Things to do in Portsmouth

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Portsmouth Travel Guide

Portsmouth which includes a bay or harbor

Portsmouth featuring a house and wildflowers

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What to do in Portsmouth

Discover the most popular places to visit in Portsmouth

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum

Dive into coastal Virginia’s naval history at this expertly curated waterfront museum with ship models and artifacts from the 1700s through the 1900s.

Children's Museum of Virginia

Toddlers through tweens can imagine, explore, discover and play at this hands-on museum complete with antique train exhibit and full-dome planetarium.

Commodore Theatre

See the latest blockbuster in art deco style at this historic movie theater, complete with state-of-the-art digital projection equipment and a full dining menu.

Rivers Casino Portsmouth

Why not try your luck with a visit to Rivers Casino Portsmouth during your visit to Portsmouth? While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Portsmouth City Park

Portsmouth City Park is just one of the places to see in Portsmouth, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.

Hill House Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Hill House Museum in Portsmouth. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event in the area.

United States Lightship Portsmouth

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at United States Lightship Portsmouth during your travels in Portsmouth. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or experience its great live music.

Portsmouth Art and Cultural Center

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Portsmouth Art and Cultural Center during your travels in Portsmouth. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Emanuel AME Church

Emanuel AME Church is just one of the places to see in Portsmouth, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Portsmouth

Churchland

The breweries and shopping are just a few features travelers like about Churchland. If you want to do some sightseeing nearby, Chesapeake Square Mall and Rivers Casino Portsmouth are a few top places to visit.

Popular day trips from Portsmouth

Norfolk

Chesapeake

Suffolk

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Frequently asked questions

Is Portsmouth worth visiting?

Whether you plan to enjoy the local charm and cultural hotspots or sample regional foods and venture into nature, there are plenty of things to do in Portsmouth.

How do I spend a day in Portsmouth?

After you've checked off popular attractions like Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and Children's Museum of Virginia, spend some time enjoying Portsmouth's retail and dining scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Portsmouth?

The top tourist attraction in Portsmouth is Children's Museum of Virginia, so be sure to put it on your sightseeing agenda.

Is three days enough to stay in Portsmouth?

Three days will give you time to tick off many city highlights, such as Children's Museum of Virginia, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and Portsmouth City Park. The average stay in Portsmouth is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Norfolk - Virginia Beach isn't far away.

What are some activities to do in Portsmouth with kids?

Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Portsmouth with kids.

What to do in Portsmouth for adults?

From incredible food and cultural gems to outdoor adventures and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Portsmouth for adults.

Are there free things to do in Portsmouth?

In Portsmouth, Portsmouth City Park is a top spot for anyone looking to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to explore the best free things to do in Portsmouth.