(Photo courtesy: NHDTTD/William Johnson)
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Situated on the Merrimack River, Concord, New Hampshire, is a city suffused with a rich New England flavor and rustic charm
that merits a second look. Just one hour north of Boston and only 18 miles north of New Hampshire's largest city, Manchester,
this state capital of over 40,000 offers the best of city and country living with a quality of life that is hard to match.
In fact, according to The Rating Guide to America's Smaller Cities, Concord was recently ranked the ninth best small city in terms of climate, activities, economy, education, sophistication,
healthcare, housing, public safety, transportation, and proximity to major suburban areas.
Concord's History: Location, Location, Location This town's history dates back thousands of years when Native Americans established settlements along the banks of the Merrimack
River. In 1725, the fertile farmland of the Merrimack Valley and convenient river transportation also attracted settlers from
the English colony of Massachusetts. River access led to the construction of mills, and wool manufacturing soon developed
into a thriving industry that spanned nearly one hundred years.
Designated as the state capital in 1808, Concord continued to expand with the opening of the Middlesex Canal in 1815. An important
site for inland trade and commerce, it became a major hub for the northern New England railroad industry, as well, nearly
doubling its population. A burgeoning carriage industry in the 19th century led to the production of the famous Concord Coach,
which was credited with opening the American West.
Every four years, Concord grabs the national spotlight as presidential hopefuls come to town for the prestigious New Hampshire
Primary. As the first such state election held in the nation, it has developed a reputation for being a clear predictor, more
often than not, of outcomes in this political race.
DOWNTOWN CONCORD: That's Entertainment! Quaint boutiques, offices, and eateries, situated in restored Victorian buildings, line a revitalized downtown district that
also serves as the backdrop for all forms of entertainment, ranging from shopping to theater. The Capitol Center for the Arts,
the largest and most successful performing arts center in the state, presents a rich variety of programs that includes everything
from Broadway shows and international dance ensembles to country-western bands. The historic 850-seat Concord City Auditorium
hosts over 100 community events annually and is home to the Granite State Symphony Orchestra and the Community Players of
Concord.
Need something to accentuate your furnishings? McGowan Fine Art Gallery offers a distinctive selection of work from emerging
and established local artists that is sure to suit a variety of tastes and budgets.
If tracing timelines is more your style, follow the state's rich heritage through changing exhibits, collections, and educational
programs presented at The Museum of New Hampshire History. Enjoy seminars in wildlife conservation, land protection, and environmental
education sponsored by the Audubon Society of New Hampshire. Or reach for the stars at the 40-foot domed Christa McAuliffe
Planetarium. Dedicated to Concord's teacher-astronaut who perished in the Challenger disaster, this facility transports visitors
on a spectacular cosmic adventure through a combination of computer generated effects, music, video, and slide shows.
Once you have had your fill of tax-free downtown boutiques, visit the newly refurbished Capitol Shopping Center on Storrs
Street. Reminiscent of bygone days, its nostalgic fa$e resembles the 19th-century train station that once stood on the same
site. A short drive on Loudon Road will bring you to the Steeplegate Mall, which houses over 80 popular stores.
A wide array of delectable fares awaits hungry shoppers. At nearby Briana's Bistro, museum-goers can savor a selection of
Italian delicacies served in an intimate setting. The Hannah Dustin Lounge in the restored Centennial Inn prepares tempting
dishes for brunch, lunch, or dinner, while Eagle's Nest Restaurant and Lounge serves an avant-garde menu that eclipses standard
fare. For an upscale treat, try unique culinary creations at the City Side Grille. If you crave authentic Mexican dishes and
lively jazz, visit Hermanos.
A COMMUNITY FILLED WITH SPIRIT Concord cranks up the community spirit with a host of annual celebrations. Skating contests, cross-country skiing, bonfires
and plenty of hot refreshments start off the year at the Winter Carnival at White Park. Summer heats up during the fun-filled
Downtown Market Days & Summer Music Festival. Concord puts the pedal-to-the-metal in mid-July as the four-day extravaganza-Race
Fever-marks the return of NASCAR's Winston Cup to the nearby International Speedway. At the end of October, the Capitol Center
for the Arts celebrates its grand reopening with a gala that is sure to please discerning patrons. Throughout December, Concord
is aglow with holiday festivities for both young and old.
When it comes to sports, the city leaves no one on the sidelines. From swim meets to basketball tournaments to sport camps,
Concord's Recreation Department is home base for local athletic competitions held at the Memorial Field Complex and City Auditorium.
Root for the New England Collegiate Baseball League's Quarry Dogs or support the Concord Express Soccer Club.
