Portsmouth,
Portsmouth is a historic city located in southeastern Virginia, United States, along the Elizabeth River. It is known for its rich maritime heritage and historic architecture, including the Olde Towne Historic District. Portsmouth is home to the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, a major industrial and military installation.
The city offers a variety of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and waterfront dining options for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Places to visit
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring History in Portsmouth
morning:Start your day by visiting the Strawbery Banke Museum, an outdoor history museum showcasing life in colonial Portsmouth. Afterward, grab a delicious breakfast at The Friendly Toast, known for its creative and hearty dishes. Don't miss the French toast!
afternoon:Take a walk around Prescott Park and enjoy the beautiful gardens and waterfront views. For lunch, head to Surf Restaurant for fresh seafood and oceanfront dining overlooking the Piscataqua River.
evening:In the evening, immerse yourself in the local art scene at the Portsmouth Music Hall or 3S Artspace. Afterward, unwind with live music and drinks at The Press Room, a historic pub with a lively atmosphere.
Outdoor Adventure Day in Portsmouth
morning:Embark on a scenic hike along the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge trails, surrounded by nature and wildlife. For breakfast, stop by Colby's Breakfast & Lunch for homemade pancakes and savory omelets.
afternoon:Head to Odiorne Point State Park for seaside exploration, including sandy beaches and rocky shorelines. Refuel with lunch at The Beach Plum, a casual spot known for its lobster rolls and ice cream.
evening:Experience the thrill of zip-lining and aerial adventures at Candia Springs Adventure Park. Cap off the day with a bonfire and stargazing at Jenness Beach for a peaceful night under the stars.
Culinary Delights in Portsmouth
morning:Start off the day with a food tour to discover the best local eateries and culinary gems in Portsmouth. Indulge in artisanal pastries and coffee at La Maison Navarre for a delightful morning treat.
afternoon:Join a hands-on cooking class at Stonewall Kitchen Cooking School to learn the art of gourmet cooking. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared from your culinary creations.
evening:Dine at Black Trumpet Bistro, an elegant restaurant known for its creative and seasonal dishes. End your evening with a visit to The Red Door, a trendy speakeasy-style bar offering craft cocktails and live music.
Maritime Discovery Day in Portsmouth
morning:Explore the USS Albacore Museum, an interactive submarine exhibit that offers a fascinating glimpse into naval history. Enjoy a delightful brunch at The District, featuring a diverse menu and bottomless mimosas.
afternoon:Take a harbor cruise to learn about Portsmouth's maritime heritage and see historic landmarks from the water. Enjoy a seafood lunch at Row 34, a waterfront restaurant with a variety of fresh oysters.
evening:End the day with a sunset sail on the Piscataqua River aboard the Gundalow Company's traditional gundalow boat. Experience the serenity of the water and take in the breathtaking views of the city at dusk.
Portsmouth Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Lobster Roll
A quintessential New England dish, the lobster roll in Portsmouth is a must-try. Enjoy a buttery toasted roll filled with fresh lobster meat, often accompanied by a side of coleslaw and fries. Visit The Beach Plum or Geno's Chowder & Sandwich Shop for some of the best lobster rolls in town.
Must-Try!
Clam Chowder
Sample the rich and creamy clam chowder, a classic comfort food in Portsmouth. Made with locally sourced clams, potatoes, and a flavorful broth, this hearty soup can be savored at Moxy and Old Ferry Landing.
Fisherman's Platter
Indulge in a seafood feast with a fisherman's platter, featuring an assortment of fried seafood such as shrimp, scallops, and haddock, often served with fries and coleslaw. Experience this maritime delight at Bob's Clam Hut or Jumpin' Jay's Fish Cafe.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Portsmouth Farmers' Market
Explore the Portsmouth Farmers' Market, offering fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and handcrafted products. It's a great place to sample gourmet snacks and engage with the local food community.
Street Food at Prescott Park Arts Festival
During the summer, visit the Prescott Park Arts Festival for a variety of street food vendors presenting an array of cuisines ranging from wood-fired pizza and gourmet tacos to refreshing ice creams and specialty beverages.
Things to do in Portsmouth
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Portsmouth
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!