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Upcoming Cruises

River, Harbor and Island Tours

Expertly narrated history tours of Portsmouth harbor, the Isles of Shoals and the New Hampshire Seacoast.

Isles of Shoals & Portsmouth Harbor Tour (aboard M/V Challenger)

  Please note this cruise is aboard our smaller vessel the M/V Challenger pictured above. 

No need to print your tickets.  We will have your name and number in your party and check off as you board.

Join us aboard the M/V Challenger for one of our expertly narrated Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth Harbor tours.   Experience the history and beauty of the seacoast and Isles of Shoals with a more intimate view from the Challenger.   

To maximize our time cruising the islands this tour does not stop at the Isles of Shoals.  No disembarking at Star Island. 

Cruise Schedule

• Jul 19, 2024 01:50 PM
• Jul 20, 2024 01:50 PM
• Jul 23, 2024 12:20 PM
• Jul 25, 2024 12:20 PM
• Jul 26, 2024 01:50 PM
• Jul 27, 2024 01:50 PM
• Aug 01, 2024 01:50 PM
• Aug 02, 2024 01:50 PM
• Aug 03, 2024 01:50 PM
• Aug 06, 2024 12:20 PM

Star Island Day Visit & Portsmouth Harbor Tour

This cruise utilizes both our vessels.  Outbound portion is on our smaller vessel the Challenger.  Inbound is aboard our larger vessel the Thomas Laighton.  Star Island visitor fee is included in ticket price.

Spend the day on Star Island. This cruise lets you experience our Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth harbor tour, the Star Island Walking tour and stay for the day on Star Island! You’ll spend approximately 3.75 hours exploring Star Island. Participation in the Walking Tour is optional. 

• Jun 29, 2024 08:50 AM
• Jul 06, 2024 09:20 AM
• Jul 13, 2024 09:20 AM
• Jul 15, 2024 09:20 AM
• Jul 20, 2024 09:20 AM
• Jul 27, 2024 09:20 AM
• Aug 03, 2024 09:20 AM
• Aug 10, 2024 09:20 AM
• Aug 17, 2024 09:20 AM
• Aug 24, 2024 09:20 AM

Star Island Walking Tour & Portsmouth Harbor Tour

Star Island visitor fee is included in ticket price.  This cruise allows approximately 1 hour on Star Island.

Enjoy our expertly narrated Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth Harbor Tour with the added bonus of a guided walking tour on Star Island! You'll hear the fascinating history and lore of Portsmouth Harbor as we navigate 10 miles of river and ocean out to Star Island, one of the first footholds for settlement in the new world. Disembark with our tour guide and explore Star Island. Your guide will walk you through over 400 years of rich history including the charting of the Isles in 1614 by Captain John Smith of Jamestown and Pocohontas fame who was given the isles as a reward for his efforts on behalf of the Crown of England. Hear the legend of the pirates Blackbeard and Captain Kidd, and the lady ghost of White Island. In the 1800's, resort hotels were built on Star and Appledore Islands and the Shoals became one of the most popular vacation spots on the New England Coast. You'll see the Oceanic hotel, which rivaled the grandest hotels of the time and is still in operation today. Your tour will take you through the replica of Gosport Village, a fishing outpost dating back to the early 1600s which includes the picturesque Stone Chapel and several cottages. You'll also see the tallest gravestone in the state of New Hampshire, the John Smith Monument, and the Caswell Cemetary. 

The guided walking portion of the tour is optional and you are welcome to explore the island on your own. 

• Jun 19, 2024 11:50 AM
• Jun 21, 2024 12:20 PM
• Jun 22, 2024 11:50 PM
• Jun 26, 2024 10:50 AM
• Jun 28, 2024 12:20 PM
• Jul 01, 2024 11:50 AM
• Jul 03, 2024 11:50 AM
• Jul 04, 2024 11:50 AM
• Jul 05, 2024 11:50 AM
• Jul 06, 2024 11:50 AM

Star Island Walking Tour & Portsmouth Harbor Tour (aboard the Challenger)

This cruise is aboard the M/V Challenger pictured above.  Star Island visitor fee is included in ticket price.  This cruise allows approximately 1 hour on Star Island.

     Enjoy our narrated Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth Harbor Tour with the added bonus of a self guided walking tour on Star Island! You'll hear the fascinating history and lore of Portsmouth Harbor as we navigate 10 miles of river and ocean out to Star Island, one of the first footholds for settlement in the new world.  In the 1800's, Resort hotels were built on Star and Appledore Islands and the Shoals became one of the most popular vacation spots on the New England Coast. You'll see the Oceanic hotel, which rivaled the grandest hotels of the time and is still in operation today. You may walk through the replica of Gosport Village, a fishing outpost dating back to the early 1600s which includes the picturesque Stone Chapel and several cottages. You'll also see the tallest gravestone in the state of New Hampshire, the John Smith Monument, and the Caswell Cemetary.

• Jun 23, 2024 09:20 AM
• Jun 23, 2024 01:20 PM
• Jun 30, 2024 09:20 AM
• Jun 30, 2024 01:20 PM
• Jul 02, 2024 12:20 PM
• Jul 07, 2024 09:20 AM
• Jul 07, 2024 01:20 PM
• Jul 14, 2024 09:20 AM

Sunset Acoustic Harbor Cruise

Catch the sunset from the best deck in town; aboard the Thomas Laighton.  Have a drink and unwind while listening to live acoustic entertainment.  A perfect end to your week.

