Wakefield includes the villages of Wakefield Corner (the original town center), East Wakefield, North Wakefield, Sanbornville, Union, Woodman and Province Lake. The town snuggles next to the Maine border, a few miles east of Wolfeboro. Routes 109 and 153 go through town, just beyond the hectic traffic on Route 16.

The town began as an Abenaki Indian settlement, which was attacked by the British. Colonized in 1774 by settlers from the Somersworth area under the name of East Town, it became an important stage coach stop in the 1800s for travelers from Portsmouth heading to and from the White Mountains.

Lodging includes the Wakefield Inn, built in 1804 served stage coach passengers then, and operates today as a bed and breakfast. The Lake Forest Resort, East Wakefield, offers camping and golf.

Knotty Pine Grill and Tavern, 551 Pine River Pond Road, offers hearty food and a warm and casual atmosphere. Miss Wakefield Diner, Route 16, Sanbornville Village, offers typical diner fare with a friendly flair.

A variety of lodging and dining choices are available along Route 16, The White Mountain Highway.

A combination of the Lakes Region and White Mountain areas, Wakefield offers much to its visitors.