18 Best Things to Do in Portsmouth VA: 2024 Guide

Looking for the best things to do in Portsmouth VA? Your internet search certainly didn’t steer you wrong! Portsmouth, with a bustling and historic Olde Towne District, is the perfect place for a waterfront getaway. It’s an equal blend of history, art, nature, relaxation, and fine dining. All of this, plus its close proximity to Norfolk, Virginia and Virginia Beach – it’s just 30 minutes away from the oceanfront! This makes Portsmouth an unrivaled destination that is unique not just to the East Coast, but all of the United States. 

I recently spent a couple of days exploring Portsmouth and the greater surrounding area in sponsorship with Visit Portsmouth. Let me tell you – it was an adventure full of firsts even for an avid explorer of Virginia such as myself! So, pack your bags, pack up the car, and get ready to dive into the 18 best things to do in Portsmouth, VA!

How to Get to Portsmouth, VA

Getting to Portsmouth is a breeze from major surrounding cities. For those flying in, Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is the closest and most convenient gateway. For those driving, it’s a drivable distance from Washington DC, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. Even better, the journey is a scenic one! You can find incredible flight deals on websites like Expedia and Skyscanner, and select flights under $200 on ORBITZ!

DC and Baltimore residents can expect a drive of about 3 to 4 hours, while those coming from Philadelphia will be on the road for approximately 5 hours. Pittsburgh offers a slightly longer route, with an estimated travel time of around 6 to 7 hours. 

Portsmouth is a very short drive from other Virginia cities such as Richmond and Roanoke. For travelers coming from Richmond, the drive is typically 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions. On the other hand, visitors setting off from Roanoke will need 3.5 to 4 hours. You can find great deals on rental cars through ORBITZ and Travelocity! Remember that it’s always best to book a couple months in advance, especially during the summer months.

Either way, the best things to do in Portsmouth, VA are easily accessible from numerous East Coast cities.

Where to Stay in Portsmouth, VA: Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel

There are some amazing hotel options in the Portsmouth area, and plenty of great Airbnb and VRBO options in Portsmouth’s historic Olde Towne District. However, during my trip, I stayed at the newly renovated Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel. This centrally-located waterfront hotel blends luxury and comfort seamlessly! I particularly loved the exquisite rooms with panoramic views of the Elizabeth River, as well as the convenient on-site waterfront restaurant. From an indoor pool and hot tub to a state-of-the-art fitness center and plush bedding, the amenities certainly enhanced my visit. This Marriott Bonvoy property is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of convenience and moderate indulgence without breaking the bank.

You can find special deals on hotels and other accommodations (depending on the time of year) on websites such as Hotels.com, VRBO, and Travelocity. If you’re looking to plan a last minute vacation to Portsmouth, Hotels.com offers packaged deals on stays and rental cars.

18 Best Things to Do in Portsmouth, VA

There are a plethora of things to do in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas. To make it easier for you to plan and enjoy your own trip, I’ve listed out 10 of the best things to do in Portsmouth, VA below!

Hit up the Local Museums

If exploring museums on your vacation is your favorite pastime, then Portsmouth won’t let you down. The city owns and operates five museums, in addition to three privately owned museums. There’s plenty of options! Below are a couple of my top recommendations:

1. Lightship Portsmouth Museum

You can embark on a maritime adventure at the Lightship Portsmouth Museum! A Historical National Landmark, this 11-member ship turned waterfront museum makes tales of the sea come alive. As soon as you step aboard, you will uncover the daily lives of the sailors who once played a pivotal role in guiding mariners safely to shore. It was also recently restored between 2020 and 2023 to return the ship to its original 1955 appearance. It’s a must-see!

2. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum

I sadly didn’t get to visit The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum, but I heard it is nothing short of a treasure trove of naval heritage. It’s associated with the Lightship Museum and is also in Olde Towne  Portsmouth- a very short walk from the Renaissance! Here, you can uncover captivating exhibits that bring Portsmouth’s deeply-rooted 250+ year role in naval history to life. It’s an immersive experience that illustrates the city’s ship building and armed forces history in Hampton Roads. Portsmouth is home to the oldest naval shipyard in the U.S. after all! On my next trip to Portsmouth, this museum is definitely on my list.

Stroll Through the Historic Olde Towne

You can’t visit Portsmouth and not explore Historic Olde Towne. It’s the beating heart of the city! You can go antiquing or shop at boutique stores, admire street art, eat a casual meal on the go, enjoy fine dining, or get some exercise at the Seawall. It runs from the Naval Hospital to the Harbor Pavillion! Below are a few of the favorite stops I made on my trip to Portsmouth:

3. View the Benthall-Brooks Row Houses

One of the best aspects of the Historic Olde Town district is certainly the historic homes and neighborhoods. In fact, Portsmouth is home to the Mid-Atlantic’s most notable collections of Federal and Greek Revival homes! Among them is the Benthall-Brooks Row Houses on Crawford Street. These English basement homes are striking examples of architectural beauty. Built by a former sea captain in the 1840’s, they invite onlookers to marvel at their preserved elegance and intricate details. You can simply walk by and admire them from outside, or take a guided tour. Either way you will leave impressed!

4. Walk Along the Path of History

If you’re up for more walking (I think it’s the best way to explore a new place), then don’t pass up the Path of History. This self-guided walking tour begins at Fort Nelson Park and ends at the Naval Shipyard. Along the way you’ll find interpretive signs, plaques, museums, historical homes and churches, monuments, and beautiful parks. To make sure you don’t miss anything, you can even download a printable PDF of all of the stops along the route.

5. Tour the Portsmouth Arts & Cultural District

To truly get a sense of a city and its “vibe”, I always find that exploring its art district is the best way to do it. The Portsmouth Arts District celebrates music, visual art, dance, theater, film, and the spoken word. You can peruse through one of its many art galleries, catch a live performance or movie, or simply enjoy the murals in the area. The district also hosts an array of events including festivals and concerts that feature musicians, food trucks, break dancers, and live art demonstrations.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Of all the best things to do in Portsmouth, VA, spending time in the great outdoors is certainly one of them! Continue reading below for some of my top recommendations for things to do out in the sun:

6. Discover Paradise Creek Nature Park

Away from the hustle and bustle of the Olde Towne District is Paradise Creek Nature Park. This was probably one of my favorite places to explore in Portsmouth! Spread across an expansive 40 acres, Paradise Creek Nature Park welcomes all visitors without an entrance fee. The vast park not only offers a serene escape into nature, but stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving green spaces. I loved that it was truly a place to explore and reconnect with the local environment. The restoration efforts that have happened here in recent years are beyond incredible!

7. Relax on a Guided Kayak Tour

One of the best things to do in Paradise Creek Park is a guided kayak tour. I did a 1.5 hour tour through the park’s tranquil waters and learned so much about the local ecosystem! It was also a great way to catch scenic views of Portsmouth. If you decide to visit Portsmouth during the summer months and take a kayak tour, be prepared for very little shade. Wear plenty of sunscreen and bring a water bottle along for the journey!

8. Search for Wildlife and Wildflowers

As you paddle through the waters of the park’s natural sanctuary, keep your eyes peeled for the array of flora and fauna that call this park home. From colorful butterflies and native birds like ospreys and heron, to crabs and the elusive red fox, you’re sure to see something. One of the main reasons for the abundance of wildlife is due to the significant efforts that have been made to restore the Elizabeth River. In fact, it was once one of the most highly polluted bodies of water in the entire Bay watershed. Thankfully, great strides have been made thanks to organizations like the Elizabeth River Project. In recent years, they have removed polluted soils from the river bottom, replaced contaminated sediment, and expanded public access to the river.

