Plan Your Event

Top 10 Things To Do
in Manchester

From architectural landmarks to family-friendly recreation, Manchester’s top attractions showcase the city’s dynamic character. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, these must-see spots promise an experience that’s anything but run of the mill. Start planning your visit and discover why Manchester is one of New England’s most exciting destinations.

Must-See Attractions

Cat alley

Cat Alley is downtown Manchester’s biggest surprise, tucked away in what would otherwise be a humdrum alleyway. Exemplifying the creativity and artistic spirit of the city, the alley formerly known as “Dean’s Court” has over the past fifteen years become one of the most famous and unique attractions in the Northeast. Its name was unofficially designated long before murals decorated its walls, as the area was known to be a popular destination for Manchester cats.

Today, Cat Alley features more than 20 murals painted on the bricks between The Bookery (844 Elm St.) and 836 Elm St.. Each mural features an anthropomorphized feline at work or at play, and pays thoughtful homage to the Queen City. One elegantly illustrated cat begins her morning with a cup of coffee as she gleefully greets a neighbor. Another contemplates the state of the city amid a backdrop of the Merrimack River, dutifully perusing the Queen City Examiner. Other colorful cats are whimsically depicted playing music, ice skating, making donuts, or dancing in the moonlight.

The alley is open to the public, existing as a quaint and captivating pedestrian walkway for visitors exploring downtown. In 2022, a local group coordinated a revitalization of the beloved landmark, with 18 artists contributing their own spins on Cat Alley. This destination is a can’t-miss for anyone visiting downtown Manchester.

Currier Museum of Art

The Currier Museum of Art is one of Manchester’s cultural gems, representing a unique blend of artistic history and modern experience. Founded in October of 1929, the museum features European and American paintings from renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Claude Monet, and Georgia O’Keefe. The Zimmerman and Kalil Houses, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, exist in collaboration with the museum, offering an unparalleled look at Wright’s innovative and groundbreaking architectural designs.

The Currier Museum is committed to enriching the artistic spirit of the community by offering classes, special events, and “ARTalks” aimed at encouraging creativity, artistic expression, and appreciation for the visual arts. Art is taught as a way to understand the creative process in all fields, and even “non-artists” are encouraged to discover what the museum has to offer. Memberships are available for frequent visitors who want to receive unlimited free admission, special access to exhibits, and invitations to events.

The museum strives to make art accessible to visitors of diverse backgrounds, encouraging and facilitating conversations about different pieces of art in the context of both modern and historical lenses. It is dedicated to the social needs of the community through programs serving those with memory loss, physical and cognitive impairments, military veterans, and families of those with substance use disorder. It also offers an artist-in-residence program, inviting artists to live and work at the museum while considering the Currier’s vast collection in conjunction with the vibrant Manchester artistic community.

The Currier Museum is the only art museum in the world with two Frank Lloyd Wright homes. Accessible by guided tour, they are the only Wright buildings open to the public in New England. Both were built in the 1950s when Wright’s domestic architecture reshaped American home design. The Usonian Automatic and the Zimmerman House express two equally beautiful visions through their closely related designs and contrasting materials.

The Currier Museum is a staple of Manchester and a must-see destination for art aficionados and vacationers alike.

The Zimmerman House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, offers an intimate look at the renowned architect’s mid-century Usonian style of homes. Commissioned by Isadore and Lucille Zimmerman in 1949, the house was finished a year later and was described by its occupants as “Heaven,” and “the most beautiful house in the world.”

They stated, “We wish to avoid adding a new antique to the city’s architecture.” Indeed, they intended their house to be a contemporary statement: “I expect our proposed house will have a positive educational role to play in our community.” The Zimmerman House was one of Manchester’s first modern buildings.

The house was bequeathed to the Currier Museum in 1988 and is now open to the public. A shuttle runs from the museum to the Zimmermans’ home, where visitors can view the structure as it was when the family lived within its walls. The original residents’ collection of exquisite art still adorns the interior, while a tranquil garden (also designed by Wright) exists just outside. The Zimmermans were known to host live music on Tuesday evenings, with visitors sitting in cypress chairs or lying on the ground to absorb the nature, light, and music that permeated the house. Modern visitors are required to wear booties to protect the house’s integrity, but the same beguiling atmosphere remains.

Listed on the National Register of Historic places, the Zimmerman House is constructed entirely of brick and Georgia cypress. It is a single-story, two-bedroom home with a simple, sophisticated, and profoundly beautiful ambiance. Few of Wright’s designs are kept so true to their original design, unaltered by new residents or modern designers. All who appreciate the groundbreaking work of Frank Lloyd Wright are sure to be enthralled by the beauty and unparalleled insight offered by the Zimmerman House.

