Things To Do in the Seacoast

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By the Sea

Isles of Shoals Steamship Company *

Offers daily sightseeing cruises of Portsmouth Harbor and the Isles of Shoals. Also offers dinner cruises and ferry service to Star Island.

Portsmouth Harbor Cruises *

Our narrated cruises are casual, sometimes amusing, always informative. Whether discussing the birdlife of the inland waterways, the folklore of the Isles of Shoals, the ship building history of Portsmouth harbor, or just musing on the ever changing tides of the Piscataqua, our captains always have something of interest to offer.

The Gundalow Company *

Welcome aboard! Sail on the Piscataqua, a traditional reproduction of the flat-bottom gundalow barges that were once prevalent along local waterways. Educational, informative and fun, a sail is a great way to explore sights and sounds of Portsmouth, NH and Kittery, ME while sailing on the Piscataqua River.

Atlantic Whale Watch & Deep Sea Fishing

Whale watching and deep sea fishing aboard the Atlantic Queen II. Private and school chartertrips also available. Departs from Rye Harbor.

Hampton Beach Boardwalk *

Many visitors enjoy strolling along the mile long boardwalk and Hampton Center which is lined with fun and interesting stores, restaurants, and hotels.

Portsmouth Kayak Company

Portsmouth Kayak Adventures specializes in bringing the adventure and the fun of kayaking to everyone. Our professional guides will instruct you in the basics of kayaking.

Albacore Submarine Park *

The Park's Visitor Center includes a museum which contains many photographs and historic artifacts from Albacore and other submarines. The Visitor Center is the starting point for an audio tour of Albacore. The tour highlights many of Albacore's unique features, provides information about interior features and relates interesting happenings as told by some of her former crew members.


By Land

Fort Constitution/Fort Stark/Fort Foster *

There is a Visitors Center and small museum within the only building at Fort Stark; the "Ordnance-Machine Shop" built in 1910. It is open from 12:00 to 4:00 every Saturday. It houses a combination of military equipment used at Fort Stark during World War II as well as a display of ship wrecks along the New Castle Coast. Nearby is similar Fort Constitution and Fort Foster.

Seacoast Repertory Theatre

Seacoast Repertory Theatre is a community gathering place, a resource where the community comes together to share entertainment and stories; it is a place for reflection on life, and a place for celebrating the essence and hope of humanity. Locally and regionally, people plan their summers around our productions and travel to the Seacoast to experience live theatre

Music Hall-Portsmouth

Non-profit performing arts center offers music, plays, dance, and films.

Flag Hill Winery-Lee

Make Flag Hill a destination to learn how our vodka is made first hand, taste from a variety of New Hampshire made wines, stroll through the vineyard, picnic on the grounds, make reservations for a dinner event, plan a wedding or business function or browse through our gift shop.

Wagon Hill-Durham *

The property has a small public parking area (12 cars), a portable toilet, a variety of trails, and is open from 8 a.m. to dusk. Popular activities include walking, kayaking, dog-walking. The property includes a mowed shoreline overlooking Great Bay with a small man-made sandy beach, along with many acres of grassland habitats, mowed trails, oak forests, old apple orchards, and over 60 community garden plots that have been added since 2009.

College Woods-Durham *

College Woods is located on the west side of the main campus. Recreational activities occurring within the entire College Woods are hiking, walking, skiing, jogging, bird watching, and general relaxation. Biking is allowed outside of the Natural Area.

Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve *

Visitors are encouraged to explore the natural beauty of the Great Bay Estuary and discover New Hampshire's hidden coast.

Redhook Brewery Tours-Portsmouth

Tours cost $5 per person. All tours include a guided walking through the brewery, some Redhook history and an explanation of just how we make our fine beers, and a sampling session with three to four samples of beer and a souvenir pint glass. Lasts approximately 45-60 minutes.

Portsmouth Museum of Art

The Portsmouth Museum of Art presents the work of 21st-century emerging artists, alongside the work of established contemporary artists. We offer exhibitions and programs that educate the public about art, as well as use art as a tool to generate conversation about current events, other cultures, social issues and a wide range of other topics with a diversity of viewpoints

Prescott Park-Portsmouth *

Enjoy what has been one of the Seacoast's favorite summer traditions for the past 39 years. Since 1974, the festival has reached over 3.5 million people through more than 10,000 productions with no fixed admission. Music, Plays and more!

3S Artspace-Portsmouth

3S Artspace, a 501c3 non-profit, is dedicated to presenting and supporting contemporary artists and their work in order to stimulate the artistic community and creatively engage and educate the public at large, while establishing a vital and accessible regional gathering space.

Great Island Commons-New Castle *

The Great Island Common is comprised of 32 acres of seaside greenspace and beach. Park is open every day 9am-9pm. The town owned park is on a first come first serve basis. No dogs allowed.

Odiorne State Park-Rye  *

Odiorne Point State Park offers one of the most beautiful natural settings along New Hampshire's 18-mile coastline. Within the 135-acre seaside park, visitors can enjoy a wooded picnic grove with a modern playground and miles of walking trails. Most trails are handicapped accessible.

