Portsmouth is a port city sitting on the shores of the Piscataqua River in the state of New Hampshire.
If you want to go on a memorable getaway with your travel buddies where you can enjoy a multitude of fun, exciting, or laid-back activities to do, this metropolis is the place to be.
Some of the activities you can do together are visiting beautiful gardens, watching an enthralling show at a theater, exploring a historic site, freshening up at a waterpark, touring various museums, spending the morning at a park, and so much more.
So that you can focus on having fun without the stress that comes with planning, look through the list of some of the best things to do in Portsmouth, NH that I handpicked just for you.
1. Strawbery Banke Museum
14 Hancock St
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 433-1100
The Strawbery Banke Museum, also known as the Strawbery Banke Historic District, is the oldest neighborhood in the state settled by the Europeans.
It has at least 37 restored buildings constructed between the 1600s to the 1800s.
Why You Should Go
Start your outstanding vacation by touring one of the top attractions in Portsmouth, this outdoor museum.
At this complex of historical buildings, spanning 10 acres, you and your companions can discover 300 years of American history while enjoying a boat-load of activities together.
It features facilities like a skating rink during wintertime, interactive guided tours, fun-filled events, picturesque gardens, and endless more.
What to Do
Go on a terrific and educational experience at the heart of historic downtown Portsmouth, the Strawbery Banke Museum.
There are countless things you can do here.
Like going on a guided tour, meeting interpreters and roleplayers in period-appropriate clothing, exploring the many historical homes, looking at artifacts, strolling through lovely gardens, ice skating, learning about local history, and more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: AC Hotel by Marriott Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront
2. Market Square
Market Square
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Market Square is a well-planned historic square home to many boutiques and local eateries.
It has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1700s.
Why You Should Go
One of the best places to visit in Portsmouth on your sightseeing adventure is this beautiful historic square.
This district holds immeasurable significance to the local community and offers you and your friends, family, or partner numerous fun things to do.
It features brick walkways, a blend of modern and 19th-century buildings, numerous benches, rails for your bikes, a stunning fountain, many eateries, and shopping choices.
What to Do
Enjoy a laid-back day strolling through the charming streets of Market Square with your companions.
Bond as go shopping, trying tasty dishes like seafood risotto, biking around the area, taking pictures of the historic buildings from the 1800s, resting your feet as you sit on a bench, and more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Hotel Portsmouth – Downtown
3. USS Albacore Museum
600 Market St
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 436-3680
The USS Albacore Museum is a history museum but was once a research submarine in the 1950s.
It is a famous attraction and a National Historic Landmark.
Why You Should Go
The USS Albacore Museum is a sight for sore eyes and one of the top things to see in Portsmouth.
This historic landmark offers you and your friends or family the chance to explore the insides of an underwater research facility that helped pioneer the revolutionary designs of American submarines.
What to Do
Schedule a tour of the USS Albacore Museum today and view the insides of this spectacular submarine.
Learn about its history, the contributions it made to American submarine designs, look through a periscope, listen to the recordings of former crew members of their daily life underwater, and explore its various well-preserved sections, like bunk, control rooms, and engineer spaces.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth Downtown
4. Prescott Park
105 Marcy St
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 498-6816
Prescott Park, encompassing over 10 acres, is an urban park donated in 1940 by the Prescott sisters, Josie and Sarah.
Why You Should Go
Do you want to explore beautiful places in Portsmouth that won’t break the bank?
If you do, I strongly recommend visiting this breathtakingly gorgeous park.
For a cheap price, you can take full advantage of its many amenities, like picture-perfect gardens, an onsite restaurant, a stage for a wide array of live performances, a docking space, rental facilities, scenic walkways, benches, and so much more.
It also holds countless fun-filled festivals and programs throughout the year for a more memorable experience.
What to Do
Take an hour or two of your time this weekend to be with your companions at this park as you enjoy multiple things together.
Like viewing hundreds of tulips during spring, watching a live concert, theatrical play, or Broadway show outdoors, grilling juicy burgers while picnicking, walking through formal gardens, heading to the docks to view the Piscataqua River, and endless more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Portsmouth Downtown
Related: Best Restaurants in Portsmouth
5. Water Country
2300 Lafayette Rd
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 427-1112
Water Country, which opened in 1984, is a well-loved family-friendly waterpark offering at least 19 attractions for your entertainment.
Why You Should Go
If you finally have time to take your children on a much-desired unforgettable vacation, make your way to this brilliant waterpark.
One of the top things to do in Portsmouth with kids is bonding with them at the spectacular Water Country featuring slides of various lengths and heights, crystalline pools, splash areas for your little ones, thrilling rides, and plenty of other fun options.
What to Do
Pack your sunscreen and your swimsuit as you have a blast with your loved ones in the refreshing water going on various rides.
Like the Screamer, an adrenaline-rushing freefall experience, and Adventure River, a river ride through waterfalls and caves.
