Portsmouth Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Portsmouth with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a charming coastal city located in the Seacoast region of New Hampshire. Rich with history and cultural significance, Portsmouth is a popular destination for tourists and travelers alike. With a vibrant food and drink scene, numerous outdoor activities, and easy access to nearby attractions, Portsmouth offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Portsmouth

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the most notable things about Portsmouth is its rich cultural heritage. The city is home to a range of museums and historical attractions that showcase the area’s unique history.

Strawbery Banke Museum

Strawbery Banke Museum is an outdoor living history museum that brings 300 years of Portsmouth’s maritime history to life. Visitors can explore more than 30 historic buildings, gardens, and exhibits, including homes, businesses, and civic buildings that offer a glimpse into Portsmouth’s past.

USS Albacore Museum & Park

For naval aficionados, the USS Albacore Museum & Park is a must-visit attraction. The museum is home to the USS Albacore, a submarine that was decommissioned in 1972. Visitors can tour the submarine and learn more about its history and the role it played during the Cold War.

Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden

The Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden is a historic mansion that dates back to the mid-18th century. Visitors can tour the beautifully preserved home and grounds, which feature stunning 18th-century gardens, original artwork, and antique furnishings.

Natural Attractions of Portsmouth: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Portsmouth is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, or simply taking in the stunning ocean views, there’s something for every nature lover in Portsmouth.

Odiorne Point State Park

Located just a short drive from Portsmouth, Odiorne Point State Park is a beautiful coastal park that offers hiking trails, rocky beaches, and a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can explore more than 330 acres of salt marsh, woodlands, and rocky shorelines, making it a perfect destination for a day trip.

Great Island Common

Great Island Common is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Located on a quiet peninsula just a few miles from downtown Portsmouth, Great Island Common is an ideal spot for picnicking, swimming, fishing, or just lounging on the beach. Visitors can take in the stunning views of Portsmouth Harbor and the Isles of Shoals from the park’s rocky shoreline.

Prescott Park

For a relaxing day out in the city, Prescott Park is a picturesque park located in downtown Portsmouth right on the Piscataqua River. The park’s gardens are filled with flowers and plants all season long while its riverside setting is perfect for walks or picnics.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Portsmouth

Portsmouth has plenty of hiking and biking trails for visitors who want to get outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The South Coast Bikeway

The South Coast Bikeway is a newly established trail that runs from Newburyport, Massachusetts, to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The paved trail is 13 miles long and offers stunning views of the ocean, woodlands, and tidal salt marshes.

The Uncle Tom’s Trail

For those seeking a short and easy hike, the Uncle Tom’s Trail is a great option. The trail is located within the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse State Park and offers spectacular views of the water and lighthouse.

Best Things to Do in Portsmouth: Activities and Tours

Portsmouth is brimming with activities to keep visitors busy, including guided tours, boat rides, and cultural events.

Seacoast Segway Tours & Rentals

Discover Portsmouth and its hidden gems with a Segway tour. Cruise around historic sites, scenic areas and elegant buildings with the help of an enthusiastic guide who’ll give tips and share fascinating details about the area.

Piscataqua River Cruises

See Portsmouth from a different angle with a Piscataqua River Cruise. Hop aboard a boat that merges transportation and entertainment and relax as it cruises down the river while you take in the stunning views that the city and its surrounding areas offer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Portsmouth

For those who want to experience all that Portsmouth has to offer, here is a week-long itinerary to help plan your trip.

Day 1: Explore downtown Portsmouth and check out the shops, restaurants, and local attractions.

Day 2: Take a boat tour of Portsmouth Harbor and the surrounding area.

Day 3: Spend a day at Great Island Common, relaxing on the beach and taking in the beautiful views.

Day 4: Visit the USS Albacore Museum & Park and learn more about the history of the United States Navy.

Day 5: Hike or bike along the South Coast Bikeway and enjoy some of the area’s natural beauty.

Day 6: Take a tour of Strawbery Banke Museum and learn more about the area’s fascinating history.