9. Take to the Hiking Trails

After kayaking, take to the nearly three miles of trails at Paradise Creek Park to further explore the diverse wildlife and flora. There are several trails to choose from, including Paradise Creek Trails, Stewardship Circle, Songbird Trail, and the Blue Heron Trail. Many locals run these trails in the mornings. It’s no wonder they do – it’s a very peaceful place with plenty of shaded trails (though others are not). No matter which trails you choose to take, you’ll see tons of vibrant wildflowers set against incredible scenic views.

10. Visit the Earthworks Mound Scenic Overlook

While exploring Paradise Creek Park, don’t pass up the Earthworks Mound Scenic Overlook. Here, you can take in a sweeping panorama that really shows off the beauty of the region. A picnic on the mound is a great idea, and provides a tranquil opportunity to admire the vast waters, shimmering cityscapes, and the occasional sights of wildlife.

Savor the Local Sips & Bites in Portsmouth, VA

Known for high-quality, family-friendly restaurants, Portsmouth offers an array of amazing local cuisines. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, international cuisine, craft beers, or traditional burgers and pizza, there are dozens of restaurants and cafes to choose from. In fact, most of the restaurants in Portsmouth are walkable in the Olde Towne  area (more than 75 of them)!

11. Foggy Point Bar & Grill

Located inside the Renaissance hotel, the food at Foggy Point Bar & Grill was exceptional. I had lemon pepper red snapper with mashed potatoes and I am honestly still thinking about it! After a busy day of exploring, it was super convenient that it was in the hotel. The restaurant also offers a lot of outdoor seating along the waterfront to enjoy the views, so it’s a great spot to sit and sip a cocktail or craft beer.

12. Fish n’ Slips

Fish n’ Slips can be found on the Marina. It was highly recommended by several local people, and it certainly did not disappoint! Firstly, it’s a beautiful location on the water, and I felt like it gave off historic tavern vibes. My favorite appetizer were the crab balls (literally divine!) and I also enjoyed the shrimp salad. An added bonus is that they have plenty of cold beer on tap, too.

13. The Coffee Shoppe (High Street)

Firstly, this family-owned and operated coffee joint had excellent coffee. I loved the rustic, laid-back vibe, and thought it had great food. The menu featured so many fun specialty coffee drinks named after bands like N*sync and the Backstreet boys, along with lots of fun flavor combos. It was poppin’ on a Saturday morning and it was easy to see why!

14. Still Worldly Eclectic Tapas

Though a bit under the radar, this spot was beyond cool. It’s housed in a historic old home and very much feels like a speakeasy. In fact, you have no idea you’re in a restaurant! It’s like a doorway to another world (hence the name). When dining there, it makes you feel like you’re in an old pub sitting alongside Thomas Jefferson going for a night cap. I ate so much food too: crab cakes, seared tuna, Cajun shrimp pasta, grilled peach burrata, bread pudding, potato chip crusted cod, and fresh asparagus! It’s no surprise, but all were beyond amazing. The hospitality was very much appreciated too.

15. Cheers at The Bier Garden Portsmouth

At The Bier Garden Portsmouth, a world of craft beers awaits (more than 400 global brews to be exact)! You can explore this extensive selection in this classic German beer hall and garden amidst the charm of Olde Towne. In fact, the owner immigrated to the U.S. from Germany. 

I enjoyed the warm, rustic interiors and the convivial vibes that were likened to a 19th century tavern. The knowledgeable and friendly staff were so helpful in guiding me through their diverse beer menu. Their delicious authentic Bavarian cuisine paired perfectly with the beers, adding to the overall experience. You likely won’t have any issues finding something to pair with your beer either: The Bier Garden offers more than 40 different entrees!

Support Local Artists & Musicians

Portsmouth is home to an impressive art scene. On pretty much any given day, you can go into downtown and enjoy work from local artists, watch a live show, or catch an indoor or outdoor concert. Learn some ways you can enjoy the local art scene below!