And other options like the Patriot, a high-speed slide, Bubble Bay, a play area for your toddlers, Warp 8, a high-intensity inner tube ride, and numerous others.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn Portsmouth
6. LaBelle Winery
104 Congress Street
Portsmouth, NH 0380
(603) 672-9898
LaBelle Winery, founded in September 2017, sits on the streets of Market Square in downtown Portsmouth.
Why You Should Go
There are many things to do in Portsmouth for couples, making it a fantastic place for you and your partner to go on the ultimate romantic date.
A perfect example is spending quality time together at Labelle Winery.
It offers an intimate ambiance, awe-inspiring art installations, a retail store, tasting rooms, and the finest New Hampshire wines.
What to Do
Create long-lasting memories with your significant other as you catch up while enjoying a tall glass of exquisite-tasting wine.
Here, you can also learn how they make their alcoholic drinks at their vineyard, view the various artworks by New Hampshire artists, and snack on tasty food.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Residence Inn by Marriott Portsmouth Downtown
7. African Burying Ground
Chestnut St
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 610-7226
The African Burying Ground is an African gravesite from the 18th century discovered in 2003.
It is now a memorial park preserving the legacy of about 200 enslaved and freed Africans.
Why You Should Go
Are you searching for free things to do in Portsmouth that won’t take too much of your time?
If you are, I highly recommend visiting the African Burying Ground, which was once an active gravesite in the 1700s and almost forgotten due to modernization.
What to Do
Take a few minutes of your time to pay homage to the hundreds of freed and enslaved Africans.
At this memorial park, you can look at information markings, take a picture backed by its Entry Piece featuring a sculpture of an African male slave and an African woman.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn Portsmouth Seacoast
8. Warner House
150 Daniel St
Portsmouth, NH 03802
(603) 436‑5909
The Warner House, constructed from 1716 to 1718, is a brick house built for a Scots-Irish sea captain and his family, Archibald Macpheadris.
Why You Should Go
A must-visit for history buffs is this well-preserved house from the 18th century.
It features at least 300 years of history, many rooms for you to explore, countless murals, a collection of antiques, and so much more.
What to Do
Discover what life was like for the rich and influential in 18th-century Portsmouth by going on a guided tour of the Warner House.
The tour takes roughly 45 minutes and will take you on an exploration of its various family-furnished rooms, featuring self-portraits, locally made furniture, and antiques, portraying different years of occupancy.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel
Related: Things to See in New Hampshire
9. The Music Hall
28 Chestnut St
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 436-2400
The Music Hall, established in 1878, is one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the United States.
It holds a wide array of live performances each year and welcomes at least 130,000 visitors annually.
Why You Should Go
If you are looking for things to do in Portsmouth tonight, consider watching a captivating live show at the Music Hall with your companions.
It has an enthralling theater with stunning architecture, comfortable seats, a grand stage, state-of-the-art acoustics, and high-tech lighting.
Its stage welcomed the likes of Tony Bennett, Idina Menzel, Patti LuPone, and even award-winning authors like Dan Brown.
What to Do
Have the time of your life with your friends or family as you watch an enthralling performance at this theater.
Check their website before visiting to see what they have lined up like concerts, comedic acts, movie screenings, book or poetry readings, music showcases, musicals, Broadway shows, lectures, and many other entertainment choices.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Homewood Suites by Hilton Portsmouth
10. Discover Portsmouth
10 Middle Street
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 436-8433
Discover Portsmouth is a historical society offering a one-stop-place for tourists to get to know Portsmouth.
You can find it in the downtown area of the city.
Why You Should Go
Can’t make up your mind on what to do or where to go on your getaway?
Then the best solution is to stop by Discover Portsmouth.
It offers updated information on popular tourist attractions in the city and exhibits on regional art and history.
What to Do
Gain a little knowledge of local history and up-to-date information on the best cultural and historic attractions to tour at this facility.
Speak with a friendly and accommodating staff member, and they will gladly schedule a fun tour experience for you.
It also features many galleries depicting art, like impressionist paintings, skillfully crafted by regional artists.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Portsmouth Central
11. Seacoast Repertory Theatre
125 Bow St
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 433-4472
The Seacoast Repertory Theatre is a performing arts theater and a well-loved gathering place for the local community.
Why You Should Go
Get the opportunity to see the brilliance of local talent at this trendy and chic theater.
It is easily accessible, neighboring many other restaurants and well-known tourist hotspots.
It is the ideal place for you to spend a couple of hours indoors watching a magnificent live performance.
What to Do
Bond with your friends or significant other as you share a peaceful time at this spectacular theater.
Prepare to watch a phenomenal show like a musical, theatrical act, film screenings, local plays, and countless more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard Portsmouth
Also See:
Things to Do in North Conway, NH
Things to Do in Lincoln, NH
12. Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden
154 Market St
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 436-8221
The Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden, constructed in 1763, is also known as the William Whipple House.
It has been a National Historic Landmark since 1968.
Outside this house museum stands an iconic horse chestnut tree planted by Whipple himself.
