Imagine a city where history whispers from every corner, local flavors tantalize your taste buds, and eco-friendly practices are woven into the fabric of daily life. Welcome to Concord, New Hampshire’s capital, where sustainable tourism meets New England charm. This vibrant city offers a unique blend of attractions that cater to both wanderlust and environmental values. From its iconic gold-domed State House to its farm-to-table culinary scene, Concord is rapidly emerging as a hub for green travel, inviting visitors to experience the best of New England while treading lightly on the planet.
Key Takeaways
– Concord, New Hampshire, blends history, local flavors, and eco-friendly practices.
– The city has revitalized Main Street with new breweries, restaurants, and shops.
– The New Hampshire State House offers free guided tours of its historic building.
– The Capitol Center for the Arts hosts various shows and promotes sustainability.
– Concord is close to hiking trails, lakes, and rivers for eco-friendly outdoor activities.
– The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center focuses on astronomy and space exploration.
– The University of New Hampshire’s Sustainability Institute leads in sustainability research and education.
– Revival Kitchen & Bar is known for its farm-to-table dining and local ingredients.
– The New Hampshire Farm to School Program connects local farms with schools.
– The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center provides eco-friendly tourism information and local souvenirs.
As you walk down Concord’s revitalized Main Street, you’ll quickly see that this isn’t your average small town. The city has undergone a makeover in recent years, becoming a walker-friendly city center that mixes small-town charm with big-city amenities. New breweries, fancy restaurants, and unique shops line the streets, creating a lively atmosphere that draws both locals and tourists. Concord Chamber of Commerce has played a key role in this renewal, helping local businesses and serving as a valuable resource for visitors. For those seeking a more nature-oriented experience, Spacious Skies French Pond, a family-friendly campground located in nearby Henniker, offers a serene retreat with activities like swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
A Walk Through History: The New Hampshire State House
No visit to Concord would be complete without a stop at the iconic New Hampshire State House. This historic building, with its shiny gold dome topped by an eagle, stands as a symbol of the state’s rich political past. The State House, completed in 1819, is the oldest state house in the nation still used by its original governing body. Free guided tours allow visitors to explore the rooms where New Hampshire’s lawmakers have been meeting for over two centuries.
As you wander through the hallowed halls, you’ll learn about the state’s political history and the important decisions that have shaped New Hampshire over the years. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate, bringing the building’s stories to life with fun facts and historical tidbits. For instance, you’ll discover that the dome, originally covered in slate, was later gilded. The current copper eagle atop the dome, designed by Ralph Raynard, was installed in 1957, replacing the original wooden butternut eagle that had stood watch since 1818.
Cultural Delights: The Capitol Center for the Arts
For those seeking a dose of culture during their visit, the Capitol Center for the Arts is a must-see spot. This historic theater, originally built in 1927, has been carefully restored and now serves as the cultural heart of Concord. The venue hosts a variety of shows throughout the year, including Broadway plays, concerts, comedy acts, and more.
The theater’s commitment to sustainability is clear in its efforts to use less energy and promote eco-friendly practices. By attending a show at the Capitol Center, visitors not only support the local arts scene but also contribute to the city’s sustainable tourism efforts. The venue’s central location makes it easy to combine a night at the theater with dinner at one of Concord’s many farm-to-table restaurants, creating a perfect evening of culture and cuisine.
Nature’s Playground: Outdoor Activities in and Around Concord
Concord’s surrounding natural beauty provides plenty of chances for outdoor lovers to connect with nature while minimizing their impact on the environment. The city’s closeness to many hiking trails, clean lakes, and scenic rivers makes it a great starting point for eco-friendly adventures. Whether you’re interested in hiking through lush forests, canoeing on calm waters, or skiing down snowy slopes in the winter, Concord offers something for every outdoor enthusiast.
One standout attraction for those interested in both nature and science is the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center. This modern planetarium and science center focuses on astronomy and space exploration, offering visitors a chance to learn about the wonders of the universe. The center plans to expand its science education programs and add accessible playground equipment by 2024, further strengthening its role in promoting sustainable educational tourism in the region.
Sustainability in Action: UNH Sustainability Institute
For visitors interested in learning more about sustainability practices, a visit to the University of New Hampshire’s Sustainability Institute is worth considering. Located in Durham, about an hour’s drive from Concord, this innovative institute is leading the way in sustainability research and education in New England. UNH Sustainability Institute offers a range of programs and projects focused on reducing carbon emissions, promoting social justice, and fostering environmental care.
