Concord, New Hampshire is the capital city of New Hampshire and the county seat of Merrimack County. Long before it was the city of Concord, the area was originally settled by Abenaki Native Americans called the Pennacook. The tribe is known to have used the nearby Merrimack River for fishing with nets and traveling in birch bark canoes. The first European settlers arrived in the area in 1659, but it wouldn't be officially settled until between 1725 and 1727. The town was incorporated under the name "Rumford" on February 9, 1734. In 1765, the community was renamed Concord. Concord grew significantly throughout the 18th century, and it was named the official seat of the New Hampshire government in 1808.
These days, Concord is one of the largest cities in the state by population. As of 2022, there are roughly 44,000 people calling the city home. Concord is most known for its rich and expansive history, which you can learn more about at several landmarks and attractions. For example, you could browse the collection of artifacts at the New Hampshire Historical Society, tour the beautiful New Hampshire State House, and explore the Mary Baker Eddy Historic House. You should also stop by Pierce Manse, the former home of President Franklin Pierce.
Concord is also known for its agricultural industry. During your visit, you could visit quaint attractions like the Dimond Hill Farm, the Apple Hill Farm, and the Carter Hill Orchard. The town also offers several great places to enjoy the performing arts, like the Red River Theatre and the Capitol Center for the Arts. When you're in the mood to shop, Steeplegate Mall is a bustling shopping center with lots of popular stores and several unique family-friendly activities.
There are quite a few top-notch restaurants worth sampling in the Concord area. Some eateries to try while you're visiting are the Makris Lobster & Steak House, Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, Brookside House of Pizza III, and Nadeau's Subs Salads Wraps.
Campgrounds Near Concord, New Hampshire
The Concord area boasts plenty of excellent campgrounds. For example, there's the Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort, which has a whopping 310 full-hookup RV campsites. You can rent a site for $35 per night, and during your stay, you'll get to enjoy activities like bingo, craft lessons, and themed weekends. Additionally, the park features heated pools and various sporting facilities.
The Littleton/Lisbon KOA Holiday is another superb camping option in the Concord area. You can stay in one of the 70 full-hookup RV campsites for $40 per night, and you'll have convenient access to activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. The park also offers lots of nice amenities, including a hot tub, swimming pool, pancake breakfasts, and ice cream socials.
You could also have a peaceful stay at the Ashuelot River Campground. The tranquil campground is home to 70 full-hookup RV campsites, which are available for $35 per night. It's also a superb place to stay if you enjoy hiking, offering easy access to several of the region's most popular trails. The park is also located conveniently close to attractions like the Cheshire Children’s Museum and Pisgah State Park.
State Parks Near Concord, New Hampshire
Clough State Park is found within the Piscataquog State Forest and covers 50 acres of forested trails and sandy beaches. The park is named after John Clough, a resident of the area who donated a large plot of land to establish the Clough Reservation in the 1920s. The nature area surrounds the placid Everett Lake, which is a popular destination for activities like boating, swimming, and fishing. Visitors to the park can also explore the nearby hiking and biking trails. While visiting the park, keep an eye out for red foxes, osprey, American goldfinches, and other species of birds and other wildlife.
Bear Brook State Park is a sizable natural haven comprising more than 10,000 acres. The scenic park, which is the largest developed park in New Hampshire, is an excellent destination for hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and other activities. There are also two archery ranges and several fascinating museums.
Another fantastic recreation area to check out in New Hampshire is Northwood Meadows State Park, which spans 674.5 acres of peaceful wilderness. The park is home to a large wetland section, which is home to many unique species of flora and fauna. The park is a quality spot for water-based recreation such as fishing and non-motorized boating, and if you visit during winter, it's an excellent place for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and skiing. Alternatively, you could enjoy some hiking, biking, or horseback riding on the area's trails while watching for interesting birds and other wildlife.
National Sites Near Concord, New Hampshire
If you'd like to learn about the Industrial Revolution, Lowell National Historical Park is a great destination to visit. At the park, visitors can see how the power of the dam and canals were able to provide power to the textile mill. While you're there, you can tour the park in a boat or trolley, or you can opt to explore the unique trails on your own. Each tour offered by the park focuses on a different aspect of life during the fascinating time period. You could also attend the free Wellness on the Walkways event regularly put on at the site.
Located in Massachusetts, Minute Man National Historical Park offers opportunities to learn about the Revolutionary War and explore several historical sites. Make sure to stop by the North Bridge Visitor Center, where you can watch a short documentary about the war. Then, take some time to check out unique sites like North Bridge, Bloody Angle, and Parker’s Revenge. You could also visit the Hartwell Tavern, which dates back to 1738, and take a guided tour of the Wayside Home.
Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park is found in Cornish, New Hampshire and preserves the properties of Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Saint-Gardens was a famous sculptor who primarily worked during the late 19th century. At the park, you can tour his home, work studios, and gardens and browse over 100 of his incredible works of art. This includes breathtaking pieces like the Shaw Memorial and the "Standing Lincoln" monument. Additionally, the site offers a program that regularly hosts talented sculptors. If you're passionate about art or history, this park is a must-visit New Hampshire landmark.
National Forests Near Concord, New Hampshire
White Mountain National Forest is spread across parts of New Hampshire and Maine and comprises approximately 800,000 acres. The forest contains diverse natural features, including mountains, rivers, lakes, and dense woodlands. If you're a wildlife enthusiast, keep an eye out for foxes, moose, white-tailed deer, and other interesting species while exploring the area. Plus, the forest is inhabited by over 38 types of birds year-round and 72 during the summer. Popular recreational activities in the vast forest include fishing, boating, camping, and hiking great trails like the Albany Brook Trail and the Caps Ridge Trail.
Another national forest in the region that's perfect for recreation is Green Mountain National Forest. There, you can partake in activities like hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and cross-country skiing. You can also observe the local wildlife and check out some of the area's many historic and archaeological sites. The forest is filled with gorgeous scenery, and exploring trails like the North Bourne Pond Loop and the Stratton Mountain Loop via Long Trail will give you great opportunities to soak it in.
If you make your way into western New York, you can explore the peaceful Finger Lakes National Forest. The forest, which is the second-smallest national forest in the United States, is known for its stunning waterfalls and magnificent gorges. Visitors to the beautiful forest can enjoy skiing, geocaching, hiking, biking, and fishing. If you're lucky, you may even be able to observe the incredible Northern Lights while exploring the area.
