40 Best Things to do in Manchester!

Welcome to Manchester, in New Hampshire! This charming city, known as the “Queen City“, is the largest city in the state and offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Located along the Merrimack River, Manchester is a vibrant destination with museums and parks to bustling markets and delightful eateries. In this comprehensive guide, we showcase best things to do in Manchester during your visit to New Hampshire.

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1. Historic Attractions

Manchester Historic Association’s Millyard Museum

The Millyard Museum is a welcoming spot where visitors can learn about Manchester’s history in an easy-to-understand way. It’s located inside an old brick building known as Mill No. 3, which was once part of the large Amoskeag Millyard, a major center for textile production. The museum tells the story of the city from Native American times through its growth during the industrial era. A main exhibit, “Woven in Time,” explains how the mills shaped life in the city, from jobs and housing to daily routines. There’s a Discovery Gallery for families and school trips, used for programs and hands-on learning.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Zimmerman House

The Zimmerman House was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1950 for Dr. Isadore and Lucille Zimmerman. It’s a one-story home built in Wright’s Usonian style, which focused on simple design, natural materials, and practical living. Inside, the rooms are arranged in a straight line, and the furniture, lighting, and even the mailbox were all designed by Wright himself. The Zimmermans lived in the house for over 30 years and followed Wright’s original plans closely, even in the garden. This house is the only one in all of New England designed by Frank Lloyd Wright that’s open for public visits and tours.

America’s Stonehenge

The America’s Stonehenge is an outdoor spot in Salem, that covers about 30 acres and features large stones and stone structures spread across the land. Some people think it might have been used thousands of years ago by Native Americans, while others believe it was shaped more recently by settlers or a past landowner. The site was once called Mystery Hill but was renamed to reflect a possible link to ancient stone places like the original Stonehenge, though there’s no clear connection.

Visitors can follow walking trails that lead to stone chambers, standing rocks, and a large flat stone that some people call a sacrificial table. Signs along the path explain different ideas about what the stones were used for and how they may line up with the sun or moon during special times of the year. There’s also a small wigwam replica nearby and an alpaca farm next to the trail. In winter, visitors can use snowshoes to explore the paths.

Robert Frost Farm State Historic Site

The Robert Frost Farm State Historic Site was where the famous poet and his family lived from 1900 to 1911 in Derry. This small white farmhouse is where Frost wrote many of his early poems and found much of his inspiration from farm life and surroundings. The house, built in the 1880s, is now open to the public as a historic site, offering guided tours that takes visitors around the property. Inside, exhibits share stories about Frost’s life, family, and work, including displays of photos, and letters. Seasonal programs like poetry readings, and educational events take place from May through October.

Taylor Mill State Historic Site

The Taylor Mill State Historic Site was set up to preserve a historic sawmill called the Down Sawmill and Taylor Up, which shows how lumber was once cut using water power. The original mill was built in 1799 by Robert Taylor, but it no longer existed by the time Ernest Ballard bought the land in 1939. Ballard found a similar mill in Sandown, took it apart, and rebuilt it on this land with help from his wife. He even ordered a new water wheel from Pennsylvania to make it work again. In 1953, Ernest Ballard donated both the land and the restored mill to the state so visitors could learn and enjoy it.

The Palace Theatre

The Palace Theatre is a historic performing arts venue, opened in 1915 and has been a part of the city’s cultural life for over 100 years. The building has 834 seats and hosts a wide range of shows, including plays, musicals, concerts, and comedy acts. It’s run by a non-profit group that also manages other nearby spaces like the Rex Theatre, the Spotlight Room, and Forever Emma Studios. These venues support local talent, youth programs, and touring performers from across the country. The Palace Theatre is known for its main stage productions, many of which feature professional actors and crew.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Biking Trails

In Manchester, people who enjoy biking will find a variety of trails that suits for all skill levels, from easy paths for beginners to more challenging routes for experienced riders. If you’re looking for a smooth and easy ride, the Goffstown Rail Trail is a popular choice. It runs about 6 miles from Manchester to Goffstown and is great for both biking and walking. The Manchester Heritage Trail is another short and easy path, just under 2 miles, and connects to other local trails. The South Manchester Trail is even shorter but still offers a nice ride through pleasant areas.

For those who want a longer route, the city has mapped out several bike-friendly loops like the Manchester City Tour, which covers about 30 miles, and the Lake Shore Routes that go around nearby lakes. There are also trails in parks like Livingston Park and Derryfield Park, where you can ride through shaded paths and open spaces. The Rockingham Rail Trail near Massabesic Lake is another favorite, offering peaceful views and a smooth surface.

