Concord, the state capitol of New Hampshire, is a lovely, small city with many historic landmarks, cultural outlets, and parks. Centered on the Merrimack River, Concord's busy downtown is flanked by distinct villages and friendly neighborhoods. Downtown is located directly to the west of the river and Interstate 93. It's a mix of historic buildings, local shops, museums, art galleries, sidewalk cafes, and restaurants. Residential neighborhoods climb the hills to the west and extend southwards toward the town of Bow. These quant neighborhoods are nestled in side streets amongst busier city streets and large recreational parks. You'll also find the esteemed St Paul's School in the Southwest section of the city.
To the east of the Merrimack River, you'll find most of the city's commercial development in Concord Heights. In the northern part of the city, the Contoocook River enters the Merrimack at the village of Penacook. Although a part of Concord, Penacook feels much more like an independent community with it's own schools and comprehensive village center.
Concord has become a center for health care and homebase for several insurance companies. It's convenient, central location at the intersection of several major roads (I-89 to Vermont, 1-93 to Manchester/Boston and points North, and Rt-4 to the Seacoast) makes it a very easy location to commute to or from. For those looking for a little more than the standard city lot, Concord's neighboring communities are Bow to the south, Pembroke to the southeast, Loudon to the northeast, Canterbury, Boscawen, and Webster to the north, and Hopkinton to the west.
