Story Land NH: Unforgettable Fairy Tale Fun For All Ages
Nestled amidst the picturesque White Mountains of New Hampshire, Story Land NH stands as a beloved institution, a place where the magic of childhood dreams comes alive. For over 70 years, this enchanting theme park has been a beacon for families, offering a safe and natural setting where children and their imaginations can truly run free. More than just an amusement park, Story Land is a magical realm meticulously designed for children and families to immerse themselves in the wonders of fairy tales and imaginative adventures, creating cherished memories that last a lifetime.
Located in Glen, New Hampshire, Story Land's very essence is centered around storytelling. Every attraction, every ride, and every corner of the park is crafted to bring beloved characters and classic narratives to life. From meeting iconic figures like Cinderella and Daniel Tiger to embarking on thrilling adventures with Duke the Dragon, Story Land offers a unique blend of entertainment, education, and pure, unadulterated joy. It's a celebration for the young at heart, featuring not only captivating rides and shows but also special events like birthday parties and character dinners, ensuring every visit is an extraordinary experience.
Table of Contents
- The Enduring Magic of Story Land NH
- A Realm of Enchantment: What Awaits Families
- Planning Your Unforgettable Visit to Story Land
- Beyond the Day Trip: Special Events at Story Land
- Safety and Convenience: What You Need to Know
- Navigating Your Way to Fairy Tale Fun
- Why Story Land NH Remains a Must-Visit
- Conclusion: Your Next Family Adventure Awaits
The Enduring Magic of Story Land NH
For generations, Story Land NH has held a special place in the hearts of families across the Northeast and beyond. It's not merely a collection of rides; it's an immersive journey into the realms of fantasy that children often only dream of. The park's commitment to its core theme – storytelling – sets it apart, fostering imagination and wonder in a way that few other attractions can. This dedication to a wholesome, imaginative experience is what has allowed Story Land to thrive for decades, continually drawing new families while welcoming back those who visited as children themselves.
The beauty of Story Land lies in its ability to cater to children of all ages, ensuring that even the youngest visitors can find joy and excitement, while older siblings and parents can appreciate the charm and nostalgia. Every element, from the meticulously crafted storybook settings to the gentle, family-friendly rides, is designed with the child's perspective in mind, making it an ideal destination for creating those irreplaceable family bonding moments.
A Legacy of Imagination: Story Land's Roots
The remarkable journey of Story Land began in 1954, a testament to vision and perseverance. The Morrell family, the park's founders, purchased a piece of land in Glen, New Hampshire, that was so unpromising, the previous owner reportedly claimed it wouldn't even make a decent pasture. Yet, with local help and an unwavering belief in their dream, they transformed this unlikely acreage into a vibrant, imaginative world. They built a handful of colorful buildings and characters, opening their doors to the public in late 1954. This was a full year before the opening of Disneyland, which would later forever change the landscape of amusement parks, highlighting Story Land's pioneering spirit in creating a dedicated children's theme park experience.
This rich history is woven into the fabric of the park. For 30 years, from its opening on July 3, 1976, until October 22, 2006, Story Land was even neighbored by Heritage New Hampshire, an attraction owned by the Morrell family dedicated to the state's history. While Heritage New Hampshire closed its doors in 2006, the legacy of thoughtful, family-focused entertainment continues to define Story Land, which has now been creating magical moments for parents and kids to share together for over 70 years. This longevity speaks volumes about the quality and timeless appeal of the experience offered at this unique New Hampshire attraction.
A Realm of Enchantment: What Awaits Families
A visit to Story Land NH is an invitation to step directly into the pages of a fairy tale. The park's design thoughtfully integrates its attractions with the natural landscape of the White Mountains, creating an atmosphere that feels both whimsical and authentic. It's a place where children can not only see their favorite stories but also become an active part of them, fostering creativity and active play.
Beloved Characters and Timeless Tales
One of the most cherished aspects of Story Land is the opportunity to meet and interact with characters that children adore. At Story Land, you'll meet beloved characters like Cinderella, whose castle is a central feature of the park, offering a truly royal experience. Daniel Tiger, from the popular children's show, brings his neighborhood of make-believe to life, inviting little ones to explore and learn through play. And, of course, there's Duke the Dragon, a friendly, iconic figure who adds a touch of fantasy and adventure to the park's landscape. These character encounters are often highlights for young visitors, providing unforgettable moments and photo opportunities.
Beyond the meet-and-greets, the park's attractions are meticulously designed to tell stories. From classic nursery rhymes brought to life to more adventurous fairy tale settings, each ride and exhibit contributes to the overarching narrative. Puppetry and funky music, as seen in shows that take "Little Red over the river and through the woods, all the way to grandmother’s house!", further enhance the storytelling experience, captivating young and old alike with engaging performances.
Thrills, Spills, and Water Play
While storytelling is at its heart, Story Land NH also delivers on the promise of classic amusement park fun. Visitors can enjoy a variety of rides tailored for different age groups, ensuring that there's something for everyone. From gentle carousels and train rides perfect for toddlers to more exhilarating attractions that provide a gentle thrill for older children and their parents, the park balances excitement with comfort.
In addition to the dry rides, Story Land offers fantastic water play areas, providing a refreshing escape on warm summer days. These interactive zones allow kids to splash, spray, and cool off, adding another dimension to the fun. The combination of traditional rides, engaging shows, and dynamic water play ensures a full day of diverse activities at this White Mountains attraction for kids of all ages. Every corner of the park is designed to spark joy, making it New Hampshire's best amusement park for kids.
