The best arts & culture spots in Merrimack County

Tucked in a quiet clearing, Daniel Webster Birthplace State Historic Site is a humble two-room log cabin that lets you picture 1700s farm life and the early years of one of America’s great orators. Perfect for a low-key wander when you want history without the homework.

From the Tilton newsletter, October 7, 2026

New England Racing Museum packs 10,000 square feet with New England rooted race cars and motorcycles, trophies, and driver helmets, plus stunning photography.

From the Barnstead newsletter, October 2, 2026

Rocking Horse Studio brings award-winning, world-class recording and production to our backyard in scenic Pittsfield.

From the Barnstead newsletter, September 25, 2026

Take a quick trip back to the 1850s at The Pierce Manse, the only home ever owned and lived in by Franklin Pierce. Book a guided tour this week and handle history through hands-on objects and primary sources that bring everyday life with Franklin, Jane, and their boys to life... right here in Concord.

From the Concord newsletter, October 16, 2026

Chubb Theatre keeps the calendar stacked with big-name comedy, touring music, and the kind of one-night-only events that make midweek plans weirdly exciting. Jerry Seinfeld, Maria Bamford, and more are rolling through soon, so pick a night and treat yourself to a laugh or a singalong.

From the Concord newsletter, October 27, 2026

Whether your kid wants to twirl or you want to finally jump back in, Drennan Dance Project brings creative movement, hip hop, ballet, tap, jazz, and musical theater to life here in the Concord area, plus acro and adult options. Supportive vibe, real technique, and pre-professional training if you want to level up.

From the Concord newsletter, September 6, 2026

McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center turns science into play with interactive exhibits, an outdoor Science Playground, an observatory, and even a vintage 1956 Crusader jet. The real showstopper is its planetarium, one of only three in North America rocking a 10K projection for jaw-dropping skies.

From the Concord newsletter, October 15, 2026

If you’ve been meaning to finally jump into a dance class, Concord Dance Academy makes it easy with hip hop that builds confidence, adult options for rusty returners, and real performance opportunities. Fall enrollment is open and there are open houses this week, so go peek and sign up.

From the Concord newsletter, October 20, 2026

Mary Baker Eddy Historic House packs a lot into a circa-1850 Greek Revival, with two period rooms and a smart exhibit on Pleasant View. It’s where Eddy finalized the landmark 50th edition of Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, so yeah, real history happened in those parlors.

From the Concord newsletter, October 13, 2026

Since 1998, Dance Inspirations has been that reliable Concord spot where tiny twirlers, teens, and grownups all find their rhythm. With programs spanning theater and music, Zumbini, summer camps and a competition team, it’s a welcoming, confidence-building studio that feels like family once you walk in.

From the Concord newsletter, October 11, 2026

Capitol Center for the Arts keeps Concord’s arts scene buzzing with a packed mix of concerts, comedy, theatre, dance and film across the grand Swope Theater and intimate BNH Stage. It’s the kind of lineup that makes weeknights feel special, weekends even better.

From the Concord newsletter, October 6, 2026