📍 Location & Geography
Laconia is a city located in Belknap County, New Hampshire, United States. It is situated between Lake Winnipesaukee and Winnisquam Lake, offering a beautiful natural setting. The city is nestled in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire and is surrounded by several hills and mountains.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Laconia, New Hampshire are approximately 43.5279° N latitude and 71.4704° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Laconia is part of the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, a popular tourist destination known for its lakes, mountains, and outdoor recreational activities. The city covers a total area of 26.6 square miles (68.9 km²), of which 20.0 square miles (51.8 km²) is land and 6.6 square miles (17.1 km²) is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the city of Laconia had a population of approximately 16,581. The population is fairly evenly split between males and females. The median age in the city is around 45 years. The racial makeup of the city is predominantly White, followed by smaller percentages of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.
🏛️ History
Laconia’s history dates back to the 17th century when it was part of a larger tract of land granted by the Massachusetts Bay Colony. It was first named Meredith Bridge and later incorporated as Laconia in 1893. The city’s location between two major lakes made it a strategic location for trade and transportation in the early days. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Laconia was known for its textile mills and hosiery factories.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Laconia is known for its stunning natural beauty, with numerous lakes, forests, and mountains surrounding the city. The city is home to several parks and nature preserves, including Opechee Park and Ahern State Park. The Lakes Region Conservation Trust also maintains several nature trails and preserves in and around Laconia. The city’s commitment to preserving its natural environment makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
🏫 Education
Education in Laconia is managed by the Laconia School District, which operates several elementary schools, a middle school, and Laconia High School. For higher education, the city is home to Lakes Region Community College, which offers a variety of degree and certificate programs.
🚧 Transportation
The city of Laconia is served by several major roads, including U.S. Route 3 and New Hampshire Route 106. Public transportation is provided by the Winnipesaukee Transit System. The city is also home to the Laconia Municipal Airport, which provides general aviation services.
📜 Trivia & Events
Laconia is well-known for hosting the annual Laconia Motorcycle Week, one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the United States. The event, which takes place in June, attracts thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from around the country. The city is also home to the Belknap Mill, the oldest unaltered brick textile mill in the United States, which is now a museum.