Things To Do
in 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.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the historic Strawbery Banke Museum, where you can explore buildings from the 17th to 19th centuries. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby caf é before diving into the rich history of the area.
Head to Market Square for lunch at one of the local restaurants. Afterward, visit the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse for beautiful views of the coast.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood. If time allows, catch a performance at the historic Music Hall.
Spend your morning at Portsmouth's nearby beaches, soaking up the sun and enjoying the waves. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the sand.
After a beach lunch, explore the nearby Fort Constitution Historic Site for a taste of local history. The views from the fort are stunning and worth the hike.
Grab dinner at a beachfront shack for fish and chips. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the sandy shore while watching the sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich maritime history and culture
- Access to beautiful beaches and waterfront activities
- Vibrant arts and music scene
- Historic architecture and charming downtown area
- Lively dining and shopping options
- Strong community spirit and local events
- Proximity to major cities like Boston and Portland
- High cost of living compared to other areas in New Hampshire
- Limited job market in certain industries
- Harsh winter weather conditions
- Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons
- Potential for seasonal flooding and coastal erosion
- Limited public transportation options
- Small-town feel may not appeal to everyone
Best Activities in Portsmouth
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy water slides, pools, and water attractions at this popular water park.
Explore beautiful gardens, attend outdoor concerts, and enjoy scenic views along the Piscataqua River.
Play a round of golf surrounded by picturesque landscapes and well-maintained fairways.
Tours
Uncover the best of Portsmouth with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Portsmouth
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers picturesque views of the Piscataqua River and is a great spot for photography
Provides stunning views of the ocean and the historic fort structure makes for a unique backdrop in photos
Features panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Isles of Shoals, perfect for capturing beautiful coastal landscapes
Food in Portsmouth
Portsmouth Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
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!
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.
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.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Portsmouth better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
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.
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.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Portsmouth, United States, it is important to be mindful of personal space and not invade someone's physical boundary without permission.
Politeness and respectful language are valued in Portsmouth. Using 'please' and 'thank you' is appreciated in various interactions.
Being open-minded and respectful of local customs and traditions, such as etiquette in dining or social interactions, is important in Portsmouth.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Portsmouth with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Portsmouth
Ensure a smooth experience
In Portsmouth, United States, it is customary to tip service staff at restaurants, bars, and other service establishments. The typical tip amount is around 15-20% of the total bill, but this may vary depending on the level of service provided.
Payment methods commonly accepted in Portsmouth, United States include cash, credit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses and retailers accept major credit and debit cards, and contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Portsmouth.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Portsmouth, United States, as the weather becomes milder and the city starts to bloom with flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.
Summer is another popular time to visit Portsmouth, United States, as the city comes alive with festivals, outdoor concerts, and various events. The warm weather allows for activities such as beach outings and sailing.
Fall brings about beautiful foliage in Portsmouth, United States, making it an ideal time for scenic drives and outdoor exploration. The weather is crisp and pleasant, providing a perfect backdrop for fall festivals and events.
Winter in Portsmouth, United States, can be cold, but it also offers a charming holiday atmosphere with festive lights, holiday markets, and cozy indoor activities. It's a great time to experience the city's winter wonderland.
Portsmouth at Night
Hiking in Portsmouth
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal trail that offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes, perfect for a leisurely hike.
This reserve features various trails that wind through beautiful estuarine landscapes, ideal for hiking and wildlife watching.
A historic park with trails that explore the coastline and provide views of the harbor, along with picnic areas and a beach.
Offers a mix of coastal and forest trails with opportunities for birdwatching, picnicking, and exploring tide pools.
Features diverse trails through woodlands and wetlands, perfect for nature walks and observing local wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Portsmouth through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Portsmouth by plane.
The primary airport serving Boston and the surrounding area, located approximately 60 miles from Portsmouth, NH.
Located around 50 miles southwest of Portsmouth, this airport serves the area with domestic and a few international flights.
Located approximately 50 miles to the northeast in Portland, ME, it serves as a regional airport with both domestic and some international flights.
Located about 200 miles from Portsmouth, it's one of the major international airports in New Jersey serving the New York City area.
While primarily serving Boston, this airport is also one of the major international gateways for the northeastern United States.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Portsmouth, representing a significant portion of the population.
A key demographic group in Portsmouth with a rich cultural history and community presence.
A growing demographic group in Portsmouth, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A smaller yet important demographic group in Portsmouth, adding to the multicultural landscape.
Individuals who identify with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting the increasing diversity in the population.
A historically significant demographic group, representing the indigenous peoples of the region.
A less common demographic group in Portsmouth, contributing to the overall diversity.
The Soul of Portsmouth
Discover the essence of Portsmouth through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular sport in Portsmouth, with various local leagues and youth teams promoting the game.
Baseball has a strong following in Portsmouth, with community leagues and high school teams contributing to its local popularity.
Basketball is widely played in Portsmouth, featuring local tournaments and school competitions throughout the year.
Rowing takes advantage of the waterfront in Portsmouth, with clubs and events attracting both participants and spectators.
American football is popular in Portsmouth, particularly at the high school level, with enthusiastic support from the community.
Ice hockey has a presence in Portsmouth, with local teams and youth programs cultivating interest in the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Portsmouth.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Portsmouth embraces a vegetarian and vegan-friendly culture, and many eateries offer diverse plant-based dishes. Visit The Green Elephant for delectable vegetarian Asian-fusion cuisine, or The Juicery for fresh juices and vegan-friendly bites.
For those seeking gluten-free options, The Ceres Bakery is a top choice, serving a tempting array of gluten-free baked goods and sandwiches. Additionally, Vida Cantina offers a dedicated gluten-free menu featuring modern Mexican cuisine.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Portsmouth with these cultural adventures.