BAGS (including large purses) and BACKPACKS ARE NOT ALLOWED ONBOARD. 

CASH ONLY BAR!

• Jun 15, 2024 07:00 PM
• Jun 30, 2024 07:00 PM
• Jul 07, 2024 07:00 PM
• Jul 14, 2024 07:00 PM
• Jul 28, 2024 07:00 PM
• Aug 04, 2024 07:00 PM
• Aug 11, 2024 06:20 PM
• Aug 18, 2024 06:20 PM
• Aug 25, 2024 06:20 PM
• Sep 01, 2024 05:50 PM

Extended Star Island Walking Tour

Enjoy our expertly narrated Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth Harbor Tour with the added bonus of a guided walking tour on Star Island! You'll hear the fascinating history and lore of Portsmouth Harbor as we navigate 10 miles of river and ocean out to Star Island, one of the first footholds for settlement in the new world. Disembark with our tour guide and explore Star Island. Your guide will walk you through over 400 years of rich history including the charting of the Isles in 1614 by Captain John Smith of Jamestown and Pocohontas fame who was given the isles as a reward for his efforts on behalf of the Crown of England. Hear the legend of the pirates Blackbeard and Captain Kidd, and the lady ghost of White Island. In the 1800's Resort hotels were built on Star and Appledore Islands and the Shoals became one of the most popular vacation spots on the New England Coast. You'll see the Oceanic hotel, which rivaled the grandest hotels of the time and is still in operation today. Your tour will take you through the replica of Gosport Village, a fishing outpost dating back to the early 1600s which includes the picturesque Stone Chapel and several cottages. You'll also see the tallest gravestone in the state of New Hampshire, the John Smith Monument, and the Caswell Cemetary. After your walking tour you'll have time to visit the giftshop, bookstore, and snack bar in the hotel if you'd like. 

The guided walking portion of the tour is optional and you are welcome to explore the island on your own. This cruise allows approximately 1.5 hours on Star Island. 

• Aug 31, 2024 08:50 AM

Isles of Shoals & Portsmouth Harbor Tour

Join us aboard the M/V Thomas Laighton for one of our expertly narrated Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth Harbor tours. Experience the history and beauty of the seacoast, Portsmouth harbor and the little known, but historically crucial, Isles of Shoals.

This cruise does not disembark passengers at Star Island. 

• Jun 01, 2024 11:50 AM
• Jun 05, 2024 01:50 PM
• Jun 08, 2024 09:50 AM
• Jun 13, 2024 01:50 PM
• Jun 15, 2024 01:50 PM
• Jun 20, 2024 01:50 PM
• Jun 24, 2024 01:50 PM
• Jun 27, 2024 01:50 PM
• Jul 02, 2024 01:50 PM
• Jul 16, 2024 01:50 PM

Star Island (pre-season) Walking Tour and Portsmouth Harbor Tour

This is pre-season for Star Island, so most of the facilities won't be open.  The walking tour is not affected. 

• May 26, 2024 11:50 AM
• May 27, 2024 01:20 PM
• Jun 02, 2024 01:20 PM
• Jun 09, 2024 01:20 PM
• Jun 16, 2024 09:20 AM

Star Island Extended Day Visit

Spend the day on Star Island. This cruise lets you experience our Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth harbor tour, the Star Island Walking tour and stay for the day on Star Island! You’ll spend approximately 5 hours exploring Star Island. Participation in the Walking Tour is optional. 

• Jul 21, 2024 09:20 AM
• Jul 28, 2024 09:20 AM
• Aug 04, 2024 09:20 AM
• Aug 11, 2024 09:20 AM
• Aug 18, 2024 09:20 AM
• Aug 25, 2024 09:20 AM

Special Events

Special events are even more magical on the M/V Thomas Laighton!

Sunset Harbor Cruise aboard the Challenger

This cruise is aboard our smaller vessel the Challenger.

Catch a gorgeous sunset aboard the M/V Challenger.  Have a drink and unwind.  In lieu of a narrated tour, background music is provided. 

BAGS (including large purses) and BACKPACKS ARE NOT ALLOWED ONBOARD.

• Jul 03, 2024 07:45 PM

Party Ships

Come join us on the best Party Ship on the Seacoast! The M/V Thomas Laighton steams through the Piscataqua River and Portsmouth Harbor on this 21 and over party ship. 

The best party on the Seacoast is aboard the M/V Thomas Laighton!   This cruise is 21+ and a valid state issued photo ID is required. Bags are subject to search. 

BARS ARE CASH ONLY!! ATM available prior to boarding the vessel. 

• Jun 08, 2024 07:30 PM
• Jun 14, 2024 07:30 PM
• Jun 28, 2024 07:30 PM
• Jul 03, 2024 07:30 PM
• Jul 05, 2024 07:30 PM
• Jul 06, 2024 07:30 PM
• Jul 12, 2024 07:30 PM
• Jul 18, 2024 07:30 PM
• Jul 20, 2024 07:30 PM

Industry Night!! featuring Truly Seltzer and Codigo 1530 Tequila

Do you work on the weekends?  Monday is the new Friday on Thomas Laighton!  Come join us for Industry Night sponsored by Truly Spiked Seltzer and Altos Tequila. 

