Things to do in Portsmouth

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Portsmouth

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Portsmouth Travel Guide

Portsmouth which includes a bay or harbor

Portsmouth featuring kayaking or canoeing as well as a small group of people

Portsmouth showing kayaking or canoeing as well as a small group of people

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What to do in Portsmouth

Popular places to visit

Market Square

You can learn about the history of Portsmouth with a visit to Market Square. While in this walkable area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Prescott Park

Explore the great outdoors at Prescott Park, a lovely green space in Portsmouth. Wander the waterfront and beautiful beaches in the area.

Portsmouth Athenaeum

You can study the exhibits at Portsmouth Athenaeum, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Portsmouth. Wander the waterfront and beautiful beaches in the area.

Water Country

Enjoy an outing to Water Country during your stay in Portsmouth. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

The Music Hall

Enjoy a performance at The Music Hall, a storied theater in Portsmouth. Wander the waterfront and beautiful beaches in the area.

Strawbery Banke Museum

You can browse the exhibits at Strawbery Banke Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Portsmouth. Wander the waterfront and beautiful beaches in the area.

Fox Run Mall

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Fox Run Mall during your visit to Newington. Wander the beautiful beaches and waterfront in the area.

Portsmouth Harbor Trail

Explore the waterfront in Portsmouth with a trip to Portsmouth Harbor Trail. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the shops in the area.

Portsmouth Regional Hospital

Though Portsmouth Regional Hospital might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Portsmouth while you are here.

Areas of Portsmouth

Downtown

If you're spending some time in Downtown, Portsmouth Harbor Trail and The Music Hall are top sights worth seeing.

West End

While West End might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like The Music Hall and Portsmouth Harbor Trail.

Pease

While there might not be top attractions in Pease, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Red Hook Brewery and Fox Run Mall.

Elwyn Park

Elwyn Park might not have many top sights, but Water Country and Wentworth by the Sea Golf Club are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

South End

While visiting South End, you might make a stop by sights like Wentworth Gardner and Tobias Lear Houses and Children's Museum of Portsmouth.

North End

Though North End might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like The Music Hall and Portsmouth Harbor Trail.

Kittery

Frequently asked questions

Is Portsmouth worth visiting?

Whether you want to discover the local charm and cultural hotspots or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there are plenty of things to do in Portsmouth.

How do I spend a day in Portsmouth?

Water Country and Jenness State Beach are two great places to begin your sightseeing adventures. Remember to check out the retail and dining options in Portsmouth while you're in town too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Portsmouth?

Don't go home without visiting Water Country, ranked the top tourist attraction in Portsmouth.

Is three days enough to stay in Portsmouth?

Three days in Portsmouth is plenty of time to enjoy the city's main highlights. Many travelers stay for two days on average. Water Country, Jenness State Beach and Strawbery Banke Museum are highly rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to explore nearby hotspots like Ogunquit - Wells.

Is Portsmouth a walkable city?

With exciting neighborhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city center, Portsmouth is a great destination to explore on foot. Wander between Water Country and Strawbery Banke Museum. Then take a stroll around Pease, located 5 kilometers from the center, and West End, which is about 0.48 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Portsmouth with kids?

Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Portsmouth with kids.

What to do in Portsmouth for adults?

There's no shortage of things to do in Portsmouth, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Great Bay Pottery or American Independence Museum.

Are there free things to do in Portsmouth?

In Portsmouth, Jenness State Beach is a must-see spot for anyone planning to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the parks and other neighborhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in Portsmouth.

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