DOVER

Dover is the oldest permanent settlement in New Hampshire and one of the Seacoast's fastest-growing small cities. Its downtown along the Cocheco River has transformed from a mill town center into a walkable district of restaurants, bars, and performance spaces.

The Strand hosts concerts, tribute bands, dance nights, and comedy in a downtown theater setting. The Brick is a bar and music venue that programs local and regional acts in a more casual room. Together they give Dover two distinct options for a night out without driving to Portsmouth.

Dover has a younger energy than many New Hampshire cities, driven partly by its proximity to the University of New Hampshire in neighboring Durham. The Cocheco Waterfront District is adding mixed-use development, and First Friday art walks bring foot traffic to the galleries and studios in the renovated mill buildings.

Tip: Downtown clusters along Central Avenue and the Cocheco River. Parking is generally easy, and the two main venues are within walking distance of each other and the restaurants.

Neighborhoods: Downtown • Central Business District • Cocheco Waterfront • Garrison Hill