Four Tree Island-Portsmouth *

The park features great views of the Memorial Bridge, Piscataqua River, Portsmouth Fish Pier, and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Open from dawn to dusk, the island includes a dozen large BBQ area, picnic tables and a grassy play, and public restrooms, which are open during the late spring, summer and early fall.

Cape Neddick Light House-Cape Neddick, ME *

Visitors are welcome to the park year round for excellent views, painting, photographing, scuba diving, fishing and relaxing. Our small gift shop and restroom facilities are open seasonally from mid April thru mid October (weather dependent) and offers parking for approximately 60 vehicles.

Seacoast Science Center-Rye *

The Seacoast Science Center is the perfect place to explore, discover, and connect with nature - especially the salty kind. The entire family will be enthralled by the world of marine science, from snails to whales. Once you visit, you will know why so many people come back again and again; rain-or-shine, year-round.

Childrens Museum of New Hampshire-Dover *

It offers a blend of art, science and cultural experiences for families. At the heart of our mission is a commitment to offering access to all children and families by minimizing barriers that prevent fair and meaningful educational and cultural opportunities. Since its inception, the Museum has served over 2 million people from New Hampshire and beyond.

Water Country-Portsmouth *

Kid friendly water park.

York’s Wild Kingdom-York, ME *

York's Wild Kingdom is a family-oriented zoo and amusement park centrally located in York Beach, Maine. Surrounded by beautiful forest and natural wetlands, the zoo is situated on 25 acres that have been set aside for the preservation of ecology. The amusement park sits adjacent to the quaint shops and restaurants for which downtown York is famous. The Ferris wheel offers a uniquely memorable view of the ocean waves and sandy beaches. With 75 beautifully landscaped animal exhibits, 18 rides for all ages, five food and ice cream stands, and two gift shops, visitors of all ages will enjoy an entire day of fun.


Step Back Into History

Strawbery Banke-Portsmouth *

Strawbery Banke Museum is an authentic 10-acre outdoor history museum, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and dedicated to bringing 300* years of American history to life. Strawbery Banke is a place to learn about architecture, heritage plants and foodways, traditional crafts and the tools, clothing and collections people used for everyday life in the 1600s, 1700s, 1800s and up through 1954 when the site was saved from urban renewal.

Portsmouth Harbor Trail *

The Portsmouth Harbour Trail celebrates the historical significance of Portsmouth New Hampshire. It embodies our commitment to preservation of our arts and culture. We invite you to explore our galleries and gift shops, our historic buildings and museums, our waterfront and a host of restaurants tucked into the many corners of our city.

Discover Portsmouth Center

Discover Portsmouth is the place where you can find all you need to know about cultural Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Our staff and volunteers are up to date on the many happenings in the city. We can suggest a great play at a small theater company, where to catch a blockbuster art opening or which historic house has a great collection of Chinese export porcelain.

John Paul Jones House-Portsmouth

The John Paul Jones House is located at 43 Middle Street in Portsmouth, at the corner of Middle and State Streets. (Parking is easier on State Street.) The House is a pleasant walk from Market Square, the heart of historic Portsmouth. His house is now the museum of Portsmouth men, women and children, where their stories live.

Langdon House-Portsmouth

Governor John Langdon House in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is often cited as one of the finest Georgian residences in the country. An expansive lawn at the rear of the house is shaded by mature trees and enclosed by hedges and a perennial flower border. A 100-foot rose and grape arbor, installed in the early 1900s by owner and family descendant Elizabeth Langdon, leads to a small pavilion and secluded garden. Historic New England invites you to host your wedding or special event in this idyllic outdoor setting.

Moffat Ladd House and Gardens-Portsmouth

One of America's finest Georgian mansions, The house has been an historic house museum for more than 100 years. The house is furnished to showcase its original features and to reflect its use as a private home from 1763 through 1900.

Seacoast African American Cultural Center

With concerts, educational programs, exhibits from notable artists, and valuable collections of African artifacts, the Seacoast African American Cultural Center (SAACC) has become the hub of activity to showcase the contributions of individuals of African descent in the seacoast community.

Wentworth Gardner House-Portsmouth

Located in the historic South End of Portsmouth, NH, the adjacent Wentworth-Gardner and Tobias Lear Houses and their mid-18th century warehouse overlook the Piscataqua River. The houses date from the mid-1700's and are classic examples of Georgian architecture. Tours are given to the public, from June through October each year.

Historic Portsmouth Legends and Ghost Walk

Join the author of the bestselling book Haunted Portsmouth, Roxie J. Zwicker for an evening walk to some of the most historic and haunted locations in downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Hear about the Phantom of the Music Hall, strange tunnels and the unusual secrets hiding underneath Portsmouth streets and basements.


Shopping

Kittery Trading Post

Kittery Trading Post is a leader among hunting stores online. Find great deals on outdoor sporting goods and equipment for camping, hiking, fishing, and more.

Kittery Premium Outlets and Tanger Outlets

Tanger Outlets in Kittery, Maine offers discount shopping at brand name factory outlet stores. Visit the Tanger Outlet in Kittery, Maine to find the best deals on just about everything!


