The Ice Castles in New Hampshire – A Winter Wonderland Experience

The Ice Castles in North Woodstock, New Hampshire are a must-visit winter attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world. These acre-sized frozen castles feature breathtaking LED-lit sculptures, tunnels, slides, frozen thrones, and more, offering an unforgettable immersive winter experience.

How Are the Ice Castles Made?

Unlike naturally occurring ice formations, the Ice Castles are handcrafted using a patented process that involves growing and harvesting icicles:

• Icicle Farms: Thousands of icicles are grown daily in specialized "icicle farms."
• Hand-Placed Artistry: Ice artisans meticulously hand-place each icicle to create stunning structures.
• Fusing Process: The icicles are bonded using a slushy mixture and sprayed with water to form a massive frozen fortress.
• Massive Scale: The North Woodstock Ice Castles span 2 acres and use approximately 25 million pounds of ice, making them one of the largest ever built.

Top Things to Do at the Ice Castles

The Ice Castles offer a variety of interactive attractions for visitors of all ages:

• Ice Slides – Glide down thrilling slides designed for all ages.
• Caverns & Archways – Walk through hand-placed icicle caverns and beautifully sculpted archways.
• Crawl Tunnels – Fun ice tunnels designed for both kids and adults.
• Mystic Forest Light Walk – A quarter-mile illuminated trail through a magical winter forest.
• Winter Fairy Village – A charming fairy-themed loop near the Mystic Forest Light Walk.
• Sleigh Rides – Enjoy a scenic sleigh ride through an illuminated wooded trail (not available from 5 PM - 6 PM on weekends and holidays).
• Polar Pub – Sip on winter-themed alcoholic beverages at a bar made entirely of ice.
• Arctic Alcove – Reserve a private area for special occasions, which includes treat cards, tickets, a souvenir photo, and a merchandise discount.

Planning Your Visit: What You Need to Know

Location & Directions

Address: 24 Clark Farm Road, North Woodstock, NH

Driving Directions:

• From the South (I-93 North) – Take Exit 32, turn right on Hwy 112 (Lost River Road), then turn right on Clark Farm Road.
• From the North (I-93 South) – Take Exit 33, continue on US-3 South, turn right onto Lost River Road, then turn right on Clark Farm Road.

Transportation: Uber and Lyft are unreliable in the area. It’s recommended to bring your own car for this trip!

Parking: Free parking is available next to the Ice Castles. Be aware that the lot is unpaved and can get muddy on warmer days. ADA-designated parking spots are located near the entrance.

Ticket Prices & Availability

Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Pricing varies by peak and off-peak times:

• General Admission (Friday-Sunday & Winter Breaks): $30
• Child Admission (Friday-Sunday & Winter Breaks): $23
• General Admission (Wednesday & Thursday): $20
• Child Admission (Wednesday & Thursday): $15
• Locals’ Day Tickets: NH residents can purchase $5 tickets in person with a valid ID.
• Bounce Back Pass: Discounted rate for return visits.

Peak Pricing (Weekends & Holidays): $23 - $31
Off-Peak Pricing (Weekdays): $15 - $21

Dates & Hours of Operation

2025 Season: Open from January 10 - February 23, weather permitting.
Hours: Typically 4:00 PM - 10:30 PM, but hours may vary.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Every year, the Ice Castles are uniquely designed and built, ensuring a new experience with every visit. The castles are illuminated by thousands of LED lights, creating a dazzling nighttime display.

Key Things to Know:

• Interactive Experience – The Ice Castles are open-air and interactive, so dress warmly.
• Weather-Dependent Attractions – Some features may temporarily close due to weather conditions.

Final Thoughts: Why Visit the Ice Castles?

The Ice Castles in New Hampshire offer a one-of-a-kind winter experience, combining adventure, artistry, and magic. Whether you're racing down an ice slide, exploring frozen tunnels, sipping drinks at the Polar Pub, or enjoying a sleigh ride, this mesmerizing winter attraction is perfect for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.

Start planning your visit today and experience the magic of the Ice Castles!