Things to Do in Concord, New Hampshire
I like to visit Concord in the heart of New England because it's full of history, nature, and small-city vibes. I enjoy hanging out at an artsy downtown café, visiting colonial landmarks or catching a show at the Capitol Center for the Arts. If you’re into the outdoors, you should take time to hike along the Merrimack River.
Best Time to Visit
I’ve always found that spring and fall (May–June and September–October) are the best times to visit Concord. You’ll love the mild temperatures and colorful foliage. I know I do. I’ve walked through farmers markets here that made me linger for hours, and you’ll likely stumble upon a local festival or two if you come in season.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: I usually take Interstate 93 or 89—it’s a smooth ride, and you’ll be about 1.5 hours north of Boston.
- By Plane: When I fly in, I use Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT). It’s just a 30-minute drive to Concord, which makes it super convenient for you, too.
- By Bus: Concord Coach Lines has saved me more than once. If you don’t want to drive, you’ll appreciate the frequent service from Boston and Manchester.
Where to Stay
- The Hotel Concord – I love staying here because you can walk to shops, restaurants, and even the State House. You’ll be right in the heart of everything.
- Fairfield Inn Concord – This one’s great if you want easy highway access. I’ve stayed here when I needed to be in and out efficiently.
- Residence Inn Concord – I recommend this for families. You’ll appreciate the extra space and kitchens—I know I do when I’m traveling with my crew.
Best Things to Do in Concord
1. New Hampshire Historical Society
The New Hampshire Historical Society is both an educational treasure and a small adventure into the state’s fascinating past. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to visit again! Located in Concord, it’s the perfect stop for anyone curious about how New Hampshire came to be. Admission is modest, making it one of those rare cultural gems that feels accessible and welcoming year-round.
Inside the grand 1911 building (an architectural beauty in itself) you’ll find exhibits that bring the Granite State’s story to life, from early colonial days to the White Mountains’ tourism boom. The staff and docents are incredibly knowledgeable, happy to share the stories behind the artifacts, portraits, and historic documents that shaped local and national history.
My son was captivated by the hands-on exhibits, especially those showing how people lived centuries ago. It’s the kind of place where history feels alive, not dusty.
2. New Hampshire State House
The New Hampshire State House is both a working seat of government and a surprisingly fun place to explore. Located right in the heart of downtown Concord, it’s the oldest state capitol in the U.S. where the legislature still meets in its original chambers — and it’s completely free to visit.
The building itself is beautiful with gleaming white granite, topped with a golden dome that catches the sun from blocks away. You can stroll the grounds, where statues of Daniel Webster and John P. Hale stand among old maples, or head inside for a self-guided tour. The staff at the front desk are friendly and happy to answer questions.
Inside, you’ll find portraits of every New Hampshire governor, Civil War flags that have survived since the 1860s, and public galleries where you can watch lawmakers in session. It’s a rare chance to see democracy in action — up close and personal.
The New Hampshire State House should be at the top of your list. It’s free, fascinating, and full of small surprises that remind you how much history and civic pride New Hampshire holds.
3. Red River Theatres
The Red River Theatres in downtown Concord is one of those places that makes you fall in love with going to the movies all over again.
This isn’t your average multiplex. It’s a nonprofit art-house cinema showing a thoughtful mix of independent films, documentaries, and classics, with the occasional big-name release sprinkled in. Th
4. Carter Hill Orchard
The Carter Hill Orchard in Concord is one of those New England gems that feels straight out of a postcard. I love it there — it’s peaceful, beautiful, and full of that crisp, apple-scented magic you only get in the fall.
Family-run for generations, this orchard isn’t just about picking apples (though that’s a must!). It’s about slowing down and soaking up the scenery — rolling hills, rows of apple trees, and big views of Mount Kearsarge in the distance. It’s the kind of place that makes you breathe a little deeper.
5. Capitol Center for the Arts
What I really love is that Capitol Center for the Arts doesn’t just bring big acts to town — it supports local talent, too. You’ll often find student showcases, regional theater groups, and special cultural events that celebrate New Hampshire’s creative spirit. The Capitol Center for the Arts is a must. It’s vibrant, welcoming, and full of character — the kind of place that reminds you why live performance will always matter.
6. McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center
The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center in Concord is pure inspiration — part science museum, part space adventure, and one of the best places to visit with kids.
The exhibits are hands-on and fun — rockets, planets, and flight simulators that make you feel like a kid again. My son was in awe at the space capsule replica and spent ages launching mini rockets in one of the interactive stations. The planetarium show was a highlight — reclining seats, a massive dome screen, and a journey through the stars that left us both wide-eyed.
7. Concord Craft Brewing Company
Tucked just off Main Street in downtown Concord, this independent brewery has been crafting award-winning beers since 2016. It’s not huge or flashy — and that’s exactly what makes it special. The atmosphere is cozy and unpretentious, with a long wooden bar, exposed brick, and friendly staff who are always happy to talk hops and tasting notes.
8. Pierce Manse
The Pierce Manse in Concord is one of those places that quietly surprises you — full of history, charm, and a real sense of stepping back in time. I loved visiting it and can’t wait to go again!
