Top Things to Do in Portsmouth

Portsmouth, United States

Things to Do in Portsmouth

Hush Puppies

Food & Drink

Oh, hush puppies! These delightful little deep-fried cornmeal balls are the talk of Southern charm. In Portsmouth, it's a must-try, especially considering their crispy exterior and fluffy interior. A ...

Kayak the Lafayette River

Outdoors

Grab a paddle and head out on a kayaking adventure on the waters of the Lafayette River! This serene spot offers calm waters perfect for beginners and a tranquil atmosphere for seasoned paddlers. As y...

Craft Brews and Food Trucks

The Unexpected

For those eager to taste local flavors in a vibrant setting, head to Portsmouth’s eclectic scene of craft breweries paired with a fleet of dynamic food trucks. Sip on small-batch brews while exploring...

Hidden History at Cedar Grove Cemetery

The Unexpected

Unearth a piece of Portsmouth’s hidden history buried underneath the tranquil trees of Cedar Grove Cemetery. This historic resting place offers an eerie yet intriguing peek into the past. Wander the g...

Paddleboarding Under the Moonlight

The Unexpected

Experience the Elizabeth River like never before with a magical moonlight paddleboarding session! Glide across the shimmering water as the moonlight paints a tranquil picture all around you. This is a...

Discover Portsmouth's Murals

The Unexpected

Unleash your inner art critic and take a self-guided tour of Portsmouth’s vibrant mural scene! This unexpected treasure trove of street art spices up the city's brick and mortar with splashes of color...

Picnic at Paradise Creek Nature Park

Outdoors

Pack your favorite snacks and a comfy blanket for a perfect picnic day at Paradise Creek Nature Park. This urban oasis is a sanctuary with walking trails, scenic views, and a unique opportunity to rec...

Crabbing at Ocean View Fishing Pier

Outdoors

Get your net and head over to the Ocean View Fishing Pier for a true taste of local fun. It's not just fishing; crabbing is where all the excitement's at! Feel the sea breeze as you wait to snag a blu...

Explore the Elizabeth River Trail

Outdoors

Lace up your sneakers and embark on a journey along the Elizabeth River Trail! This scenic trail is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling while savoring the coastal beauty. As you wind your way thr...

Birdwatch at Paradise Creek Nature Park

Outdoors

Unleash your inner bird enthusiast at Paradise Creek Nature Park! This delightful park is a haven for bird watchers, with over 200 acres of lush habitats and a variety of bird species chirping around....

Smithfield Ham Biscuits

Food & Drink

Sink your teeth into Virginia's very own tradition—Smithfield Ham Biscuits! This locally adored treat takes classic Southern biscuits and pairs them with the distinctively bold and salty Smithfield Ha...

Explore the Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center

Sights

Visit the Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center to experience a vibrant celebration of creativity and cultural heritage. Housed in an awe-inspiring historic building, the center showcases ever-evolving exh...

Relax at Portsmouth’s City Park

Sights

Portsmouth City Park is the perfect escape for those seeking a breath of fresh air and a wide range of outdoor activities. Spanning over 93 acres, this park is an oasis featuring scenic water views, p...

Catch a Show at Willett Hall

Sights

For entertainment seekers, Willett Hall promises an exciting night out in Portsmouth. This versatile venue hosts a variety of performances, from live concerts to theatrical plays and comedy shows. Sit...

Discover Cradock Historic District

Sights

Take a leisurely stroll through Cradock, a quaint, historic district brimming with early 20th-century charm. Established as a planned community for shipyard workers, Cradock boasts a fascinating colle...

Visit the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum

Sights

The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum is a haven for history buffs and sea enthusiasts alike! Dive deep into the rich maritime history of Hampton Roads and explore one of the oldest naval shipyards in ...

Southern-Style Barbeque

Food & Drink

Get a taste of the South with a plate of savory, slow-cooked Southern BBQ ribs or pulled pork. Portsmouth is a hidden gem for BBQ enthusiasts, offering rich, smoky flavors and melt-in-your-mouth textu...

Navy Chowder

Food & Drink

Warm up with a bowl of Navy Chowder, a hearty soup steeped in the naval culture surrounding Portsmouth. Zeroing in on seafood staples like clams and shrimp, it's a thick and creamy dish that's both co...

Virginia Peanut Pie

Food & Drink

Take a delicious detour with a slice of Virginia Peanut Pie, a local twist on the classic sweet treat. Imagine a rich, gooey filling similar to pecan pie but packed with crunchy peanuts instead. It's ...

Taste the Spice at a Caribbean Cooking Class

The Unexpected

Who knew Portsmouth had secret spicy adventures waiting for you? Dive into the bold and vibrant world of Caribbean cuisine with a cooking class that will tantalize your taste buds and teach you the se...