Kayaking & Canoeing on Lake Massabesic

Kayaking and canoeing on Lake Massabesic offer a peaceful way to enjoy the outdoors without needing to go far from the city. Since the lake is used for drinking water, swimming and direct contact with the water aren’t allowed, so paddlers are asked to wear rubber boots when launching to keep the water clean. There are several places around the lake where small boats can be launched, and the views include quiet forests, hills, and open skies. Paddling around the lake and nearby Merrimack River Canoe & Kayak takes you past coves and open water areas, and most parts are safe for paddling boats.

Golfing Courses

In Manchester, one of the most well-known spots is Derryfield Country Club. It’s a public 18-hole course that’s been around since 1932, and even has indoor golf simulators for year-round use. Another option is Intervale Country Club, it has been a part of Manchester since 1903 and has a 9-hole course that blends simple and more challenging holes, making it a good spot for all skill levels. Just outside the city, the Manchester Country Club is a private course with a long history and has a 18-hole layout that’s known for its classic design. It’s known for hosting events and offering a quiet place to play.

Skiing or Snowboarding at McIntyre Ski Area

The McIntyre Ski Area is a small mountain that’s great for skiing and snowboarding close to the city. It has 11 trails, two chairlifts, and two magic carpets, making it a nice spot for new learners and younger riders. There’s also a small terrain park for those who like to try jumps or tricks. Snowmaking helps keep the slopes open even when there isn’t much natural snow. Lessons are offered, and the instructors guide both kids and adults step by step. McIntyre also has snow tubing with a separate lift and well-marked lanes. Night skiing is available, so visitors can enjoy the mountain after the sun goes down.

Rock Climbing at Vertical Dreams

The Vertical Dreams is an indoor climbing gym, well-known for having the tallest climbing wall in the state. The gym offers many ways to climb, including top rope, lead climbing, and bouldering, making it a good place for beginners and experienced climbers. There are routes with different levels of difficulty to match different skill levels. The gym provides gear rentals, so you don’t need to bring your own, and there are staff members available to help with safety instructions and basic lessons. It’s a fun spot for birthday parties, school trips, and team-building events, that can be booked ahead of time.

Manchester Riverwalk

The Manchester Riverwalk is a path that runs alongside the Merrimack River and offers a nice spot for walking or biking. It’s part of the longer Heritage Trail that stretches through Manchester and connects different neighborhoods. The Riverwalk section is paved and easy to follow, passing through the historic Millyard area and offering views of the old mill buildings. Along the way, visitors can stop at Arms Park or walk by the University of New Hampshire campus. One popular feature is the Hands Across the Merrimack bridge, which links to the Piscataquog Trail and gives scenic views of the river.

Livingston Park

Covering about 131 acres, Livingston Park gives people many ways to enjoy the outdoors throughout the year. It has a pond called Dorrs Pond, where visitors can go fishing when it’s warm or ice skating in the winter. Around the pond is a one-mile walking trail that’s mostly flat, with spots to sit and rest along the way. Families come here often to enjoy the playground, which is near the fields and pool. The park has several sports areas, including tennis courts, soccer fields, and baseball diamonds. There’s a track and field zone known as the Gatsas Complex that people use for running and workouts.

Crystal Lake Park

The Crystal Lake Park is a small green space, where people often go to relax by the water or enjoy the afternoon. The lake itself is about 21 acres and is good for fishing, with species like bass and pickerel often found in its calm waters. During summer, visitors can swim in a marked area of the lake, though there are no lifeguards, so swimming is at your own risk. There’s a sandy beach, a bathhouse, and some shaded spots for sitting, making it a simple place to spend a few hours outdoors. The park’s history goes back a long time, and it was once called Mosquito Pond before becoming Crystal Lake.

Stark Park

Opened in 1893, Stark Park is a public space built on land that once belonged to General John Stark and his family. General Stark was a hero of the American Revolutionary War, and the park includes his burial site along with graves of family. Covers about 30 acres and has a large statue of General Stark on horseback, added in 1948, and several old-style cannons placed around the grounds. There’s also a gazebo-style bandstand built in 2009, where concerts and small events are held. There’s a wooded trail area called “Walk in the Woods,” which is used for hiking, biking, and snowshoeing in winter.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Currier Museum of Art

The Currier Museum of Art is a small but respected museum, opened in 1929 with support from former Governor Moody Currier and his wife, Hannah. It has a strong collection of American and European art, including works by Picasso, Monet, O’Keeffe, and Hopper, as well as decorative items and sculptures. The museum also owns two Frank Lloyd Wright homes — the Zimmerman House and the Kalil House, which can be visited through guided tours during select times of the year. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits, join art classes, or also participate in family programs held throughout the week.

