2025 Portsmouth Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Commissioned in 1953, the USS Albacore has since been the model for modern-day submarines. Its unique hull served as the prototype for the Navy’s nuclear-powered submarine fleet. In 1985, upon its decommissioning, the USS Albacore came to rest at the USS Albacore Museum in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Today, the museum is open seven days a week for guests to tour this historical site. Guests are welcome to partake in self-guided tours of the boat and the property’s memorial garden. Of note, visitors are permitted to board and explore this distinguished submarine. You’ll have the opportunity to see the control room, engineering spaces, bunkrooms, and even look through the periscope. Furthermore, you’ll be treated to stories told by real-life crew members, through their recorded tales, of the USS Albacore. Other notable spaces at the museum include a propeller field, a memorial garden commemorating fallen shipmates, and an epic gift shop. Address: 600 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801, United States

Situated in the Puddle Dock neighborhood of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Strawbery Banke Museum sits upon a 10-acre campus. Significantly, the museum preserves and exhibits more than 300 years of NH history. Through interestingly curated exhibits, costumed roleplayers, craft demonstrations, and other mediums, Strawbery Banke Museum shares a historically enriching experience with visitors. Best of all, the museum is a place that can be enjoyed by families, adults, children, students, and all others who value state history. During your visit to Strawbery Banke Museum, you’ll tour historical buildings, enjoy interactive exhibits, and spend time in lovely botanical gardens. There are hundreds of beautiful and interesting exhibits to see like a historical craft house, a recreated Victorian garden, a Victorian-era hothouse, a World War II home, a Revolutionary War-era tavern, among so many more. What’s best, each purchased ticket is good for two consecutive visits to the museum. Of the top tourist attractions in NH, Strawbery Banke Museum is highly recommended. Address: 14 Hancock St, Portsmouth, NH 03801, United States

Situated six miles off the shore of New Hampshire and Maine, Isles of Shoals are a system of nine islands discovered in the early 1600s. The islands once served as a home base for fishermen, however, today, the islands have no year-round residents. However, the islands are home to a few summer cottages and the Oceanic Hotel, one of a few famous places in New Hampshire. The Isles are also home to the Shoals Marine Research Laboratory. If you’re traveling with any true crime aficionados, the islands were also the site of a famed double murder. If you wish to visit the Isles of Shoals, many charter companies provide charter cruises that will deliver you directly to the island of your choice. Boat tours of the islands are the best way to see the scenic beauty that juts out into the bay. Each of the islands has individual eco-systems which are interesting to observe. Finally, one of the main attractions is the Isles of Shoals Museum located on Star Island; the museum recounts regional history. No matter how you visit or which, if not all, islands you check out, Isles of Shoals is one of many tourist attractions you won’t want to miss. Address: NH, United States

Every year, New Hampshire's autumn foliage season attracts a large number of visitors. Driving along forest trails, I admired the mesmerizing scenery of intertwined red, yellow, and orange hues. Quaint towns like Portsmouth preserve their charming historic architecture, with quiet streets full of a sense of history. Local farms and markets offer fresh produce and handmade crafts. The cool autumn weather makes hiking and picnicking the perfect ways to enjoy nature. Autumn here is poetic and an ideal choice for escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.

#northamericatrip New England is a treasure trove of scenic beauty and small-town charm, perfect for a day packed with adventure. Start your morning in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, a historic seaside town with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and the smell of fresh ocean air. Grab a coffee and stroll along the waterfront at Prescott Park, where vibrant gardens and harbor views set the tone for the day. Next, head to Ogunquit, Maine, a picturesque coastal town. Walk the Marginal Way, a 1.25-mile path offering breathtaking views of rocky cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. Stop for a seafood lunch—perhaps a classic lobster roll—at one of Ogunquit’s charming seaside cafes. In the afternoon, drive to Concord, Massachusetts, a hub of American history and literary heritage. Visit the Old North Bridge, where “the shot heard ’round the world” was fired, and explore the homes of famous authors like Louisa May Alcott and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Wrap up your day in Stowe, Vermont, a quintessential New England village surrounded by lush mountains. If it’s fall, the foliage is nothing short of magical, with fiery reds and golds painting the landscape. Take a scenic drive or sip on a hot cider at a cozy café as you soak in the small-town vibe. From coastal trails to historic landmarks and vibrant foliage, a day in New England offers a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and timeless charm.

#familytrip #historicallandmarks Earlier settlers from England, English style buildings. Best activity for the morning is the harbor cruise, 1.25 hr boat tour around the coast, mansions, boats, navy shipyard, lighthouse, forts. A lot to see and many stories. Very interesting stories. Town has a lot of shops, galleries, restaurants, historical buildings as museums. Great for family trips.

Trip to USA, Portsmouth. Great place to stay. Nice weather, excellent location.

There are not many places to see that are as beautiful as Peirce Island in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Situated upon 27-acres of picturesque riverfront property, Peirce Island is a historical gem. Once the site of Fort Washington, a military locale that played a big role in both the Revolutionary War and World War II, Peirce Island is now a top sightseeing destination. During a visit to Peirce Island, you can observe this enriching historical sight. Notably, the most fun way to access the island is by way of the free boat launch on the south end of the island. Upon arrival, visitors enjoy the well-groomed walking trails, free guided tours, a lovely children’s playground, a dog park, and more. One of the most well-visited attractions on Peirce Island is a public swimming pool that’s been in operation since 1937. If you’re thinking about what to see in New Hampshire, Peirce Island is a swell option. Address: NH, United States