The best party on the Seacoast is aboard the M/V Thomas Laighton! Dance to great music by local bands and DJ's while you enjoy drink specials, theme nights, good company, and amazing scenery. CHEERS! T his cruise is 21+ and a valid state issued photo ID is required.  

BARS ARE CASH ONLY!   ATM available prior to boarding the vessel. 

• Jun 24, 2024 07:00 PM
• Jul 08, 2024 07:00 PM
• Jul 22, 2024 07:00 PM
• Aug 05, 2024 07:00 PM
• Aug 26, 2024 07:00 PM
• Sep 09, 2024 07:00 PM

The M/V Thomas Laighton is one of the most unique venues available for your special event. Our 300 capacity passenger vessel truly is a "floating function facility" that can adapt to any type of special event from weddings and rehearsal dinners to company outings and celebratory parties. The best part about chartering our vessel (besides the breathtaking views and tremendous service) is that the boat and all of its amenities are yours alone.

Portsmouth Harbor Cruises

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Portsmouth Harbor Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Portsmouth (NH) cruise ship visits close to reality: What to expect in 2024

November 14, 2023

Tags: American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines is in its “final assessment” of the New Hampshire Port Authority facility before deciding whether to make multiple stops in Portsmouth during the summer of 2024.

Eric Dussault , the director of port operations for American Cruise Lines, believes “Portsmouth is going to be a really good fit for us.”

Full story Portsmouth (NH) cruise ship visits close to reality: What to expect in 2024

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Portsmouth Cruise Ship Visits Possible

American Cruise Lines is in its final assessment of the New Hampshire Port Authority facility before deciding whether to make multiple stops in Portsmouth during the summer of 2024.

If the company does decide to make stops in Portsmouth, Eric Dessault from American Cruise Lines believes it will be a great addition because of all the city has to offer.

He pointed both to Portsmouth’s historic downtown, and its array of restaurants and bars, along with unique shops and stores.

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Great discoveries start here

Cruise schedule.

Please be advised that the cruise ship schedule is provisional, and is subject to alteration without prior notice. Please see  arrivals and departures  for daily vessel movements.

Under ‘Call type’, a call is where a vessel and its passengers visit the port, spending a day or sometimes more in Portsmouth . A  turnround is when passengers leave after finishing a cruise, and then a new set of passengers join for another cruise.

A disembark is where passengers only leave the vessel, and an embark is where a passenger just join the vessel .   Technical indicates when a vessel visits the port for stores, crew changes or a berthing trial.

Portsmouth, NH

To see discounted cruises that visit or depart from this port, use the Find a Bargain box on the left.

Portsmouth is a great family-oriented town, with much to do for everyone. For the kids, there's New England's biggest water-slide park, whale watching and hayrides, plus many festivals and a harbor discovery center. For outdoor enthusiasts, there's great biking, hiking, fishing, sailing and bird watching. And for the rest of us, there's great shopping, restaurants, plenty of historic sites and museums.

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Portsmouth Cruise Terminal

Portsmouth Port's Ferry & Cruise Passenger Terminal Address:, George Byng Way, Portsmouth PO2 8SP

Portsmouth is one of the UK's most proud and established maritime cities. Nowadays Portsmouth is still Britain's best-connected ferry port and actually the nearest to London at only 73 miles away.

An established harbour town with wide trading roots from the early 1200s, Portsmouth first introduced cruise ships from 2001. This was further established in 2011 with the construction of the state-of-the-art cruise terminal facility.

See all our great deals here for cruises from Portsmouth  and all cruises from the UK .

Portsmouth Cruise Terminal Cruise Lines and Destinations

Amazing destinations such as Northern Europe, the Mediterranean and the British Isles await from Portsmouth. In Northern Europe, you can discover the Fjords of Scandinavia, the Baltic cities of St Petersburg, Berlin and Stockholm or the fringes of the Arctic and the Northern Lights from Iceland.

Meanwhile, in the Mediterranean, you can explore some of the finest cultures and richest histories in the world in Barcelona, Rome, the Greek Islands or Nice. Of course, you can also explore the rest of the British Isles from Portsmouth, touring the Highlands and Islands of Scotland round to vibrant cities like Dublin and Liverpool.

• British Isles: The Scottish Isles, Liverpool, Dublin and Belfast
• Mediterranean: Italy, France, Spain, Portugal and Greece
• Northern Europe: Iceland, the Faeroes and the Norwegian Fjords
• Baltic: Stockholm, Copenhagen, St Petersburg

Travelling to Portsmouth Cruise Terminal

If driving, due to Portsmouth's location, wherever you are coming from across the country, simply head to the city and the M275 goes straight to the port. There is good signage all the way while the Sat Nav address is PO2 8SP. The port complex is well connected and laid out although there could be some waiting around the entrance to the port if arriving at a peak time.

By Public Transport

There are trains from London Victoria through Brighton, London Waterloo direct and Cardiff via Bristol. Meanwhile, by coach, there is a direct service from London Victoria Coach station to the port as well as a local bus from the city centre. There is also a taxi rank outside the main terminal, local stations and airports.

Southampton Airport is the closest at only 20 miles away while the London airports of Heathrow and Gatwick are just 66 and 80 miles away as well. This makes Portsmouth one of the best-connected ports for international fliers and a great option as part of a fly cruise.

