You may have noticed Concord’s newest splash of color right on Main Street. Arts Alley is a new attraction that features a rooftop bar, event space, and outdoor courtyard, turning a quick downtown stroll into a mini creative adventure. The vibe is friendly, walkable, and distinctly Concord—welcoming to families, small groups, date-nighters, and anyone who loves discovering local talent. Street and garage parking are nearby, and the alley itself is walkable and family-friendly.
Arts Alley plans to feature three distinct dining venues. At ground level, New England favorite The Friendly Toast offers all-day brunch and drinks – opening at the end of the month. In the courtyard, a retro diner called Rose & Rye is planned for construction to offer comfort classics in the artistic ambiance. On the second floor, you’ll find The Main Venue – a private indoor function space. For those looking for an elevated experience (figuratively and literally!), Rooftop Social is a rooftop bar with panoramic views of downtown Concord, craft cocktails, and small plates.
Despite its young age, the Concord community has already taken a shine to Arts Alley, in part due to its community events. From small concerts to hands-on workshops, there’s always something new happening. You can often find a local performer busking in the evenings and more formal music events occur as well. We recommend checking out their events calendar for all the newest happenings.
Looking to host an event? Arts Alley also offers private rentals of its second floor Main Venue and rooftop bar. The elegant and minimal styling of The Main Venue makes it a perfect setting for corporate events and dinners, but can also serve as a neutral starting point for distinct aesthetics and OTT décor (we’re thinking of you, brides-to-be). With a sweet spot capacity of 110, you can fit larger crowds in comfortably, but more intimate parties won’t feel overwhelmed. Arts alley offers rentals of the Rooftop Social bar and a whole buyout package if you want every corner of Arts Alley to yourself.
One of the best summer specialties of Arts Alley has been the micro arts market, held every Saturday . Think small footprint, big creativity: a rotating mix of local artists and makers showcasing prints, pottery, jewelry, illustration, fiber arts, zines, candles, small-batch goods, and more. It’s perfect for picking up a thoughtful gift or starting your own collection of Concord-made art.
There’s only a few more opportunities this season to go (the last opportunity is September 27), so be sure to swing by!
Insider tips:
Come early – The works are handmade and you don’t want to miss out on a limited run.
Bring a tote – you’ll thank yourself.
Plan to linger – the CAM artists love to talk process, and you’ll love learning the stories behind your finds.
Pair your Arts Alley visit with a loop of downtown: peek at the State House dome, wander into Main Street’s collection of independent bookstores and boutiques, and catch a show or gallery opening nearby. Everything is a short stroll away, and the pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to explore at your own pace.
See you in the alley!
Are you new to Concord, New Hampshire, or simply looking to expand your social circle? Making friends in a new city can sometimes feel daunting, but fear not! Concord offers a vibrant array of opportunities for connecting with like-minded individuals and fostering meaningful relationships. Here’s a handy guide to get you started on your quest for friendship in the capital city.
In our last blog post, we explored three hiking trails in Concord that are ideal for soaking in the beautiful New England fall scenery. During hunting season (September through January), City of Concord Conservation lands are managed as multi-use land. Hunting is allowed on most properties, but there are some locations where hunting is prohibited. The trails featured in this blog (and its prequel) are the best options for fall hiking if you are concerned about venturing out during hunting season.
Concord, New Hampshire, beckons travelers with its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and a culinary scene that warmly embraces those seeking gluten-free and Celiac-friendly dining experiences. Planning a trip involves more than just booking accommodations and mapping out attractions; it’s also about ensuring that every dining experience is welcoming to your dietary restrictions.
