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Discover Downtown

Downtown Rochester, New Hampshire is the place to find unique shops and services, quality restaurants, fine arts and culture, and live entertainment. It's also home to numerous municipal assets including public parks, playgrounds and pools, walking trails, the Rochester Public Library, the Rochester Historical Society and Museum, and much more. Free parking is available in multiple municipal lots and along several nearby streets. Scroll down to learn more.

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Purpose

The purpose of this page is to better inform our residents and business owners about community resources and links, provide construction updates for downtown projects, and introduce visitors to everything Downtown Rochester has to offer, including shopping, dining, arts and culture, parking, and recreational opportunities. 

Free Parking

Downtown Rochester features numerous municipal parking lots and street parking, at no cost to residents and visitors. No immediate parking nearby? Our businesses are worth the short walk! Utilize the map to find another parking spot, take a short walk, and discover everything our downtown has to offer along the way. 

Shopping, Dining, and Services

Downtown Rochester is the place to be when you're looking for great restaurants, unique shops, and quality services. Visit the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce and Rochester Main Street to learn about the wide variety of activities, events, and independent businesses located downtown. 

  • Click here to learn more about the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce
  • Click here to learn more about Rochester Main Street

Parks and Recreation

Downtown Rochester is home to several nearby recreational opportunities. The Hanson Pines, near Spaulding High School, features numerous wooded walking trails, a scenic trail along the Cocheco River, a kayak and canoe launch, basketball courts, a public pool, and a playground. Spaulding High School and the James W. Foley Community Center (home of the Rochester Recreation Department) offers a soft walking track around the football field and tennis courts. The Rochester Common also features a track for walkers and runners, a playground, and a baseball field. The Downtown Riverwalk, across from Lilac City Grille/behind Citizen's Bank, offers several bistro tables for outdoor dining and an enjoyable view of the Cocheco River. 

  • Click here for additional information regarding parks and playgrounds in the area
  • Click here to learn more about the Rochester Recreation Department

Arts and Culture

Downtown Rochester is home to the historic Rochester Opera House, Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, Rochester Public Library, and Rochester Historical Society and Museum. Downtown also has several public art sculptures, painted murals, and vinyl applications. In addition, many restaurants and businesses highlight local talent by featuring live entertainment in their establishments.

Virtual Historic Map

The Planning & Development Department and Public Information Office collaborated to catalog and upload several hundred photos from the Rochester Historical Society into Google Earth. The project is viewable on a desktop or via a mobile device.

Contact

Are you planning to open a business in Downtown Rochester, want to learn more about parking and construction projects, or just want to ask a few questions? Give us a call!

  • Economic Development (603) 335-7522
  • Planning and Development (603) 335-1338
  • Public Information & Community Engagement (603) 330-7195