Portsmouth Travel Guide Things to Do
Portsmouth Travel Guide Things to Do
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Top Things to Do
<h5 class="font_5"><strong>Things to Do in Portsmouth NH</strong></h5>
<p class="font_8">Visitors searching for the best <strong>things to do in Portsmouth NH</strong> will find a charming coastal city filled with history, waterfront views, and family-friendly attractions. 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.</p>
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<p class="font_8">Here are some of the <strong>top Portsmouth NH things to do</strong>:</p>
<p class="font_8">• <strong>Explore Strawbery Banke Museum</strong><br>
A living history museum featuring restored homes and exhibits spanning over 300 years.</p>
<p class="font_8">• <strong>Walk Prescott Park</strong><br>
A waterfront park known for its gardens, walking paths, and seasonal performances.</p>
<p class="font_8">• <strong>Visit Market Square</strong><br>
The heart of downtown Portsmouth with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.</p>
<p class="font_8">• <strong>Tour the USS Albacore Museum</strong><br>
A real submarine turned museum that’s especially popular for <strong>family things to do in Portsmouth NH</strong>.</p>
<p class="font_8">• <strong>Walk along the Portsmouth Harbor Trail</strong><br>
A self-guided walking route connecting historic sites across the city.</p>
<p class="font_8">• <strong>Visit the Seacoast Science Center (nearby Rye)</strong><br>
A great option for families with kids interested in marine life.</p>
<p class="font_8">Because of its compact and walkable downtown, Portsmouth is easy to explore in a day or weekend trip.</p>
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✓ Complete travel guide
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✓ Printable map
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✓ One-day itinerary
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✓ Hidden gems
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✓ Travel tips
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✓ Offline access
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✓ 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>
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<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>
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<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>
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<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>
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<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>
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<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
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