If you’re looking for things to do in Portsmouth in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
This vibrant seaport town is home to many attractions, from historical landmarks to popular tourist destinations.
In 1623, Captain John Mason founded Portsmouth, which played a significant role in the American Revolution.
Portsmouth is the oldest city in New Hampshire and is home to some of the state’s most iconic landmarks.
Today, it’s known for its vibrant arts scene and maritime heritage.
Portsmouth visitors can enjoy various activities, from exploring its historical landmarks to enjoying its vibrant arts scene.
There’s something for everyone in this charming New England town.
Here are the 17 best things to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire:
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Strawbery Banke Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
This historical museum is home to exhibits that tell the story of the town’s more than three centuries of American history.
The British colonists who founded Portsmouth in 1623 named it the Strawbery Bank for two reasons.
The first possibility is that they named it after the wild strawberries that grew along the banks of the Piscataqua River.
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The second one is that they named it after an estate in England called Strawberry Hill.
Founded in 1974, the Strawbery Banke Museum preserves the city’s rich history.
Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that recount Portsmouth’s unique history.
The museum is also home to various gardens and buildings dating back to the 17th century.
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3S Artspace is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
3S Artspace is best known for its eclectic mix of art styles and genres.
The art space features a variety of art exhibits and performances.
The art space is in a renovated mill building in downtown Portsmouth.
The room features a large exhibition gallery area, a performance space, and offices.
3S Artspace is home to various local artists who exhibit their work in the gallery.
The space also hosts a variety of performances and classes.
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The USS Albacore at Albacore Park is a retired submarine that is a tribute to the men and women who served on her during her illustrious career.
The USS Albacore was commissioned in 1953 and saw service in both the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
She was decommissioned in 1969 and eventually donated to the city of Portsmouth.
The USS Albacore is now open to the public at Albacore Park.
Visitors can explore this historic submarine and learn about its unique history.
The park also features a variety of other exhibits, including a museum dedicated to the town’s maritime history.
If you’re looking for a place to cool off and have some fun in the sun, Water Country is the place to go.
This water park is home to various water slides, pools, and other attractions that are perfect for families.
Water Country is a great place to take the family for a day of fun.
Some of the slides at Water Country include Double Trouble, Kamikaze, and the Pipeline.
These are all sure to give you a thrill.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, Water Country also has many pools and Jacuzzis that you can enjoy.
There’s also a lazy river where you can float around and relax.
Whether young or old, there’s something for everyone at Water Country.
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The John Paul Jones Historic House Museum is dedicated to the life and career of John Paul Jones, one of America’s most iconic naval heroes.
John Paul Jones was born in 1747 in Scotland.
He served in the British Navy before defecting to the American colonies during the Revolutionary War.
He played a significant role in the war and is best known for his victory over HMS Serapis at the Battle of Flamborough Head.
The John Paul Jones, Historic House Museum, is in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
The museum features a variety of exhibits that tell the story of John Paul Jones’ life and career.
Warner House is a historic home located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Built in 1716, the house is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Warner House is open to the public for tours.
Visitors can learn about the history of the house and its inhabitants.
The Warner House is also home to exhibits, collections, and family possessions that feature six generations of American family history.
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The Music Hall in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the arts.
This beautiful performance venue is home to various concerts, plays, and other events.
The Music Hall has become a fixture of the Portsmouth community since 1878.
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While the Music Hall is best known for its concerts and plays, it also hosts various other events, including dance recitals and graduation ceremonies.
After its construction in 1878, the Music Hall opened as a Vaudeville theater and has hosted performances ever since.
The Music Hall features a variety of performance spaces, including the main theater and two smaller theaters.
It also features a variety of art galleries.
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Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a historic town home to various attractions, including the Isle of Shoals.
The Isle of Shoals is a small group of islands located just off the coast of Portsmouth.
These islands are best known for their stunning natural beauty and scenery.
In 1623, British colonists first settled the Isle of Shoals.