Portsmouth Cruise Terminal Facilities

The facilities are open to use between 6am and 11pm all week while waiting to board or meet your connection. If hungry, there is a Costa Coffee or World Marché café and a bar to celebrate the start of your holiday along with a spacious lounge area capable of accommodating 2,400 passengers.

There is a shop for last-minute travel essentials and a bureau de change. Internet access is available while there is disabled access with special assistance including transfer by mini-bus and guide-dog’s permitted. Of course, toilets with baby changing facilities are also located in the terminal while you can leave luggage safely in the terminal for £4 per bag.

There is an excellent 24-hour car parking facility available for both long and short stays. If picking up or dropping off, one hour stay is £4 while it’s £13 per day for long-stay guests. In addition, a number of car hire companies operate services at various pick-up and drop-off points in and around the city of Portsmouth.

Tourism: what to see and do in Portsmouth

Affectionately called ‘Pompey’ by the locals, Portsmouth has a proud history of maritime exploits and you are just as likely to see vessels of her majesty’s navy as you look out from the terminals’ observation terrace as you are cruise ships and ferries. With HMS Victory and Warrior residents of Portsmouth harbour and open to the public. The Mary Rose museum is also a fascinating few hours for those interested in Great Britain’s’ maritime history.

The Emirates Spinnaker is another tourist attraction literally well the worth the look in Portsmouth this 200-foot tower dominating the waterfront lets you see up to 26 miles away across the southern coast of England and the channel beyond. In addition, the D-day story is another fascinating museum telling the story of Portsmouth’s role in the beginning of the liberation of Nazi Europe in 1944.

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Isles of Shoals Cruise

Buy Tickets

For the 2023 season, this trip will be available only for private charters. Subject to change.

If the open sea is your desire, join us for the Isles of Shoals cruise. Leave Portsmouth Harbor and discover the nine legendary islands located six miles off the coast. Settled by Captain John Smith, the Isles of Shoals have had a diverse history as a mecca for fishing in colonial times, a hideout for notorious pirates, and a resort for intellectuals; all contributing to its role in the lore and legends of the Seacoast.

Come aboard for an adventure you won't forget. Bird watchers bring your binoculars.

The Isles of Shoals Cruise is approximately 2.5 hours.

Reservations strongly suggested. Children 2 and under ride free. Schedule and prices subject to change.

Experience the Isles of Shoals With Us!

Virgin Voyages' guide to Portsmouth, United Kingdom

A British port city with 1000 years of history.

Where medieval meets modern

If England were a play, a pivotal character would be Portsmouth — whose themes regarding discovery, battle, and conquest transcend centuries. One can view the city as a symbolic gateway into the heritage of the British people, while synchronously as a glimpse into the not-so-far-away British lands. About an hour northwest is Stonehenge, Salisbury and Winchester, and within two hours you can touch down in London.

Shore Excursions

Sallyforth from Portsmouth

Panoramic portsmouth: from sea to sky.

While known for its naval legacy, Portsmouth is home to some impressive landmarks dating back to 1194. With a guide, navigate this legendary city on foot, by boat, and from up in the air — in no particular order — to view the birthplace of the Victorian novelist Charles Dickens, get a glimpse at one of the most famous warships recognized for her role in the Battle of Trafalgar, and enjoy a monumental view atop the Spinnaker Tower, looking down on the city from 70m/229ft in the sky.

Scenic Londontown — End at Heathrow Airport

After luggage collection, you’ll be whisked away on an exciting panoramic drive to central London. In the old city, you’ll marvel at Big Ben’s striking clock, Westminster’s Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street (the Prime Minister’s place), the pulsing Piccadilly Circus, and the dynamic dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Before heading to Heathrow Airport, take some time to stroll around The Tower of London. If staying, get dropped off at Victoria Station. How’s that for a fond farewell?

Winchester’s Wonders (and onward to Heathrow)

Get in a final hurrah in one of England’s most significant cities: Winchester. Exit the port and drive to a momentous 7th-century castle and cathedral where sacred art and architecture will introduce you to the important symbols of England, choir stalls, and ornately carved figures. Get awestruck in the Great Hall of King Henry VIII where walls are comprised of mythic scenes like King Arthur’s Round Table.

More Shore Things for your wishlist...

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Centuries in the making

The dockyard’s been operational since 1194.

Set Sail the Virgin Way

Set sail the Virgin way and find a new approach to cruise vacations. Select a cruise itinerary and let's sail.

From England to Amsterdam (& back)

Art and architecture in Amsterdam

English Sights & European Delights

Diving into Basque culture in Bilbao

Portsmouth to Lisbon, Casablanca & Spain

Sprawling beaches of Màlaga

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Portsmouth summer 2024: Guide to festivals, tall ships, music, shows, history, food, more

PORTSMOUTH — It’s shaping up to be a summer of song, sea, history and the arts in Portsmouth in 2024. There are many ways to celebrate the season in the city.

Read on to learn about the not-to-be missed special events and gems that make summer shine in Portsmouth. We cover everything from maritime history and events, to historic homes to new restaurants and breweries, to live concerts and shows, festivals of all kinds and more.