Day 7: Spend the day exploring more of the area’s natural beauty, such as the White Mountains or the Maine Coast.

Food and Drink Scene of Portsmouth

Portsmouth is home to a thriving food and drink scene that showcases the local flavors and culture.

Must-Try Dishes

Lobster Rolls

A trip to Portsmouth would not be complete without trying some of the famous lobster rolls, which can be found at many of the city’s seafood restaurants.

Seafood Chowder

Another staple in New England cuisine is seafood chowder, often made with locally caught clams, haddock or lobster.

Local Beverages

Portsmouth Brewery

The Portsmouth Brewery is a must-visit spot for beer lovers. Enjoy popular brews like the English-style “Dirty Blonde” ale, the “Kate the Great” Russian Imperial Stout.

Where to Stay in Portsmouth: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

With a range of accommodations to choose from, Portsmouth has something to suit every budget and travel style.

Best Western Plus Wynwood Hotel

The Best Western Plus Wynwood Hotel is located just a short walk away from downtown Portsmouth, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.

Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel

Located in the heart of downtown Portsmouth, the Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the harbor.

Ale House Inn

If you’re looking for something more unique, the Ale House Inn is a stylish boutique hotel located in a historic building that was once a brewery.

What to Buy in Portsmouth: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

From handcrafted goods to locally made food and drink, Portsmouth is home to a range of unique souvenirs that make great gifts for friends and family.

Popovers

Popovers are a must-try treat when in Portsmouth. Many bakeries and cafes offer this fluffy and delicious pastry in flavors like plain, chocolate chip, and blueberry.

Local Culture and Customs of Portsmouth

Portsmouth has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its architecture, art, and cuisine. Visitors should take the time to explore the local history and traditions of the area.

Best Time to Visit Portsmouth

The best time to visit Portsmouth is during the summer months when the weather is warm, and the city is abuzz with outdoor events and activities. Spring and fall can also be lovely times of year to visit, with fewer crowds and beautiful foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Portsmouth

Do:

  • Take a Segway tour to explore the city’s hidden gems.
  • Try the seafood chowder and lobster rolls.
  • Support local businesses and artisans by shopping at local markets and stores.

Don’t:

  • Don’t miss out on a boat tour of Portsmouth Harbor and the surrounding area.
  • Don’t forget to explore the natural beauty of the area, including the White Mountains and the Maine Coast.

Safety and Health

Safety in Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a safe city with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still take the usual precautions when traveling, such as locking doors and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Portsmouth

Portsmouth has a range of medical facilities and hospitals to ensure that visitors have access to quality healthcare in case of an emergency.

Getting to Portsmouth: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Portsmouth

The nearest airports to Portsmouth are Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located about 50 miles south of the city, and Boston Logan International Airport, located about 60 miles south.

Bus Stations Near Portsmouth

The C&J Bus Line operates a daily bus service between Portsmouth and several major cities in New England, including Boston and New York.

Other Options

For those who prefer to drive, Portsmouth is easily accessible by car via Interstate 95.

How to Get Around in Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a walkable city, and most of the city’s attractions are located within easy walking distance of each other. Visitors who prefer not to walk can also take advantage of the city’s public transportation system, which includes a bus service and taxi service.

Where to Go Next from Portsmouth: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Portsmouth is located in a beautiful and scenic area of New Hampshire, making it a great base for exploring the nearby attractions and destinations.

White Mountains

The White Mountains are located about two hours north of Portsmouth and offer some of the most stunning scenery in the region. Visitors can explore the area’s numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and mountain vistas.

Maine Coast

The Maine coast is located just a short drive east of Portsmouth and offers some of the most beautiful beaches and seaside towns in New England. Visitors can explore charming towns like Kennebunkport and Ogunquit and take in the scenic beauty of the coastline.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Portsmouth has something for everyone. With a vibrant food and drink scene, easy access to nearby attractions, and plenty of natural beauty to explore, Portsmouth is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New England.