Concord

New Hampshire's capital offers important Revolutionary War history, the impressive State House, and a charming downtown with local shops and restaurants reflecting the state's character. The surrounding area provides access to hiking and outdoor recreation in the Merrimack Valley.

Things to do

• New Hampshire State House — Tour the gold-domed capitol building completed in 1819, featuring period furnishings and portraits of state leaders in a working legislative chamber.
• Museum of New Hampshire History — Explore exhibits covering the state's colonial heritage, Revolutionary War involvement, and industrial past through artifacts and interactive displays.
• Concord Monument — Visit the iconic 48-foot granite obelisk in downtown Concord commemorating the city's founding and Revolutionary War significance.
• Merrimack River Trail — Walk or bike the scenic multi-use trail following the Merrimack River through Concord and neighboring communities.
• John Paul Jones House — Tour the 1784 Federal-style home of the Revolutionary War naval commander, featuring period furnishings and maritime memorabilia.
• Capitol Center for the Arts — Catch theater productions, concerts, and comedy shows in this beautifully restored 1927 downtown venue.

Food to try

• New Hampshire maple syrup products — Sample local pure maple syrup, cream, and candy produced from trees throughout New Hampshire's forests and sold in downtown shops.
• Common Man restaurant fare — Try regionally-inspired comfort food at The Common Man, a New Hampshire institution serving meatloaf, fried chicken, and homemade desserts.
• Granite Restaurant & Bar cuisine — Experience upscale New England dining featuring locally-sourced ingredients and seasonal menus in downtown Concord.
• New England clam chowder — Order the creamy, potato-rich chowder at local seafood restaurants featuring traditional preparation methods.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit downtown on a weekend — Concord's Main Street comes alive with foot traffic, local shops, and restaurants on Saturday and Sunday mornings when the community gathers.
• Respect legislative traditions — If visiting the State House during sessions, observe quiet respect as New Hampshire maintains one of America's largest citizen legislatures.
• Embrace New England directness — New Hampshire residents are known for straightforward, no-nonsense communication, so expect genuine but friendly interaction from locals.