Portsmouth, New Hampshire: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you looking for a charming coastal spot that mixes history, culture, and outdoor fun? Look no further than Portsmouth, New Hampshire. This town is a true New England gem. It has a rich history, a lively food scene, and lots of seasonal activities.

From visiting historic sites to trying local food and enjoying festivals, Portsmouth has it all. It's a city that stands out in the region with its many experiences.

Key Takeaways

• Discover Portsmouth's rich history and architectural timeline dating back to the 17th century
• Explore the city's thriving dining scene, featuring local seafood specialties and craft breweries
• Immerse yourself in seasonal activities, from fall foliage cruises to pumpkin and apple picking
• Indulge in tax-free shopping at unique boutiques and specialty stores
• Attend lively festivals and events that celebrate the city's arts, culture, and community

Explore Historic Strawbery Banke Museum

Step back in time at Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth. This living history museum showcases homes and gardens from the 17th century. It's a unique chance to see how early residents lived.

With over 32 historic buildings and 10 heritage gardens, the museum is a hit with all ages. You can walk through the homes and picture life in the past. From the 17th-century Puddle Dock to the 20th-century Strawbery Banke, it's all here.

Discover the Homes and Gardens of Strawbery Banke

Walking through Strawbery Banke Museum, you'll feel like you've traveled back in time. You'll see:

• The Pitt Tavern, a spot for locals in the 18th century
• The Ladd-Gilman House, a 1721 Georgian home that was once the New Hampshire State House
• The Wheelwright House, a 17th-century saltbox home showing early settlers' architecture
• The Goodwin Garden, filled with plants and flowers from colonial times

Strawbery Banke Museum spans 375 years of Portsmouth's history. It's a must-see for anyone interested in colonial history.

Embark on a Fall Foliage Cruise

Experience the stunning autumn colors in Portsmouth by taking a fall foliage cruise. These tours start from Portsmouth Harbor. They offer amazing views of the Piscataqua River and the coastal scenery.

While cruising, you'll see the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse and the Isles of Shoals. It's a memorable autumn experience. Many hotels and bed-and-breakfasts in New Hampshire are filled with Bostonians during fall.

"The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad in Meredith Station offers fall foliage rides, showcasing the appeal of leisurely train rides to enjoy the autumn scenery."

For a special view of the fall foliage, try a fall foliage cruise on the Piscataqua River. It's a calm and beautiful trip. It's a must-do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Visit Local Pumpkin and Apple Farms

This fall, dive into the charm of nearby pumpkin patches and apple orchards. These spots near Portsmouth are perfect for families. They offer seasonal fun like picking your own fruits, exploring corn mazes, and taking festive hayrides.

Pumpkin Picking and Carving

Head to places like Coppal House Farm, DeMeritt Hill Farm, and Rossview Farm for pumpkin picking. You'll find different sizes, colors, and types of pumpkins. Carving pumpkins are big and bright, while baking pumpkins are smaller and sweeter.

Carving pumpkins is a fun fall tradition. You can use special kits with tools and designs to make your pumpkin stand out.

Apple Picking and Orchard Exploration

Visit apple orchards like Applecrest Farm Orchards, Mack's Apples, or Brookdale Fruit Farms. Walk through the trees and pick apples. You'll find everything from Honeycrisps to heirloom apples.

Orchards also have corn mazes, hayrides, and farm stores. These stores sell fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.

Looking for the perfect pumpkin or fresh apples? Local farms and orchards offer a great autumn experience for the whole family.

Discover Portsmouth's Waterfront

Portsmouth's waterfront is a gem along the Piscataqua River. It's a place where history meets modern life. You can take a Portsmouth Harbor Cruise to see ships come and go. Or, try a gundalow sailing trip to learn about the river's past.

Prescott Park is a peaceful spot for walks and views. It's also home to the Prescott Park Arts Festival in summer. Here, you can enjoy music, art, theater, and dance.

"Portsmouth's waterfront is a vibrant hub of activity, where the city's maritime heritage and modern charm seamlessly converge."

