Portsmouth Travel Guide Things to Do

Things to Do in Portsmouth NH

Visitors searching for the best things to do in Portsmouth NH 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.

Here are some of the top Portsmouth NH things to do:

• Explore Strawbery Banke Museum
A living history museum featuring restored homes and exhibits spanning over 300 years.

• Walk Prescott Park
A waterfront park known for its gardens, walking paths, and seasonal performances.

• Visit Market Square
The heart of downtown Portsmouth with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

• Tour the USS Albacore Museum
A real submarine turned museum that’s especially popular for family things to do in Portsmouth NH.

• Walk along the Portsmouth Harbor Trail
A self-guided walking route connecting historic sites across the city.

• Visit the Seacoast Science Center (nearby Rye)
A great option for families with kids interested in marine life.

Because of its compact and walkable downtown, Portsmouth is easy to explore in a day or weekend trip.

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.

What's Free and What has a Fee

Portsmouth offers many free activities along with a few ticketed attractions.

Free Things to Do

Many of the best things to do Portsmouth NH are free.

• Walking through downtown Portsmouth
• Visiting Prescott Park
• Exploring Market Square
• Walking along the waterfront
• Browsing shops and galleries

Attractions With Fees

Some attractions charge admission.

• Strawbery Banke Museum
• USS Albacore Museum
• Seacoast Science Center
• Boat tours and harbor cruises

Visitors can easily enjoy a full day mixing free activities with one or two paid attractions.

How to Get Here

Portsmouth is located along the New Hampshire coast.

By Air

Closest airports:

• Portsmouth International Airport (PSM) — about 10 minutes
• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) — about 1 hour

By Car

This is the most common way to get there. It's how I go! This is also a great stop off if you are driving Boston to Portland.

Driving times:

• Boston — about 1 hour
• Portland, Maine — about 1 hour
• Manchester, NH — about 1 hour

Getting Around

Downtown Portsmouth is very walkable, making it easy to explore without a car.

Where to Stay

Downtown Portsmouth Hotels

Typical price range: $180–$350 per night

• The Hotel Portsmouth – Boutique hotel in a historic building
• Hilton Garden Inn Portsmouth Downtown
• AC Hotel by Marriott Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront

Staying downtown puts you close to restaurants and attractions.

Boutique & Coastal Stays

Typical price range: $160–$300 per night

• Ale House Inn – Stylish boutique hotel near the waterfront
• Martin Hill Inn – Historic bed and breakfast
• The Sailmaker’s House

These offer charm and local character.

Budget Hotels Nearby

Typical price range: $90–$160 per night

• Anchorage Inn & Suites (Portsmouth area)
• Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portsmouth
• Best Western Plus Portsmouth Hotel & Suites

Budget options are typically a short drive from downtown.

When to Visit

Portsmouth is a year-round destination.

Spring

• blooming gardens
• mild weather

Summer

• busiest season
• festivals and waterfront activities

Fall

• fall foliage
• cooler temperatures
• one of the best times to visit

Winter

• fewer crowds
• holiday charm

How Much Time You'll Need

Most people stay here for a day, or make it a day trip. You could hang and relax. Many travelers follow one-day Portsmouth NH itineraries.

Morning

• Walk Market Square
• Visit Strawbery Banke Museum

Afternoon

• Explore Prescott Park
• Visit USS Albacore Museum

Evening

• Walk the waterfront
• Dinner downtown

• Do our self guided ghost tour at night! It gets you around town to famous spots and shares the haunted history!

Two Day Portsmouth NH Itineraries

With more time visitors can:

• take a harbor cruise
• visit nearby beaches
• explore local shops and galleries

What are the best things to do in Portsmouth NH?

Top activities include visiting Strawbery Banke Museum, walking downtown, and exploring the waterfront.

Is Portsmouth NH walkable?

Yes. Super walkable. Downtown Portsmouth is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

What are family things to do in Portsmouth NH?

Families can visit the USS Albacore Museum, Seacoast Science Center, and local parks.

How many days should you spend in Portsmouth?

Most visitors spend 1–2 days exploring the city.

Portsmouth Travel Guide Things to Do