Do you want to learn what to do in Portsmouth, NH to make your trip more memorable? Portsmouth is known for its coastal area, colorful art, American history, and culture. Located at the Piscataquis River and is a wonderful family and friends vacation spot.
It came into being in the 1600s and still has many 17 & 18 centuries-old buildings. The city has several parks, museums, hiking trails, theaters, fishing, boating, breweries, and historic federal army homes. It is just around an hour’s drive from Boston and along a border with Maine.
There are a lot of things to do in Portsmouth, which are exciting and thrilling adventures. The cultural hub has an old harbor street full of the house of ministers, captains, rich businessmen, and many famous writers. Many boutiques, shops, and restaurants are worth trying.
Travel to Portsmouth, New Hampshire
What are the best things to do in Portsmouth, NH?
The best things to do in Portsmouth include:
Enjoying Prescott Park’s stunning views.
Visiting historic homes.
Going to Market Square for shopping.
How much time do you need in Portsmouth, NH?
A single day is enough to explore Portsmouth’s beauty. However, you can enjoy the surrounding Seacoast if you have more days.
How do you get to Portsmouth, NH?
From Boston, it is a 90-minute bus ride or a one-hour drive. And from Dover, Portsmouth is close to Amtrak connections.
What are some good things to do in Portsmouth with kids?
There are many things to do for everyone to enjoy. Visit the Water Country’s waterslides in the summer or spend a day at Strawbery Banke Museum along with the kids.
Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth is a great family-friendly vacation spot. It is a popular tourist destination because it has all the New England Charm for everyone. A walkable city has ample pedestrian sidewalks and is known as the safest New Hampshire city.
Downtown Portsmouth has excellent restaurants, cafes, boat tours, and fun bars. There are many lovely boutiques because New Hampshire is a tax-free state. It’s the perfect place for doing window shopping and enjoying the architecture.
Here is a list of things we can do in Portsmouth.
Strawberry Banke:
| Admission cost for adults | $19.5 |
| Admission cost for children above 5 | $9 |
| Location | 14 Hancock Street, Portsmouth, NH |
Strawbery Banke Museum is located in a historic Portsmouth neighborhood named Puddle Dock. The local inhabitants called the museum as Banke. It is known as a living museum because it depicts the 1600s to the 1900s.
The Strawbery Banke guides are excellent. It has been inhabited by Europeans for more than 250 years and is considered the oldest neighborhood in the state. Puddle Dock, to the west of this museum, was once part of the seaside neighborhood of this museum.
This complex consists of many historical buildings and covers an area of 10 acres. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover 300 years of American history and life in an early New England colony.
There are costumes and crafts worn by explainers and crafts workers who demonstrate cooking, household skills, crafts of a bygone era, and even how to build boats. You will find ice skating during the winter months, interesting events, and delightful gardens with many facilities. Visitors must come and explore the fantastic museum.
Prescott Park:
| Location | 105 Marcy Street Portsmouth, NH |
It has been designated an urban park by the Prescott sisters, Josie and Sarah, since 1940. Portsmouth’s best public park area is over 10 acres, including gardens, a walking and running track, a sitting area, and kids’ playing areas.
The public park offers many recreational activities and is open throughout the year. Prescott Park Arts Festival is also held at this location every year. An attractive natural setting and magnificent old trees can be seen here.
Moreover, many water features in the park allow you to relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy yourself. Prescott Park offers free tours of their grounds every Friday from 11 AM to 1 PM in the summer months. Prescott Park is a great place to enjoy the entire year.
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Moffat Ladd Garden:
| Location | 154 Market Street Portsmouth, NHÂ |
Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden is a residence built in 1763 that was originally called the William Whipple House. Since 1968, it has been recognized as a national historic landmark. It is a great-style Georgian mansion, considered one of America’s finest.
Moreover, it was the residence of two of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. It is believed that Whipple planted the iconic horse chestnut tree outside this museum in memory of his family.
You can discover how William Whipple lived in Portsmouth and what he accomplished in the time he spent in that city. Let’s get on a guided tour of this stunning home. You can experience the elegant beauty of the house, which has run as a museum since 1912.
Market Square:
A major attraction of Portsmouth is its Market Square, known as the city’s cultural center. Located in the downtown’s heart and surrounded by many shops, cafes, and boutiques. You can enjoy a lot of stunning 17th-century historic buildings and NH souvenirs.
Market Square is a continuous tourist attraction boasting a wide variety of dining, shopping, and other activities for visitors of all ages. Market Square is surrounded by creative restaurants, bars, and breweries open throughout the day.
It allows visitors to dine and drink whenever they like. The charming streets of Market Square will appeal to anyone looking for a relaxed day wandering through the charm of the area with friends or family.
