Your Guide to Free Family Excursions in Concord, NH
Photo courtesy of Friends of White Park.
In Concord, New Hampshire, family fun doesn’t have to come with a price tag.
From sprawling playgrounds to enriching historical experiences, the capital city offers an array of activities that promise delight for both young adventurers and their parents. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in a playful afternoon or engage in local culture and events, Concord’s community spirit is on full display.
Here’s a collection of beloved spots and happenings that have become cherished cornerstones of local life in Concord.
1. White Park’s Monkey Around Playground
White Park’s Monkey Around Playground in Concord is the largest in the area, offering a variety of structures that cater to children’s play and adventure. It’s a wooden haven designed for fun and activity, and plans are in place to make it even more inclusive with handicap-accessible equipment. Families can enjoy picnics, sports facilities, and wide-open spaces perfect for a sunny day out. You can even ice skate on the pond in winter!
2. New Hampshire Historical Society
Located in the heart of Concord, the New Hampshire Historical Society showcases a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that trace the state’s history. It’s an ideal spot for families to engage with educational displays and partake in family programs that incorporate games and storytelling, offering an informative and interactive experience for visitors of all ages.
3. First Friday in Downtown Concord
First Friday is a monthly celebration that takes place in Downtown Concord, where local businesses stay open late, providing the community with entertainment, shopping, and dining opportunities — often centered on a seasonal theme. This event fosters a vibrant atmosphere for family fun, encouraging exploration of the city’s unique offerings and its friendly local businesses.
4. Merrimack River Greenway Trail
This trail, known as MRGT to locals, offers scenic views of the Merrimack River from Concord to Pembroke to Boscawen. The accessible, paved trail is ideal for walking, biking, and jogging, but with its four-season design, you can even ski or snowboard when it’s snowy! It’s a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature as a family.
5. Pierce Manse
The Pierce Manse is the historic home of Franklin Pierce, 14th President of the United States. While tours might have a fee, exploring the grounds and the exterior of the building is free. It’s a nice spot for those interested in history and architecture.
Our stories may be republished online or in print under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. We ask that you edit only for style or to shorten, provide proper attribution and link to our web site. Please see our republishing guidelines for use of photos and graphics.
