Things To Do
in Portsmouth
Portsmouth, Virginia sits along the Elizabeth River across from Norfolk, blending historic charm with modern waterfront leisure. Its Olde Towne district preserves 18th- and 19th-century architecture, with museums, shops, and riverside promenades. The city is known for its maritime heritage, lively arts scene, and convenient access to the broader Hampton Roads region.
Within reach of Virginia Beach and Norfolk, Portsmouth offers walkable neighborhoods, parks, and opportunities to sample Chesapeake Bay seafood.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and pastries. Afterward, embark on a walking tour of the Historic District, where you'll marvel at the charming colonial architecture and learn about the city's rich maritime history. Don't forget to stop by the iconic Strawberry Banke Museum to explore its interactive exhibits.
For lunch, enjoy local seafood at a waterfront restaurant, experiencing the flavors of New England cuisine. Post-lunch, visit the USS Albacore Museum, where you can explore a unique experimental submarine and engage with naval history. Wrap up your afternoon with a stroll through Prescott Park, enjoying the beautiful gardens and river views.
As the sun sets, head to a local brewery for a taste of Portsmouth's craft beers. Afterward, enjoy dinner at one of the upscale restaurants in the heart of downtown, featuring farm-to-table dishes. Conclude your day with a live music performance at a nearby venue, immersing yourself in the local arts scene.
Begin your day with breakfast at a beachside café, where the sound of waves will set a relaxing tone. Afterward, spend the morning at Hampton Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the sandy shores. Consider renting bikes to explore the scenic coastline along the Ocean Boulevard.
For lunch, grab a classic lobster roll from a local food shack and take in the ocean views. Spend your afternoon indulging in water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking, or take a scenic boat tour to see the picturesque coastline from the water. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of some local marine life.
As evening approaches, return to Portsmouth and enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant with views of the harbor. Sample fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the water, creating a perfect end to your beach day. After dinner, take a walk along the waterfront, perhaps stopping for ice cream at a nearby shop.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍕Combo meal at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city centre) | $1,400-1,800/mo |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $3-4.50 |
| 🛍️Groceries (monthly) | $250-400 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic waterfront charm and walkable downtown
- Close proximity to Norfolk and Virginia Beach
- Strong seafood scene and cultural activities
- Smaller city feel may mean fewer nightlife options
- Some attractions can be seasonal or weather-dependent
Places to Visit in Portsmouth
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic brick facades, cobbled streets, and the Elizabeth River at sunrise provide classic waterfront photography.
Museum architecture and riverfront with moored vessels and maritime history cues.
Evening scenes along the river with boats and festive lights during seasonal events.
Food in Portsmouth
Portsmouth Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pan-seared cakes made with lump crab meat, served with remoulade or tartar sauce.
Must-Try!
Creamy crab soup with a touch of sherry, a regional favorite.
A sharing pot of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes seasoned with Old Bay.
Seasonal shellfish dishes highlighting Chesapeake Bay flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal local produce, seafood, baked goods and crafts in an urban market setting.
Casual stalls offering seafood bites, tacos, and street-style snacks near the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness is valued; a simple greeting of 'Hello' and 'Please/Thank you' goes a long way.
Smoke-free public spaces in many areas; keep noise considerate in residential streets.
Safety
Tipping in Portsmouth
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, tip 15-20% at most full-service restaurants. Rounding up at casual places is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted, cash is useful for markets and smaller vendors; some places may accept mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Humid and warm with occasional afternoon storms. Bring sunscreen and water; enjoy waterfront trails and festivals.
Milder temperatures, fall foliage along the river walk; great time for outdoor photography and dining al fresco.
Cool, with occasional cold snaps; some attractions may have limited hours; heat up with cafés and indoor museums.
Pleasant temps, blooming trees, and growing farmers markets; ideal for outdoor activities and city walks.
Portsmouth at Night
Hiking in Portsmouth
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy riverside trails and boardwalks with water views.
Forest trails and gardens suitable for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Portsmouth by plane.
Primary regional airport about 15-25 miles from Portsmouth; quick access by car or ride-share.
Greater access for international connections; longer drive but feasible for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents and visitors.
A substantial community contributing to cultural events and local history.
Growing presence in the region with cultural diversity.
Smaller but growing community, with educational and professional presence.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local recreational leagues and school sports are common in the region.
Collegiate and community leagues with local enthusiasm.
Popular among youth and adults with local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Portsmouth.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes featuring seasonal vegetables, grain bowls, and seafood substitutes; many places offer veggie burgers and salads.