Portsmouth Travel Guide Things to Do
Portsmouth Travel Guide Things to Do
Plan Your Trip
Top Things to Do
Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH
Visitors looking for the best things to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, will find a charming coastal city filled with history, waterfront views, and New England character. Located along the Piscataqua River, Portsmouth is one of the oldest cities in the United States and offers a mix of colonial architecture, museums, parks, and a vibrant downtown.
Here are some of the top things to do in Portsmouth:
Explore Strawbery Banke Museum
Visit this living history museum featuring restored historic homes, gardens, and exhibits that span more than 300 years of local history.
Walk Through Prescott Park
Enjoy beautiful waterfront gardens, walking paths, seasonal flowers, and outdoor performances in this popular downtown park.
Visit Market Square
Stroll through the heart of Portsmouth, where you'll find historic buildings, local shops, restaurants, and cafés.
Tour the USS Albacore Museum
Step aboard the USS Albacore, a retired research submarine that offers a unique and family-friendly look at naval history.
Walk the Portsmouth Harbor Trail
Follow this self-guided route connecting many of the city's most important historic sites and landmarks.
Visit the Seacoast Science Center
Located nearby in Rye, this family-friendly attraction features interactive exhibits about marine life and New Hampshire's coastline.
Because of its compact downtown and walkable streets, Portsmouth is an easy and enjoyable destination to explore in a day or over a weekend.
Download the Complete Travel Guide
Includes:
-
✓ Complete travel guide
-
✓ Printable map
-
✓ One-day itinerary
-
✓ Hidden gems
-
✓ Travel tips
-
✓ Offline access
-
✓ Bonus recommendations not included on this page
Our Self Guided Tour
One of the best ways to experience Portsmouth is by walking through its historic streets, waterfront, and downtown neighborhoods. A self-guided walking tour allows visitors to explore the city at their own pace while learning about its rich colonial history and maritime heritage.
Walking through Portsmouth reveals:
Historic homes dating back to the 1600s
Waterfront views along the Piscataqua River
Hidden alleys and historic landmarks
Stories of merchants, sailors, and early settlers
A walking tour allows visitors to:
start anytime
stop at shops and restaurants
explore without a group
Click Here to See the Tour, learn more and book it for $9.99.
Free Things to Do
Attractions with Admission Fees
Food!
Where to Stay
<h5 class="font_5"><strong>Downtown Portsmouth Hotels</strong></h5>
<p class="font_8">Typical price range: <strong>$180–$350 per night</strong></p>
<p class="font_8">• <strong>The Hotel Portsmouth</strong> – Boutique hotel in a historic building<br>
• <strong>Hilton Garden Inn Portsmouth Downtown</strong><br>
• <strong>AC Hotel by Marriott Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront</strong></p>
<p class="font_8">Staying downtown puts you close to restaurants and attractions.</p>
<p class="font_8"><br></p>
<h5 class="font_5"><strong>Boutique & Coastal Stays</strong></h5>
<p class="font_8">Typical price range: <strong>$160–$300 per night</strong></p>
<p class="font_8">• <strong>Ale House Inn</strong> – Stylish boutique hotel near the waterfront<br>
• <strong>Martin Hill Inn</strong> – Historic bed and breakfast<br>
• <strong>The Sailmaker’s House</strong></p>
<p class="font_8">These offer charm and local character.</p>
<p class="font_8"><br></p>
<h5 class="font_5"><strong>Budget Hotels Nearby</strong></h5>
<p class="font_8">Typical price range: <strong>$90–$160 per night</strong></p>
<p class="font_8">• <strong>Anchorage Inn & Suites (Portsmouth area)</strong><br>
• <strong>Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portsmouth</strong><br>
• <strong>Best Western Plus Portsmouth Hotel & Suites</strong></p>
<p class="font_8">Budget options are typically a short drive from downtown.</p>
1 Day Itinerary
<p class="font_8">Most people stay here for a day, or make it a day trip. You could hang and relax. Many travelers follow <strong>one-day Portsmouth NH itineraries</strong>.</p>
<p class="font_8">Morning</p>
<p class="font_8">• Walk Market Square<br>
• Visit Strawbery Banke Museum</p>
<p class="font_8">Afternoon</p>
<p class="font_8">• Explore Prescott Park<br>
• Visit USS Albacore Museum</p>
<p class="font_8">Evening</p>
<p class="font_8">• Walk the waterfront<br>
• Dinner downtown</p>
<p class="font_8">• Do our self guided ghost tour at night! It gets you around town to famous spots and shares the haunted history! </p>
<p class="font_8"><br></p>
<h5 class="font_5"><strong>Two Day Portsmouth NH Itineraries</strong></h5>
<p class="font_8">With more time visitors can:</p>
<p class="font_8">• take a harbor cruise<br>
• visit nearby beaches<br>
• explore local shops and galleries</p>
FAQ's
<h5 class="font_5"><strong>What are the best things to do in Portsmouth NH?</strong></h5>
<p class="font_8">Top activities include visiting Strawbery Banke Museum, walking downtown, and exploring the waterfront.</p>
<h5 class="font_5"><strong>Is Portsmouth NH walkable?</strong></h5>
<p class="font_8">Yes. Super walkable. Downtown Portsmouth is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.</p>
<p class="font_8"><br></p>
<h5 class="font_5"><strong>What are family things to do in Portsmouth NH?</strong></h5>
<p class="font_8">Families can visit the USS Albacore Museum, Seacoast Science Center, and local parks.</p>
<p class="font_8"><br></p>
<h5 class="font_5"><strong>How many days should you spend in Portsmouth?</strong></h5>
<p class="font_8">Most visitors spend <strong>1–2 days</strong> exploring the city.</p>
Recommended Tours
More Resources