Visitors can join guided tours, attend talks, or even take part in hands-on workshops to learn about cutting-edge sustainability practices. The institute’s work has a big impact on local sustainability efforts, influencing policy decisions and inspiring community-led projects throughout New Hampshire. By visiting the Sustainability Institute, tourists can gain valuable insights into how they can incorporate eco-friendly practices into their own lives long after their vacation ends.
Farm-to-Table Feasts: Revival Kitchen & Bar
No exploration of Concord’s sustainable scene would be complete without enjoying the city’s farm-to-table food offerings. Leading this movement is Revival Kitchen & Bar, a restaurant that has gained praise for its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. Under the guidance of award-winning chef Corey Fletcher, Revival Kitchen & Bar has become a symbol of sustainable dining in Concord.
The restaurant’s menu changes with the seasons to showcase the best produce and meats from local farms and producers. Fletcher’s approach to cooking emphasizes not only flavor but also environmental responsibility. By getting ingredients locally, Revival Kitchen & Bar reduces its carbon footprint while supporting the region’s farming community. Dining here offers visitors a chance to taste the authentic flavors of New Hampshire while contributing to the local economy and sustainable food practices.
Community Engagement: New Hampshire Farm to School Program
Concord’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its tourist attractions and into the very fabric of the community. A great example of this is the New Hampshire Farm to School Program, which works to connect local farms with schools throughout the state. This innovative program not only promotes healthy eating habits among students but also supports sustainable farming practices and local food systems.
Visitors interested in learning more about this initiative can arrange tours of participating schools or farms through the program’s coordinators. NH Farm to School Program offers a unique look at how communities can work together to create more sustainable food systems, providing valuable insights that tourists can take back to their own hometowns. By engaging with this program, visitors contribute to the broader movement of sustainable tourism, which seeks to create positive impacts on the communities and environments that travelers visit.
Visitor’s Guide: Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center
For those looking to make the most of their sustainable journey through Concord, a stop at the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center is essential. Located in the heart of downtown, this welcoming center serves as a one-stop shop for all your tourism needs. The friendly staff can suggest local restaurants, attractions, and events that match eco-friendly values.
The visitor center also has a gift shop stocked with New Hampshire-themed souvenirs, many of which are made by local artists using sustainable materials. From handmade jewelry to locally produced maple syrup, these souvenirs offer a way to take a piece of Concord’s sustainable spirit home with you. And don’t miss the chance to take a photo with the center’s stuffed New Hampshire moose, a fun attraction that has become a beloved symbol of the state’s natural heritage.
As you bid farewell to Concord, you’ll carry with you more than just memories. You’ll leave with a renewed appreciation for how a small city can make a big impact on sustainable tourism. From its historic streets to its forward-thinking initiatives, Concord proves that the path to a greener future is paved with local charm, community spirit, and a commitment to preserving the beauty of New Hampshire for generations to come. So pack your bags, bring your eco-conscious mindset, and prepare to be inspired by the sustainable wonders of the Granite State’s capital. And if you’re looking to extend your eco-friendly adventure, consider a stay at Spacious Skies French Pond, where you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying comfortable accommodations and a range of outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What makes Concord a great destination for sustainable tourism?
A: Concord combines historic charm with eco-friendly practices, offering attractions like the New Hampshire State House, farm-to-table dining, and cultural venues committed to sustainability.
Q: What can visitors do at the New Hampshire State House?
A: Visitors can take free guided tours to learn about the state’s political history and explore the rooms where lawmakers have met for over two centuries.
Q: What kind of shows does the Capitol Center for the Arts host?
A: The Capitol Center for the Arts hosts a variety of shows including Broadway plays, concerts, and comedy acts, all while promoting eco-friendly practices.
Q: What outdoor activities are available in Concord?
A: Concord offers hiking, canoeing, and skiing opportunities, thanks to its proximity to trails, lakes, and rivers.
Q: What is the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center?
A: It’s a planetarium and science center focused on astronomy and space exploration, offering educational programs and exhibits.
Q: How can visitors learn about sustainability practices in Concord?
A: Visitors can learn about sustainability by visiting the University of New Hampshire’s Sustainability Institute, which offers tours, talks, and workshops.
Q: What is special about Revival Kitchen & Bar?
A: Revival Kitchen & Bar is known for its farm-to-table dining, using fresh, local ingredients to create seasonal menus that support sustainable food practices.
Q: What is the New Hampshire Farm to School Program?
A: It’s a program that connects local farms with schools to promote healthy eating and sustainable farming practices.
Q: Where can visitors get information and souvenirs in Concord?
A: The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center provides tourism information and sells New Hampshire-themed souvenirs made from sustainable materials.