Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth is perhaps New Hampshire’s most interesting city, rich with history and alive with all the best in local events and seaside atmosphere. As the state’s first and only major seaside port, its history runs deep and there are enough houses, museums, and tours to keep a visitor occupied for a week. The best known of these is the Strawbery Banke Museum, a collection of living-history homes complete with costumed hosts and lovely period gardens. Many walking tours are available, including the Harbour Trail, Black Heritage Trail, and a tour of city gravestones by dusk. Be sure not to miss the USS Albacore, a grounded submarine that is ...

Portsmouth is perhaps New Hampshire’s most interesting city, rich with history and alive with all the best in local events and seaside atmosphere. As the state’s first and only major seaside port, its history runs deep and there are enough houses, museums, and tours to keep a visitor occupied for a week. The best known of these is the Strawbery Banke Museum, a collection of living-history homes complete with costumed hosts and lovely period gardens. Many walking tours are available, including the Harbour Trail, Black Heritage Trail, and a tour of city gravestones by dusk. Be sure not to miss the USS Albacore, a grounded submarine that is open to exploration, including the use of its periscope. A visit is not complete without a cruise around the harbor. Children will have a blast at Water Country, new England’s largest waterslide park, and will also love nearby York’s Wild Kingdom zoo. Families should not miss the Children's Museum, which has recently moved to nearby Dover, where it has expanded its popular kid-friendly exhibits and activities. Portsmouth is also alive with plenty of arts and performances throughout the year.

About the Expert

Lura Seavey is the author of Fun with the Family in Vermont and New Hampshire and she has contributed to several Thomas Cook guidebooks, including Drive Around Catalonia, Travellers Mallorca, and Travellers Barcelona.