Located across the Piscataqua River from Maine, Portsmouth is considered by many to be a cultural haven in the area. This perhaps should come as no surprise, as the area is chock full of history and plays host to all sorts of events in the present day. You can catch a show or participate in plenty of exciting events at one of several venues, including the Strawbery Banke Museum, The Music Hall or the Portsmouth Gas Light Co. Experience a bit of history firsthand at Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden or at the Governor John Langdon House. Keep yourself fueled with delicious food at a local restaurant such as Row 34 or Black Trumpet Bistro. No matter what adventure you’re looking for during your getaway, be sure to check out these ideas for things to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, for trip planning inspiration.
1. Spend a day exploring Strawbery Banke Museum
Located in the historic center of downtown Portsmouth, the Stawbery Banke Museum brings history to life in a way that every member of your party will enjoy. The museum is primarily outdoors and spans an impressive 10 acres (4 hectares) where you are encouraged to explore a number of heritage gardens, historic buildings, and hands-on learning activities. You’ll have over three centuries worth of history to learn about, so be sure to check out the exhibits and artifacts during your stay!
Strawbery Banke Museum
Address: 14 Hancock St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Strawbery Banke Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 19.50 USD
2. Catch a performance at The Music Hall
The Music Hall is a legendary venue within Portsmouth that has been entertaining crowds since 1878 when it opened as a Vaudeville theater. Today, the hall actually has two theaters within its walls, making it the perfect venue to catch all kinds of shows, from musical performances to literary readings. You’ll find the schedule of performances ever-changing at The Music Hall, so be sure to check their website to see what will be offered during the time of your Portsmouth getaway.
The Music Hall
Address: 28 Chestnut St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: The Music Hall
3. Take a tour of the Governor John Langdon House
Home to the Revolutionary War leader John Langdon, this house turned museum is a historic masterpiece that is worthy of a visit. Mr. Langdon was also the Governor of New Hampshire for three full terms, as well as one of the men who signed the US Constitution, making him quite the notable historic figure. The house was restored by Langdon’s descendants to emulate its original appearance during his lifetime; today, the museum gives tours to visitors allowing you to see the entirety of the house, as well as the current exhibits on display in the living room.
Governor John Langdon House
Address: 143 Pleasant St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Governor John Langdon House
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 11am - 4pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
Price: 8 USD
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4. Enjoy the ambiance at Portsmouth Book & Bar
If you’re looking for the best mixture of books, drinks, and entertainment, you’ll love stopping by Portsmouth Book & Bar. The shop is located within a historic building, the Custom House, and it exudes an ambiance you just have to check out. Browse the rows of bookshelves to find your next favorite book, while sipping a coffee or try something stronger, a beer or glass of wine perhaps. Live events are often scheduled several days a week, be sure to check out the shop’s website to see if anything of interest is scheduled during your visit.
Portsmouth Book & Bar
Address: 40 Pleasant St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Portsmouth Book & Bar
Opening hours: Sun - Tue: 10am - 10pm; Wed - Sat: 10am - 12am
5. Read a book at Portsmouth Athenaeum
One of the best places to brush up on local history and enjoy a stroll through rows of old tomes is at the Portsmouth Athenaeum. The complex is a combination of library, museum, and gallery that is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of Portsmouth and the surrounding area. The venue often hosts events such as concerts and lectures, so be sure to check out their website to see what’s happening while you’re in town!
Portsmouth Athenaeum
Address: 9 Market Square, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Portsmouth Athenaeum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 1pm - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: Free entry
6. Learn more about local history at the Discover Portsmouth Center
Here's our brand new garden! With thanks to Piscataqua Landscaping and Acadia Tucker. Acadia's book "Growing Perennials Foods" is available in the Museum Gift Shop.
Posted by Discover Portsmouth on Tuesday, 25 June 2019
Another fantastic place to learn more about the lengthy local history is at the Discover Portsmouth Center. Here, you can check out exhibits pertaining to the city’s art and culture as well as take a guided walking tour that showcases the city up close. As with several of the venues you’ll read about, the Discover Portsmouth Center hosts a plethora of events throughout the year, so be sure to consult the website for events that you’d like to attend during your trip.
Discover Portsmouth Center
Address: 10 Middle Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Discover Portsmouth Center
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
7. Wine and dine at Black Trumpet Bistro
For the perfect, unassuming, dinner paired with the perfect glass of wine, you’ll want to make plans to dine at Black Trumpet. The bistro encompasses two floors, with the diner on the first floor and wine bar upstairs. You can enjoy a delicious meal on either level, though it is recommended that you make a reservation to guarantee yourself a spot on the first floor. Black Trumpet’s wine list is extensive, with red, white and rosé options to please every customer.