This was the home of Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States, and the only one from New Hampshire. Nestled in a peaceful, tree-lined neighborhood just a few minutes from downtown Concord, the house feels intimate and welcoming — more like visiting a friend’s 19th-century home than a formal museum.
The guided tour is excellent. Knowledgeable volunteers bring Pierce’s story to life — from his early law career to his presidency and beyond. The rooms are filled with period furniture, family heirlooms, and personal artifacts that make it easy to imagine what life was like here in the 1840s. My son especially loved the old-fashioned writing desk and the stories about Pierce’s travels and his White House years.
Outside, the grounds are small but lovely, with a shady lawn and benches perfect for a quiet moment after the tour. We stopped by the gift shop, where I picked up a few postcards and a book on New Hampshire’s presidential history.
After our visit, we grabbed lunch downtown at The Works Café — fresh sandwiches and smoothies that hit the spot after a morning of history.
The Pierce Manse is absolutely worth a stop. It’s not just about politics — it’s about everyday life in a different era, told with warmth and care. A perfect spot for history lovers or anyone who enjoys uncovering hidden local gems.
9. Dimond Hill Farm
Just a few minutes from downtown, this family-run farm sits high on a hill with sweeping views of rolling fields, forests, and distant mountains. The 19th-century farmhouse and red barns are picture-perfect, and the big front porch of the farm store looks out over some of the prettiest countryside around. It’s the kind of view that makes you want to linger.
Inside the farm store, everything is fresh, local, and seasonal — crisp apples, just-picked vegetables, homemade jams, baked goods, and maple syrup. They even have local meats, cheeses, and crafts, all sourced from nearby producers. I grabbed a bag of late-summer peaches and a still-warm blueberry muffin that didn’t even make it to the car.
10. Apple Hill Farm
The Apple Hill Farm in Concord is one of those classic New England spots that feels timeless — peaceful, family-run, and full of that sweet apple-scented air that instantly lifts your mood.
Tucked away just a few miles from downtown, this hilltop orchard has some of the best views in the area — rows of apple trees stretching out toward distant mountains, with bright red barns and an old farmhouse that looks straight out of a painting. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to grab a basket, wander slowly, and just take it all in.
11. Mary Baker Eddy Historic House
The Mary Baker Eddy Historic House is one of those quiet, deeply meaningful places that leaves a lasting impression. I loved visiting it — it’s peaceful, elegant, and full of stories that connect you to New Hampshire’s past in such a personal way.
Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of Christian Science and one of the most influential women of the 19th century, lived here from 1889 to 1892 while she wrote and refined much of her work. The house, a graceful white Victorian tucked away on Pleasant Street, feels like stepping back into another era — filled with light, calm, and the sense that history still whispers through the halls.
Outside, the gardens are lovely and serene, perfect for a short stroll or a moment of reflection. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and think — about history, purpose, and how one person’s ideas can ripple through time.
12. Kimball-Jenkins Estate
Built in the 1880s, this stunning Victorian mansion was once the home of Jane E. Kimball, whose family helped shape the city’s history. Today, it’s not just a preserved historic home — it’s also a vibrant School of Art and community hub that keeps the estate’s spirit alive through creativity and connection.
Kimball-Jenkins Estate itself is gorgeous: ornate woodwork, stained glass, sweeping staircases, and period furnishings that make you feel like you’ve stepped right into another time. I joined a guided tour, and the docent’s storytelling made the rooms come alive — tales of the Kimball family, the estate’s role in Concord’s past, and how Jane’s gift of the property helped create a lasting cultural landmark.
13. Margaritas Mexican Restaurant
Housed in a beautifully restored old brick building just off Main Street, Margaritas Mexican Restaurant has so much character. The interior is bright and lively — hand-painted murals, colorful lights, and cozy booths that make it perfect for families, date nights, or just a fun meal with friends.
The food? Fantastic. I went for the chicken enchiladas ($17) smothered in a rich, tangy sauce, while my son dove into a plate of quesadillas ($12) that disappeared in record time. We started with their house-made guacamole (a must!) and ended with warm churros dipped in chocolate sauce. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented.
14. Makris Lobster & Steak House
Family-owned for generations, Makris Lobster & Steak House has been a Concord staple since 1950, and you can feel that history the moment you walk in. The atmosphere is cozy and casual — wood-paneled walls, nautical décor, and a friendly buzz that makes you want to stay awhile. It’s the kind of place where the staff greet you like friends and the portions are always generous.
15. New Hampshire Audubon
Tucked just off Silk Farm Road, this 80-acre sanctuary feels like stepping into another world. The trails wind through meadows, forests, and wetlands, offering a perfect escape whether you’re out for a short walk or an afternoon of exploring. New Hampshire Audubon's ’s calm and unspoiled — you can hear the wind in the trees, the songbirds overhead, and sometimes even the rush of wings as a hawk glides by.
My son and I started at the McLane Center, where friendly staff and volunteers welcomed us with maps and told us which trails were best for spotting wildlife that day. Inside, there are interactive exhibits about local ecosystems, a few live animal displays, and huge windows that look out over the bird feeders — we spotted chickadees, cardinals, and a bright red woodpecker before even heading outside.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
