Portsmouth, New Hampshire Is One of America’s Most Walkable Towns, with Delights Around Every Corner

We often say that exploring New Hampshire is best done on foot. Most of the time, we plan hikes and other outdoor nature adventures for this reason. But the reality is that much of the state can be explored this way. From towns to cities, enjoying the state is great when you have the ability to meander around and make turns wherever you'd like. The most walkable town in New Hampshire is a great place to do it!

Why Portsmouth Is the Most Walkable Town in New Hampshire

Portsmouth is a great city, but knowing that it's also considered the most walkable in New Hampshire makes it even more lovable. To begin with, the city is visually stunning, located right on the Piscataqua River. Its layout is condensed, and many of the most popular destinations are within a few blocks of each other. This gives visitors the chance to roam from cafes to shops to the waterfront without ever needing to access a car.

It's also the second-most park-dense town in the state, which, of course, makes it perfect for exploring and enjoying some quality time in nature. One of the most popular parks is Prescott Park, a waterfront space filled with wildflowers in the spring and summer, plus seasonal performances. Summer is the most popular time to visit Portsmouth, but at any time of year, you'll see residents walking to and from work—underscoring the fact that it really is a pedestrian-friendly destination.

Things to Do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

There are so many memorable and fun things to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. If you visit in the summertime, you'll get to enjoy a stroll through the Portsmouth Olde Towne Farmers Market. It's one of the best ways to experience the community, whether you're shopping for locally-grown produce or enjoying yoga in the courtyard.

When you're ready for a pick-me-up, head to Caffe Kilim, a Turkish coffee shop with delightful pastries. Water View Grill is an excellent spot for some quality seafood. Curious about the town's history? The New Hampshire Black Heritage Trail is a great way to learn about the area's history. The Strawbery Banke Museum is another great resource.

Whatever you choose to enjoy in Portsmouth, you'll love just how easy it is to take everything in. Have you ever spent a day walking around Portsmouth? If you haven't visited recently, be sure to share this article with a fellow travel enthusiast and begin planning your adventure today!

While we love the idea of walking through local spots in New Hampshire, we know that's not for everyone. If you prefer to explore by car, we've got a fun itinerary for you. This epic road trip leads to seven iconic landmarks in New Hampshire. Still feeling inspired? Here's a list of the 12 most charming small towns in New Hampshire — one for every month of the year!