West Side, Manchester, New Hampshire, Residential district in Manchester, United States
West Side is a residential district west of the Merrimack River that includes several interconnected neighborhoods like Rimmon Heights, Notre Dame, and Piscataquog. The area features single-family homes, local shops, and community spaces spread throughout its different quarters.
The area developed after the first city bridge was built in 1792 by the McGregor family, which led to early settlement growth in the region. In the 20th century, urban renewal projects reshaped the economic landscape and transformed how people lived and worked in these neighborhoods.
French Canadian settlers left a lasting mark on this area, visible in the buildings, street names, and community spaces that reflect their heritage. Many longtime residents and families have roots in these neighborhoods and maintain traditions connected to this past.
The Piscataquog Trail provides a direct pedestrian connection from this area to downtown Manchester via a bridge crossing the Merrimack River. This route makes it easy for visitors to move between the residential neighborhoods and the city center.
Two major economic centers, Granite Square and the Flat Iron District, were completely demolished between 1960 and 1980 during urban renewal. This large-scale transformation remains a defining moment in how the neighborhoods were rebuilt and reshaped.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.