16. Attend a Concert at Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion

The ideal space to enjoy live outdoor events in the greater Hampton Roads  area is at the Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion. From exhilarating live concerts to cultural festivals, the 6,500-seat outdoor amphitheater offers unforgettable experiences set against a picturesque waterfront backdrop. I attended the Australian Pink Floyd Show during my time in Portsmouth. They performed best hits from Pink Floyd, and were all exceptional vocalists and musicians who put on an incredible show! You can visit the pavilion’s website to view upcoming events and musical performers.

Cheer On a Local Sports Team

When it comes to the best things to do in the greater Portsmouth, VA area, the city isn’t only about historic sites (though there are a lot of those to be found!) It’s also a vibrant hub for sports enthusiasts. The city plays host to an array of sporting events and teams from the high-energy minor league baseball games to spirited college sports teams. There’s always a game to catch or a match to cheer on!

17. Attend a Tide’s Game

A super fun way to immerse yourself in local culture is by attending a sporting event. In the greater Portsmouth area, attending a Norfolk Tides baseball game is a favorite pastime, especially during the summer months. As the minor league affiliate team of the Baltimore Orioles, the Tides play at beautiful Harbor Park on the Elizabeth River. Getting there is super convenient and fun, too – just take the Ballpark Ferry which runs from Portsmouth directly to the stadium! I used to attend a game every summer during my family’s annual Virginia Beach vacation and it’s a memory I still cherish to this day! Ticket prices vary from just $10 up to $117 for premium seats.

18. Visit Downtown Norfolk

Just a 5 minute ferry ride away across the Elizabeth River, visiting downtown Norfolk while in Portsmouth is a must. For those preferring to drive, the cities are connected by just a few miles, easily driven in just about 10 to 15 minutes. Below are a few recommendations of fun things to do and see if you’re making a quick stop in Norfolk during your Portsmouth adventure:

Walk Through Town Point Park

Town Point Park offers a sprawling green space to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s known for hosting an array of lively events and festivals, its beautifully landscaped gardens, art installations, and stunning waterfront views.

Explore the Nauticus Museum

Portsmouth’s seafaring heritage comes alive with interactive maritime exhibits aboard the awe-inspiring battleship USS Wisconsin. You can walk the decks of this once mighty war vessel that served in World War II, the Korean War, and Desert Storm! The exhibits paint a picture of what the sailors’ lives aboard this historic naval monument were like.

Dine at Waterside

You can enjoy an al fresco dinner at a waterfront table, and maybe catch live entertainment during your meal. Try some of the local seafood (Stripers is a local favorite) or continental cuisine at one of nearly a dozen restaurants, bars, and bakeries on site.

Grab a Treat at Genevieve

Located inside Selden Market, this enchanting bakery offers an array of gorgeous handmade goodies. I highly recommend getting an iced latte and a couple fruity pebble macarons (or whatever flavor tickles your fancy).

Final Thoughts: Best Things to do in Portsmouth, VA

As you’ve hopefully been convinced through this post, Portsmouth, VA, is a vibrant seaport city and treasure trove of experiences. It perfectly blends history, culture, nature, and culinary delights into one of the top destinations in the United States. With its rich maritime heritage, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural landscapes, Portsmouth invites adventurers and peace-seekers alike to dive into its unique charm. 

Whether you’re kayaking on the Elizabeth River, exploring historic neighborhoods, or savoring local flavors, there are endless ways to create lasting memories here. Make Portsmouth your next stop to discover why it’s an East Coast jewel, truly offering something for everyone.

Additional Travel Resources

Have questions about my trip to Portsmouth, VA or need help planning your own adventure there? Drop me a line at krismariawanders@gmail.com with the subject line “Things to do in Portsmouth, VA” and I will get back to you as soon as possible!

Looking to plan an East Coast vacation beyond Portsmouth? I got you covered there, too. Check out my other U.S. travel guides for Virginia, Missouri, West Virginia, Washington DC, North Carolina, and more!

Happy travels!