Walking Tours are running on a reduced schedule along with the Welcome Center’s reduced days and hours. While we will still accept walk-ins for tours that are not yet full, there are only SIX spots per tour. Booking in advance is STRONGLY recommended.
For the safety of our guides who are bravely agreeing to host tours during the continuing pandemic, masks are required for all guests.
Guides will be microphoned and headsets available. You may use our thoroughly sanitized earphones, your own 3.5mm earphones, or purchase a $5 pair of earbuds at the Museum Shop.
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.
- Tours are $12 for members and $15 for non-members.
- Tour space is limited. Reservations strongly encouraged. Walk-ins welcome. Member discounts apply.
- All tours depart from Discover Portsmouth, 10 Middle Street. Please gather outside the Middle Street entrance.
- Private tours are available upon request for a fee.
Please click the button below or call (603) 436-8433 to reserve a ticket and for more information
Historic Downtown
Friday–Monday
11:30am and 2:30pm
75 minutes
This daily 75-minute walking tour covers the streets, stories, buildings, and architecture of historic downtown Portsmouth.
The Portsmouth Path of President Washington
Saturdays, 3:30 pm
75 minutes
Learn about President and Martha Washington’s visit to Portsmouth in the fall of 1789.
Led by our renowned walking tour guide Jeff Thomson! Jeff has led walking tours for Portsmouth Historical Society (PHS) for many years and as a former teacher is one of our most engaging guides. If you have ever taken one of Jeff’s tours, you understand. He has a love of history, an enthusiasm for the Seacoast, and is an fantastic storyteller. Since many folks may not know that George Washington spent time on the Seacoast in 1789 we, at PHS, thought this would be an interesting addition to our walking tour line up. One of the stops along the way is the Tobias Lear House. Tobias Lear was President Washington’s personal secretary.
“Gay” Old Times: Stories of Portsmouth’s LGBTQ+ Community
Sundays at 3:30 pm
75 minutes
The hidden history of LGBT clubs, organizations, and people who impacted the seacoast of NH. Tour guide, Tom Kaufhold will take you through Portsmouth for this engaging 75 minute tour. You will pass by many beautiful historic sites and learn some important facts about Portsmouth LGBT people, places and events.
Women of Portsmouth
Were hoping to offer this tour later in the summer/fall of 2020
Learn about the many women who undertook non-traditional roles to become leaders in commerce, the arts, and on the seas.
Historic Preservation
By Reservation Only
Portsmouth Advocates presents a series of eight guided architectural walking tours showcasing Portsmouth’s famous neighborhoods, led by local historian, and Portsmouth treasure, Richard Candee. Historic Preservation tours provide an excellent opportunity to dive into the details and stories that make Portsmouth and its neighborhoods unique.
Each tour explores the stories behind the development, architecture, and residents of a different neighborhood. Portsmouth Landmarks, North End: Lost Neighborhood, South End Preservation, Brick Act, Federal West End, Victorian West End, Piscataqua Waterfront, Industrial Portsmouth. When booking your tour, please let us know which neighborhoods/tours you’re interested in!