Concord
Official name | City of Concord |
Type | Capital city |
New Hampshire State House in Concord | |
State | New Hampshire |
Country | United States |
Established | 1733 |
Population | 44,000 |
Area (km²) | 175 |
Time zone | Eastern (EST/EDT) |
ZIP code(s) | 03301–03305 |
Area code(s) | 603 |
Concord is the capital city of New Hampshire and the county seat of Merrimack County. Located along the Merrimack River, it is known for its rich colonial heritage, picturesque New England scenery, and historic role in American politics.
Overview
- Became the state capital in 1808
- Site of the oldest state house in continuous legislative use in the U.S.
- Blends colonial architecture with a small-town feel and civic pride
Landmarks and Attractions
- New Hampshire State House – completed in 1819 and still active
- McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center – a science museum honoring two famous astronauts from NH
- Capitol Center for the Arts – regional performance venue
- Rollins Park and White Park – popular for walking and recreation
- Historic downtown with shops, cafés, and preserved buildings
Economy
Concord’s economy includes:
- State government
- Healthcare and education
- Tourism and cultural services
- Professional and legal services
Culture and Community
- Hosts the Market Days Festival, Concord Multicultural Festival, and Christmas parade
- Strong sense of community involvement and civic events
- Surrounded by rural farmland, lakes, and nearby mountains for outdoor activities
- Quiet, walkable city with access to nearby cities like Manchester and Boston
Education
- Home to NHTI – Concord’s Community College
- Granite State College and the University of New Hampshire School of Law
- High-performing public school system and private schools
Transportation
- Located on Interstate 93 with access to I-89 and U.S. Route 4
- Concord Coach Lines offers bus service to Boston and Maine
- No commercial airport in the city, but near Manchester–Boston Regional Airport
Fun Facts
- Home of Franklin Pierce, the 14th U.S. president
- Named “Concord” in 1765 to symbolize harmony following a boundary dispute
- Famous for granite production and civic independence