Black Trumpet
Address: 29 Ceres St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Black Trumpet Bistro
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 5pm - 9:30pm; Fri - Sat: 5pm - 10pm
8. Check out the goings-on at Prescott Park
For the best in entertainment, be sure to check out what’s happening at Prescott Park while you’re in Portsmouth. The park encompasses approximately 10 acres (4 hectares) of waterfront property along the Piscataqua River and has plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. Some of the events you may be able to check out include concerts, movie screenings, and other theatrical performances; an onsite restaurant is also available to visitors of the park.
Prescott Park
Address: 105 Marcy St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Prescott Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
9. Take a tour of USS Albacore
Engineered by the US Navy in the early 1950s, the USS Albacore served as a research vessel, allowing the military to experiment on submarine designs that eventually became the design of these vessels used today. The USS Albacore has since been retired from duty and currently serves the public as a museum. As a visitor, you can take a self-guided tour of the sub, where you can see the control room, spot an enemy through the periscope and check out the sleeping quarters of past tenants.
USS Albacore
Address: 600 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: USS Albacore
Opening hours: 9:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: 8 USD
10. Enjoy a seafood meal at Old Ferry Landing
While it may not be a strict requirement, no trip to the New England area is truly complete without feasting upon fresh seafood at least once. The perfect place in Portsmouth to do just that is at Old Ferry Landing, where you can eat your fill of sea scallops, tuna, crab and salmon. If there’s anything better than the food at Old Ferry, it’s the view; while dining, you can enjoy a seat on their waterfront deck and watch as boats drift by on the Piscataqua River.
Old Ferry Landing
Address: 10 Ceres St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Old Ferry Landing
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11:30am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 10pm
11. Shop for sea salt products at The Salt Cellar
Our Himalayan salt blocks come in all shapes and sizes! Chill yours to serve cheese and fresh fruit or heat it in the oven to serve pizza and appetizers. Visit us in-stores or online at Salt-cellar.com
Posted by Salt Cellar on Friday, 19 July 2019
As of late, sea salt products are a hot commodity, and there are plenty to be purchased at Portsmouth’s Salt Cellar. Step inside, and you’ll find products for purchase from seasonings to hand creams, soaps and more. Perhaps the best part is that if you find you really like a product, you can order it again after you’ve returned home. They have a website to cater to your repeat orders! The Salt Cellar also offers what has become known as salt therapy, which can help alleviate problems due to allergies and other respiratory issues. For more information or to schedule a session while in town, be sure to check out their website.
Salt Cellar
Address: 7 Commercial Alley, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Salt Cellar
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
12. Catch a show at Seacoast Repertory Theatre
The Seacoast Repertory Theatre has been putting on Broadway-quality performances since 1988, with productions including The Hunchback of Notre Dame and The Producers. The folks at Seacoast believe that catching a theatrical performance can enrich the lives of attendees, and doing just that is a fantastic way to spend an evening while in Portsmouth. Available shows change throughout the year, with information on current productions being accessible on the theatre’s website.
Seacoast Repertory Theatre
Address: 125 Bow St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Seacoast Repertory Theatre
13. Pay a visit to Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden
Also known as the William Whipple house, the historic Moffatt-Ladd House was built in 1763 by one of the wealthiest families in town, the Moffatts. The house would eventually pass down to William Whipple, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, hence the secondary name. Today, the house and accompanying gardens are listed as a National Historic Landmark and are open to the public as a museum. Take a tour through the house and stroll through these tranquil gardens for a quiet piece of history.
Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden
Address: 154 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 5pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm
Price: 2 USD onwards
14. Grab a beer at Earth Eagle Brewings
If you’re looking to try a local brew while in Portsmouth, one of the best places in town is Earth Eagle Brewings. The pub at Earth Eagle is open for lunch and dinner, serving up delectable appetizers, hot dogs, salads and burgers, all best washed down with one of their signature beers or cocktails. Throughout the year, you’ll find events and musical performances scheduled, making for a great way to spend an evening during your stay.
Earth Eagle Brewings
Address: 165 High St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Earth Eagle Brewings
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11:30am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 12am
15. See Portsmouth from up above with Seacoast Helicopters
If you’re looking to get a unique view of Portsmouth, you’ll certainly want to check out the tours offered by Seacoast Helicopters. Take flight on 1 of 5 tours, with a duration anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours. The basic tour package is the shortest at 30 minutes and flies you over all of Portsmouth and the neighboring beaches. Venture further out and see some of Maine’s coastline in addition to Portsmouth with the Maine Coast Tour, or, for the ultimate adventure, choose the package that lets you experience flying the helicopter yourself! No matter your choice, taking one of these tours is a fantastic way to experience Portsmouth.
