Mel’s Funway Park

Mel's Funway Park is located in Litchfield, NH.

Mel’s Funway Park: A Litchfield Playground for All Ages

Nestled amid the rolling hills of western New Hampshire, Mel’s Funway Park has become a beloved weekend destination for families, teenagers, and even the occasional out‑of‑state traveler passing through Litchfield. What began as a modest playground in the early 2000s has evolved into a multi‑attraction hub, blending classic outdoor fun with a surprising high‑tech twist—lasertag.

A Quick History

Founded in 2003 by local entrepreneur Melvin “Mel” Hartwell, the park opened its gates with a handful of swings, a sandpit, and a modest picnic area. Mel’s vision was simple: create a safe, affordable space where the community could gather without the pressure of large‑scale commercial amusement parks. Over the next decade, word of mouth and a series of small but strategic upgrades turned the humble plot of land into a regional draw.

In 2015, responding to growing interest in interactive, team‑oriented games, Mel introduced a state‑of‑the‑art indoor lasertag arena. The addition marked a turning point, positioning the park as one of the few rural New Hampshire venues to offer a fully immersive lasertag experience. Today, the arena coexists seamlessly with traditional outdoor attractions, giving visitors a choice between sun‑lit adventure and laser‑lit excitement.

What to Expect

Outdoor Playground – The heart of Mel’s Funway remains its expansive playground, featuring a modern climbing structure, zip lines, and a splash pad that comes alive during the summer months. The equipment is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring accessibility for children with mobility challenges.

Picnic & Event Spaces – Scattered throughout the park are shaded pavilions equipped with BBQ grills, Wi‑Fi, and ample seating. Local schools and community groups frequently book these areas for birthday parties, scouting events, and seasonal festivals.

Lasertag Arena – The arena spans roughly 4,000 square feet and is built with black‑out walls, reflective surfaces, and a sophisticated laser tracking system. Players don vests and infrared‑emitting pistols that register hits in real time, while a central console displays scores, team stats, and even personalized sound effects. Sessions are offered in 15‑minute increments, with discounts for groups of ten or more—an incentive that makes the arena popular for birthday parties and corporate team‑building outings alike.

Seasonal Activities – In autumn, the park hosts a “Harvest Hunt” scavenger game that doubles as a low‑tech, nature‑focused version of lasertag, using QR codes hidden among the foliage. Winter sees a temporary ice rink set up beside the arena, allowing skaters to warm up before heading inside for a high‑energy laser showdown.

The Community Impact

Mel’s Funway Park is more than an entertainment venue; it’s a social anchor for Litchfield. The park’s revenue model emphasizes affordability—most activities are priced under $15 per person—and a portion of proceeds goes directly to local charities, including the Litchfield Food Bank and a scholarship program for under‑privileged youth. The park also partners with the Litchfield School District to provide after‑school programming, introducing students to teamwork concepts through lasertag drills and outdoor games.

Tips for First‑Time Visitors

1. Check the schedule – Lasertag sessions fill up quickly on weekends, so arriving early or booking online is advisable.
2. Dress for the weather – The outdoor area is expansive; comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended, especially during the variable New England seasons.
3. Bring a snack – While the park offers vending machines, many families prefer packing a cooler to enjoy on the picnic tables.
4. Stay safe – The park enforces a strict no‑phone‑use policy inside the lasertag arena to maintain immersion and prevent distractions.

Bottom Line

Whether families are looking for a sunny afternoon on the swings, a high‑octane lasertag battle, or a place to celebrate a milestone, Mel’s Funway Park delivers a well‑rounded experience that feels both local and cutting‑edge. Its blend of timeless playground fun with the adrenaline‑pumping allure of lasertag makes it a standout destination in Litchfield—a place where community spirit and youthful energy meet under a sky that’s as clear as the laser beams that zip through the indoor arena.