Amoskeag Millyard

The Amoskeag Millyard was once home to one of the biggest textile mills operating in the world. It played a major role in Manchester’s growth during the 1800s, with large brick mill buildings that run the local economy for many years. Today, this area has been reused for museums, cafes, and offices, but it still reflects the city’s industrial past. The Amoskeag Manufacturing Company began in the early 1800s and grew into a major center for making cotton cloth, with over 30 buildings and around 17,000 workers. It also made locomotives and goods, helping the city grow quickly during the 19th century.

Veterans Memorial Park

The Veterans Memorial Park has a long history and was once known by other names like Park Square and Merrimack Common before being renamed in 1985 to honor local veterans. It features several monuments, including a Civil War statue and a World War II memorial that lists the names of over 12,000 Manchester veterans, with stars next to the names of those who died in the war. There’s also a POW-MIA monument added in 1991, placed in a quiet corner of the park with a flag and granite marker. The park is used for outdoor events, concerts, and festivals, especially during warmer months.

Delta Dental Stadium

Opened in 2005, Delta Dental Stadium is a baseball park located along the Merrimack River, and is home to the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, a Double-A team in the Eastern League. The stadium can hold about 6,500 people and has an open concourse, so fans can see the field from almost anywhere. There are 32 luxury suites and two large party decks that can each hold up to 100 people. The stadium was built on the site of the old Singer Park and is close to local spots and several restaurants. The stadium also has a live music stage, a Tiki Bar, and hosted events like All-Star games over the years.

Revo Casino and Social House

The Revo Casino and Social House is a large gaming and entertainment spot, offering a range of activities in one place. It has more than 260 slot machines and 10 table games, including popular choices like Roulette, Spanish 21, Blackjack, and New Hampshire Hold’Em. It also has the state’s largest poker room, with 15 tables running cash games and tournaments on most days of the week. A DraftKings Sportsbook on-site allows visitors to place sports bets and watch live games, making it a popular stop for fans. The casino also hosts live music and special events that bring in both locals and travelers.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

SEE Science Center

The SEE Science Center is an interactive museum in historic Millyard area, where kids and families can learn about science by trying things out for themselves. It’s a place where kids can explore topics like light, space, and motion through hands-on exhibits and live demonstrations. It has more than 90 exhibits spread across two floors, covering topics like electricity, space, motion, and sound. One of the main features is a large LEGO model of the Millyard that shows what the area looked like during its industrial past. Kids can touch, try, and play with many of the displays, helping them learn through fun.

Amoskeag Fishways Learning and Visitors Center

The Amoskeag Fishways Learning and Visitors Center is a small science and nature center located along the Merrimack River. Inside, there are hands-on exhibits that teach about the river, local wildlife, and how people have used the area over time. Visitors can see live turtles, and fish, and even try simple games and activities that explain how rivers work. One of the highlights is the underwater viewing windows, where people can watch fish like shad and herring swim upstream during May and June. The center offers programs for schools, and families, including nature walks and live animal lectures.

SNHU Arena

The city’s main events arena first opened in 2001 under the name Verizon Wireless Arena. In 2016, Southern New Hampshire University took over the naming rights, and it’s now known as the SNHU Arena, since then it host sports, live concerts, and local events. It can hold different numbers of people depending on the event — about 9,800 for hockey, over 11,000 for basketball, and up to 12,000 for concerts. The arena has 542 club seats, 34 luxury suites, and five party suites. It has hosted hockey teams like Manchester Monarchs and events such as concerts, family shows, and sports tournaments.

