Founded in 1635 as a frontier settlement, Concord is most famous for being the site where the first shots of the American Revolutionary War were fired in 1775. Beyond this, the town is also known for the many important writers who called its leafy streets home. Ralph Waldo Emerson, Louisa May Alcott, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Henry David Thoreau all penned works here.
Look for numerous sites dedicated to the American Revolutionary War. To see the largest density of sites, visit the Minute Man National Historical Park just north of the city. Here you will find the Battle Road Trail and the famous North Bridge, which was stormed on the first day of battle in 1775. Plan your visit for April’s Patriot’s Day when the town hosts dramatic reenactments of the battles.
Turn to literary pursuits by visiting the homes of Concord’s many writers. Take a trip to Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House, the setting of Little Women, or see where Emerson wrote his famous essay Nature. Visit the graves of these authors at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where Henry David Thoreau and Nathaniel Hawthorne are also buried.
Concord’s attractions aren’t all historic or literary, however. The town is surrounded by stunning wilderness areas. Enjoy outdoor activities including hiking, cycling and canoeing or simply drive out of town following one of the rivers to find a quiet spot for a picnic. If you want to spend time in warm outdoor weather, it’s best to plan to visit between April and October, as temperatures can be chilly outside of these months. Winter brings frequent snow flurries, providing opportunities for cross-country skiing.
In the evening, head out for a night of culture at one of Concord’s many theaters or sample exciting modern cuisine at one of the town’s excellent restaurants. You’ll find most of these, as well as several good quality hotels, close to the town center. Drive to Concord in about 30 minutes from Boston.