Restaurants: Casual

Moxy Restaurant-Portsmouth

Moxy is a modern American tapas restaurant focusing on smaller plates meant for sharing and taking our inspiration from our local farmers, culture and history

Jumpin’ Jays Fish Café-Portsmouth

Located just two blocks down from Market Square in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Jay's has become an overnight institution among locals who appreciate exceptional seafood.

Surf-Portsmouth

Voted Best Seafood in New Hampshire, Surf offers a wonderful combination of service and culinary expertise in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

The Dolphin Striker-Portsmouth

Set in a historic building at the corner of Ceres and Bow Streets, adjacent to the Portsmouth Harbor, The Dolphin Striker is a gem in Portsmouth's dining scene. Their thoughtfully crafted menu drawn from cuisine world wide and tailored to New England tastes looks to celebrate the region's freshest bounty. With its curbside appeal and great location nestled amongst Portsmouth's galleries and boutiques, The Dolphin Striker is a 'must-see' when in Portsmouth.

Flatbread Pizza Company-Portsmouth

Organic, All Natural, Local Farms and Dairy's, Wood-Fired Pizza Oven, Fresh Salads with Homemade Dressing, Homemade Desserts, Fabulous Cocktails, Unique Beers on Tap, Outstanding Service, Earthy Atmosphere, Local Artwork, Family Restaurant.

Portsmouth Brewery-Portsmouth

The Portsmouth Brewery, New Hampshire's original brewpub, has been serving great food and outstanding handcrafted beers in a friendly, lively atmosphere since 1991.

The Rosa Restaurant-Portsmouth

Family Italian Cuisine Since 1927, Open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week.

The Common Man-Portsmouth

Our Portsmouth home serves the same American fare with New England flair as our other Common Man locations. You'll find traditional C-MAN favorites, such as our Baked Macaroni and Cheese, award-winning Crab Cakes, Uncommon Salad, New England Pot Roast and our delicious White Chocolate Bread Pudding for dessert.

RiRa’s-Portsmouth

Rí Rá in Portsmouth was built entirely from authentic pub salvage sourced and meticulously restored in Ireland before being shipped to its new home in Portsmouth. Central in the pub is a restored bar from the famous Pulpit Pub in Waterford, itself constructed from salvage dating to the Georgian period. Also of interest from Ireland is the antique paneling from The Bridge House in Cahir, County Tipperary.

The Press Room-Portsmouth

The Press Room is a restaurant, bar and club that features live music nightly. Its menu offers soups, sandwiches, appetizers, burgers and entrees. Live music includes blues, jazz, R&B, folk and Latin jazz. The club hosts poetry readings and open mic nights.

Young’s Restaurant-Durham

At Young’s, we’ve always been committed to great food, great service, a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, and the local community. For the last 20 years, we’ve also been highly dedicated to increased sustainability, recognizing that we all have a responsibility to preserve our natural resources, environment, and to support our local economy and community.

Libby’s-Durham

Traditional American bar, with club downstairs and a great menu.


Restaurants: Date Night

Rudi’s-Portsmouth

Rudi's Portsmouth is a contemporary American restaurant with something for everyone. Ease your way in to a bright and brassy Sunday afternoon or moody weeknight when Rudi's charismatic atmosphere boasts an eclectic mix of downtown charm and uptown polish. Sample the freshest of local farms and Seaport bounties with menus for cool, quiet lunches (daily, 11:30-3) and upbeat, lime-lit dinners (nightly, 4-close) featuring a wide array of traditional dishes with signature twists.

Ristaurante Massimo’s-Portsmouth

Fine Italian dining in Portsmouth NH. Superior service and top-notch cuisine in elegant yet comfortable surroundings. Exceptional wine list.

Black Trumpet Bistro-Portsmouth

Black Trumpet is a family-owned bistro and wine bar in the heart of Portsmouth’s historic old port. Both floors offer views of the Piscataqua River and the oft-photographed tugboats that still escort enormous tankers into the harbor.

Martingale Wharf-Portsmouth

Features an expansive deck overlooking Portsmouth Harbor, lounge with one of a kind 360 degree bar, and a diverse menu appealing to all palates. Luxury indoor and outdoor seating.

Three Chimneys Inn-Durham / ffrost Sawyer Tavern

The Tavern, with its open hearth "Summer Kitchen" fireplace, granite walls, and hand-hewn beams, provides a cozy spot for hearty traditional New England fare. The ffrost Sawyer Tavern is a popular dining spot for local guests and travelers.

Mombo-Portsmouth

Mombo showcases made from-scratch New American cuisine with an international twist, highlighted by the season's freshest ingredients. Watch our team in action from the open-kitchen bar or the chef's table and perhaps they will tell you what inspires the ever-changing menu.

The Library Restaurant-Portsmouth

Located in the Rockingham House, The Library Restaurant is one of Portsmouth’s most valued historic landmarks. Join us for traditional New England fare, while surrounded by architectural treasures of an era gone by. Open for dinner, lunch and brunch. Reservations suggested.