Gus & Ruby Letterpress is a worth visiting shop. We love them because it is equipped with stunning stationery sets. Off Piste is a good gift option because many quirky options are available.
If you are looking for the best jewelry shop, you should check Market Square Jewelers because they have a vast product collection. The Book & Bar is the best spot to read the book with beer or coffee. Macro Polo is a great selection for buying toys. Stonewall Kitchen store offers New England’s famous sauces and jams.
Related Post: Best Portsmouth NH Hotels
Portsmouth’s Historic Homes:
Portsmouth has a long history; you will find many colorful historic old buildings and homes around the city. Walking around the historic building and taking photos is good if you want a free thing to do in Portsmouth.
The Warner House is considered the oldest brick house in northern New England. It is also known as the Macpheadris-Warner House, built for Captain Archibald Macpheadris.
It was built from 1716 to 1718. At the start of the 1900s, an oil company was interested in buying this historic house for a gas station but could not buy it. After that, in 1932, it was purchased for a museum.
The Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion was the residence of the United States Royal Governor Benning Wentworth. The historic mansion was built in the 1800s and is still considered the only surviving residence of any Governor.
It is located in Little Harbor. In a mansion, there are 40 different rooms used for a farm, office, and house. After some time, the historic mansion was owned by J. Templeman Coolidge. In 1954, J. Templeman Coolidge donated the property to New Hampshire State. Now, it is open to the public, and outdoor tours are free.
The Moffatt-Ladd House is another National Historic Landmark. It is known as the William Whipple House, who was the Revolutionary War General and signer of the Declaration of Independence. Now, the historic house is a museum and is open to tourists.
Portsmouth Historical Society:
| Admission cost for adults | $20 |
| Admission cost for children under 6 | Free |
In 1917, the Portsmouth Historical Society was founded. It aims to share and preserve Portsmouth’s history through programs, tours, events, and exhibitions. In 1758, the John Paul Jones House was built. It is a national historic landmark.
In 1777, the house was named after the American Revolution, who rented a room in this establishment. It’s been a museum since 1920 and is open to the public. Admission costs for adults are $7.50, and kids are free.
There is not any admission fee for the month’s first Friday. The society also organizes many tours to share the overlooked town’s history.
USS Albacore Museum:
| Admission cost for adults | $9 |
| Admission costs for children from 5 to 14 | $4 |
| Location | 600 Market Street Portsmouth, NH |
USS Albacore Museum is one of Portsmouth’s most interesting historical sights. It is located on a retired research submarine. Visiting submarines is interesting because you can know what life was underwater and see the submarine’s control room, bunk rooms, and other areas.
The US Navy operated it from 1953 through 1972. It was used to become acquainted with some of the features now widely used in most modern submarines. When the USS Albacore was commissioned in 1966, it held the record as the fastest submarine in the world, capable of traveling at 40 knots.
Undoubtedly, the USS Albacore Museum is one of the most impressive sights you will see in Portsmouth. To have a complete picture, you will also be given an overview of the submarine’s history by veteran crew members. The USS Albacore Museum is one of many things to do in Portsmouth that you can’t miss if you’re there.
Music Hall:
| Location | 28 Chestnut Street Portsmouth, NH |
The music hall is Portsmouth’s most legendary music place, hosting various musical events. This theatre has operated continuously in the United States since 1878. In the music hall, you can enjoy a lot with comedy sets, literary readings, theatrical shows, and film screenings.
The Music Hall is one of the oldest continuously operating theatres in the world. A wide variety of live performances are held here throughout the year. The museum’s annual attendance is one lac and thirty thousand.
This hall has a capacity of approximately 900 people. Many known names performed there, like Colbie Caillat, Tony Bennett, Dan Brown, II Divo, etc. The Music Hall is one of the best places to visit for a great night out. It is recommended to check the coming show’s dates before visiting the music hall.
Black Heritage Trail:
| Location | 386 State Street Portsmouth, NHÂ |
Black Heritage Trail is in the heart of downtown Portsmouth and is considered one of the best things to do in a city. It is a fascinating walking trail that tells the story of the major people and places associated with African-American heritage.
Portsmouth is associated with enslavement as a historic trade center and an influential port. In Portsmouth, enslaved people were kept in the homes of the wealthier families early in 1645.
The purpose of the trial is to bring awareness to African American history. Throughout the route, signs tell the stories of places and people that belong to the city. In the 1700s, it was set up as a place to honor and remember the late black residents of the area who passed away.
The African Burying Ground is a historical and cultural site in Portsmouth along the Black Heritage Trail. You can visit it as part of Portsmouth’s history and cultural experience. This walking tour takes about 90 minutes to complete.
