Located just an hour away from Boston, Portsmouth, a charming port town in New Hampshire, attracts a wide range of travelers. The streets surrounding the old harbor are filled with magnificent houses that were once owned by politicians, writers, sea captains, and wealthy merchants.
In Portsmouth, you can explore a quaint and lively downtown area that offers numerous museums and attractions to keep you engaged. Additionally, there are delightful restaurants where you can take a break and savor delicious meals.
One of the popular activities in Portsmouth is visiting the many breweries that serve locally brewed craft beers, providing a delightful experience. You can also spend an afternoon indulging in shopping at boutique stores while enjoying the picturesque riverside views.
Whether you are traveling alone, seeking a romantic getaway, or planning a peaceful family vacation, Portsmouth is an ideal destination.
16. Portsmouth Harbor Light
Nestled in mainland New Hampshire, the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse stands alone as the sole beacon in the area. Offering breathtaking views of the ocean and rugged shores, this lighthouse provides a unique and charming experience.
No matter when you visit, the sights are sure to delight, but witnessing a sunset at the lighthouse is truly unparalleled. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture some amazing holiday moments.
Constructed in 1877, the lighthouse reaches a height of 48 feet and is occasionally open to the public in the summer. Conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from Portsmouth, a visit to this historic landmark is a must.
15. Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion
There is a large and charming mansion along the banks of Little Harbor in Portsmouth that is well-known for its wealthy visitors and residents. Surprisingly, it is the only remaining home of a Royal Governor in the United States, specifically Governor Benning Wentworth.
The mansion was later owned by Templeman Coolidge III, an art enthusiast, which is why it is now called the Wentworth-Coolidge mansion. Throughout history, this mansion has been a central gathering place for politics, art, and beauty in Portsmouth. It features a spacious and brightly colored yellow exterior with a red brick roof.
The mansion is surrounded by well-maintained grounds that visitors can explore and offers lovely views of the Piscataqua River.
14. The Music Hall
The Music Hall has been operating since 1878 and remains popular. This vibrant venue in downtown Portsmouth offers a variety of events that will entertain you and make you want to return for more. The Music Hall now has two theaters – a lovely Victorian theater with a capacity of 895 people and a modern and urban 120-seat venue.
If you’re in Portsmouth, make sure not to miss their events. They have concerts, comedy shows, and many other enjoyable offerings. There’s everything to love about what they have to offer!.
13. Governor John Langdon House
This impressive and beautiful mansion, called the old Georgian mansion, was constructed in 1784 by a multi-talented man named John Langdon. John Langdon was not only a trader, but also a war leader, governor, and even a signer of the United States Constitution.
Although the house was eventually sold, it was later repurchased and restored by one of John Langdon’s descendants, who believed it was important to keep the property within the family.
When you enter the mansion, you will be amazed by the intricate wood carvings in the Rococo style, the elegant sculptures adorning each room, and the unique features that reflect the era in which it was built. If you’re looking for the mansion, you can find it located on Pleasant Street.
12. Isles of Shoals
These islands are located just six miles away from the coast of mainland New Hampshire and Maine. There are a total of nine islands, with four of them being part of New Hampshire territory. They were initially discovered by John Smith in 1614 and were named “Smyth’s Islands” with a hint of arrogance.
Later, they were renamed the Isles of Shoals and have now become a popular destination for tourists visiting New Hampshire. One of the main attractions of visiting these islands is whale watching. You can take a boat tour and keep your eyes peeled on the horizon for a chance to spot some whales.
Don’t forget to try the local lobster before you leave. If you plan to stay overnight, there are accommodation options available, such as the Oceanic Hotel on Star Island.
11. Seacoast Science Center
Visit the Seacoast Science Center, located at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, which is just a 10-minute drive from downtown Portsmouth. At the science center, you can learn about the ocean and its diverse wildlife. Discover how conservationists are working to protect ocean wildlife from threats like pollution and climate change.
Additionally, you can have a hands-on experience exploring the sandy beaches, rocky shores, and estuaries around Odiorne Point State Park. With all these activities, you can have a full day of fun and entertainment between exploring the park and visiting the science center.
10. Strawbery Banke Museum
Once a waterfront neighborhood called Puddle Dock, this museum has transformed the historic area into a vast collection of buildings and exhibits that offer a glimpse into the past. If you visit, you can experience what life was like in Portsmouth centuries ago.
The museum boasts numerous old buildings, beautifully landscaped gardens, and displays of traditional crafts. The best time to explore is on a warm, sunny spring afternoon when the flowers are in full bloom. The staff, dressed in outfits from the past, truly animate the place.
It feels like Strawbery Banke has been preserved in time! Plan to spend a few hours here to see everything that this remarkable museum has to offer.
9. Black Heritage Trail
The Black Heritage Trail encourages people to learn about the black history of New Hampshire. Through various tours, lectures, and events, they aim to make history more inclusive and question the status of heroes. Portsmouth, which used to be a major trade center and influential harbor, has a history closely connected with slavery.
