Things to do in Portsmouth

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

A marina with various boats docked, a clear sky, and a cityscape in the background.
A calm lake surrounded by dense trees with autumn foliage.
A street with a BMW car parked on the side, a sign for 'Blue Grasshopper', and a red flag with a logo.
A city street lined with historic buildings and parked cars.
A calm lake with a green boat and a rocky shore.

Things to do

Nature Bike Tour: Biking Adventure Along The NH Greenway Rail

Nature Bike Tour: Biking Adventure Along The NH Greenway Rail

￥13,596
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Nature Bike Tour: Biking Adventure Along The NH Greenway Rail
See all activities in Portsmouth
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

What to do in Portsmouth

Stay near popular Portsmouth attractions

A public square with a water fountain, benches, and a stop sign.

Market Square

9.2/10 (1,088 reviews)
Market Square pulses with historic charm, its white-spired North Church anchoring Portsmouth's vibrant heart. Stroll cobblestone streets to discover boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés in 19th-century buildings.
See properties

Where to stay in Portsmouth

Find the best Portsmouth areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Portsmouth
Learn more about Portsmouth
A yellow storefront with a red door and a bicycle parked outside.

Downtown

If you're spending some time in Downtown, The Music Hall and Market Square are top sights worth seeing.

A calm river reflecting buildings and a partly cloudy sky.

South End

While visiting South End, you might make a stop by sights like Wentworth Gardner and Tobias Lear Houses and Children's Museum of Portsmouth.

A street scene with people sitting at outdoor cafes, a gazebo, and buildings with signs like "Breaking New Grounds" and "Jewelry Boutique".

West End

While West End might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like The Music Hall and Market Square.

A harbor with several fishing boats docked, a pier, and a forested shoreline in the background.

Newington

Travelers like the shopping in Newington, and Fox Run Mall is a top attraction you might want to visit.

An aerial view of a town with a river, a bridge, and a large stadium.

Pease

While there might not be top attractions in Pease, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Fox Run Mall and The Music Hall.

Popular day trips from Portsmouth

An aerial view of a historic castle surrounded by a fortified wall, with a port and a lighthouse in the background.

Dover

A marina with various boats docked at wooden piers, a bridge in the background, and a forested hillside.

Kittery

A coastal landscape with a clear sky, a tree, and yellow flowers.

Rye

Frequently asked questions

Is Portsmouth worth visiting?
Whether you want to discover the local charm and cultural hotspots or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there are plenty of things to do in Portsmouth.
How do I spend a day in Portsmouth?
Water Country and Jenness State Beach are two great places to begin your sightseeing adventures. Remember to check out the retail and dining options in Portsmouth while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Portsmouth?
Don't go home without visiting Water Country, ranked the top tourist attraction in Portsmouth.
Is three days enough to stay in Portsmouth?
Three days in Portsmouth is plenty of time to enjoy the city's main highlights. Many travelers stay for two days on average. Water Country, Jenness State Beach and Strawbery Banke Museum are highly rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to explore nearby hotspots like Ogunquit - Wells.
Is Portsmouth a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city center, Portsmouth is a great destination to explore on foot. Wander between Water Country and Strawbery Banke Museum. Then take a stroll around Pease, located 5 kilometers from the center, and West End, which is about 0.48 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Portsmouth with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Portsmouth with kids.
What to do in Portsmouth for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Portsmouth, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Great Bay Pottery or American Independence Museum.
Are there free things to do in Portsmouth?
In Portsmouth, Jenness State Beach is a must-see spot for anyone planning to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the parks and other neighborhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in Portsmouth.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia