A Week in Manchester, New Hampshire – My Chill New England Getaway
If you’re looking for a relaxed, low-key place to unwind for a week, I honestly think Manchester, New Hampshire should be on your radar. I just spent a full week there, and it ended up being the kind of trip where you don’t feel rushed — just enough to do without being overwhelmed.
First Vibes
Manchester isn’t huge, but that’s part of the charm. When I got there, it felt welcoming right away — friendly people, cute downtown, and a nice mix of old New England feel with some modern touches. Everything was easy to get to, and you could tell the city has a lot of local pride.
What I Got Up To
- Currier Museum of Art: This place is a gem. Small but really impressive. I even took a tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright Zimmerman House, which was super cool if you like architecture.
- Lake Massabesic: Needed a nature fix, and this lake delivered. Super peaceful — perfect for some quiet walks and clearing my head.
- Elm Street (Downtown Manchester): Spent a lot of time just wandering around downtown. Tons of little shops, coffee spots, and some great local places to eat. It’s the kind of downtown where you want to stroll slowly.
One night, I caught a live event at SNHU Arena too — depending on when you visit, there’s usually a concert, game, or something fun going on.
Let’s Talk Food 🍴
Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much from the food scene, but Manchester showed up!
- The Foundry was my favorite — fresh, local dishes, and a cozy vibe.
- Republic had the best brunch I had all week. Farm-to-table, super tasty.
- And Puritan Backroom is basically a Manchester institution. Their chicken tenders? Believe the hype.
Also found some awesome coffee spots — Café la Reine became my go-to for mid-morning pick-me-ups.
Overall Feel
Manchester was just… easy. No crazy traffic, no stress. Just a laid-back week of art, food, nature, and exploring at my own pace. Plus, if you’re into road trips, it’s the perfect base to branch out to nearby lakes, small towns, or even the mountains.
Final Verdict
If you want a chill New England trip that’s not packed with tourists, Manchester is definitely worth a visit. One week felt just right — not rushed, not bored, just good vibes all around. Would totally go back, maybe even during fall for the foliage!