Free & Cheap Things to Do in Concord

History & Culture

Built in 1819 from New Hampshire granite, the State House is the oldest state capitol in the United States where the legislature still meets in its original chambers — a remarkable piece of living American history. Free guided tours take visitors through the ornate Senate and House chambers, past portraits of historic governors and Civil War heroes, and into the beautiful Hall of Flags displaying battle flags carried by New Hampshire regiments. The building is both a working government seat and one of the finest examples of Federal-era architecture in New England.

Address: 107 N Main St, Concord, NH 03301

Tip: Free guided tours run Monday–Friday, typically at 10am and 11:30am — check the website as schedules vary during legislative sessions. The grounds include a small park with a Veterans Memorial worth a quiet walk. The building is steps from Concord's Main Street, making it an easy start to a downtown walking tour.

Arts & Culture

New Hampshire's premier science museum celebrates the state's two astronauts — Christa McAuliffe, the first teacher in space, and Alan Shepard, the first American in space. The hands-on exhibits cover space exploration, aviation, earth science, and astronomy, with a planetarium theater presenting regular sky shows. It's one of the best family-friendly budget attractions in New England, with a planetarium and interactive science galleries that make space feel genuinely accessible.

Address: 2 Institute Dr, Concord, NH 03301

Tip: Planetarium shows are included with admission — check the daily schedule online and arrive a few minutes early. The outdoor observatory is open on clear weekend evenings for free public stargazing programs; check the calendar before you visit. Budget about 2–3 hours to do the museum justice.

Markets & Food

Running every Saturday morning from May through October in downtown Concord, the Concord Farmers Market is a classic New England community market with local produce, maple syrup, artisan breads, flowers, handmade crafts, and prepared foods. Free to browse, it's one of the most authentic ways to experience New Hampshire's agricultural identity — and the perfect place to stock up on affordable local snacks for a day of exploring.

Address: Capitol St, Concord, NH 03301 (near State House Plaza)

Tip: Go early for the best selection — popular vendors like fresh bread bakers and maple syrup producers often sell out by 10am. New Hampshire maple syrup and local honey make great affordable souvenirs. The market is within easy walking distance of the State House.

Parks & Nature

Concord's beloved neighborhood park is a 25-acre green oasis just a short walk from downtown. White Park features a beautiful pond, walking paths, a gazebo that hosts free summer concerts, a playground, tennis courts, and a historic bandstand that has anchored community life since the late 1800s. In summer the park fills with families and picnickers; in winter the pond becomes a free public ice skating rink — one of the few remaining natural skating rinks in New Hampshire.

Address: 1 White St, Concord, NH 03301

Tip: Check the city's events calendar for free summer concerts at the gazebo — they run most Thursday evenings in July and August. The winter skating rink is open weather permitting, usually December through February. Skate rentals are available nearby for a small fee.