Portsmouth City Guide

Seafood like lobster and oysters is local specialty. International cuisine includes Italian, Asian, and Mexican. Many places cater to vegetarians and vegans. Some late-night pubs and diners available.

Downtown has many bars, pubs, breweries, and live music venues for evening entertainment.

Good coffee scene with specialty shops and roasters. No coffee tours but occasional barista events.

Tipping is expected, usually 15-20% in restaurants, taxis, and for services. Housekeeping tips around $2-5 per day.

SIM cards are sold by AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon stores, and electronics retailers. eSIMs depend on provider and device. ID is usually needed for post-paid plans.

Streets are generally clean with efficient waste and recycling services.

Limited 24/7 services. Some pharmacies and convenience stores open all night. Few late-night food options.

Supermarkets like Hannaford, Shaw's, and Market Basket carry most common products. International items may require specialty stores. Stores usually open 7 AM to 9 or 10 PM, including Sundays.

Most places accept major credit and debit cards. Cash is rarely needed for daily purchases.

ATMs are common in banks and convenience stores. Out-of-network withdrawals can cost $2.50-$3.50 plus your bank's charges.

Public schools serve the local population. Instruction is in English. International schools are not common. Contact Portsmouth School Department for admission details.

Community is growing but small. Meetups happen mostly through coworking spaces and informal events. No co-living spaces.

Parks like Prescott Park and Peirce Island offer ample green spaces for walking and relaxation.

Safe and scenic running routes along the waterfront and parks. Active local running groups and events like the Market Square 10K.

Gyms and fitness centers offer a variety of workouts and classes.

Public and private tennis courts available. Mostly hard courts, with coaching and equipment rental at some clubs.

Padel courts are not common in Portsmouth.

Several yoga studios offer a range of styles with drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors.

Gyms offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Boxing with English-speaking instructors and occasional drop-in classes.

Good access to resorts like Gunstock and King Pine within 1-2 hours. Season runs December to April with rentals available.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular on the river and coast, with rentals and guided tours from late spring to early fall.

Moderate surfing spots at Jenness Beach and Hampton Beach nearby. Best in fall and spring. Wetsuits needed outside summer. Suitable for all levels.

Diving near Isles of Shoals with shipwrecks and reefs. Best in summer and early fall. Rental gear and certification available locally.

Portsmouth Regional Hospital and urgent care clinics have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens offer over-the-counter meds and drive-thru service. Emergency number is 911.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards and is safe to drink.

Playgrounds and kid-friendly dining are common. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include the Children's Museum of NH and Strawbery Banke Museum.

Portsmouth is welcoming and safe for LGBTQ+ people, with annual pride events and community spaces.

Pets are welcomed in many places, with vet clinics, dog parks, and trails. Follows US regulations for pet imports.