Why You Should Go
When searching for stuff to do in Portsmouth to go on a fun and meaningful tour experience, this house museum is a terrific choice.
This magnificent Gregorian-styled home was the former residence of William Whipple, a general of the Revolutionary War who signed the Declaration of Independence.
This house is one of the most well-known and well-visited tourist attractions in the city.
What to Do
Schedule a guided tour of this stunning home and learn about William Whipple and his life in Portsmouth.
As you explore the house, you can view his items, like a sword and self-portrait, the many well-preserved rooms, and so on.
You can also explore its breathtaking garden featuring numerous gorgeous flowers and rental facilities for special events.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Wentworth by the Sea, A Marriott Hotel & Spa
Related: New Hampshire: Places to Visit
13. Governor John Langdon House
143 Pleasant St
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 436-3205
The Governor John Langdon House or Governor John Langdon Mansion was the home of politician and American revolutionary war general John Langdon in the 1700s to the 1800s.
Why You Should Go
As you tour the city, do not miss out on visiting one of its iconic and historical landmarks, this house museum.
It features Rococo-styled elaborate wood carvings, elaborate and grand rooms, and a collection of awe-striking artwork.
What to Do
Prepare for an educational and historical experience with your companions as you tour this wondrous mansion.
Here, you can do things like view sculptures by New England artists, view its elaborate design and architecture, learn about John Langdon and his life, and tons more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth Downtown
14. John Paul Jones House
43 Middle Street
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 436-8420
The John Paul Jones House was once a boarding house in the 1700s.
It stands at two and a half stories and features ornate decorations from the early 19th century.
Why You Should Go
Experience what life was like in the 18th century by touring this charming house, a must-visit for history buffs.
It features three floors that you can explore, a beautifully manicured garden, and a rich past that you can discover by signing up for a guided tour.
What to Do
Go on a tour of the house on your own to explore its numerous, intricately designed rooms and awe-striking art installations.
For a more educational experience, you and your travel buddies can sign up for a tour alongside a knowledgeable guide.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: AC Hotel by Marriott Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront
15. Black Trumpet
29 Ceres St
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 431-0887
The Black Trumpet is a popular and intimate bistro boasting an impressive menu of internationally-inspired cuisine.
It has a second floor bar offering a romantic ambiance and an aesthetically pleasing rustic setup.
Why You Should Go
Gather your friends and significant other as you spend quality time together at the Black Trumpet, where you can enjoy a delicious meal and fine wine.
It features a charming ambiance, mouth-watering dishes, exquisite alcoholic beverages, and catering services for special events.
What to Do
Take a break from touring and go on a terrific dining experience with your travel buddies at the Black Trumpet.
You can enjoy a scrumptious full-course meal where you can taste dishes like fresh seafood, roasted lamb, or a glass of wine complimented by a charcuterie board.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Hotel Portsmouth – Downtown
16. Portsmouth Book & Bar
40 Pleasant St
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 427-9197
Portsmouth Book & Bar, found in a building from the 1860s, is a bar and bookstore offering occasional live entertainment.
Why You Should Go
There are many fun things to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, like dining and catching up with your friends, family, or partner at this bookstore, music venue, and bar.
It offers you delicious, freshly-baked goods, brewed coffee, a variety of alcoholic drinks, and tasty food.
What to Do
Shop for books, eat delicious food, and drink a pint of beer or cup of hot chocolate while watching a live performance at Portsmouth Book & Bar.
Some of the shows you can watch are poetry readings, local bands, and the like.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Kittery
17. Portsmouth Athenaeum
9 Market Square
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 431-2538
Portsmouth Athenaeum, founded in 1805, is a library, museum, and art gallery.
It is one of the top attractions in the city and has been a National Historic Place since 1973.
Why You Should Go
Are you looking for the best things to do in Portsmouth, NH, on days when it’s raining or cold?
Then I highly recommend touring the fantastic Portsmouth Athenaeum.
It features an impressive collection of rare books, artwork, 12,000 photographs, manuscripts, artifacts, and lots more.
It also sponsors many engaging programs, events, and activities to keep you and your travel companions well-entertained on your visit.
What to Do
Have a terrific time touring the city by visiting this well-loved tourist attraction.
Here, you can look through various one-of-a-kind books and explore its many galleries and exhibits featuring awe-striking artwork of differing forms, photographs, and so on.
Here, you can also do things like listening to an intriguing lecture, attending an artist talk, and participating in many other fun-filled events.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Port Inn and Suites Portsmouth, Ascend Hotel Collection
Related: Best Hotels in Portsmouth
Map of Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth Things to Do: The 17 Best Activities for 2024
- Strawbery Banke Museum
- Market Square
- USS Albacore Museum
- Prescott Park
- Water Country
- LaBelle Winery
- African Burying Ground
- Warner House
- The Music Hall
- Discover Portsmouth
- Seacoast Repertory Theatre
- Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden
- Governor John Langdon House
- John Paul Jones House
- Black Trumpet
- Portsmouth Book & Bar
- Portsmouth Athenaeum
