Explore the Portsmouth Path of President Washington: A Historic Walking Tour in New Hampshire
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals with moderate mobility; mostly walking on level surfaces with some uneven cobblestones.
Overview
Discover Portsmouth through the footsteps of George Washington on this engaging walking tour. Explore historic landmarks, colonial architecture, and the vibrant maritime heritage of one of New England’s oldest cities.
Walking Tour: The Portsmouth Path of President Washington
Learn about President Washington’s visit in 1789 | First and Third Fridays at 2:30pm
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 90-minute walking tour retracing President Washington's historic visit to Portsmouth in 1789. Discover key sites like Brewster’s Tavern and the Governor John Langdon House, while using whisper-quiet headsets for an immersive experience. Join this unique journey through history every 1st and 3rd Friday!
The Portsmouth Path of President Washington
led by Jeff Thomson
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!
- Tours every 1st and 3rd 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)
President Washington visited Portsmouth for four days in the fall of 1789 as part of the President’s tour of the northern states six months after his inauguration. During your 90-minute walk, you will follow the route of the President down Congress Street to the site of the former British State House in Market Square where he addressed the citizens of Portsmouth.
Other locations visited:
- Site of Brewster’s Tavern where the Washingtons slept
- Governor John Langdon House where the Washingtons had tea and attended a piano concert.
- Sites of two churches where the President worshipped—both on the same day!
- Portsmouth waterfront where President Washington enjoyed barge cruise.
- Childhood home of Tobias Lear, Washington’s private secretary from 1783-1799.
- Pitt Tavern where the President participated in a Masonic service.
This walking tour begins at Discover Portsmouth Welcome Center and ends in Market Square.
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.*
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour covers historic cobblestones and paved city streets, so sturdy, supportive footwear is recommended.
Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially in warmer months; there are limited spots for purchasing drinks along the route.
Check the Weather
Tours run rain or shine, so dress appropriately and bring layers to adapt to changing conditions.
Arrive Early
Starting at 10 Middle Street, arriving 10 minutes before your tour helps with check-in and introduction.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Keep an eye out for harbor seals along the Piscataqua River shore.
- Local birdwatchers often spot great blue herons near waterfront piers.
History
Portsmouth was a key shipbuilding port during the Revolutionary War and one of the first cities in the U.S. to welcome George Washington after his presidency began in 1789.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving Portsmouth’s historic districts and maintaining clean waterfronts through community environmental programs.
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Adventure Hotspots in Portsmouth
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
To navigate cobblestones and paved streets comfortably throughout the year.
Weather-appropriate Layers
Prepare for variable New England weather during the tour.
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated during the moderately paced walking tour.
Compact Umbrella or Rain Jacket
Helpful to stay dry if spring showers appear during the tour.
spring specific