Fun City Trampoline Park Goffstown

The Fun City Trampoline Park is a large indoor play center, that offers a mix of activities for all ages in a space that’s about 60,000 square feet. The park includes wall-to-wall trampolines, a foam pit, slam ball, dodgeball, a climbing wall, and a kiddie court for smaller children. There’s also a battle beam where people can challenge each other and test their balance. Visitors can enjoy laser tag and bumper cars too, making the park more than just a trampoline spot. It’s a popular place for birthday parties, private events with packages that can be booked online, and waivers are required before jumping.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

The Sky Zone Trampoline Park is an indoor space that gives visitors a fun way to stay active with wall-to-wall trampolines, a foam pit, dodgeball courts, SkySlam basketball, and a ninja warrior course. There’s a special area called the toddler zone for kids to play safely. People can bounce freely, try flips, or practice obstacle moves in open spaces that are watched over by staff for safety. The park offers group events, and weekly programs like Glow Nights, Friends Fly Free, and Little Leapers designed just for toddlers. There’s a small café, along with a chill zone where visitors can rest between activities.

5. Natural Attractions

NH Audubon Massabesic Center

The NH Audubon Massabesic Center is a nature spot, where people can learn about wildlife and enjoy time outdoors. The nature center covers 130 acres filled with wetlands, open fields, forested areas, and a small stream, with more than 5 miles of trails and signs, that guide visitors toward Lake Massabesic. Inside, visitors can explore nature displays, see live animals, and visit a small gift shop. The space also has gardens and benches, making it a peaceful place to relax. Programs are offered for schools, and families, like birdwatching, nature walks, seasonal events, or to join educational programs.

Amoskeag Falls

Located on the Merrimack River, Amoskeag Falls is a natural waterfall that has long been an important part of Manchester’s history. The name “Amoskeag” comes from a Native American word that means “good fishing place,” and for thousands of years, local tribes came here to catch fish like salmon, shad, and eels as they moved upstream. The falls drop about 50 feet over a short stretch of the river, making it a good spot for fishing but hard for boats to pass.

In the early 1800s, a man named Samuel Blodgett built a canal and lock system to help boats get around the falls, which helped open the area for trade and growth. In the 1800s, the strong flow of the falls was used to power the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, which grew into one of the biggest textile makers in the world during that time. Today, the falls are still visible and are part of the city’s historic Millyard area. Visitors can see the water rushing over the dam and learn about the area’s past at nearby museums.

Uncanoonuc Mountains

The Uncanoonuc Mountains are a pair of small peaks known as North and South Uncanoonuc, both popular for hiking and nature walks. The north peak stands at 1,324 feet, with the south peak close behind at 1,321 feet. Visitors enjoy scenic views from the top, including sights of Manchester’s skyline and, on clear days, even the Boston skyline in the distance. Trails range from easy walks to uphill climbs, with one of the best-known routes being the old Incline Trail, which once carried a trolley up the mountain in early 1900s. Today, hikers can still see remains of the old rail line and former ski areas.

Clough State Park

Located beside Everett Lake, Clough State Park is a 150 acres lake created by a dam built on the Piscataquog River to help manage flooding, and is open during the summer. The park has a 900 foot sandy beach where people can swim, sunbath, or relax, though there are no lifeguards on duty. Guests can bring their own food for a picnic, use charcoal grills, or enjoy the open areas. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing or paddling, as only non-motorized boats are strictly allowed on the water. A pavilion near the beach can be reserved for group events, and a nearby boat ramp offers access to the lake.

Pawtuckaway State Park

Covering more than 5,000 acres, Pawtuckaway State Park has wooded areas, wetlands, and a big lake, making it a fantastic place for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and boating. The park has a 700 foot beach where people can swim or rent kayaks and canoes. There are more than 30 miles of hiking trails that lead to spots like a fire tower, a boulder field, and a marsh where people often see birds and wildlife. The Pawtuckaway Mountains are part of a long-dormant volcanic ring, and trails go up to scenic viewpoints. Visitors can also camp at over 190 sites or stay in one of five small cabins.

Bear Brook State Park

The Bear Brook State Park is the biggest developed park in New Hampshire, covering over 10,000 acres filled with ponds, wooded areas, and trails that let visitors to enjoy outdoor activities. It offers more than 40 miles of paths for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing in winter, all passing through woods and open spaces. Visitors can swim, fish, or rent boats at Beaver and Catamount Ponds, and there’s a beach area with picnic tables, a playground, and restroom facilities nearby. The park includes a campground with over 100 sites and cabins near Bear Hill Pond for overnight stay.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Pats Peak Ski Area

Start a day trip from Manchester, and drive about 45 minutes along Route 202 or I-89 to reach Pats Peak Ski Area. Pats Peak is known for it’s trails for all skill levels, including steep runs and terrain parks. The mountain has 28 trails, 11 lifts, and full snow making coverage, so the conditions stay good even when natural snow is low. It also has one of the largest night skiing areas in northern New England, with trails open after dark. Visitors can rent skis or snowboards, take lessons, or join group programs for families. There’s a snow tubing park with multiple lanes and a lift, which is great for families.