Seacoast Helicopters
Address: 44 Durham St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Seacoast Helicopters
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: as per schedule (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: 149 USD onwards
16. Stroll through Haven Park
Take a break from rushing from one point of interest to another, and enjoy a dose of tranquility in Haven Park. The park isn’t overly large, but you’ll find a historic statue of Major General Fitz John Porter, best known for the Second Battle of Bull Run, worthy of checking out. You’ll find benches and tables to sit at while you take it easy and enjoy the beauty of Portsmouth.
Haven Park
Address: Pleasant Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Haven Park
Price: Free
17. Peruse the exhibits at the Museum of Dumb Guy Stuff
Somewhere between a comic book collector’s paradise and Memory Lane, you’ll find the Museum of Dumb Guy Stuff. It is certainly a unique place within Portsmouth, being housed in a residential basement, but the fun displays inside are certainly worth a quick stop-in. All matter of G.I. Joes, model cities and superhero action figures are to be found here, in a place that would have been the ground zero for all your childhood adventures.
Museum of Dumb Guy Stuff
Address: 114 Mechanic Street, Portsmouth, New Hampshire 03801
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: Free
18. Splash around at Water Country Water Park
If your travels bring you to Portsmouth in the summer, there’s no better way to cool down in the midday heat than by putting your swimsuit on and heading to Water Country Water Park. The park has been keeping visitors cooled off for over 30 years and has a great reputation for being one of the cleanest water parks around. Inside the 26 acres (10.5 hectares) park, you’ll find all sorts of water fun, from the giant wave pool to The Plunge or Racing Rapids water slides. Dining is available onsite when you and your crew get hungry, so plan on making a day of your water park excursion!
Water Country Water Park
Address: 2300 Lafayette Rd, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Water Country Water Park
Opening hours: 10:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 30 USD
19. Tee off at Pease Golf Course
Fancy a round of golf? The Pease Golf Course has you covered! With 27 unique holes surrounded by lush greenery and trickling streams, you’re sure to find a new favorite course at Pease. As a visitor, you can also use Pease’s practice facility, where you can work on improving both your short and long game. After you’ve made your rounds, be sure to grab a bite to eat at Grill 28, Pease’s onsite restaurant. You’ll find a menu that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a full bar to grab a beer, wine or cocktail at.
Pease Golf Course
Address: 200 Grafton Rd, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Pease Golf Course
Opening hours:Sun - Thu: 8am - 8pm; Fri - Sat: 8am - 9pm
Price: 35 USD onwards
20. Catch dinner and a show at Portsmouth Gas Light Co.
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Well-known for being one of the top entertainment hot spots in town, Portsmouth Gas Light Co. hosts four venues in the same building, each of which is a unique gathering spot. Check out The Grill, where you can enjoy a delicious American-style meal, many of which are prepared over a wood-fired grill. Head down to the basement and you’ll find the Pizza Pub, which has become an East Coast favorite for wood-fired pizzas. The Deck is considered to be an outdoor extension of The Grill, a great place to enjoy a meal any time of day and a place to listen to some live music by night. Finally, there is the Third Floor Nightclub, a fantastic place to grab a drink and dance the night away.
Portsmouth Gas Light Co.
Address: 64 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Portsmouth Gas Light Co.
21. Stuff yourself with oysters at Row 34
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
When the craving for oysters hits (and it always does when you hit up the East Coast), you’ll find no better place to indulge your taste buds than Row 34. Head to the Portsmouth location and you’ll find a lovely contemporary dining area and bar that you’ll enjoy your oysters at. After you’ve had your fill of oysters, check out the dessert menu and satisfy your sweet tooth with butterscotch pudding or a decadent chocolate chip cookie. If dessert sounds too heavy, stop by the bar and order your favorite wine or cocktail and plan to stay a while, the bar is open late.
Row 34
Address: 5 Portwalk Pl, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Row 34
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 11pm; Sun: 10:30am - 10pm
22. Pamper yourself at Solari Salon & Spa
Can a getaway really be complete if you don’t completely pamper yourself before returning home? If your answer is an unequivocal no (as it should be), you’ll want to check out the spa services offered at Solari Salon & Spa. This full-service spa offers guests everything from hair color and cut to massages and waxing services. You can book your services ahead of time on their website, guaranteeing your provider is ready to pamper you upon your arrival.
