Portland or Portsmouth | Which town should you visit?
If you’re planning a trip to New England and trying to decide which town to visit, two popular options to consider are Portland or Portsmouth. Both towns offer a rich history and culture, stunning waterfront views, and a wide range of attractions and activities.
Each town, however, has its own unique charm and character that sets it apart from the other. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what each town has to offer, from food and drink to outdoor activities and more, to help you decide which town is the best fit for your travel interests and preferences.
So, whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, keep reading to find out whether you should visit Portland or Portsmouth on your next trip to New England.
Portland, Maine: The Ultimate Destination for Foodies and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Located on the southern coast of Maine, Portland is a vibrant and charming city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie looking for delicious seafood and craft beer or an outdoor enthusiast seeking stunning natural scenery, Portland has it all. Here are some of the top reasons why you should visit Portland, Maine.
Food and Drink
One of the main reasons to visit Portland is its incredible food and drink scene. The city is known for its fresh seafood, especially lobster, which is a must-try when you’re in Maine. Some of the best seafood restaurants in Portland include Eventide Oyster Co., Street & Co., and J’s Oyster.
Portland is also home to numerous craft breweries, including Allagash Brewing Company, which is famous for its Belgian-style beers, and Bissell Brothers, which is known for its hoppy IPAs. You can even take a beer tour and visit multiple breweries in one day. If you’re a coffee lover, make sure to stop by Tandem Coffee Roasters, which serves delicious coffee and baked goods.
Outdoor Activities
Portland is surrounded by natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is located on Casco Bay, which offers plenty of opportunities for water-based activities such as kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding. You can also take a ferry to the nearby islands, including Peaks Island and Great Diamond Island, which offer stunning views and hiking trails.
If you prefer land-based activities, you can hike in the nearby mountains, including Bradbury Mountain State Park. The Eastern Promenade is also a great place to take a walk or bike ride along the coast.
Culture and History
Portland has a rich history and culture that you can explore during your visit. The Old Port district is a charming neighborhood with brick-lined streets and historic buildings that now house boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.
You can also visit the Portland Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of American and European art, or take a tour of the Victoria Mansion, a stunning example of 19th-century architecture.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire: A Quaint and Charming Seacoast Town
Located on the seacoast of New Hampshire, Portsmouth is a charming and historic town that offers a glimpse into New England’s past. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top reasons why you should visit Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
History and Culture
Portsmouth is a town steeped in history, with numerous museums and historic sites to explore. One of the top attractions is the Strawbery Banke Museum, a living history museum that showcases life in colonial America. You can also visit the USS Albacore Museum, which features a decommissioned submarine that you can tour.
The town is also home to numerous art galleries and theaters, including the Music Hall, which hosts concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year.
During the summer months you can also catch an outdoor show at Prescott Park with the Prescott Park Arts Festival.
Food and Drink
Portsmouth has a vibrant food and drink scene, with numerous restaurants and bars that serve up delicious seafood and craft beer. The town is famous for its fresh lobster and oysters, and you can find them on almost every menu. Some of the top seafood restaurants in Portsmouth include The Black Trumpet, Jumpin’ Jay’s Fish Cafe, and Cure.
Portsmouth is also home to numerous craft breweries, including the Portsmouth Brewery, which has been serving up delicious beers since 1991, and Earth Eagle Brewings, which specializes in unique and experimental brews. You can even take a beer tour and visit multiple breweries in one day. If you’re a coffee lover, make sure to stop by White Heron Tea & Coffee, which serves delicious coffee and tea in a cozy setting.
Shopping
Portsmouth is a great destination for shopping, with numerous boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. Market Square is the heart of downtown Portsmouth and is home to many local businesses. You can find unique gifts and souvenirs at Pickwick’s Mercantile, or browse the selection of handcrafted items at the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen.
Outdoor Activities
Portsmouth also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. You can take a scenic walk around the Wentworth Coolidge Mansion that also takes you a bit into the woods. You can also take a harbor cruise or go whale watching, which offers a chance to see some of the local marine life up close.
Is Portland Maine bigger than Portsmouth NH?
Portland Maine is bigger than Portsmouth NH. Portland is home to about 68,000 while Portsmouth has only about 22,000 people. Portland is a bigger city than Portsmouth and has a more urban vibe.
Why is Portsmouth NH so popular?
Portsmouth NH is so popular because of the rich history and cultural atmosphere. It strikes the perfect balance between preserving its colonial roots as well as being a modern bustling town.
Final Thoughts
After exploring the highlights of both Portland, Maine, and Portsmouth, New Hampshire, it’s clear that both towns have their own unique charms and attractions. Ultimately, the decision of which town to visit comes down to personal preference and what you’re looking for in a destination.
If you’re a foodie and outdoor enthusiast, Portland may be the better choice for you, with its incredible seafood, craft breweries, and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. On the other hand, if you’re interested in history and culture, and prefer a more quaint and charming atmosphere, Portsmouth may be the better fit.
Ultimately, both towns offer a taste of New England’s rich history and culture, and are worth visiting if you have the chance. Whether you choose Portland or Portsmouth, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable experience.
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