Portsmouth's waterfront has something for everyone. Whether you're into the port scene, want a harbor cruise, or just love nature, you'll find it here. It's a true reflection of Portsmouth's rich history and beauty.

Indulge in Portsmouth's Dining Scene

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is known for its amazing food scene. It has many restaurants that use local ingredients and flavors. You can find everything from farm-to-table places to cozy cafes and bakeries with sweet treats.

Savor the Flavors of Portsmouth's Renowned Restaurants

Try out places like Barrio, BRGR Bar, and Cava Tapas & Wine Bar. They offer dishes made with fresh seafood and produce. You can also find unique global dishes.

Don't miss the local bakeries and cafes. Visit Kaffee Vonsolln, N. Bakery, and Elephantine Bakery. They have delicious pastries, bread, and seasonal treats.

Portsmouth has something for everyone. Whether you want a fancy meal, a cozy café, or sweet treats, you'll find it here. Explore the city's food scene and enjoy the flavors that make it special.

Experience Spooky Haunted Tours and Events

Get ready for a spooky adventure in Portsmouth this fall. Explore the city's haunted past on haunted tours led by experts. Visit historic spots and cemeteries with companies like Deadwick's Ethereal Emporium and New England Curiosities.

For an intense thrill, check out haunted attractions like Sandy Hill Farm and Haunted Overload. Coppal House Farm is another must-see. These places offer Halloween-themed activities and haunted houses that will make you shiver.

• Explore the paranormal history of Portsmouth on guided ghost tours
• Visit local haunted attractions featuring haunted houses and spooky activities
• Embrace the spirit of Halloween with paranormal activities and seasonal events

"The spirits of the past are alive in Portsmouth, waiting to share their chilling tales with those brave enough to seek them out."

Whether you love thrills or just want to learn about the supernatural, Portsmouth has you covered. Enjoy a variety of haunted tours and Halloween events this fall. They promise to make your season unforgettable.

Shop Tax-Free at Unique Boutiques

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a gem along the New England coast. It's famous for not having sales tax, making it perfect for those who love fashion and beauty. Around historic Market Square, you'll find boutiques and stores with everything from clothes to natural beauty products.

Begin your tax-free shopping at Pretty Little Things. It's all about the latest in women's fashion. For natural skincare and haircare, check out Jane Gee. They use top-quality, natural ingredients to help you look and feel great.

• Find unique accessories at Pretty Poppy. They have whimsical jewelry, bags, and home goods.
• Try French-inspired treats at La Maison Navarre. Enjoy fresh croissants, macarons, and more.
• Visit Blend-Société for tea blending. Create your own tea blends to take home.

Looking for the latest fashion, natural beauty, or local treasures? Portsmouth's tax-free shopping is a must-see. It's an experience you won't forget.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a vibrant city by the stunning New England coast. It's full of history and culture, offering many things to do. From its rich maritime past to its lively food scene, there's something for everyone.

The Strawbery Banke Museum is a top spot in Portsmouth. It takes you back in time to the late 1600s to the 1950s. You can walk through historic homes and gardens, feeling like you're in the past.

• The Strawbery Banke Museum has over 300 historic structures and artifacts. It gives a deep look into Portsmouth's heritage.
• There are costumed role-players, interactive exhibits, and seasonal events like the Vintage & Vine festival. It's a fun way to learn about history.

For outdoor lovers, Portsmouth has a lot to offer. You can take a scenic coastal drive or explore Pierce Island's salt marshes and tidal pools.

The city's dining scene is also a highlight. With over 250 restaurants, you can find something for every taste. Enjoy local, farm-to-table dishes at cozy cafes and bakeries.

"Portsmouth is a favorite short New England getaway destination, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure."

Portsmouth is also known for its arts and culture. The historic Music Hall hosts live music and theater. The Prescott Park Arts Festival is another cultural highlight.

Whether you're here for a weekend or just a day, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is worth visiting. It has a unique charm, beautiful coastlines, and a lively cultural scene. It promises an adventure you won't forget.

Attend Lively Festivals and Events

Portsmouth's calendar is packed with exciting festivals and events. These celebrate the city's culture, food, and art. From films to craft beer, there's something for everyone in this lively New Hampshire spot.

