Porch Light Travels: Portsmouth, NH ( + Portland and Kennebunkport)
If you’ve stayed at one of our properties before, you know we care about the details. So, we thought it'd be fun to share some of the places we travel to outside of our small town of Fredericksburg that won’t disappoint. This spot is just that. Portsmouth is one of the most picturesque and quaint places we’ve traveled to and staying at the Inn Downtown made our trip. Here’s a guide to all the spots to hit in Portsmouth and the surrounding area!
Depending on the length of your trip (ours was 5 days long) you might want to take advantage of the close proximity that Portsmouth is to several great spots. We flew into Manchester, NH and drove straight to Portland to spend a few days exploring the city. Then we made our way back down to Portsmouth(a 2hr drive). Kennebunkport is conveniently located an hour in between so we made a quick stop there to eat lunch and walk around the shopping square. Definitely worth a stop if you have time. You could also fly straight into Portland and start there or even fly into Boston if you have a longer time to explore.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Stay
The Inn Downtown with Seacoast Apart-Hotels
We absolutely LOVED this spot. From the thoughtful amenities in the room like amazing soaps, coffee and a full snack bar, to the tasteful decor and luxe linens - it was perfect. Our favorite part of our stay here was the location, located in the quaintest complex of houses and walkable to everything - including the cutest coffee shop, Elephante (listed below)!
P.S. They offer two other unique apartment style hotels on New Hampshire’s Seacoast, The Great Island Inn and Rye Motor Inn.
LEARN MORE
Eat
Elephante
A quaint, French style bakery located down one of Portsmouth’s side streets. Mouth-watering pastries, great coffee and scenic views. One of our favorites of the whole trip.
Cava Tapas & Wine Bar
Wine and seasonal 4-course meals. They helped us decide on a perfect wine pairing and the churros were a highlight.
Carriage House
We had a reservation here but ended up opting for a more casual dining experience. We had many locals recommend this spot and will definitely visit next time!
Other
Portsmouth Brewing, River House, Old Ferry Landing, La Maison Navarre
Things to do
Blush Spa
Located right next door to the Inn. Great atmosphere and the massage was fantastic.
Other
Strawberry Banke, Rye Beach, Portsmouth Book & Bar
Portland, Maine
We spent our first two nights in Portland, Maine. If you’re looking for a more urban trip with the same coastal charm, this is the perfect spot. Adorable houses, smell of the ocean and walkability to incredible restaurants and shops that fill downtown. Here’s where we’d recommend sleeping, eating and shopping in the area.
Stay
The Arts District
Here’s a link to the place we stayed in. It was a quaint, comfortable 2 story home walkable to everything you’d want to see. You really get to experience more of a local feel at this stay.
Eat
Becky’s Diner
Our first breakfast spot of the trip. Classic diner feel located on the wharf and the pancakes were to die for.
Street and Co
Trust us, you need to make a reservation here. Incredible seafood, ambiance and great cocktails. We loved the Brussel sprouts, tuna and lemon tart for dessert.
Holy Donut
These potato donuts are a Portland staple. If you have a sweet tooth, try the coffee cake and lemon, blueberry donut.
Other
Eventide, Fore Street, Portland Lobster Co, Hot Suppa, Tandem Coffee Roasters
Things to do
Shop
Skordo Kitchen Store, Little Ghost Vintage, Portland Dry Goods
Art Galleries
Eastern Promenade Trail
Bug Lighthouse
Kennebunkport, Maine
We didn’t spend much time here, but a few places that are worth mentioning for sure!
The Boathouse Restaurant
The Clam Shack
Good Earth Pottery
Goose Rocks Beach