Enjoy Portsmouth on the water

At the heart of the city is its maritime history from its beginnings as an abundant fishing ground to its world-class shipbuilding reputation that has spanned centuries. A visit to Portsmouth is not complete without getting out on the water, sailing the Piscataqua River, Portsmouth Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean, which brought settlers to its shores.

2024 Sail Portsmouth tall ships festival

This year’s Sail Portsmouth Festival will bring the nation’s most famous tall ship, the Coast Guard’s cutter The Eagle to the Piscataqua River. It will arrive in the Parade of Sail from the mouth of the river into Portsmouth on the morning of Friday, July 26 and dock at the State Pier on Market Street for public tours on Saturday and Sunday, July 27-28. Two additional tall ships — the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey and the S/V Denis Sullivan — will join the Eagle in the Parade of Sail and then offer sails for the public to experience life on the sea in a tall ship. There’ll also be a dockside tent with educational and entertaining activities. Visit sailportsmouth.org for tickets and information.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

More: Eagle to lead Sail Portsmouth tall ships festival in 2024. Here are the details.

Cruise to lighthouses

Friends of Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouses will offer two Sunset Lighthouses Cruises this summer on June 21 and 28 aboard the M/V Granite State, departing from Rye Harbor on Route 1A in Rye. The cruises will pass close to Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, Whaleback Lighthouse, and White Island Lighthouse in the Isles of Shoals. The narrator will be lighthouse historian/author Jeremy D’Entremont, and there will be raffles for prizes and a snack bar on board.

The group will also offer a Five Lighthouse Cruise Saturday, Sept. 21 leaving at 8:30 a.m. Information: portsmouthharborlighthouse.org .

Explore on The Heritage

You can learn about Portsmouth Harbor on a narrated cruise on The Heritage, a 49-passenger boat where you can see the city, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and lighthouses from the water, and learn about the river’s role in the area’s eco-system. Information: portsmouthharbor.com .

Visit the Isles of Shoals

Sail out to the Isles of Shoals, which are about seven miles from Portsmouth, with the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company for trip into an earlier time and a serene setting. You can also disembark for a tour of Star Island, once home to grand hotels and world-famous artists, and now home to educational retreats run by the nonprofit Star Island Corporation, which now owns the island. Visit islesofshoals.com/ to see when its Thomas Leighton’s next trip is and don’t miss the boat.

Sail on The Gundalow

You can learn about the area’s maritime heritage sailing aboard an authentic gundalow, a cargo barge with a shallow draft that was commonly used to transport goods and materials around the area’s rivers and estuaries for centuries. The Gundalow Company offers sails of different kinds and themes on the Gundalow Piscataqua several times a day during the summer. Visit  gundalow.org/sahttps://portsmouthwatertaxi.com/il-with-us for tickets and times.

Portsmouth Water Taxi

New this year is a water taxi service located at the Sullivan Boat Launch on Pierce Island in Portsmouth. You can get a ride into Portsmouth by boat so you can enjoy the city on foot with no worries about parking or having to drive home. Information: portsmouthwatertaxi.com or call 603) 550-1380.

Historic museums and sights in Portsmouth

Strawbery banke museum.

You can stroll through centuries as you tour the historic homes preserved at Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth. The museum has some hidden gems you don’t want to miss this summer.

There’s a new activity, “Think Blue, What Can You Do?” in the museum’s Water Has A Memory exhibit; new features at the Walsh House like an interactive dining etiquette lesson from 1802; Guided Garden Tours on weekdays from June 10 to Sept. 29 to learn about preserving the museum’s heirloom flora; and Behind-The-Scenes Guided Tours where you can handle objects and learn history firsthand.

‘The Matter of Memory’ exhibit

Over at the Discover Portsmouth Center at 10 Middle St., the Portsmouth Historical Society presents “The Matter of Memory,” its exhibition this summer which is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The exhibit studies the role of museums in preserving and shaping a community’s memory and how these institutions’ choices affect how we understand our history. Information: portsmouthhistory.org .

Historic Portsmouth walking tours

The Portsmouth Historical Society presents the Historic Portsmouth walking tour daily during the summer. It also offers four themed walking tours highlighting the city’s LGBTQ history, women’s history and others. Visit portsmouthhistory.org/walking-tours .

Black Heritage Trail tours

The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire is offering 11 different Sankofa guided walking tours covering a variety of events and aspects of the city’s Black history. Check topics and times, and register at blackheritagetrailnh.org/sankofa-guided-walking-tours-2 .

John Paul Jones House

The John Paul Jones House at 43 Middle St. opens on Memorial Day Weekend for tours from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays to Mondays, and contains the society’s ongoing history exhibits. Information: portsmouthhistory.org/jpj .

Juneteenth celebrations

This year’s Juneteenth celebrations presented by the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire will have the theme “Dreaming Black Art: Gateways to a New Awareness.” Events in June in Portsmouth include an artist reception, an in-depth conversation on Black masculinity, a live concert, a children's drumming workshop, African drumming, and more. The annual ceremony at the African Burying Ground in Portsmouth will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 19 and that night there’s a concert celebrating “The Magic Of Motown” at The Music Hall at 7:30 p.m. Visit blackheritagetrailnh.org/juneteenth-celebration-2024 .

