Attractions and Places To See around Portsmouth - Top 20

Portsmouth offers several significant historical sites. You can explore the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy, or visit the MacArthur Memorial, a museum dedicated to General Douglas MacArthur. Another notable historical landmark is the Owen B. Pickett U.S. Custom House, a Palladian-style building that served as the seat of the U.S. Customs Service for over 135 years.

Yes, Portsmouth has several attractions suitable for families. The Battleship Wisconsin offers an engaging experience for all ages, allowing visitors to explore its deck. The Mermaid Sculpture in the Waterside District is located in a park setting with seating, fountains for kids, and open fields, making it a pleasant spot for families. Additionally, the Elizabeth River Trail is a great option for family walks or bike rides.

You can enjoy various outdoor activities, particularly along the waterfront. The Elizabeth River Trail is a popular choice for cycling and walking, offering over 10 miles of path that passes by historic landmarks and parks. For more outdoor routes, you can explore options for road cycling, running, and easy hikes around Portsmouth.

Yes, the Mermaid Sculpture in the Waterside District offers pleasant views of the water, making an evening stroll enjoyable. The Elizabeth River Trail also provides scenic views along the shoreline, where you can watch ships and enjoy the waterfront.

The primary trail for walking and cycling is the Elizabeth River Trail. This 10+ mile cycle way parallels the shoreline, passing by historic landmarks, parks, and restaurants. It's known for being a very pleasant ride or walk, especially along the harbor and through neighborhoods. You can find various easy hikes and road cycling routes that incorporate sections of this trail or explore other areas.

Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of history and waterfront experiences. The Battleship Wisconsin is highly praised for its impressive scale and the opportunity to explore a historic vessel. The Elizabeth River Trail is loved for its relaxing atmosphere, scenic views, and opportunities to watch ships or even fireworks. The Mermaid Sculpture in the Waterside District is appreciated for adding charm to waterfront strolls and for the family-friendly park amenities surrounding it.

Yes, the Mermaid Sculpture in the Waterside District is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering an enjoyable experience in a park setting by the water.

For military history, the Battleship Wisconsin is a must-see. It's one of the largest battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy, offering insights into naval history. Additionally, the MacArthur Memorial provides a comprehensive look into the life of General Douglas MacArthur and covers periods like WWI and the Korean War.

Absolutely. The Elizabeth River Trail is an excellent option for an easy walk, offering a flat, designated path along the waterfront. There are also several easy hikes listed in the area, such as the Western Branch Park Walking Trail and the Riparian Trail, which are suitable for a relaxed stroll.

The Elizabeth River Trail is a 10+ mile cycle way that runs parallel to the shoreline. It's a popular route for both walking and cycling, passing by historic landmarks, beautiful parks, and various restaurants. It offers a very pleasant experience, especially along the harbor and through the Ghent neighborhood.

Beyond the historical sites, you can find the Mermaid Sculpture in the Waterside District, which adds a unique artistic touch to the waterfront area. It's a charming piece that enhances the enjoyment of an evening stroll by the water.

You can visit the Owen B. Pickett U.S. Custom House. This historical site, designed in a Palladian style, served as the seat of the U.S. Customs Service for over 135 years and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.