North Conway is the commercial and tourism heart of the Mount Washington Valley in Carroll County, known for its mile-long strip of outlet shopping along Route 16. The town sits directly beneath cliffs popular with rock climbers and offers some of the most accessible mountain views in the White Mountains.

Cranmore Mountain Resort and the Conway Scenic Railroad anchor much of the town's tourism economy, alongside the outlet shops, restaurants, and hotels that line its main corridor. The surrounding White Mountain National Forest provides hiking, climbing, and skiing close to the village center.

Housing costs in North Conway have risen sharply alongside its growing profile as a four-season tourist destination, and much of the local economy remains tied to tourism, hospitality, and retail employment. The town draws visitors, seasonal workers, and second-home buyers seeking White Mountains access.