Weirs Beach has long been a favorite destination for day trippers and vacationers alike. The name Weirs is named after a fishing weir of woven branches set in a water way to catch passing fish. The native inhabitants had established one of the region's largest settlements at the Acquadocton Village located at the point now known as the Weirs.
My earliest memories of going to Winnipesaukee definitely include walking the pier at the Weirs. Lined with Arcades on one side, a huge sugar white sand beach on the end and the biggest pier I had ever seen, this is what paradise was for a child! The arcades are still a favorite, as are a game of mini golf, and a ride on one of the cruise ships that call the Weirs home. Oh, don't forget about the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad. This step back in time runs during our "tourist" season along the shores of Winni and is not to be misssed!
Every June, Weirs Beach is transformed for Bike Week. Attendance is estimated between 100,000 and 400,000. The rally has its origin in the Loudon Classic motorcycle race started in 1923 and the Gypsy Tour, where many motorcyclists passed through Laconia. Events were scheduled, including races, shows and a motorcycle hill climb competition. The hill climb is still enjoyed every year at Gunstock Recreation area in Gilford, NH. The Laconia rally has its roots in June of 1916 when a few hundred motorcyclists gathered at Weirs Beach in Laconia. Seven years later, the event was officially recognized as part the Gypsy Tour, where motorcyclists celebrated races and hill climbs for an entire weekend. The sight of thousands of bikes traversing our countryside is one to behold and certainly not to be missed!
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