Serving as the capital of New Hampshire, Concord lies along the banks of the Merrimack River in the heart of the state. The area was originally inhabited by the Pennacook people before being settled by Europeans in 1659. Concord rose to prominence in the 18th century and was designated as the state capital following the American Revolution.
Things to do in Concord
In the heart of Concord is the New Hampshire State House, which was built in a Greek Revival Style between 1816 and 1819 on the architectural designs of Stuart Park. Topped by a gold dome, it features a portico supported by Doric columns and a statue depicting a peace eagle. Join a guided tour to explore the Hall of Flags and the House Chamber before admiring the murals by Barry Faulkner in the Senate Chamber.
On the northern edge of Concord is the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, which is named after local teacher Christa McAuliffe and Navy test pilot Alan Shepard, both of whom have travelled to space. Its interactive exhibitions focus on astronomy, aviation and space science, with highlights including a full-size replica of a Mercury-Redstone rocket and a 1956 Vought F-8 Crusader jet.
For a cultural fix, coincide your visit with a show at the Capitol Center for the Arts, which regularly hosts musical concerts, stand-up comedy and dance performances. Alternatively, you can hit the nature trails that wind through the wooded surroundings of the Susan N. McLane Audubon Center, which is home to pollinator gardens, reptile exhibits and raptor displays.
Getting around Concord
Concord is just under two hours’ drive from Boston and Boston Logan International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Long-distance buses connect to Concord while local services are available for getting around the city.