Portsmouth’s historic homes

Historic New England oversees three of the city’s most popular historic houses and will hold free Open Houses for the public on Saturday, June 1. The Jackson House, 76 Northwest St., will be open 11a.m. to 3 p.m.; The Langdon House, 143 Pleasant St., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the Rundlet-May House, 364 Middle St., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will also host special events like “From the South End to the West End: A Walking Tour of Portsmouth” on June 28, July 12 and Sept. 13 at 1 p.m. leaving from the Langdon House; “Behind the Scenes of the Rundlet-May House” on June 29 and July 27 at 10 a.m.; and the Jackson House and Christian Shore Landscape Tour, Aug. 24 at 2:30 p.m. Call (603) 436-3205 for more information and tickets or visit historicnewengland.org .

Frederick Douglass Reading

Community leaders will gather at Strawbery Banke Museum’s Goodwin Garden on Hancock Street to read Frederick Douglass’ “What To The Slave Is Your Fourth of July?” and reflect on its meaning from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 29. This event is free and open to the public. Visit blackheritagetrailnh.org/frederick-douglass-statewide-readings .

Portsmouth’s flair for flavor

Summer is here and the eating is easy in Portsmouth. With more restaurant seats than residents, Portsmouth has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to excellent chefs, welcoming restaurants, variety of cuisines and great food to experience.

Chowderfest kicks off a season of seafood

Celebrate New England’s quintessential chowder culture at the annual Chowder Festival Summer Kickoff on Saturday, June 1 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Chowder Festival presents chowders from 20 to 30 local restaurants to sample as they compete for the prized Golden Ladle.You can vote for the People’s Choice award winner, a restaurant that will reign along with the judges’ choice for the Seacoast’s best chowder. Tickets to this fundraiser for the Prescott Park Arts Festival are available at prescottpark.org .

Taste a local oyster

Oysters are a rising star of the region’s cuisine. Farmed right here in the Great Bay and the waterways around Hampton and Seabrook, local oysters are a must-try on a visit to Portsmouth. Check out the Little Bay Beauties or 603 Oysters and others at Franklin Oyster House or Row 34 and don’t miss the Shuck a Buck on Tuesdays at Jumpin’ Jay’s Fish Cafe . Shuck a Buck season at Jay’s ends June 25 and starts up again in the fall.

More: Portsmouth's booming restaurants hit 36,000 seats in city of 22,000 residents

Portsmouth Farmers’ Market

The Portsmouth Farmers’ Market takes place each Saturday during the summer and features an array of local produce, meat, crafts, artisans, products and music. It runs from 8 a.m. to noon at the parking lot in front of City Hall at 1 Junkins Ave. in Portsmouth.

Tour breweries in Portsmouth

You can easily take a stroll through Portsmouth’s downtown and visit multiple breweries. Park in one of the city’s two garages or Uber in and taste a sample, from Great Rhythm Brewing , 105 Bartlett St.; Loaded Question Brewing , 909 Islington St., Suite 2; Liars Bench Beer Co ., 459 Islington St. and Earth Eagle Brewings , 175 High St..

New restaurant Bao 155

New on the corner of Congress St. and Maplewood Ave. is Bao 155, offering Thai street food from the same crew that owns Bamee Durham near the UNH campus in Durham. It’s in the building where the Portsmouth Health Food Store was located next to Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club. Check out its menu at bao155portsmouth.com .

Waterview Grill is new, too

In the spot on the waterfront where Poco’s and Rio Tequila Cantina were formerly located, you’ll find the new Waterview Grill. It’s owned by the Labrie Group — brothers and entrepreneurs Michael and Peter Labrie — which also owns Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club, the nearby River House restaurant and the Atlantic Grill in Rye. if it’s nice out, you can dine on the deck looking out at the city’s famous tugs. See what’s cooking at waterviewgrillnh.com .

More: Waterview Grill to replace Rio Tequila Cantina on Portsmouth waterfront this spring

Oar House turns 50

Just down Ceres Street from the Waterview, the Oar House restaurant is celebrating its 50th birthday this summer. New owners Casey Anderson and Halley Bushe plan to commemorate the year by spotlighting the history of the restaurant and the site within Merchant’s Row all year long. Anderson is a fourth-generation Portsmouth resident who bought the business from former owners Raymond Guerin and Peter DiZoglio in 2022 and also owns the seasonal restaurant Purple Urchin in Hampton Beach. Visit oarhousenh.com .

More: Oar House restaurant celebrating 50 years on Portsmouth waterfront

Wentworth By The Sea celebrating 150th anniversary

Next door on the island of New Castle, the Wentworth by the Sea Hotel is celebrating its 150th birthday with a reception Friday, June 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. The theme is “Gilded Era Dishes With Fresh Modern Twists.” According to the hotel’s website, Executive Chef Lee Michael combed through the hotel’s archives and menus for inspiration using Gilded-Era New England staples like pickled vegetables, lamb and salted cod “with fresh, approachable twists.” There’ll be a cash bar, drink specials and live jazz by the David Newsam Duo. Period costumes encouraged. Visit opalcollection.com/wentworth for tickets.

In addition to the party, the hotel is offering events to celebrate its history like Croquet on the Grand Lawn lessons, sessions to learn to cook dishes from the hotel’s Gilded-Era menus, hotel history tours, and High Tea in the Lobby as well as special menus and drinks at its Salt Kitchen & Bar restaurant during the month of June.