The island has been inhabited since and is home to various exciting sites, including lighthouses and museums.
Visitors can reach the Isle of Shoals via ferry from Portsmouth.
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Congress Street in Downtown Portsmouth is a popular destination for tourists and locals.
This charming street is home to various shops, restaurants, and other attractions.
You can shop to your hearts’ content on Congress Street!
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There are a variety of stores to choose from, including clothing stores, gift shops, and bookstores.
Congress Street also features a variety of restaurants.
Visitors can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many local restaurants or try one of the food trucks parked on the street in Downtown Portsmouth.
If you’re looking for a delicious seafood dinner, Row 34 is the perfect place to go.
Row 34 is a popular seafood restaurant in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
The restaurant offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes that satisfy your cravings.
The menu at Row 34 features a variety of seafood items, including lobster, crab, and fish.
The restaurant also offers a variety of side dishes and desserts.
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Prescott Park is a beautiful public park located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
The park is best known for its lush green lawns and stunning gardens.
The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
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Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the gardens or relax on one of the benches that are located throughout the park.
Prescott Park is also home to a variety of festivals and other events.
The park hosts a variety of concerts and other performances throughout the year.
The White Heron is a tea and coffee shop located on Islington Street in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
The shop is best known for its delicious tea selection and charming atmosphere.
The White Heron features a variety of teas, including black, green, and herbal teas.
It also offers coffee and pastries such as scones, muffins, and sandwiches.
It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy tea in the afternoon.
Visitors can enjoy their favorite beverage in the quaint seating area or take their drink to go.
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Black Heritage Trail in Portsmouth is a popular tourist destination for anyone interested in fostering dialogues about race, inclusivity, and diversity.
It offers visitors a chance to learn about the history and culture of African Americans in New Hampshire.
The trail is best known for its collection of historic buildings and sites associated with the African American community.
The trail features a variety of exhibits and educational programs.
Visitors can enjoy a trail tour or participate in one of the educational programs.
The trail is open year-round, and visitors can take guided tours from well-trained and experienced guides.
The Gundalow Company is a unique attraction in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, that offers visitors a chance to experience living history.
The Gundalow Company is best known for its replica of a traditional New England sailing vessel known as a gundalow.
They offer tours of the ship, which feature demonstrations of sailing techniques and stories about life on the river.
The Gundalow Company also offers educational programs for schools and other groups.
The programs teach students about the history and culture of New England.
Visitors can enjoy a ship tour or participate in one of the company’s educational programs.
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Wentworth Coolidge Mansion is a popular destination for anyone interested in architecture and history.
The mansion is on the National Register of Historic Places.
It’s best known as the only original surviving residence of a Royal Governor in the United States.
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The Wentworth Coolidge Mansion is open to the public for tours.
Visitors can learn about the history of the house and its cultural significance in Portsmouth history.
The Wentworth Coolidge Mansion is also home to various exhibits, collections, and family possessions.
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Portsmouth Athenaeum is a library and museum in the heart of downtown Portsmouth.
The building was erected in 1817, one of the oldest public buildings in New Hampshire.
The Portsmouth Athenaeum is best known for its impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts dating back to the 16th century.
It features some of the oldest public documents in New Hampshire.
Bookworms and history lovers will indeed find this place enchanting, and it’s something that they should visit if they’re in the area.
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Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden is a popular destination for anyone interested in history and architecture.
The house and garden are on the National Register of Historic Places.
In 1763, John Moffatt built the Moffatt-Ladd House.
He was one of the wealthiest merchants in New Hampshire before the American Revolution.
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The house is best known for its Georgian architecture, which was rare for the area.
Then, Charles Ladd added a garden to the property in 1868.
It features a variety of plants, trees, and flowers that are representative of the Victorian era.
Portsmouth is worth checking out if you’re looking for a fun and exciting place to visit.
Explore the city’s historical landmarks and museums or take advantage of its many outdoor activities.
Put together a handy itinerary with this list of the best things to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
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