Portsmouth

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Portsmouth's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
A Day at the Seacoast
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Cultural Immersion Day
morning
:

Start your cultural exploration with breakfast at a local diner, enjoying classic American fare. Head to the Portsmouth Music Hall to see if any matinee performances are scheduled, or explore the nearby galleries showcasing local artists. Visit the Discover Portsmouth Center to learn more about the city's cultural heritage.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café before heading to the Portsmouth Athenaeum, a historic library and museum, to delve into the city's literary and artistic history. Spend your afternoon exploring the many art galleries and boutiques that line the streets, where you can find unique souvenirs and locally made crafts. Don’t miss the chance to chat with local artists and shop owners about their work.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a restaurant that features live music, allowing you to enjoy both great food and entertainment. Afterward, attend a local theater production or a concert, immersing yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Portsmouth. End your day with a nightcap at a cozy pub, reflecting on the cultural treasures you’ve discovered.

day 4
Outdoor Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Fuel your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the nearby Odiorne Point State Park for a morning of exploration. Enjoy the scenic trails that wind through the park and take in the stunning coastal views. You can also visit the Seacoast Science Center to learn about local wildlife and marine ecosystems.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park, surrounded by the natural beauty of the area. Afterward, head over to Fort Foster Park, where you can walk along the beach or explore the historic fortifications. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or simply relaxing in the sun, appreciating the tranquil environment.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Portsmouth and enjoy dinner at a rustic restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the downtown area, soaking in the vibrant nightlife. Consider stopping by a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat to cap off your outdoor adventure.

day 5
Historical Insights and Landmarks
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a historic inn, immersing yourself in the ambiance of Portsmouth's past. Afterward, visit the John Paul Jones House to learn about the life of the famous naval commander and his connection to Portsmouth. Stroll through the streets of the South End, admiring the historic homes and gardens.

afternoon
:

For lunch, choose a cozy bistro that serves traditional New England fare. After your meal, head to the Moffatt-Ladd House and Garden, where you can explore the beautifully preserved estate and learn about its role in American history. Spend the rest of the afternoon at the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, enjoying the scenic views and capturing memorable photographs.

evening
:

As evening falls, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant with views of the harbor. Afterward, take a ghost tour to uncover the spooky history of Portsmouth, learning about its haunted past and local legends. End your night with a drink at a historic tavern, soaking in the atmosphere of this iconic city.

day 6
Shopping and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café known for its artisanal pastries and specialty coffee. Spend the morning exploring the unique shops and boutiques in Market Square, where you can find everything from handmade crafts to vintage clothing. Don't miss the chance to visit local bookstores and gift shops, picking up unique souvenirs.

afternoon
:

For lunch, indulge in a food tour that showcases Portsmouth's culinary scene, tasting dishes from various local eateries. Continue your afternoon by visiting the Portsmouth Farmers' Market (if it's the right season), where you can sample local produce and artisanal products. Explore additional shops and galleries that you may have missed during the morning.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a farm-to-table dinner at one of Portsmouth's acclaimed restaurants, where seasonal ingredients take center stage. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city as you dine, watching the hustle and bustle of the streets. After dinner, consider attending a cooking class or wine tasting to enhance your culinary experience.

day 7
Exploration of Nearby Islands
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a local bakery, enjoying freshly baked goods before heading to the ferry terminal. Take a scenic ferry ride to one of the nearby islands, such as Star Island, where you can explore the natural beauty and historic sites. Upon arrival, take a guided tour to learn about the island’s history and ecology.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the island, soaking in the stunning coastal views. Spend your afternoon hiking along the trails, discovering hidden beaches, and taking in the breathtaking scenery. Don’t forget to capture the picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife along the way.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Portsmouth and dine at a seaside restaurant that offers fresh catches of the day. Reflect on your island adventure while enjoying the local seafood specialties. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the waterfront, taking in the tranquil ambiance of the harbor.

day 8
Family Fun and Recreational Activities
morning
:

Begin your family-friendly day with breakfast at a local pancake house, offering a variety of delicious options. Spend the morning at the Children's Museum of New Hampshire, where kids can engage in interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. This museum provides a fun learning experience for children of all ages.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a casual meal at a family-friendly restaurant that caters to all tastes. After lunch, head to the nearby water park or amusement center for an afternoon of fun and excitement, featuring slides and games for the whole family. Spend some time at a local playground to let the kids burn off some energy.

evening
:

As your day wraps up, enjoy dinner at a casual pizzeria, where the whole family can choose their favorite toppings. Afterward, visit a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat to end the day on a high note. Conclude your family fun day with a movie night at a nearby theater, enjoying the latest blockbuster together.

day 9
Local Craft Breweries and Distilleries
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, preparing for a day of tasting. Visit a local distillery for a tour, where you can learn about the process of craft distilling and sample some spirits. Afterward, head to the first brewery on your craft beer tour, where you can enjoy tastings and learn about the brewing process.

afternoon
:

For lunch, choose a brewery that offers a selection of food options to pair with their craft beers. Continue your brewery tour, visiting several local establishments and sampling a variety of brews, from IPAs to stouts. Take the time to chat with the brewers and learn about their passion for crafting unique beers.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a brewpub that serves hearty dishes complemented by their own house-made beers. Consider joining a guided brewery tour to learn more about Portsmouth's craft beer scene and meet fellow enthusiasts. End your day with a nightcap at a local bar, reflecting on the flavors of the day.

Discover Portsmouth

Read more in our Portsmouth 2025 Travel Guide.

Portsmouth Travel Guide