Food festivals

Other food celebrations near Portsmouth include the New England Hot Sauce Festival on July 27 newenglandhotsaucefest.com at the Smuttynose Brewing campus in Hampton

Smuttynose will celebrate its own 30th Birthday Bash on Saturday, July 13 from noon to 5 p.m. They’ll mark the anniversary by bringing back the company's very first beer Shoals Pale Ale to mark the occasion at their Hampton campus where they’ll also host the Smutty Games that day for teams to compete in and win prizes. Visit smuttynose.com/event/smuttynose-30th-anniversary-celebration .

The Portsmouth Food Truck and Craft Brewery Festival will take place on Saturday, Aug. 18 from noon to 5 p.m. at Cisco Brewers Portsmouth on the Pease Tradeport. Visit foodtruckfestivalsofamerica.com/portsmouth .

Vintage and Vine

History and wine blend at Vintage & Vine - A Wine Festival in Historic Style at Strawberry Banke Museum on Thursday, Sept. 12 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Rain or shine, for the 36th year, this fine wine and food festival will showcase the Seacoast’s best chefs and wine brokers and raise funds for the museum’s educational and preservation efforts. This event sells out quickly every year. Tickets go on sale for museum members June 10 at 10 a.m.; to the public June 17 at 10 a.m. Get them at strawberybanke.org/vintage-vine .

N.H. Brewfest

The 16th annual N.H. Brewfest will take place Saturday, Oct. 12 at Cisco Brewers Portsmouth and feature the state’s and the region’s best craft brewers. This is a fundraiser for the Prescott Park Arts Festival and the New England District of the Master Brewers Association of the Americas. Visit prescottpark.org for tickets and information.

Summer happenings

There’s nowhere quite like Portsmouth in the summertime when celebrations of the long-awaited season break out on a daily basis. Here are some of the city’s seasonal highlights.

Market Square Day

Portsmouth’s celebration of the heart of the city is Market Square Day, which will take place Saturday, June 8 from 9 to 4 p.m. The city’s largest street festival is free and will feature food, fun, entertainment, vendors, nonprofit organization, craftsmen and artisans, and the annual 10K race to kick off the morning. Information: proportsmouth.org .

'Legally Blonde' and concerts at Prescott Park Arts Festival

The city’s annual summer celebration of the arts, the Prescott Park Arts Festival, is celebrating its golden anniversary. This outdoor musical theater and concert series fills Prescott Park on Portsmouth’s waterfront just about every night of the summer. This summer, the festival will present “Legally Blonde, The Musical” most Thursdays through Sundays at 7 p.m. from June 21 to Aug. 11. You can bring a blanket or a chair and find your spot on the banks of the Piscataqua River, and enjoy a picnic and a great show. The performances are free. A donation at the gate is suggested for each attendee. You can buy a season pass, make a donation online, or reserve a blanket or a 4-person table with a great view for a fee at prescottpark.org .

The festival’s concert series lineup this year will include The Lone Bellow on Friday, June 14; the Preservation Hall Jazz Band on Wednesday, June 26; folk music icon Patty Griffin on Wednesday, July 17; and singer Allen Stone, who was a huge crowd pleaser at last summer’s concert series, on Monday, Aug. 5 among many others. All theater performances and concerts start at 7 p.m.

Pocket Gardens of Portsmouth Tour

The 35th annual Pocket Gardens of Portsmouth Tour will take place Friday, June 21 from 5 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, June 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year's tour concentrates on gardens in the Little Harbor neighborhood bordered by South Street, Middle Street, and Miller Avenue and will feature eight private gardens, one public garden, and educational opportunities with John Forti, author of “The Heirloom Gardener: Traditional Plants and Skills for the Modern World;” Susan Pike, nature writer for seacoastonline.com ; Pollinator Pathways representatives discussing native plants; Ikebana flower arranging demonstrations; musicians, plein air artists, and cookies. Tickets available at  portsmouthnhtickets.com/organizations/south-church and at five Seacoast locations. Visit southchurch-uu.org/what-we-offer/pocket-garden-tour .

Portsmouth Pride 2024

Portsmouth Pride will be celebrated with a parade anyone can join on Saturday, June 22. Gather outside 40 Pleasant St. at noon and march in the parade down Pleasant and State Street to Strawbery Banke’s Puddle Dock where the celebration will continue until 5 p.m. Enjoy food, music, 100-plus vendors, a beer tent and more. Visit seacoastoutright.org/portsmouth-pride for information.

Fill The Hall

Gather food pantry and The Music Hall are again joining forces for Fill The Hall. The mission is to fill all the theater’s seats with food donations to help feed our Seacoast neighbors in need. Donations will be accepted at 25 Chestnut St. on Saturday, June 22, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and you can always make a cash donation at gathernh.org .

Summer in the Street music series

The Summer in the Street series shuts down Pleasant Street downtown each Saturday afternoon and evening beginning June 29 to create a pedestrian-friendly performance venue in the heart of the city. Pleasant Street from Porter Street to Market Square closes from 4 to 9:30 p.m. Saturdays so folks can literally dance in the streets. The free performances begin at 5:30 p.m., but many have staked out their spot with their lawn chair long before that. Watch proportsmouth.org for announcements about this year’s performers.