It is believed that wealthy households in Portsmouth had slaves as early as 1645. You can explore 24 important historical sites in Portsmouth, such as the John Langdon House, and discover the hidden, troubling aspects of its past by taking a self-guided tour. You can easily access the map and tour on the Black Heritage Trail website.
8. Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden
In 1763, the Moffatt couple, Catherine and Samuel, built a house overlooking the Piscataqua River for their married life. The Ladd family later acquired the house and made significant modifications to it. Despite the changes, the house still has many original features that can be seen today.
By visiting the house, one can learn about the history of the people who lived there, including both free and enslaved individuals. Additionally, the visit provides an opportunity to understand how trade operated during that time period and appreciate the elegance of the house, which has been functioning as a museum since 1912.
7. Water Country
Water Country offers a lot of family fun. It is conveniently located just a five-minute drive from the city center, making it easy to get to. You can enjoy a waterpark adventure without worrying about a long drive.
Put on your swimming costumes and have fun in the swimming pools or try out one of the tallest and fastest waterslides for an adrenaline rush. Kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens, can enjoy the rides and play areas. After a day of playing and enjoying the sun, you can have a cold ice-cream before leaving.
Water Country is the perfect place to spend a hot summer day in Portsmouth!.
6. Prescott Park
This park by the riverside is a lovely place to relax and observe the surroundings. It offers an escape from the busy city life and an opportunity to connect with nature. The park features beautiful flower beds, old trees, and various water elements that you can sit and admire.
It is conveniently located near popular attractions like the Strawbery Banke Museum, Warner House, and Market Square. Take a break here for a quick picnic or leisurely walk during your sightseeing to recharge.
Additionally, the park is home to the Prescott Park Arts Festival where you can enjoy music, theater shows, and dancing if you’re in town for that.
5. USS Albacore Museum
Imagine a submarine that looks different from what we usually picture – the USS Albacore is one of the first of its kind. You can experience being a marine biologist and pretend to be the captain in the control room. This submarine is used to test new technology and features for today’s submarines.
You’ll have the opportunity to meet crew members and hear their incredible and sometimes terrifying stories. It will give you a glimpse of what life is like on a small submarine. Don’t forget to visit the Visitors’ Center for all the information you need and check out the gift shop to buy souvenirs to take back home.
4. Warner House
The Warner House in Portsmouth is a beautiful old home that has stood the test of time. It was built in the Georgian architectural style, which was popular during that era. The house is special because it was one of the first brick buildings in the area, constructed by an English architect who preferred working with brick.
Captain Archibald commissioned the house and it was completed in 1716. Inside the house, you’ll be greeted by stunning murals depicting religious and wartime scenes. These murals are quite large and make a dramatic impact. As you explore further, you’ll find exquisite ornaments, sturdy wooden furniture, and decorations from the historical period.
It’s amazing that these items have been preserved for six generations within the same family. If you find yourself with some free time in Portsmouth, visiting the Warner House would be a great way to spend an hour or two.
3. Market Square
Market Square is a great spot for leisurely shopping, sipping coffee at a charming café, or simply taking in the beautiful historical buildings. It is conveniently located near the harbor and within walking distance of all the main attractions in downtown Portsmouth. You can easily stop by while exploring mansions or heading to a brewery.
Once a year, Market Square hosts the lively Market Square Day festival, where you can enjoy music, energetic atmosphere, and celebrate after the 10K race.
2. Portsmouth Breweries
After a long day of exploring, there’s nothing more satisfying than enjoying a cold lager or a delicious bitter ale. In Portsmouth, you have the unique opportunity to visit the very place where your favorite beverage is brewed! With so many fantastic breweries in Portsmouth, your only problem will be trying to fit them all into your schedule.
You might even consider dedicating a day of your holiday specifically for “brewery hopping,” which can be a fun and enjoyable experience. Your first stop should be Cisco Brewers, where you’ll be immersed in a rustic atmosphere while enjoying hearty burgers alongside your refreshing drink.
Next, don’t miss out on the Great Rhythm Brewing Company, where you can savor a cold beer while admiring breathtaking views of the river. Finally, complete your brewery adventure at Loaded Questions, where you can enjoy an IPA in a charming beer garden setting.
1. John Paul Jones House
The John Paul Jones House was originally built in 1758 for a local sea captain named Gregory Purcell. Over the years, it changed ownership several times until it was eventually transformed into a museum in 1920. Today, the museum still operates and is named after the famous war hero, John Paul Jones.
When you visit, you will have the opportunity to explore three floors of the house, filled with period decorations, beautiful hallways, and timeless works of art. Afterward, you can take a break and relax in the well-maintained gardens outside. The museum is located on Middle Street, which used to be the bustling center of downtown Portsmouth.
It is a perfect place to visit on a gloomy and rainy afternoon.
