Did you know that Havenwood Heritage Heights’ neighboring city, Portsmouth, is the 3rd oldest city in the United States? Settled in 1623, Portsmouth is home to just about 21,000 residents and known for its many great fishing spots, boutique shopping and some of the best food in New Hampshire. If you’re looking for the ideal weekend getaway from Concord, then Portsmouth is the way to go. Whether you’re going for a bit of rest and relaxation or you’ve decided to take a nice family trip – you’ll find something for everyone to enjoy here. Need a bit of inspiration to fill your itinerary? We’ve got you covered! Keep reading to learn more about our favorite weekend getaway destination below.
Planning a Great Weekend Trip to Portsmouth, NH
The city of Portsmouth is unique among the rugged outdoor space that much of New Hampshire is known for. This secluded seaside escape feels insulated from the outside world with its many beautiful galleries and welcoming cafes. It is at the same time historic and very hip, perfect for any visitors who want to get away for a fun and low-key adventure. There really is something for everyone to enjoy in Portsmouth. Whether you are the outdoorsy-type or you are interested in roaming through the one or more of the many Federal, Colonial and Georgian houses here – one thing all locals agree on is the fact that the city is best explored on foot.
Where to Stay
There are many great accommodation options in Portsmouth that are sure to meet the needs of the most discerning weekend travelers. To get the most out of your trip, we recommend staying in a hotel or bed and breakfast close to the city center, in order to get the best access to popular hangout spots, shopping and dining options.
Ale House Inn
Interested in learning about Portsmouth’s vibrant brewing history? The Ale House Inn is situated in the old 1880s warehouses of the Portsmouth Brewing Company. While production was stopped here during Prohibition, visitors can still see many signs of the building’s rich history all over the property.
Hotel Portsmouth
You’ll find a distinctly Victorian yet modern design atmosphere when you stay at Hotel Portsmouth. This 32-room hotel is located within the 1881 Mansion of shipping merchant John E. Sise and features some of the most interesting and beautiful interior design details of any hotel in New Hampshire. You and your group are sure to love the contemporary rooms and complimentary breakfast served here.
Martin Hill Inn
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and home-like feel in Portsmouth, then the Martin Hill Inn is the perfect hotel for you. This cozy, bed-and-breakfast-style hotel is spread out through 2 historic houses, one built in 1815 and the other in 1850. The rooms here are filled with beautiful and unique antique furnishings and breakfast can be enjoyed in the main dining area or on the go, courtesy of the innkeepers, Meg and Russ.
Outdoor Adventures
Looking to take in a bit of sea air during your trip? Then you’ll want to start your day exploring the banks of the Piscataqua River in Prescott Park. This picturesque outdoor space is the ideal spot to relax on a bench with your favorite book as you watch the ships go by. Or if you're interested in catching a show, hang around for one of the many music festival performances or outdoor plays that are often put on here.
The best way to get familiar with the downtown Portsmouth area is to ditch your car and go by foot. Here you can feast your eyes on the many great historic brick buildings, making your way towards the inviting visitor’s center, Discover Portsmouth. Grab a free map to help guide your adventure through town, catch a short film diving into the city’s history and check out the lovely little museum gift shop.
Dining and Shopping
Visitors to Portsmouth are really spoiled for choice when it comes to dining and shopping options. You’ll find everything here from casual coffee shops, hipster bar/cafes and fine dining. In fact, if you simply planned a food-tour for your weekend away, no one would blame you! Some of the best dining spots in town include Black Trumpet Bistro, Cure and Moxy.
For shopping, we suggest searching for one-of-a-kind treasures in Pickwick’s Mercantile, a Victorian-themed shop that begs visitors to take a look at the shopping experience of years past with it’s many stylish imported goods and local favorites as well. Another shop that is unique to Portsmouth is Gus and Ruby Letterpress, a custom print and artisan stationary boutique that features beautiful bespoke cards and other fine paper products.
Once you’ve checked out a few of the quaint boutiques dotting along the city center, get ready to enjoy Portsmouth after dark. Catch a performance at The Music Hall or one of the many stage productions at The Seacoast Repertory Theater. However, if you’d rather check out an art show, the city has plenty of great art gallery options as well, including local favorite Nahcotta Gallery.
Explore Portsmouth, NH This Summer!
Looking for the perfect weekend getaway from Concord? Then plan a trip to Portsmouth this summer or fall. At Havenwood Heritage Heights, we are very proud to call New Hampshire home and think you will, too. Want more information about life here at our Concord continuing care retirement community? Contact our friendly team online today to learn more about our welcoming, warm and beautiful retirement community.