Immerse Yourself in the New Hampshire Film Festival

The New Hampshire Film Festival draws thousands of film lovers and creators. It offers independent films, filmmaker talks, and industry events. It's a great place to see the power of storytelling on screen.

Savor the Flavors at the New Hampshire Brewfest

Beer fans should not miss the New Hampshire Brewfest. It features craft beers from local and regional breweries. Earth Eagle Brewings from Portsmouth is known for its unique gruits, not hops.

The festival also supports the Prescott Park Arts Festival. It showcases Portsmouth's lively arts and culture scene.

Indulge in the Vintage & Vine Wine Festival

Wine enthusiasts will love the Vintage & Vine Wine Festival at the Strawbery Banke Museum. Enjoy great wines, tasty food, and live music in a historic setting.

Portsmouth also has seasonal events like the Halloween Parade and Vintage Christmas. These invite visitors to dive into the city's rich culture.

"Portsmouth's calendar is filled with a variety of lively festivals and events that celebrate the city's rich culture, local cuisine, and artistic spirit."

Explore Scenic Coastal Drives

Start a beautiful journey along the New Hampshire coast. Scenic drives here offer amazing views and a chance to see the area's natural beauty. Route 1A is a famous coastal road that runs along the shore. It gives you stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Driving on Route 1A, you'll see the fall foliage change colors. This paints the coastal towns in beautiful shades. You can visit places like Rye and Hampton Beach. There, you can walk on the boardwalk, shop in unique stores, and eat fresh seafood.

The Kancamagus Highway is another great drive. It's a 35-mile route through the White Mountains. You'll see amazing mountain views, green forests, and maybe some wildlife. But, this road has no gas stations or restaurants, so plan your trip well.

No matter which drive you pick, you'll love the New Hampshire coastline's beauty. Whether you want a relaxing trip or an adventure, these drives will give you unforgettable memories of the area's beauty.

"The New Hampshire coast offers a unique and captivating driving experience, with routes that seamlessly blend natural beauty and charming small-town character." - Lonely Planet

Experience Portsmouth's Arts and Culture

Dive into Portsmouth, New Hampshire's lively arts and culture scene. This charming coastal city is full of museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. They celebrate the creativity and heritage of the area.

Begin at the Currier Museum of Art. It's known for its impressive collection of American and European art. You'll see amazing exhibitions by famous artists from different times and styles.

The Music Hall is a historic venue that has been entertaining people since the late 19th century. You can see live music, plays, or dance performances. It's a great way to feel the energy of Portsmouth's arts community.

Explore local artists' work at the city's many galleries and studios. You'll find paintings, sculptures, pottery, and jewelry. These pieces show the region's creative spirit.

Don't miss the Prescott Park Arts Festival. It's an annual event with music, theater, and outdoor movies. Enjoy the festivities with a picnic and scenic views of the Piscataqua River.

Portsmouth is perfect for anyone who loves visual arts, performing arts, or just wants to enjoy the cultural vibe. There are many ways to dive into the city's rich arts and culture.

"Portsmouth's arts and culture scene is a captivating blend of history, creativity, and community. It's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of New England."

Conclusion

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a true gem in the New England region. It offers a mix of historic charm, cultural richness, and seasonal beauty. Visitors can explore colonial landmarks, scenic waterfronts, and enjoy the renowned dining scene and lively festivals.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, Portsmouth is perfect. It offers a quintessential New England experience. This makes it a must-visit for any traveler to the region.

Portsmouth blends old and new, appealing to many interests and preferences. You can explore its rich history, local culinary delights, or stunning natural landscapes. There's something for everyone in this charming New Hampshire destination.

Start planning your visit to Portsmouth and discover its enchanting offerings. From the historic Strawbery Banke Museum to lively festivals and bustling waterfronts, Portsmouth is a captivating gateway to New England's wonders.

Embrace the city's unique character and explore its diverse offerings. Create lasting memories as you immerse yourself in Portsmouth's quintessential New England experience.