Millyard-Museum

Step into Manchester’s storied past at the Millyard Museum. Located in the heart of the historic Amoskeag Millyard, the museum tells the fascinating tale of the city’s industrial roots, from Native American life to the textile boom. Interactive exhibits and artifacts make it a must-see for history lovers.

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For more than a century, the Palace Theatre has been the beating heart of Manchester’s performing arts scene. This historic venue combines elegant architecture with a diverse lineup of entertainment, including Broadway-style productions, live concerts, and comedy shows. The beautifully restored interior, complete with ornate details and plush seating, enhances the magic of every performance. A night at the Palace Theatre is a celebration of creativity, talent, and community spirit.

Outdoor Adventures

Lake Massabesic

Escape the hustle of city life and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Lake Massabesic. This expansive lake is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and boating, offering a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounding trails provide scenic pathways for walking, jogging, or biking, with opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way. Whether you’re looking for an active day on the water or a quiet place to relax, Lake Massabesic delivers.

Button Bar Events

The Merrimack River winds through the city of Manchester, bringing natural beauty and recreation to the city. Rent a kayak to paddle along its calm stretches, cast a line at popular fishing spots, or walk the riverside trails for scenic views of the water. From sunrise to sunset, the Merrimack River provides a backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and leisurely explorers alike.

Sports Venues

McIntyre Ski Area

The McIntyre Ski Area is a city-owned snowsports destination offering skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing to visitors of all ages. Located off of Exit 8 on I-93, the ski area is 15 minutes from Manchester-Boston Regional Airport and less than 10 minutes from downtown Manchester.

McIntyre Ski Area opened in 1971 as an exciting recreational experience for New Hampshire residents. Since its opening, generations of residents and visitors have experienced the thrill of the McIntyre mountain and all that it has to offer. The mountain consists of 11 skiing and snowboarding trails from beginner to intermediate levels, and an 8-lane snow tubing area with no experience required. Two double lifts and two magic carpets are available for the cold journey to the top of the mountain, and a rental shop is available on site with all the gear you might need. Tired skiers can visit The Hill Bar and Grille after their adventures and enjoy delicious food and beverages while relaxing by a roaring fire. This popular restaurant offers trivia, live music, ladies night, and other events, making it the perfect end to any day on the slopes.

The McIntyre Ski School is also one of the largest snow sport school programs in the Northeastern United States. It offers classes to everyone from preschool to adult, and private instruction is available for those who learn best one-on-one. Season passes are available for purchase, with discounts up to 50% off of Ski Key Locks, tickets to Pats Peak, and many other cool amenities and events.

Whether you are a beginner, an experienced snow sports enthusiast, or just looking to glide down the slopes with family and friends, McIntyre Ski Area offers plenty of opportunities for unforgettable fun and relaxation.

Northeast Delta Dental Stadium has been the home of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, the double A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays. since it opened in April 2005. Located on the shore of the Merrimack River, the stadium hosts countless events of all kinds each year. It’s also the only ballpark in the country that shares its location with a hotel – Manchester’s Hilton Garden Inn is just beyond the outfield wall.

SNHU Arena

The Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) Arena is Manchester’s monumental sports, music, and entertainment venue. Opened on November 15, 2001 as the Verizon Wireless Arena (later the Manchester Civic Center), the arena’s first event saw an AHL game between the Manchester Monarchs and Adirondack Thunder. The following night, Aerosmith took the stage to the delight of thousands of fans. The venue serves a myriad of entertainment purposes, and hosts between 10 and 12 thousand spectators depending on the event. It boasts an impressive 3,000 lightbulbs, 350 doors, and a plethora of concession stands for event attendees.

The SNHU Arena has hosted a variety of notable artists, teams, and speakers. The Boston Celtics frequent the arena during their preseason, offering local fans the chance to see their team in action. Several notable politicians have delivered victory and campaign speeches inside the venue’s walls. Legendary bands like Journey, Toto, Phish, and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra have given some of their most renowned performances on Manchester’s biggest stage.

When planning a trip to Manchester, visiting the SNHU Arena’s website and finding upcoming events is exceedingly worth it. Who knows? Your favorite artist, comedian, or sports team might just be visiting the arena, too.

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Manchester, NH
3:25 pm, Nov 2, 2026
temperature icon 66°F
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47 %
1024 mb
6 mph
Wind Gust: 13 mph
Clouds: 84%
Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise: 6:21 am
Sunset: 4:36 pm