South New Hampshire is known for its great beaches and preserved historic houses. Take a tour of one of these magnificent homes and discover a piece of New Hampshire's history. Portsmouth has a picturesque coastline that supplies a wide range of activities, including whale watching and boat tours. Many local companies offer fishing trips, one of the main pastimes along the coast. Enjoy the plentiful accommodations on the waterfront, many offering spectacular ocean views. Also located in this region is the state's capital, Concord, a small city with numerous historical sites and museums focusing on New Hampshire history. Manchester has a wealth of interesting galleries and a vibrant performing arts scene bolstered by the historic 870-seat Palace Theatre. Monadnock State Park, just northwest of Jaffrey, features Mt. Monadnock, a favorite for hikers and one of the most frequently climbed mountains in the world. President John F. Kennedy gave his first official campaign speech in Nashua, an event that has been commemorated with a bronze sculpture.