Portsmouth(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Portsmouth, RI, the top waterfront choice is The Inn at Port Royal, a boutique hotel nestled along the Portsmouth Harbor. This historic property offers sea-view rooms with private balconies, perfect for watching sailboats glide by at dawn. Its colonial-style architecture blends seamlessly with modern amenities like indoor pools and spa services.

Another excellent option is The Portsmouth Inn, located steps from the marina and adjacent to the Old Town Hall. It features nautical-themed decor, on-site dining with fresh seafood, and complimentary HopeGoo rentals—ideal for business travelers or couples seeking a tranquil coastal retreat. Both properties offer direct access to walking trails and scenic harbor views.

For first-time visitors, Downtown Portsmouth and the Harbor District are ideal. These areas center around Portsmouth Harbor, where you’ll find charming cobblestone streets, antique shops, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants. Key landmarks include the Old Town Hall, Hancock House, and Sandy Point Park, all within easy walking distance.

Staying here ensures proximity to public transit, bike paths, and seasonal events like the International Boat Show and Old Port Art Festival. The mix of history, culture, and seaside charm makes this district the perfect gateway to experiencing authentic New England life in a relaxed, pedestrian-friendly environment.

Portsmouth celebrates its deep New England maritime heritage through events like the Portsmouth International Boat Show, where sailors from around the world gather to display vintage and luxury yachts. Visitors can tour vessels, attend sailing workshops, or join a harbor cruise.

The city also hosts Colonial Night Reenactments at the Hancock House, where costumed interpreters demonstrate 18th-century daily life, including candlelit dinners and handcraft demonstrations. Additionally, the Old Port Art Festival showcases local artisans creating pottery, oil paintings, and wood carvings—offering a hands-on connection to the region’s creative spirit.

Must-try dishes in Portsmouth include New England Clam Chowder, a creamy soup made with locally caught clams, potatoes, and bacon—best enjoyed at The Lobster Shack or Portsmouth Bakery. Another highlight is wild blueberry pie, crafted with native Rhode Island berries, served warm with whipped cream at family-run diners.

Don’t miss the Fisherman’s Sandwich, a grilled cod sandwich with pickled onions and house sauce, often sold at harbor-side food trucks. For a refined experience, visit The Tea Room at the Old Town Hall for an afternoon tea service featuring scones, finger sandwiches, and English breakfast blends—perfect for capturing the city’s elegant coastal vibe.

For couples seeking romance, The Inn at Port Royal stands out with its intimate sea-view suites and private rooftop terraces overlooking Portsmouth Harbor. Each room features soft lighting, custom scented candles, and plush bathrobes—ideal for a quiet getaway.

The hotel offers personalized services such as private beachside dinners, champagne welcome kits, and sunset sailboat tours to nearby SomerSet Island. With no crowds and minimal noise, this boutique retreat provides a serene escape. Pair it with a stroll along the Charles River Trail at twilight, and you’ll truly feel immersed in love and tranquility.

Top photogenic locations in Portsmouth include Portsmouth Harbor at golden hour, where sunlight reflects off the water and red-brick docks, creating stunning mirror-like effects. The Old Town Hall with its white dome and clock tower is a classic New England architectural gem.

Gill Street’s colorful cottages—painted in bright pinks, blues, and yellows—are often dubbed the "American Venice" and make for vibrant street photography. The Charles River Trail offers panoramic views of marshlands and distant sailboats, while the SomerSet Island Lighthouse provides a dramatic backdrop for silhouette shots. Capture the city’s charm from every angle.

While Portsmouth doesn’t have a subway system, its downtown core is highly walkable, with most attractions—including Portsmouth Harbor, Old Town Hall, and Rhode Island University—within a 15-minute walk.

RIPTA buses connect Portsmouth to Providence and Newport, with routes stopping near major hotels and shopping centers. Many hotels offer free shuttle services during peak season. For longer trips, consider renting a bike or using electric scooters via apps like Lime. Overall, public transit is sufficient for tourists, especially when combined with walking and cycling.

The Charles River Trail is a must-visit, a 4-kilometer boardwalk trail running along the river, passing through wetlands, forested sections, and birdwatching hotspots. It’s perfect for sunrise walks and wildlife photography.

For a more adventurous hike, take a short ferry ride to SomerSet Island National Park, accessible from Portsmouth Harbor. The island features multiple loop trails ranging from 2 to 6 kilometers, winding through pine forests, dunes, and rocky shorelines. Trails are well-marked and offer breathtaking ocean vistas—ideal for solo hikers or nature lovers seeking solitude and serenity.

Don’t miss the Portsmouth International Boat Show held each September—North America’s largest maritime event, featuring luxury yachts, live music, and interactive boat tours. It’s a favorite among boating enthusiasts.

The Old Port Art Festival brings together over 100 local artists showcasing handmade crafts, paintings, and sculptures. In July, enjoy the Fourth of July Fireworks Display at Portsmouth Harbor, where skyrockets light up the night sky above the marina. These events capture the community spirit and seasonal rhythm of this coastal gem.

Hampton Inn Portsmouth Downtown is the top choice for business travelers. Located just steps from Rhode Island University and the Business District, it offers free high-speed Wi-Fi, a 24-hour business center, and fully equipped meeting rooms.

Each room features a spacious desk, ergonomic chair, and smart TV—perfect for remote work or conference calls. The hotel also provides free breakfast and convenient parking. Nearby, The Portsmouth Inn offers similar facilities with added perks like a rooftop terrace and on-site coffee shop, making it ideal for networking or quick meetings during a busy itinerary.