Dining

For elegant dining the Sunset Hill House (823-5522; $$) with views of the Franconia Range, and the Franconia Inn (823-5542; $$–$$$), with a sunny dining room, are the best. Both establishments require reservations, even if you’re a guest.

The Pub with Mexican Grub ($–$$) recently opened in the Franconia Hotel. For more traditional fare, head to the Village House (823-5405; $-$$) in downtown Franconia, where prime rib is the Saturday-night special, or The Eastgate Restaurant (444-3971; $–$$), considered one of the better local restaurants.

For breakfast, a drive of a few miles up I-93 to Littleton takes you to the Littleton Diner (444-3994; $), a traditional old diner car where you can get a great breakfast. (If you visit in summer, Polly’s Pancake Parlor (823-5575; $) up Sugar Hill outside Franconia, is a must.)

See Loon for more dining recommendations in the area.

Dining Legend: $$$$–Entrees $30+; $$$–$20–$30; $$–$10–$20; $–less than $10.