Planning Your Unforgettable Visit to Story Land
To make the most of your magical adventure at Story Land NH, a little planning goes a long way. The park is designed for families to spend an entire day, or even multiple days, exploring its many wonders. Understanding the operational details and ticketing options can help streamline your visit and ensure a seamless, enjoyable experience for everyone.
Tickets, Passes, and Seasonal Fun
When it comes to admission, Story Land offers flexibility to suit various family needs. A standard Story Land admission ticket is valid for any one day during the 2025 summer season, typically expiring around September 14, 2025. This allows families to choose the best day for their visit, accommodating travel plans and weather forecasts. For those planning multiple visits or extended stays in New Hampshire, enjoying a season of fun activities for kids in New Hampshire with a Story Land amusement park season pass is an excellent value. A season pass grants unlimited access, making it perfect for locals or frequent visitors who want to experience the park's magic repeatedly throughout the operating season.
It's always wise to view the official calendar and hours before your visit, as operating times can vary. For instance, the park occasionally adjusts its schedule due to inclement weather. As an example, the park once closed at 12 PM on a Saturday, June 7th, due to poor weather, reopening promptly at 9:30 AM on Sunday, June 8th. Checking the official website for the most up-to-date information on attractions, dining, and more is highly recommended to ensure a smooth and delightful day.
Beyond the Day Trip: Special Events at Story Land
Story Land NH isn't just about daily operations; it also hosts a variety of special events that offer unique experiences for different audiences. These events often extend the park's appeal beyond its typical daytime family fun, providing new reasons to visit.
For adults looking for a unique evening out, Story Land hosts New Hampshire's best adult-only events, known as Nostalgia Nights. Join us at one of our upcoming 2025 Nostalgia Nights to relive childhood memories in a grown-up setting. These events offer a chance to experience the park's charm without the usual daytime crowds, providing a different perspective on the magical realm.
Another popular seasonal event is Happy Hauntings. This family-friendly Halloween celebration takes place rain or shine, ensuring that the spooky fun continues regardless of the weather. The park's standard rain policy applies to this event, meaning guests should be prepared for various conditions but can rest assured the event will proceed. Happy Hauntings often features special decorations, characters, and activities that add a festive, autumnal twist to the Story Land experience, making it a must-do for families in the fall.
Safety and Convenience: What You Need to Know
Story Land NH prioritizes the safety and convenience of its guests, ensuring that every family can enjoy their visit without worry. The park has clear policies in place to maintain a secure and welcoming environment for everyone.
A crucial safety measure is the strict policy regarding prohibited items: No weapons or dangerous items will be allowed into the park. This includes even small items like pocket knives, reinforcing the park's commitment to a safe atmosphere for children. This policy is rigorously enforced to ensure peace of mind for all visitors.
In terms of convenience, Story Land has embraced modern payment methods. To streamline transactions and enhance security, Story Land will accept only electronic payments. This means visitors should be prepared to use debit cards, credit cards, or mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. This cashless system helps reduce wait times and provides a more efficient experience for everyone, allowing families to focus more on fun and less on logistics.
Navigating Your Way to Fairy Tale Fun
Reaching Story Land NH, nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, is part of the adventure. The park's location in Glen, New Hampshire, makes it accessible from various points, though it requires a scenic drive. For those traveling from a distance, particularly from the west or south, here’s a common route that highlights the journey:
If you're coming from certain western points, you might follow Route 10 East to Route 55 South into Vermont (USA). From there, pick up Route 91 South to Route 93 South in Littleton, New Hampshire. Once on Route 93 South, take Exit 40, which is just south of Littleton. From Exit 40, you'll follow Route 302 East for approximately 38 miles until you reach the junction of Routes 16 & 302. You'll easily spot an Irving station on your right as a landmark. At the traffic light there, turn left onto NH Route 16 North. This route will lead you directly to the magic of Story Land, promising beautiful scenery along the way.
It's always a good idea to consult a GPS or a reliable map service for the most current directions based on your specific starting point. However, this detailed guidance provides a clear understanding of the general approach to this beloved New Hampshire destination.
Why Story Land NH Remains a Must-Visit
In an era of increasingly complex and high-tech amusement parks, Story Land NH stands out by staying true to its timeless appeal: simple, imaginative fun rooted in classic storytelling. Its enduring popularity for over 70 years is a testament to its unique charm and the value it places on genuine family connection. The park's commitment to providing a safe and natural setting where children can freely explore their imaginations is paramount.
Story Land is not just an amusement park; it is a magical realm designed specifically for children and families to experience the wonders of fairy tales and imaginative adventures. It’s a place where the laughter of children echoes through the valleys, where parents can relive their own childhood memories, and where new ones are forged with every ride, show, and character encounter. The deliberate focus on storytelling, coupled with practical considerations like electronic payments and clear safety policies, ensures a delightful and worry-free experience for everyone. This dedication to quality, safety, and imaginative play solidifies Story Land's position as New Hampshire's best amusement park for kids and a cherished family tradition.
Conclusion: Your Next Family Adventure Awaits
From its humble beginnings in 1954 to its current status as a beloved New England institution, Story Land NH has consistently delivered on its promise of enchantment and family fun. It’s a place where Cinderella, Daniel Tiger, and Duke the Dragon come to life, where laughter fills the air, and where the simple joy of childhood is celebrated. Whether you're planning a single day trip or considering a season pass for endless adventures, Story Land offers a unique escape into a world of imagination.
So, gather your loved ones, plan your visit, and prepare to create unforgettable memories at this truly special theme park in Glen, New Hampshire. Have you visited Story Land before? What was your favorite memory? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or if you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with other families planning their next magical adventure!
Story Land - Season Resort Condominiums
Attractions | Story Land Theme Park
Story Land - Settlers Green | North Conway, NH
