Concord

Concord, one of the smallest capital cities in the country, is more focused on the arts than on politics. Although the State House, with its gleaming gold dome, stands over the city's center, most of the government buildings blend in with the colorfully painted mercantile structures that run both sides of Main Street.

While strolling through downtown Concord, you'll notice sculptures and other works of street art in addition to the well-preserved architectural details on the buildings. The decorative ironwork that frames the entrance to a tiny square across from the State House is particularly impressive. The street level is filled with specialty stores, cafes, restaurants, and boutiques that provide everything from vintage vinyl to the crafts of local artists and craftspeople. The Capital Center for the Arts, which hosts live concerts on a regular basis, is located at the far end of the downtown shops. The new Bank of New Hampshire Stage's retractable seating allows the venue to hold events in a variety of settings, from a fixed-seat concert hall to a dance floor.

Additionally, keep an eye out for jazz jam sessions, professional performances, student recitals, and free public lunch concerts on the Concord Community Music School's schedule. Red River Theatres, a small movie theater on Main Street, also shows first-run foreign, classic, and independent films in addition to on-screen art displays.