On the other hand, getting the Sankofa guided tour services is recommended if you are new in a city. Otherwise, you can explore your own Heritage Trail and get assistance by downloading a PDF map because it will automatically pinpoint all the important spots.
African Burying Ground:
In the 17th century, it was the burying ground of Portsmout’s free Blacks and enslaved. But today, the historic African Burying Ground is a memorial park. It is located on Chestnut Street, known as the outskirts of town. In 2003, people’s skeletal remains were found in the area.
After that, a project started extensively to find the remains of hundreds of lives. At that time, in New England, the African Burying Ground was the famous African burying site. The main aim of the memorial park is to acknowledge and remember the permanent resting place.
Browse books with a beverage at the Book and Bar:
| Location | 40 Pleasant Street Portsmouth, NHÂ |
This bar and bookstore are housed in a building built in the 1860s. It features live entertainment occasionally and offers a variety of drinks and food. The walls of Books & Bar are lined with wall-to-wall bookshelves that surround the tables and bar.
It is also lodged in a 150-year-old custom house with every niche of books with main title categories. The bar and restaurant are not only wonderful to look at but also serve top-notch drinks and food. It has a great selection of signature cocktails, beers, wines, coffee, and drinks.
They have a wide range of menus, and some special items are classic sandwiches, salads, bakery, and soups. Moreover, plenty of live entertainment opportunities are hosted by books & bars regularly. Most guests are attracted to the establishment because of its setting.
Friendly Toast:
| Location | 113 Congress Street, Portsmouth, NH |
There is nothing comfier than the Friendly Toast. It is a brunch restaurant that has a bar with full service. The menu has creative breakfast and lunch options, including doughnuts, quesadillas, hash browns, waffles, sandwiches, eggs, omelets, and tacos.
Furthermore, The Friendly Toast serves a variety of creative beverage selections in its amazing menu. The Friendly Toast was opened in 1994. It has become one of Portsmouth’s most popular brunch spots.
Breakfast and lunch are served until 3:00 PM at this establishment. So visit the place without any doubt.
Take a Cruise to the Isles of Shoals:
| Admission cost for adults | $39 |
| Admission cost for children | $29 |
There are many islands in New Hampshire. In the past, the Isles of Shoals islands have been inhabited by small communities, but now you will find hotels and some private homes. It has been inhabited for over 400 years.
It is a few miles away from Maine and New Hampshire’s coast. You can take a cruise along the Isles of Shoals Steamboat Company. Star Island also provides a guided tour to see 400 years old history. On tour, you can learn many interesting facts about the inhabited people who once belonged there.
Portsmouth Athenaeum:
| Location | 9 Market Square Portsmouth, NHÂ |
The Portsmouth Athenaeum was founded in 1805. It is a museum, an art gallery, and a library. It is located right in Market Square. There is no charge for visiting the research library and exhibition gallery. Since 1973, it has been recognized as a National Historic Place.
Its gallery collection has 12,000 photographs, historical books, and artifacts. You will also be able to attend interesting lectures, be a part of an artist presentation, and participate in many more activities that will enrich your life.
Water County:
| Location | 2300 Lafayette Road Portsmouth, NH |
With a water park like Water County, the whole family will have lots of fun. Water Country is the perfect place to go on a hot summer day. This water park has something for the entire family, including pools, rides, slides, and activity areas where everyone can have fun.
This family-friendly waterpark on the West Coast started in 1984. There are at least 19 attractions for your pleasure. It includes tube rides, Bubble Bay, warp 8, Adrenaline Rush, etc.
The park also offers restaurants where you can have sandwiches, pizzas, burgers, ice cream, and many other food items. Aside from its great entertainment, there is also a great surf shop on the premises, which offers a variety of retail therapy.
It is highly recommended that you plan a day at Water Country if you will be visiting Portsmouth during the summer months.
Harbor Lighthouse:
It is one of the most picturesque and the only lighthouses in central New Hampshire. It was built in 1879 and is now the only working lighthouse with a height of 48 feet.
The lighthouse can be observed from places like Great Island Common. You can have live tours of the lighthouse by booking in advance through the Lighthouse National Monument. The lighthouse is only a minute’s drive away from Portsmouth.
A guided lighthouse tour will let you learn about the structure’s history. You can even go to the top to see the keeper’s quarters. If you are wondering what to do in Portsmouth, visit Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse. It is open from May to October with the timings of 1-5 PM.
