Weekend Itineraries: Explore Manchester, NH, Throughout the Year
While finding fun things to do on the weekend might be difficult in some cities, Manchester, NH, boasts a roster of activities that changes by season. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or are a born-and-bred local, these seasonal weekend itineraries will help you explore everything Manchester, NH, has to offer.
Explore Manchester, NH, During the Spring and Summer
Picture it… spring has sprung or summer is in full swing, and you’re in Manchester for the weekend. If you roll in on Friday afternoon, feed your creative spirit by taking a self-guided tour of the MHT Art Walk, which leads you to a variety of gorgeous sculptures and murals. If you finish before 5 p.m., pop into the Currier Museum of Art to view American and European works from the Renaissance to now. Later that evening, head to the historic Millyard District for dinner. The Crown Tavern, which offers everything from pizza to burgers and even salmon, Hooked Seafood Restaurant (try the blackened mahi mahi rueben), or Piccola Italia, which offers traditional Italian favorites, are great introductions to Manchester’s vast, evolving culinary scene.
Once you’ve filled your rumbling tummy, cheer on the Fisher Cats, the double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, at Delta Dental Stadium. Their season runs from April through August (make sure to check the start time of the game).
Saturdays during warmer months are a prime time to indulge in outdoor recreation. At Lake Massabesic, which also offers recreational space, visitors can boat, kayak, fish, bike, walk and ride horses along the scenic trails. Another great option is to hike the trails surrounding Crystal Lake – and if you prefer, go for a swim.
For a fabulous meal, get cleaned up from your morning and head to brunch at Firefly American Bar & Bistro, which offers a mouthwatering brunch menu from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Think omelets, biscuits and gravy, a BLT, the “daily soup” and so much more.
In the afternoon, head to a show at Palace Theatre, which was established in 1914. Shows are occasionally offered at 2 p.m., so make sure to check the schedule.
In the evening, Elm Street is your dinner destination. You’ll find a wide array of cuisines and experiences. Considerer Osaka, which offers Japanese favorites, or Campo Enoteca, an Italian farm-to-table restaurant. For a sweet finale, check out Chez Vachon on Sunday morning for crepes and other breakfast faves.
Fall Fun in the Queen City
When autumn hits, Manchester, NH, is once again the place to explore. Start your Friday evening off with dinner downtown. Try The Foundry for farm-to-table dishes and live music, or if you love casual Italian, head to Fratello’s Italian Grille.
On Saturday morning, load up on coffee and pastries from Dishon Bakery downtown, a gluten-free bakery, then enjoy a quintessential New England day of admiring the gorgeous autumn leaves. While many venture to the White Mountains (a 3-ish-hour drive), Lake Massabesic and the Uncanoonuc Mountains offer brilliant landscapes a little closer to the city. The nearby Uncanoonuc Mountains offer impressive views of autumnal colors and nearby peaks – and if you’re lucky, on a clear day, you can see the Boston skyline.
Next, it’s time for another favorite fall excursion – apple picking! At Sunnycrest Farm in Londonderry, pick your share of apples and pumpkins, browse the farmers market and devour freshly baked apple cider doughnuts.
After your outdoor adventure, relax with food and drinks at one of the area’s local breweries. Stark Brewing Co., Great North Aleworks, Candia Road Brewing Co., Republic Brewery, To Share Brewing Co. and Backyard Brewery and Kitchen are well-loved locations for a seasonal brew and shareable snacks.
On Sunday morning, close out your weekend with a classic diner breakfast at Red Arrow Diner downtown.
Winter Activities in Manchester, NH
Explore winter in Manchester, NH, and you’ll feel both cozy and adventurous. On Friday evening, enjoy comfort food at Puritan Backroom, the birthplace of the chicken tender! It might be chilly outside, but a meal at this restaurant isn’t complete without their homemade ice cream. Vanilla is the most popular flavor.
On Saturday morning, fuel up for a snow day at Diz’s Café, a cute café downtown with exposed brick walls and delicious comfort food (the steak hash and eggs, French toast or pancakes are always a good choice). After breakfast, head to McIntyre Ski Area, which is about a 10-minute drive from downtown. Lessons are available for all ages, meaning it’s perfect for beginners. Try skiing, snowboarding, tubing or sledding. McIntyre offers plenty of food, so make sure to fill up around lunchtime.
For those who love indoor activities during the winter, you’re in luck. SEE Science Center is perfect for families, as it is loaded with hands-on learning and activities for all ages. Plus, the Currier Museum of Art is home to two Frank Lloyd Wright homes that you can tour.
When you get hungry, head to Honey Cup Café & Tearoom, which is described as a place where “comfort meets whimsy.” Grab a hot sandwich, like the roast beef with horseradish cream and cheddar or the bacon grilled cheese. As for a beverage, if you’re looking for something a little gussied up, choose a latte or cappuccino with a flavored syrup, but if you prefer something simple, opt for a regular drip coffee. If you’re still feeling a bit hungry after your meal, a fresh scone or croissant is the perfect choice.
Finally, wrap up your winter weekend with a wholesome breakfast at Francoeur’s Café on the west side of the city. Snag a coffee as well as an omelet, pan fries and toast.
This article was sponsored by the Manchester Economic Development Office.