5 Things to Do After Work in Manchester, NH
Whether it’s enjoying fresh air, catching live music, cultivating a new hobby, grabbing takeout or connecting with friends over drinks, everyone has specific ways they want to wind down after a long day at work. Manchester, NH, which is tucked in the heart of New England, offers plenty of things to do that cater to a wide spectrum of interests.
Ileana Ille, a Manchester local and financial adviser for Morgan Stanley, moved from West Virginia back to her home state of New Hampshire in 2023. Here’s her take on how area residents can best spend their weeknights in the region.
1. Reconnect with Nature
Curate a picturesque evening amidst Manchester’s warm seasons with a trip to Lake Massabesic, a beloved spot for chasing a summertime sunset. Head out on the water for a relaxing paddle or boat ride or opt for land and explore the lake’s miles of paths and scenic picnic areas. Winter weather inspires locals to hit the slopes for skiing, snowshoeing and sledding.
“McIntyre and Pats Peak ski areas are two really great ski spots,” Ille says. “Night skiing is something that a lot of people do after work in the wintertime since it gets dark so early.”
Consider heading downtown after your outing to conclude the night with food and drinks at The Crown Tavern, a local hot spot with spacious outdoor seating.
“It’s one of my favorite places to go in downtown Manchester. It’s amazing. They have such a beautiful atmosphere and amazing food,” Ille says.
2. Plan a (Solo or Partner) Date Night
Manchester, NH, offers tons of things to do, whether you want to plan an outing for your special someone or create the perfect solo date. Regardless of which you have in mind, take this excuse to dust off a debonair outfit and catch a performance at The Palace Theatre, a historic performing arts venue established in 1914. Events include live music, theater, stand-up, author talks and more. Keep an eye on its online calendar to see what piques your interest.
Just a short walk down the street is Hanover Street Chophouse, which is known for its steaks and fresh seafood. Plus, it is sure to keep the evening’s sophisticated atmosphere afloat. If you’re on a tighter budget, simply stop in to prelude your theater experience or round off your evening with one of the restaurant’s expertly crafted cocktails.
3. Take Time for Hobbies
Keeping up with or discovering a hobby might be one of the best things to do in Manchester, NH, after a day at the office, as it will help you relax, tap into your creative side and maybe even find a lifelong activity. And don’t be afraid to shake things up – ride solo, bring a partner or join a group salsa class at Melaza Dance Studio. To spice things up, Melaza is in walking distance of Alas De Frida, a recently established Mexican restaurant that has quickly become a local favorite.
“I probably go there three times a week,” Ille says. “They make all their food – even tortillas – in-house. I highly recommend the barrio tacos.”
If dancing isn’t your forte, check out Studio 550 for artsy classes, like creating pottery and stained glass. After your workshop, head to dinner at nearby bar and grill The Goat.
“It’s a super cool spot – a big bar with elevated food and an outdoor space with live music,” Ille says.
4. Work Up a Sweat
Whether you’re a fitness guru or a newcomer looking to add routine into your everyday life, Manchester, NH, provides many things to do to break a sweat. The area is home to some incredible locally owned gyms. Ille recommends Barre Life and Humble Warrior Power Yoga for anyone interested in yoga, pilates, trampoline exercises, etc.
You may feel inclined to head straight home to shower after your workout, but don’t forget to refuel. Pressed Cafe is worth the 10-minute drive from both Barre Life and Humble Warrior.
“Pressed Cafe is one of the best healthy restaurants in the Manchester area,” Ille says. “They have indoor and outdoor seating as well as a drive-thru, which is hard to believe because it’s such high-quality food to be able to get on the go.”
5. Savor Your Social Life
Need things to do in Manchester, NH, to boost your spirits after work? Get a group of friends together and head to one of the many socialite spots downtown. Check out The Hop Knot for evening activities, like open-mics, karaoke and trivia. While you’re there, peruse their weekend schedules for lively drag brunches and nighttime drag shows. Another option that’s just down the street is Shaskeen Pub, which offers trivia, weekly comedy nights and rap nights, all of which are sure to boost your mood.
“If you’re having a night, and you end up needing some 3 a.m. bar food, you have to check out Red Arrow Diner,” Ille says of the 24-hour restaurant that is home to decades of late-night memories. “The diner has this old-style bar with one row of seats,” she says. “If you’re going to wrap up a late night, Red Arrow is the place to do it.”
This article was sponsored by the Manchester Economic Development Office.