Portsmouth, New Hampshire is a jewel along the New England coast. Steeped in history, there are so many different things to do and places to explore in this seaside town.
Even if you’re not actively seeking out the historical facts of the town, you’ll still feel the vibe. The narrow streets clustered downtown and the preserved architecture help to complete the experience.
It’s also important to note that Portsmouth and the surrounding area is the homeland of the Abenaki people who lived in the area for thousands of years before European settlers arrived.
This quaint town is the perfect getaway on the East Coast with its greenspaces and seaside views.
Our list of 11 best things to do in Portsmouth New Hampshire is here to help plan your next visit.
1. Strawbery Banke Museum
Step back in time at the Strawbery Banke Museum.
When it was first settled, Portsmouth was called Strawbery Banke (due to abundant wild strawberries nearby) and so this unique museum is named.
This incredible complex is a group of historical homes and buildings arranged to let visitors get a feel for what life was like back in the early 1600s.
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Visit the historic buildings of Strawbery Banke Museum including Stoodley’s Tavern
You can explore each of the buildings making it one of the most insightful things to do in Portsmouth.
During the summer, actors make the town come alive acting out the lives of the early settlers.
Travel back in time to the early 1600s at the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth New Hampshire
2. Market Square
Essentially you don’t need to be told to go to Market Square because honestly you’ll be headed there automatically.
It’s just that central to everything in Portsmouth.
Designated in 1762, Market Square has been the hub of Portsmouth for the last 250 years.
Today, it’s still the place to be in town.
With three main streets intersecting here there are tons of lovely shops and restaurants and historic buildings lining the square.
3. Take a Boat Tour
Portsmouth has so many different boat tours, you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for your visit.
Tour Portsmouth’s historic sites by water, go fishing or even take a dinner cruise.
Many tours and excursions leave from Portsmouth Harbor which is super convenient.
One of the favorite things to do in Portsmouth is to take a whale watching tour. During the warmer months you’re likely to spot humpbacks or minke whales out on tour.
You can also do kayaking tours from Portsmouth or rent a kayak (or paddleboard) and paddle around on your own.
While in Portsmouth take a boat tour and get a different perspective of this beautiful coastal town in New England
4. USS Albacore Museum
Stepping aboard a uniquely special submarine at the USS Albacore Museum is one of the coolest things to do in Portsmouth.
You’ll be able to look through the periscope, check out the control room, and even see how crew members slept in the bunkrooms.
The self-guided tour explains how the Albacore was vital in helping to develop modern submarines.
Since the submarine is a unique space there are some restrictions. So, be sure to check them out before planning your visit.
5. Black Heritage Trail
Get a better understanding of New Hampshire’s Black history on the Black Heritage Trail.
Intending to create more inclusive societies, the Black Heritage Trail has exhibitions, programs, events, and tours.
You can experience the Black Heritage Trail in several ways. Choose between guided tours by walking, bus, or trolley.
You can also explore the trail on your own using the self-guided tour on your smartphone. There’s even a virtual tour.
Black Heritage Trail is definitely one of the most important things to do in Portsmouth.
Explore African American history with the Black Heritage Trail – African Burying Ground Memorial
6. New Castle Island
For a fun excursion head to New Castle Island. It’s an easy drive on route 1B to get there.
Then you can drive around the island to discover beautiful homes, many of which are historic but are still being used today.
The Great Island Common is a waterfront park with a sandy beach, places to picnic and a playground for kids.
Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse and Fort Constitution are both special places to see on the island.
7. Prescott Park
Prescott Park is a lovely place to visit when in Portsmouth.
This 10-acre park is set along the water and has grassy areas and beautiful views of Maine, across the Piscataqua River.
Prescott Park was created by the Prescott sisters in the 1930s. They purchased the area and removed buildings to make an open space for everyone to enjoy.
Grab a bite to eat at The Prop, the onsite restaurant at Prescott Park. It’s all about meals and snacks that are fresh and healthy.
Visit the park by the shore in Portsmouth NH – Prescott Park features beautiful gardens and a fountain along with historic buildings
8. Beaches
Portsmouth is located at the mouth of the Piscataqua River, where the river empties into the Atlantic Ocean.
Although the city has miles of waterfront property, traditional beaches are not so plentiful.
A favorite beach nearby is Wallis Sands Beach, located just to the southeast of the city on the Atlantic.
Hampton Beach further south is also quite popular.
At both you can put your feet in the soft sand and dip your toes into the ocean waters making it one of the best things to do in the Portsmouth area.
If you have more time you can take a short but scenic drive to some of the best coastal towns in Maine – and a few more lovely sandy beaches.
9. Portsmouth Memorial Bridge
The Portsmouth Memorial Bridge is one you just have to see.
To let large ships pass, Memorial Bridge lifts the roadway straight up. So, it doesn’t open by tilting up either side like a traditional drawbridge.
It’s really cool to watch it happen and see large ships pass below it.
At night Memorial Bridge is lit up in beautiful colors. So it’s one of the cool things to do in Portsmouth at any time.
You can walk across the Memorial Bridge for views of the Piscataqua River in Portsmouth
10. Four Tree Island
Four Tree Island is a really cool little place to venture in Portsmouth.
Although it’s technically part of Prescott Park, to get there you’ll have to walk a small causeway from Pierce Island.
Once you get to Four Tree Island you’ll have incredible views of the harbor including Memorial Bridge and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
While walking the causeway to Pierce Island take in the view of Memorial Bridge and boats in the harbor
On the island are green areas, a gazebo and picnic tables where you can enjoy dining outdoors with a great view.
Make sure to check out My Mother The Wind, a sculpture by Cabot Lyford.
For the perfect picnic spot in Portsmouth head over to Four Tree Island
11. Point of Graves Burial Ground
One of the most fascinating things to do in Portsmouth is to visit the Point of Graves Burial Ground, the final resting place for some Portsmouth residents in the 1600 to 1700s.
You’ll find beautifully carved gravestones that give the history of the early settlers.
The oldest gravestone that can still be found at this cemetery is that of Anne Jeffrey who died in 1682 after giving birth to her son, George Jr.
Point of Graves Burial Ground is also said to be haunted, so mind your step as you respectfully explore the area.
Visit one of the oldest cemeteries on the East Coast – the Point of Graves Burial Ground
Summary
There you have it, the top things to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. As you can see there’s so much to explore in this historic town. You’ll have a great time discovering the past and enjoying this quaint New England town.
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