The Perfect Summer's Day in Concord, NH
Looking for the Best Day Ever? Some say that every summer day you should try something new. Here in Concord, NH, we have a long list of classic things to try, cool ideas, and new places to explore! You may be looking for a day of family-fun adventures or a couples escape, or a day in the woods hiking to new highs.
From innovative cuisine at our outdoor eateries, exploring the life of the Shakers, or stopping in at one-of-a-kind shopping – here's our perfect guide to the perfect summer day in Concord.
The Capital Region offers you enough things to do and see that you could easily spend a lifetime here (or a weekend): Antiques, cycling, hiking, wildlife, covered bridges, canoeing, art galleries, bookstores, museums, historic sites, walking tours, presidential history, farms, orchards, birding, golf, country fairs, community suppers, youth activities and four beautiful seasons are part of the many features that enhance the quality of life in the area. Main Street is an active hub of community activities, commerce, politics and entertainment. One of the anchors to New Hampshire's revitalized downtown is a State House crowned by a gleaming gold, eagle-topped dome which can't be missed by motorists passing through on I-93.
The first place to explore in Concord is the Visitor Center. The Capital Region Visitor Center is open year-round at 49 South Main Street, Concord. Find maps and brochures, ideas and tips on fun things to do as well as helpful information about restaurants, shopping, culture, places to stay and events. Plus there are racks of brochures featuring attractions, museums, cultural destinations, outdoor activities, parks, walking trails, bike trails, ski areas and more. And, check out the gift shop featuring unique New Hampshire products and gifts.
Outdoor dining on Main Street Concord
Ah, to dine outdoors… one of the glories of summer. In some cases, and it means you can dine with your dog – and it always offers the chance to people watch as you dine al fresco. And with its new Main Street, Concord, NH, now offers a host of places to dine outside.
Hike in the woods
Right outside Concord, and the closest one to the downtown, is Marjory Swope Park, surrounding Penacook Lake. Swope Park is a gateway to land conserved by the State, City of Concord, Society for the Protection of NH Forests, St. Paul’s School, and Rossview Farm. The Swope trail system near Long Pond Road in Concord has 3 different trails with lots of views. Starting at the trailhead you can go either right of left as the trail loops around.
Take a swim….
At Sewall’s Falls you can fish or dive at some off the beaten path beaches. The Sewall’s Falls Recreation Area, a 136 acre space, has trails with access to the Merrimack River. You can take a trail from the boat launch area towards the parkMerrimack shore and find corners with calm waters. This is also a good chance to explore the Wildlife Heritage Trail and relax at the beach.
We all scream for…
Granite State Candy Shoppe opened off Main Street in Concord in 1930 and the store remained the same until 2004 when the entire shop and candy kitchen were renovated. What did not change was that homemade chocolates, candies and treats are still prepared daily in the classic way. As for ice cream, they offer up to 32 flavors of their very own making, with 16 % butter fat and made from local milk from Contoocook Creamery. They have a sundae bar, chocolate dipped cones, and rotate in new flavors every week!