Live Under The Arch series at The Music Hall

The Music Hall presents the Live Under The Arch series of outdoor concerts on Chestnut Street in front of the theater. Performing this year will be Dead Meat: A Tribute To The Grateful Dead on Friday, June 14; Assembly of Dust on Thursday, Aug. 8 and Perpetual Groove on Sunday, Aug. 25. Check out themusichall.org for tickets and more concert announcements.

Tuesdays on the Terrace Summer Concert Series

Strawberry Banke Museum presents Tuesday on the Terrace concert series from June 18 to Aug. 27 at 5:30 p.m. On the lawn of Puddle Dock, local musicians perform on the open-air stage. American band North River Music will perform June 18; Portsmouth’s own Sharon Jones on June 25; Beatles tribute 2 of Us on July 2; Kids’ Night with Sages Entertainment and DJ Skooch on July 9; Ben Baldwin and Kent Allyn, July 16; traditional bluegrass with Zoe & Cloyd on July 23; Cormac McCarthy on July 30; Truffle, Aug. 6; Sidewalk Boys, Aug. 13; Kids’ Night with Sages Entertainment and Mr. Aaron on Aug. 20; Liz and Dan Faiella on Aug. 27. Food and drinks are available for purchase. Bring your own chair or blanket.

Button Factory Stage at WSCA

Portsmouth Community Radio WSCA presents concerts on its Button Factory Stage such as songwriters Wes Pearce, Jon Hatchett, & Hamilton Belk  on  Sunday, June 16. Check out their schedule and get tickets at wscafm.org .

Ukraine’s DakhaBrakha to perform

DakhaBrakha, a music quartet from Kyiv, Ukraine, known for its theatrical shows with strong visuals, will perform at 3S Artspace on Friday, June 21 at 7 p.m. They have played in major international festivals throughout Eastern and Western Europe, Russia, Asia, Australia, and North America. Tickets at 3sarts.org .

More live music

There are a host of venues around Portsmouth that offer live music regularly if not daily. Check out Jimmy’s Bar and Grill at jimmysoncongress.com ; The Music Hall and The Music Hall Lounge, themusichall.org ; The Press Room, pressroomnh.com ; The Goat, goatnh.com/portsmouth/calendar ; The River House restaurant, riverhouse53bow.com , among other bars and restaurants that support live music all year long.

Seacoast Repertory Theatre

The Seacoast Rep’s musicals are alway top-notch and a great way to spend an evening. This summer, they’re presenting “Joseph” from June 7 to July 13; "Rock of Ages" from July 19 to Sept. 1. Visit SeacoastRep.org .

Players’ Ring Theatre

The Players’ Ring Theatre offers a variety of plays for adults evenings and on the weekends they offer productions for children during the day. Neighboring The Puddle Dock Restaurant offers a 10% discount for theater patrons. The Puddle Dock’s sister restaurant Tour on Lafayette Road does the same. Visit playersring.org for showtimes and tickets.

New Hampshire Theater Project

The New Hampshire Theatre Project is presenting the dramatic comedy “Romeo and Her Sister” June 7 to 23 at its West End Theater. Visit nhtheatreproject.org .

Boston Dance Theater at 3S Artspace

Boston Dance Theater returns to 3S Artpsace on May 31 and June 1 with "Pinnacle Works: Galili, Goecke, & Pereira,” contemporary dance works by three choreographers, “each decorated by royalty for their contributions to performing arts,” according to 3S Artspace’s website. Tickets at 3sarts.org .

New for game show fans

Game Show Face Off has opened in the Fox Run Mall. At the venue, you and your friends can play game shows live in a studio just like you see on TV. It’s for those 18 and over and you can reserve the venue for one hour to play three games with up to 20 of your friends. The venue is used for team building experiences for workplaces, but it is open for the public on weekends. Reserve your game show slot at gameshowfaceoff.com .

3S Artspace will host “The Crossword Show” on Saturday, June 22 at 7:30 p.m. Zach Sherwin is the show host and will preside over two comedians who will solve an actual crossword puzzle live on stage. Information: 3Sarts.org .

For art lovers

On the First Friday of every month, downtown Portsmouth’s art and museum galleries host the Art ‘Round Town gallery walk from 5 to 8 p.m. Galleries stay open late to welcome the public with receptions and a chance to meet the artists they represent. Find participating galleries at goportsmouthnh.com/art-round-town .

A YART Sale

Also for art lovers, 3S Artspace will hold its annual YART Sale, a yard sale featuring the work of local artists at great prices, on Sunday, June 9 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Artwork is discounted to 40% or more off fair market value price. Many of the artists will be present to meet the public.

Fourth of July fireworks

The city of Portsmouth hosts a large fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day traditionally scheduled for the evening of July 3 after dusk. Keep an eye on cityofportsmouth.com/city/master-calendar for details as the holiday gets closer.

Movie Mondays

Movies will be shown on a big screen Monday nights at Prescott Park after dusk falls. Check out prescottpark.org for this year’s films when they’re announced. A donation of $5 per person is suggested.

Telluride By The Sea

And fresh off the Telluride Film Festival in Colorado, the Telluride by the Sea Festival will take place the weekend of Sept. 12-14 at The Music Hall in Portsmouth and feature new films that debuted at 50th Telluride Film Festival over Labor Day weekend. The films to be shown in Portsmouth will be announced by The Music Hall right before Labor Day weekend. Weekend passes are on sale now at themusichall.org .