Portsmouth Harbor Trail:Â
| Admission cost for adults | $15 |
| Admission cost for children | $10 |
| Location | 25 Wentworth Road, New Castle, Portsmouth |
Exploring or seeing the city’s beauty is the most entertaining because the trail takes you to 70 different scenic or historical places. The 10 buildings are considered National Historic Landmarks, and the other 10 are listed on the National Register.
Walking along the Portsmouth Harbor Trail is good to see the USS Albacore, Warner House, Portsmouth Athenaeum, Memorial Bridge, etc. You can take guided tour services if you are new to a city.
Each day at 1:00 p.m., the guided tour trail starts from the Market Square Kiosk. The total walking distance of Portsmouth Harbor Trail is about 1 mile.
Portsmouth Bike Tour:
A bike tour is the most interesting thing to explore Portsmouth’s beauty because it requires less time to see many city attractions. You can choose different bike tour options to explore the historic city. It includes island tours, city tours, coast tours, etc.
We also love the islands and coast tours to enjoy the stunning views. A bike tour is perfect for enjoying street art and exploring the urban life, harbor, neighborhoods, islands, and coastline. You can also bike on wooded trails in nature reserves.
Black Trumpet:
| Location | 29 Ceres Street Portsmouth, NH |
Black Trumpet offers many international cuisines and serves its best food. It features a second-floor bar, a romantic environment, and a unique setup. The restaurant’s fine dining menu is a must-try, available from Wednesday through Sunday.
The Black Trumpet’s goal is to assist you in pairing the perfect wine with your entrée. Black Trumpet is one of the best restaurants in New Hampshire due to its historic charm and its delicious food and beverage selection.
Some amazing selections included in the menu are lamb meatballs, goat tagine, falafel, goat tagine, and pan-fried sweetbreads. You will also find a considerable wine selection and offers to purchase a bottle of wine or some glasses according to your requirements.
Where to Stay in Portsmouth
Finding accommodation near Market Square is recommended because it is in the heart of downtown. Here are the best things to do and see while staying in Portsmouth.
Portsmouth’s Best Luxury Hotel:
The Sailmaker’s House is the best luxury hotel in Portsmouth downtown. You can also choose it for some special occasions or events. This boutique hotel is located in the heart of downtown. It is considered a modern and historic spot.
Portsmouth’s Best Mid-Range Hotel:
Hilton Garden Inn Portsmouth Downtown is the best choice if you are looking for the best mid-range hotel. A fitness center and indoor swimming pool exist. All the guest rooms are equipped with refrigerators, coffeemakers, and microwaves.
Portsmouth’s Best Budgeted Hotel:
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portsmouth is a top choice to save money. It is located 5.1 km away from Portsmouth International Airport. Guest rooms are clean and comfortable, with desks, hairdryers, a refrigerator, cable TV, a microwave, and seating areas.Â
Related Post: 14 Best Restaurants in Portsmouth, NH
How Much Time to Spend in Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth has many attractions and things to do for enjoyment, so one day is not enough to explore all the beauty. You should have at least two or three days to make your trip memorable. Because you can do a lot of shopping, explore the historic sites, Seacoast area, etc. During the summer, the beach is the best place to spend quality time.Â
How to Get to Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth is a one-hour drive from Boston and a 50-minute away from Maine and Portland. If you don’t have a car, you can use public transportation. In Portsmouth, a Greyhound bus stops between the Maine coast and Boston.
On the other hand, Amtrak stops in Dover, which is an 18-minute drive from Portsmouth. There is no need for a car if you live in Portsmouth’s downtown because all the required things are available within walking distance. For a longer trip, you can use an Uber.
However, a car is necessary to explore southern Maine and New Hampshire Seacoast. There are many parking garages around the city. We mostly use Hanover Street Garage, which has affordable rates on the weekend. Â
Best Time to Visit Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth is a year-round city and has all four seasons.Â
Summer is the busiest and most magnificent time to visit Portsmouth. At that time, the flowers bloom, and the weather is pleasant. Secondly, many restaurants offer outdoor dining facilities. Prescott Park held many concerts, and you don’t need a jacket. However, prices of different things are at their highest.
Fall also has charm because the temperature is milder, and the skies are blue-blazing. If you visit Portsmouth, you should go to the Piscataqua River to enjoy the fall foliage on the lake.
Winter is another wonderful time to visit the city because usually the weather is cold and you will surely love the snow and ice. The coastal location keeps snowfall low, but winter winds are biting and chilly. Winter has fewer restaurant hours and choices and more winds than the other months. However, winter is considered the cheapest time.
It is a gamble if you are visiting during Spring because, most of the time, the weather is unpleasant. You have to face many rainy or cloudy days.
In the end, planning a Portsmouth trip during the fall or summer months is recommended, especially in June, September, and October, because you have full enjoyment options.
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