Things to do in Portsmouth

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a charming coastal city known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and scenic waterfront. This city offers a blend of colonial heritage and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking culture, history, and outdoor activities.

The city's compact downtown area is filled with historic buildings, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants. Portsmouth's waterfront provides beautiful views and opportunities for boating and walking along the harbor.

Strawbery Banke Museum

Strawbery Banke Museum is an outdoor history museum that showcases over 300 years of Portsmouth's history through preserved historic buildings and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore restored homes, gardens, and workshops that depict life from the 17th century to the 20th century.

The museum offers guided tours, seasonal events, and demonstrations of traditional crafts, providing a vivid glimpse into the city's colonial and maritime past.

Prescott Park

Prescott Park is a beautiful waterfront park located along the Piscataqua River. It features well-maintained gardens, walking paths, and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.

The park is also known for its outdoor theater performances during the summer, including plays, concerts, and festivals that attract locals and tourists alike.

Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse

The Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse situated at the mouth of the Piscataqua River. It has been guiding ships safely since the 18th century and is an iconic symbol of Portsmouth's maritime heritage.

Visitors can view the lighthouse from nearby parks and take boat tours that provide close-up views and historical insights about the lighthouse and harbor.

Market Square

Market Square is the vibrant heart of downtown Portsmouth, featuring a lively mix of shops, restaurants, and cafes. This historic square has been a central gathering place since the city's founding.

The area hosts farmers' markets, street fairs, and seasonal events, offering visitors a taste of local culture and cuisine in a charming urban setting.

USS Albacore Museum

The USS Albacore Museum is dedicated to the historic USS Albacore, a pioneering experimental submarine. The museum offers visitors the unique opportunity to tour the submarine and learn about naval engineering and submarine history.

Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that highlight the technological advancements and missions of the USS Albacore.

The Music Hall

The Music Hall is a historic performing arts venue in Portsmouth that hosts a wide range of concerts, films, and theatrical performances. It is known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant cultural programming.

The venue supports local and touring artists, making it a cultural hub for music, film, and live theater in the region.

Seacoast Science Center

Located a short drive from Portsmouth in nearby Rye, the Seacoast Science Center offers interactive exhibits and educational programs focused on the marine environment of the New England coast.

Visitors can explore tide pools, aquariums, and nature trails, making it a great destination for families and nature enthusiasts interested in coastal ecology.

Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion

The Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion is a historic colonial mansion and former home of New Hampshire's last royal governor. It is one of the few remaining examples of 18th-century architecture in the area.

The mansion is set on a scenic waterfront property and offers guided tours that provide insight into colonial life and the history of Portsmouth during the pre-Revolutionary period.

Isles of Shoals

The Isles of Shoals are a group of small islands located off the coast of Portsmouth, accessible by boat tours. These islands are known for their natural beauty, wildlife, and historic sites.

Visitors can enjoy guided tours, bird watching, and exploring the remnants of old fishing villages and lighthouses on the islands.

John Paul Jones House

The John Paul Jones House is a historic home and museum dedicated to the American Revolutionary War naval hero John Paul Jones. The house offers exhibits about his life and naval career.

Located in downtown Portsmouth, the museum provides a glimpse into 18th-century life and the legacy of one of America's most famous naval figures.