Solari Salon & Spa
Address: 20 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Solari Salon & Spa
Opening hours: Sun: 11am - 6pm; Mon: 10m - 6pm; Tue, Thu & Fri: 9am - 7pm; Wed: 9am - 8pm; Sat: 9am - 6pm
23. Check out the fun activities at Diversions, Puzzles & Games
One of the best places in the area to purchase a fun new board game or challenging puzzle is at Diversions, Puzzles & Games. There’s nothing better than spending the night at your Airbnb, trying to best your friends or family with a new game when you’re too tired to hit up the town. You’ll find no shortage of games at the store, from that game you’ve been wanting to try for a while to something you may have never heard of before. The best part is that you’ll be able to reminisce about your wonderful Portsmouth getaway each time you bring that box of fun out at home.
Diversions, Puzzles & Games
Address: 123 Congress Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Diversions, Puzzles & Games
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 9pm; Sun: 10am - 6pm
24. Delight in a frozen treat at Annabelle’s Natural Ice Cream
I SCREAM!!!! YOU SCREAM!!!! WE SCREAMMMMM FOR ANNABELLE'S ICE CREAM!!! Annabelle's Ice Cream is all happiness... Please...
Posted by Annabelle's Ice Cream on Tuesday, 13 August 2019
It’s no secret that the best frozen treats in Portsmouth can be found at Annabelle’s Natural Ice Cream shop. What started as a small ice cream shop in 1982 has become an East Coast sensation, with Annabelle’s ice creams appearing in restaurants and many specialty stores in the area. The original storefront offers customers 30 flavors of ice cream, including favorites Swiss Chocolate Avalanche and Cashew Caramel Cluster, as well as 4 flavors of frozen yogurt and 3 fruit-flavored sorbets. You’ll want to save room after dinner for at least two scoops, you won’t regret it!
Annabelle’s Natural Ice Cream
Address: 49 Ceres St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Annabelle’s Natural Ice Cream
Opening hours: 11am - 10pm (daily)
25. Have a picnic at Sagamore Creek Farm
Nothing says ‘vacation’ more than packing a lunch or ordering out from a local restaurant and having a picnic. There are several fantastic places in Portsmouth to do just that, but one of the best ones has to be Sagamore Creek Farm. The farm, as with most places in the area, has a rich history and encompasses approximately 36 acres (14.5 hectares). Bring your lunch to what used to be part of the royal Governor Benning Wentworth’s farm, where the old farmhouse dates back to 1887. After you’ve eaten your fill, be sure to check out the hiking trails, or try your hand at spotting some of the local birdlife.
Sagamore Creek Farm
Address: 400 Little Harbor Rd, Portsmouth NH 03801
26. Buy fresh goods at the local farmer's market
Farmers’ markets are a fantastic way to support a local community and turn into a fun place to buy fresh foods to cook for an evening spent indoors or a lovingly made baked good. Like many farmer’s markets, the one in Portsmouth is held on Saturday mornings and is a great way to spend your morning before grabbing a bite of lunch. Portsmouth has approximately 60 vendors, selling good from fruits and vegetables to handcrafted goods. The market is open from May to November, so be sure to make your plans accordingly.
Portsmouth Farmer’s Market
Address: 7 Junkins Ave, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Portsmouth Farmer’s Market
Opening hours: May - Nov: Sat: 8am - 1pm (closed from Sun - Fri)
27. Shop till you drop at Wear House
Whether you neglected to pack the perfect outfit for an occasion or you just want to check out one of the best clothing boutiques in town, you’ll want to stop by Wear House during your stay in Portsmouth. This boutique specializes in gently used, like-new clothing, meaning you’re guaranteed to find some great styles without offending your bank account. Clothing isn’t the only thing for sale in Wear House, you can also find plenty of high-end shoes and designer handbags and purses to complete whatever look you’re going for. Stop by and see what your closet is missing!
Wear House
Address: 101 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: Wear House
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
28. Cruise through the Isles of Shoals
Perfect for visitors looking a full day of fun, this day cruise lasts approximately 11 hours and takes you around to all the points of interest within Portsmouth. You’ll start the day touring Prescott Park and the best of the historic district before grabbing a bite of lunch and boarding the boat. From here, you’ll cruise through nine offshore islands that were settled by the famous John Smith during the colonial days. Depending on your hotel accommodations, hotel pick-up and drop off may be available to you, be sure inquire upon booking.
Plan a getaway to Portsmouth soon
Whether you’re looking to party it up or brush up on your local history (or both), you’ll find a world of a good time waiting for you in Portsmouth. You can see the area in so many ways, by land, sea or air, and there are so many fantastic venues with all manner of fun events that you simply have to add Portsmouth to your travel bucket list if you haven’t already. Use this list of things to do as a jumping-off point and start planning your trip to Portsmouth, New Hampshire today!
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