If you love all things history and a salty breeze in the air, put this charming little seaside town in New Hampshire on your radar.
History
Named after Portsmouth, England- Portsmouth, New Hampshire is one of the state’s oldest cities and settlements.
It’s also it’s the only seaport. The fishing settlement named Piscataqua was built in the early 1600s, and later renamed the Strawberry Banke. The area quickly grew into one of the busiest shipbuilding cities and ports in all the United States. Today, Portsmouth is still a working seaport.
Delve into the past with a visit to Strawberry Banke Museum. This 10-acre outdoor property in the historic downtown area has many well-preserved colonial homes and shops. And to really get you into the spirit of times past, they host daily reenactments on the property with role players in costume.
See and Do
Escape outdoors in any number of the nearby parks and beaches. Among the many are the more popular Prescott Park and Odiorne State Park.
Prescott is a 10-acre property with a beautiful waterfront and equally beautiful gardens. It was donated to the city of Portsmouth in 1940 by the Prescott sisters. If you’re visiting during summer months, check out their annual Summer Festival Series. Local musicians line the streets, as well as vendors and other entertainment.
Named after the Odiorne family who occupied the land in early settlement, Odiorne State Park is another outdoor haven. Stroll along the rocky beach, go for a nature walk, observe marine life in the tide pools, pack a picnic, and explore the Seacoast Science Center.
If you’re hungry for more art and culture, drop inside Ogunquit Museum of American Art or catch a play at The Music Hall.
Don’t miss out on a trip to Market Square. It’s an area located downtown with plenty more history to uncover, shops to explore and a variety of restaurants to dine at.
Speaking of shops. Shopping lovers, save room in your luggage and prepare to rejoice. New Hampshire is a tax-free state! That’s right. You can shop until you drop at the local boutiques and outlets sans-guilt. Start at The Mall at Foxrun for clothing. Then, work your way towards Tugboat Alley and Pickwick’s Mercantile. There you can pick up all the nautical souvenirs and novelty items you didn’t know you needed.
More
Are you loving the New England area and want to see more of it? Check out these other posts. Find out where to find the best beaches, eat the freshest seafood, explore lighthouses, and shop for antiques.
If you need help with hotel reservations along the way, our sister site, HotelCoupons.com can help you.
