History

Originally a working seaport where merchant ships traveled up and down the Piscataqua River, Portsmouth continues to be a working port where tugboats can be seen escorting ships through the currents of this tidal river.

Settled in the early 1600s and listed as one of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations by The National Trust for Historic Preservation, Portsmouth is called “one of the most culturally rich destinations in the country” with a “stimulating mix of historic buildings, sidewalk cafes, great restaurants, art galleries, jazz clubs and distinctive artisans’ boutiques.”