Greetings fellow adventurers! Prepare for an immersive journey through the captivating tapestry of Portsmouth, New Hampshire! Let’s unravel the rich history, indulge in culinary delights, and discover hidden gems in this enchanting town that weaves tales of the past with the vibrancy of the present.
Situated along the picturesque Piscataqua River, a tidal estuary with a swift current, Portsmouth boasts a natural harbor that takes your breath away. Cast your mind back to 1630 when English colonists, enticed by the abundance of wild strawberries, settled on the west bank, christening it Strawbery Banke. Today, this town, with its bustling harbor and charming downtown, is a haven for explorers like us. Driving through its narrow streets, flanked by historic buildings, is like stepping into a living postcard!
In 1958, concerned citizens rallied to preserve the 10-acre gem known as Puddle Dock in the South End of Portsmouth. Out of this noble cause emerged Strawbery Banke, Inc., which, by 1965, transformed into an outdoor living history museum. From Indigenous artifacts dating back 10,000-12,000 years to contemporary tales, Strawbery Banke intricately weaves the evolving history of this waterfront neighborhood. It’s not merely a museum but a living, breathing community pillar, welcoming over 100,000 annual visitors for year-round programming, including winter ice skating at Puddle Dock Pond. The ice skating is totally up to the weather so be sure to check for the latest updates on their Facebook page!
In the heart of downtown Portsmouth, a recent addition is a convenient parking garage, ensuring a seamless exploration of charming shops and restaurants. Wander through narrow streets and discover hidden gems. You could easily spend hours here exploring.
For a delightful breakfast or brunch, make a pitstop at the Friendly Toast on Congress Street. It’s the original, and in my humble opinion, the best. Quirky decor, fabulous food, and a bustling full bar create an irresistible combination. The mimosa flights are a game-changer. Just a heads up, they use marinated tomatoes on their burgers – caught Layla by surprise one visit! Pro tip: Check in online before heading down.
Be sure to drop by the Portsmouth Soap Company on Market Street. This family-owned business will treat your senses to delightful fragrances. Lauren Wolf, the passionate shop owner, takes pride in their products, even offering goodies for your furry friends! I couldn’t resist grabbing a CBD bath bomb and some heavenly body wash. Even if you can’t make it there, be sure to check out their online store – you won’t regret it!
For a touch of France in downtown Portsmouth, carve out time for La Maison Navarre. Victor and Charlotte, the French owners, craft the most divine macarons you’ll ever taste. Their goal is to transport you to France with each bite, and trust me, they succeed!
If maritime history intrigues you, the USS Albacore is a must-visit. This research submarine, designed by the U.S. Navy, unveils top-secret features that revolutionized modern submarines. Though we visited in winter, only admiring the exterior, the Memorial Garden left a lasting impression.
From there you can get a good view of the awe-inspiring Piscataqua River Bridge on I95. As a kid, it signaled the “almost home” milestone during out-of-state travels (even if there was still another hour to go lol). As an adult, it remains a welcome sight on the highway, offering a panoramic view of the river’s majesty. Some may say it’s big, ugly and green but take a moment to marvel at its architectural grace and snap some Instagram-worthy photos. Another great vantage point for the bridge is Prescott Park.
In the midst of the trio of bridges between Portsmouth and Kittery, the Sarah Long Bridge, affectionately known to locals as Middle Bridge, adds a modern touch to the timeless charm of this riverside connection. This sturdy link has become an integral part of the local landscape. I recall from its construction, where a fierce windstorm proved so powerful that it managed to blow a construction truck off its robust structure!
Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site, the former home of New Hampshire’s first royal governor, Benning Wentworth, offers a glimpse into colonial aristocracy. Serving from 1741 to 1767, this rambling 40-room mansion overlooks Little Harbor. Its stateliness and impressive interior and furnishings reflect aristocratic life in Portsmouth in the 1700s. They offer tours in season, or you can explore the grounds. There is also a 1 1/2 mile trail from the Mansion to Portsmouth Conservation Land.
Venture just outside Portsmouth to discover Great Island Common in Newcastle. This 32-acre park offers picnic areas, walking paths, beach access, and is a great little place to relax. From the shore, you can see the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, Wood Island, and the Whaleback Lighthouse. We caught a huge barge leaving the port while we were visiting and were amazed by its size compared to everything around it.
And that, my friend, is just a taste of what this little city has to offer. In the summer, dive into the fun at Water Country, a small but popular water park. Venture to Isle of Shoals or take a boat to the one of the many islands just off the coast. For more activities, check out Viator – we’re eyeing the Haunted Walking Tour once the summer sun warms things up a bit!
Ready to share your own Portsmouth adventures or have recommendations? Drop your comments below and let’s spark a conversation! What’s your favorite spot or hidden gem in Portsmouth? Let’s inspire each other!
Travel Turtles 