MANCHESTER

Manchester is the largest city in New Hampshire and the anchor of the state's live music scene. As a former mill town turned cultural hub, it draws national touring acts to its arenas and theaters while sustaining a network of bars and clubs with nightly entertainment across the city center.

The city offers everything from arena-scale shows at SNHU Arena to mid-size productions at The Palace Theatre and The Rex Theatre. Jewel Music Venue and Angel City Music Hall handle the indie and rock circuit, while Dana Center for the Performing Arts programs classical and contemporary works. Headliners Comedy Club rounds out the entertainment options, and Chunky's Cinema Pub pairs movies with a dinner-theater experience.

Manchester has a working-city energy that keeps things unpretentious. You can catch a major touring act downtown and then walk to a smaller club for a late set without the price tags or attitudes of bigger Northeast cities. The Millyard redevelopment has brought new restaurants and foot traffic to the riverfront blocks.

Tip: Elm Street is the main corridor for nightlife, with most venues clustered within a few blocks. Parking is easier on weeknights, and you will find more variety on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Neighborhoods: Downtown • Millyard • North of Bridge (NOB) • South Downtown • Elm Street Corridor