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Visiting the New Hampshire Ice Castles is a breathtaking winter experience, but if you’re not dressed properly, the magic can quickly turn into misery. If you’re looking for winter travel inspo, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip! As someone who moved from Florida to Boston, I learned the hard way that dressing for the cold is not intuitive when you’re used to palm trees and sunshine!
In this guide, I’ll share what to wear and pack for the Ice Castles, so you can stay warm, comfortable, and fully enjoy this magical winter attraction. Plus, I’ll link to must-have winter essentials that will make your trip even better. Let’s dive in! ❄️✨
Winter Travel Inspo: What to Expect at the Ice Castles
Before we get into the outfit checklist, here’s what you should know: ✅ You’ll be walking on ice and snow (it gets slippery!) ✅ It’s all outdoors, and it gets very cold—especially at night ✅ There are no indoor heated areas to warm up ✅ It’s a perfect photo spot, so your outfit matters!
With that in mind, layering and waterproof gear are key!
Winter Travel Inspo: What to Wear to the Ice Castles ❄️
1. Base Layers: Stay Warm & Dry
The secret to staying warm? Layering! Start with moisture-wicking fabrics to trap heat and avoid getting sweaty.
Thermal tops & leggings (Merino wool is best) → [Amazon Link]
Fleece-lined leggings for extra warmth → [REI Link]
2. Insulated Outerwear: Block the Cold
Your jacket and pants will make or break your experience!
Waterproof insulated jacket (Down or synthetic) → [Columbia Jacket]
Snow pants or fleece-lined joggers → [Amazon Link]
3. Footwear: Keep Your Feet Warm & Dry
No sneakers! Trust me—your feet will freeze. ✔️ Insulated waterproof boots (Avoid UGGs, they aren’t waterproof!) → [Sorel Boots]
Wool socks (Cotton socks won’t cut it!) → [Amazon Link]
Thermal insoles for extra warmth → [REI Link]
4. Accessories: Don’t Forget These!
These small items make a big difference in the cold:
Waterproof gloves (Bonus: heated gloves!) → [Amazon Link]
Touchscreen-friendly gloves for photos → [Amazon Link]
Fleece-lined beanie (Cover your ears!) → [REI Link]
Scarf or neck gaiter to block wind → [Amazon Link]
Hand & foot warmers → [Amazon 10-pack]
5. Extras to Pack for a Cozy Visit
🎒 Crossbody bag or backpack → [Amazon Link]
📸 Tripod & extra phone battery (Cold drains batteries fast!) → [Amazon Link]
🍫 Thermos with hot chocolate or tea → [YETI Thermos]
🛷 Sled for kids (Some families bring them!) → [Amazon Link]
Pro Tips for Visiting the Ice Castles
Best Time to Go: Early evening (Golden Hour for photos!)
Tickets: Buy in advance; weekends sell out quickly!
Where to Warm Up After: Check out local coffee shops nearby
Photo Tips: Dress in contrasting colors (because light blues, whites, and grays blend in with the ice!)
Final Thoughts
Dressing properly for the Ice Castles is essential to fully enjoy this bucket-list winter experience. With the right layers, waterproof gear, and cozy accessories, you’ll be warm, comfortable, and ready to take all the stunning photos!
We were not dressed properly our first time when we went so we only lasted about 30 minutes in the castles, if that! Then we ran to a nearby restaurant and enjoyed a nice beverage.
Save this post for later and let me know if you have any Ice Castles questions in the comments!