The Seafood News
18 Things to Do in Concord, NH
There are many exciting things to do in Concord, NH! The best part is there’s something for the entire family. Spend the afternoon exploring the Granite State’s rich history — on display at museums and theaters — and then enjoy local shops, craft beer straight from the brewery and a seafood meal at Weathervane Seafood Restaurant to round out the day. Our guide has all the information you need to start planning!
(Note: These locations are not ranked in any particular order.)
Capitol Center for the Arts
This popular venue in downtown Concord features a rotating array of comedians, concerts, author readings, musical productions and more. View a complete schedule of shows online or call 603-225-1111 for information. Box office hours are Monday to Friday, noon to 6 p.m., as well as an hour prior to each show for will call tickets. The main facility and Chubb Theatre is located at 44 South Main Street. The Bank of New Hampshire Stage is at 16 South Main Street.
Red River Theatres
Catch a movie at this three-screen, state-of-the-art theater located at 11 South Main St., Suite L1-1. The concession stand sells beer, wine, sandwiches, chips and salsa, coffee and locally-made chocolates, and a small art gallery on site showcases local artists each month. Call the main office at 603-224-4697 or the movie phone at 603-224-4600.
Concord Craft Brewing Company
Choose from IPAs, barrel-aged stouts, sours and more at 117 Storrs St. (Don’t miss the fun names given to some drinks! “Some Like It Hop” and “Live Free Lager” are just a couple). Pair your brew of choice with a meal from the Craft Brewery kitchen. Tapas, burgers and flatbreads are all on the menu.
McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center
Christa McAuliffe was a Concord High School social students teacher selected by NASA out of 11,000 applicants to be the first teacher in space. Derry native Alan Shepard was a Navy test pilot who became the first American in space, and one of only 12 humans to walk on the moon.
Their namesake, non-profit museum spans 45,000-square-feet at 2 Institution Drive, with interactive science and engineering exhibits, outdoor exhibits, a full-dome digital planetarium, an observatory, science store, café, portable digital planetarium and a variety of educational programs.
The public is welcome to visit Wednesday through Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with expanded summer hours starting June 19 until Sept. 3. Purchase tickets online; adults $12, kids 12 and under $9, seniors 62 and up $11.
Susan N. McLane Audubon Center and Silk Farm Wildlife Sanctuary
Experience exhibits, live animals, picnic areas, several miles of hiking trails and more at 84 Silk Farm Road. Visitors can browse a nature store, reptile room, trails and pollinator gardens year-round. Stop by Tuesday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free but donations are welcome.
President Franklin Pierce Gravesite
Visit the grave of the country’s 14th president, Franklin Pierce, in Old North Cemetery. The city’s oldest burial ground, located at 137 North State St., was established in 1730.
Granite State Candy Shoppe
Enjoy sweet treats and a taste of history at this longtime family business, established in 1927. Take your pick from gourmet chocolates, candies, nuts, fudge and maple products, most made daily in-house at 13 Warren St.
Weathervane Seafood Restaurant
A delicious stop for any seafood lover! Our community-minded restaurant is built on family and tradition, with signature menu items like fresh lobster, tasty chowders, grilled items, sweet desserts and more. If you’re in Concord, stop by our nearest location at 379 Dover St., Route 4, Chichester. Be sure to check out our other locations in New Hampshire and Maine.
Winant Park
Enjoy the natural beauty of this public park at 53, 11 Fisk Road. The 85 acres offer hiking and biking trails maintained by the city.
Concord Antiques
Wander all 7,000 square feet to discover more than 100 antique dealers selling everything from furniture and jewelry to collectibles, pottery, books and art. Visit daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 137 Storrs St.
Lithermans Limited Brewery
This craft brewery offers a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters and more downtown at 126-B Hall St., with an outdoor patio option during warmer months. Hours are Wednesday and Thursday 4 to 8 p.m.; Friday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 6 p.m. Don’t miss the schedule of special events and unique beer menu.
New Hampshire State House
Take advantage of access to the center of Granite State government by exploring the New Hampshire State House, 107 North Main St. Complimentary guided tours and self-guided tours are available. Visits with more than 10 people must be booked online in advance. All others can stop at the visitor’s center between 8:15 a.m. and 3:15 p.m. to ask if a docent is available.
Carter Hill Orchard
Pick your own apples, peaches and blueberries at 73 Carter Hill Road, home of this long standing family-owned farm. In a hurry but still want to grab some delicious treats? Choose from fresh cider and baked goods for sale in the farm stand. Plan to visit seasonally, beginning with blueberry season in June.
Public art
Admire a variety of eye-catching murals, statues and sculptures as you venture around Concord. Browse a collection of photos and learn a bit of history online to make sure you don’t miss your preferred pieces of art.
Shop local
Local shops and boutiques dot the town, including Gibson’s Bookstore, Susana’s Sewing Studio, Wine on Maine, Capitol Craftsman and many more. The local Chamber of Commerce keeps a directory of nearly 900 businesses and organizations in the area.
Apple Hill Farm
The farm at 580 Mountain Road is only open seasonally — with offerings like pick your own apples — but browse recipes on the website year-round, adding to your own collection.
Concord Farmers’ Market
Shop the well-established farmers’ market from May to October (it was founded in 1981, making it one of the oldest markets in New Hampshire). During peak season, find more than 40 vendors selling fresh produce, meats, plants, honey, maple products, flowers and cheeses on Capital Street, adjacent to the State House lawn.
New Hampshire Historical Society
The society’s building at 30 Park St. is included on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a destination of its own. But the independent, non-profit group has also cultivated rich displays of New Hampshire history within those walls. General admission and group tours are available.
