Explore Portsmouth’s 400-Year Legacy on Foot: A Historical Walking Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; mostly flat urban walking with frequent stops.
Overview
Trace four centuries of American history on foot in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. This guided walking tour uncovers the city’s colonial past, maritime heritage, and iconic landmarks along charming cobblestone streets.
Walking Through 400 Years of History
Daily at 10:30am | Saturdays at 2:30pm | Second and Fourth Friday at 2:30pm
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Discover the vibrant history of Portsmouth on a captivating 90-minute walking tour. Led by enthusiastic guides, explore the city's unique blend of architecture, specialty shops, and lively streets. With whisper-quiet headsets enhancing your experience, this tour promises to unveil hidden treasures you won't want to miss. Reserve your spot today!
RATES & TIMES:
- Tours are $15 for members, $20 for non-members, Discounted $15 (Children 5-18, Seniors 62+, Students, Portsmouth Residents) , and free for children 5 and under.
- Not yet a member? Sign up here!
- Daily at 10:30 am
- Additional tours every Saturday and the 2nd and 4th Friday at 2:30 pm
- All tours depart from Portsmouth Historical Society, 10 Middle Street, Portsmouth NH (Exact meeting location details will be provided immediately upon purchase of tickets.)
- Online reservations close 30 minutes prior to tour departure. Please call (603) 436-8433 for last minute bookings.
- No Dogs Allowed on Tours (service dogs excluded)
Learn why Portsmouth is the hub of the New Hampshire Seacoast! Our downtown is filled with hidden treasures. Our knowledgeable walking tour guides will introduce you to the city's rich past and lively present—a unique mix of architecture, specialty shops, and bustling streets nestled in a village-like setting. This 90-minute guided walking tour is sure to bring the history of Portsmouth alive!
Whisper quiet headset are used on our tours. You may use our thoroughly sanitized earphones, your own 3.5mm earphones, or purchase a $4 pair of earbuds at the Museum Shop.
Tour space is limited. Walk-ins welcome, but reservations strongly encouraged. Member discounts apply. We suggest our guests to arrive no less than 15 minutes prior to tour departure. Private tours are available upon request. Please call (603) 436-8433 for more information.*
“About an hour and a half of walking with an experienced, knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic guide brought to life the history and details of the place that you would otherwise miss. It was fascinating.”
—Lewis L. via TripAdvisor.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour covers several city blocks on uneven historic pavement—sturdy shoes make the experience more enjoyable.
Bring a water bottle
Stay hydrated during the 2-hour walk, especially on warm days.
Check weather forecast
Portsmouth’s coastal weather can change quickly; dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Arrive early to parking spots
Downtown Portsmouth parking fills quickly; plan extra time for parking or use public transit.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Peregrine falcons nesting on city buildings
- Harbor seals visible near the pier
History
Portsmouth was founded in 1623 and played a strategic role during the American Revolution as a shipbuilding hub.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on preserving historic buildings and maintaining the Portsmouth Harbor shoreline’s ecological health.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for navigating uneven historic sidewalks and streets comfortably.
Light waterproof jacket
Spring showers in coastal New Hampshire can be frequent, a light jacket keeps you dry.
spring specific
Sunhat and sunscreen
Protect against sun exposure during midday walking segments.
summer specific
Warm layers
Fall weather can be cool near the waterfront; layering helps adjust to conditions.
fall specific