development Association (CHCDA) the Town hosts SkateFest, a family friendly day of ice skating and snow sculpting with free food provided by the local restaurants and Heath’s supermarket.  An annual Fourth of July celebration featuring a road race (including a children's race around the library), parade, band concert, and fireworks over the lake draws visitors from all over New England. In August CHCDA also sponsors LobsterFest in conjunction with the Town Fire Department. It’s an old fashioned family friendly and affordable lobster cookout with free hot dogs for children under 12, fireworks over the lake, free music and street dancing. The Center Harbor Town Band, founded in 1878, also offers free concerts on the Town Green every Friday in July with additional free concerts by area bands during August. The large forest areas and hillsides provide spectacular vistas in the Fall during leaf season. During winter, the town is a popular stop for snowmobile enthusiasts, cross country skiers and snowshoers who follow the many trails throughout the area.

Come and visit any time of year, and discover why so many people consider Center Harbor the quintessential small New England Town that is big on fun and relaxation!