Concord

From Manchester, a day trip to Concord takes just 30 minutes drive, with just about 20 miles between the two cities. Start walking around Main Street, which has small shops, restaurants, and coffee spots. The New Hampshire State House is open to the public and is one of the oldest state capitol buildings where lawmakers still meet. Nearby, the New Hampshire Historical Society has exhibits about the state’s past, and the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center offers hands-on science displays and a planetarium. Guests can visit White Park or take a short walk along the Merrimack River Greenway Trail.

Portsmouth

Taking a day trip to Portsmouth takes roughly 1.5 hours drive from Manchester, along Route 101 and I-95. Start walking around the downtown area, which has shops, restaurants, and old brick buildings. The Strawbery Banke Museum is a popular stop, showing what life was like in Portsmouth hundreds of years ago. You can also visit the Portsmouth Harbor Trail, which passes by historic homes and landmarks. If you like boats, you can take a harbor cruise or just watch the ships from the waterfront. The city has a few beaches like Wallis Sands and Jenness Beach, which are good for a visit in summer.

Lake Winnipesaukee

From Manchester, a day trip to Lake Winnipesaukee is about 55 miles away, and the drive takes around 1.5 hours by car. Once you arrive, take a scenic cruise on the M/S Mount Washington from Weirs Beach, which lasts about 2.5 hours and gives you a scenic views of the lake and its islands. If you like trains, the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad offers short rides from Meredith or Weirs Beach, passing through small towns and along the water. Weirs Beach also has a boardwalk, arcades, and places to eat. During the summer, the area is busy with families and visitors, so it’s a good idea to arrive early.

Hampton Beach

Planning a day trip to Hampton Beach takes nearly an hour drive from Manchester, and you’ll find a long stretch of sandy beach that’s great for walking, swimming, or sitting by the water. The beach has a boardwalk with arcades, shops, and places to eat, making it a fun spot for families and visitors of all ages. There’s also a stage called the Seashell Stage where live music and shows take place during the summer. Visitors can also walk along the Hampton Beach Historical Trail and learn about the area’s past. You can also visit nearby shops for souvenirs or grab seafood at one of the local restaurants.

Lowell, MA

From Manchester, a day trip to Lowell in Massachusetts takes around 1.5 hours drive, using I-93 South or Route 3 South. The Lowell National Historical Park is a good place to start, where you can learn about the city’s past as a mill town and see old canals and factory buildings. There are also boat tours and trolley rides during warmer months. The Boott Cotton Mills Museum shows how cloth was made in the 1800s, and the Mill Girls and Immigrants Exhibit shares stories of the people who worked there. Downtown Lowell has small shops, coffee spots, and places to eat, many within walking distance.

How to Reach Manchester

Manchester is easy to reach by air, road, or bus, offering several travel options that make it easy to visit. The city is served by Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), which is just a short drive from downtown and provides direct flights from major cities like New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., with airlines such as Delta, Southwest, and United offering regular service. Travelers coming from outside the U.S. can fly into Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), then drive or take a bus to Manchester in about 1.5 hours.

For those arriving by car, Manchester is well-connected by highways like Interstate 93, which runs north to south, and Route 101, which connects the city east to west. Driving from Boston takes around an hour, while coming from Concord takes about 25 minutes. Bus companies like Concord Coach Lines and Greyhound operate between Manchester and nearby cities, including Boston and Concord for easy access. While there’s no direct train to Manchester, Amtrak stations in Boston provide access to rail travelers, who can continue their trip by bus or rental car.

Local Transportation

Getting around Manchester is simple, thanks to local buses and easy-to-use roads. The main public transportation service is the Manchester Transit Authority (MTA), which runs several fixed bus routes across the city and nearby areas. There are over a dozen routes, including ones that go to places like the Mall of New Hampshire, Elliot Hospital, and Southern New Hampshire University. Some buses also connect to nearby towns like Concord, Nashua, and Salem through express services.

One of the helpful options is the Green DASH, a free downtown shuttle that runs on weekdays and makes it easy to move around the city center. During certain times of the year, the MTA runs special bus routes to popular spots like Deerfield Fair and Hampton Beach. For people who need extra help, there’s a paratransit service for those who qualify. If you’re not using the bus, driving is easy with well-marked roads and plenty of parking downtown.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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