Portsmouth VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Portsmouth, Virginia.
1. Children's Museum of Virginia
HANDS-ON FUN FOR KIDS
The Children's Museum of Virginia is the largest children's museum in Virginia, featuring two floors of hands-on exhibits and a planetarium. Children ages 1-11 are encouraged to imagine, explore, and discover together through play. Families can step inside a world where learning feels like an adventure with interactive experiences designed for young minds.
2. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum
MARITIME MILITARY HISTORY
The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum tells the story of America's oldest navy yard, dating back to Colonial times. Visitors can explore impressive displays including ironclad exhibits, giant wooden ship models, and military weaponry and artifacts. The museum highlights the significant role Portsmouth's navy yard has played throughout American naval history.
3. Olde Towne Historic District
HISTORIC SEAPORT VILLAGE
Olde Towne Historic District is Portsmouth's historic seaport village, with over 250 years of history packed into a single square mile. Legend has it that Benedict Arnold was held captive in one of the many antique homes, while another was used by Union Forces during the Civil War. Visitors can explore this national treasure through self-guided walking tours or seasonal lantern tours.
4. Lightship Portsmouth
FLOATING MARITIME MUSEUM
Lightship Portsmouth now serves as a waterfront museum after nearly 50 years of service guiding vessels at sea. Just steps from the Naval Shipyard Museum, this vessel provides insight into fascinating nautical history. Visitors can experience what life was like aboard this floating lighthouse that once protected mariners along the coast.
5. Portsmouth City Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Portsmouth City Park offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities including foot golf and traditional park amenities. The expansive grounds provide space for families to enjoy nature within the city limits. Visitors can unplug and experience the natural beauty of Portsmouth while engaging in active pursuits.
6. Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve
URBAN NATURE SANCTUARY
Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve is a natural sanctuary offering a peaceful retreat within the urban environment. The preserve provides habitat for native wildlife and opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and connecting with nature. Visitors can explore trails that wind through diverse ecosystems including forest, wetland, and creek areas.
7. Commodore Theater
HISTORIC DINNER CINEMA
The Commodore Theater is a restored Art Deco theater offering a unique dinner-and-movie experience in Portsmouth. This historic venue combines classic cinema with dining service, allowing guests to enjoy meals while watching films. The beautifully preserved architecture and atmosphere transport visitors to the golden age of movie theaters.
8. Portsmouth Arts & Cultural Center
ART IN HISTORIC COURTHOUSE
The Portsmouth Arts & Cultural Center is housed in an 1846 Courthouse featuring rotating visual art and cultural exhibits. Visitors can relax and enjoy art in the courtyard on pleasant days throughout the year. The center serves as a hub for artistic expression and cultural appreciation in the heart of Portsmouth.
9. The Railroad Museum of Virginia
RAIL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Railroad Museum of Virginia preserves the rich history of rail transportation that shaped the region. Visitors can explore vintage locomotives, railcars, and artifacts that tell the story of American railroading. The museum offers a nostalgic journey through time for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
10. Elizabeth River Boardwalk
HISTORIC WATERFRONT STROLL
The Elizabeth River Boardwalk allows visitors to stroll along a waterway that has witnessed centuries of American history since it was explored by Captain John Smith in 1608. This newly opened boardwalk provides scenic views of the busy harbor and working waterfront that continues to play a vital role in the region. Visitors can watch maritime activity while learning about significant historical events that occurred on these waters, including the voyage of the CSS Virginia in 1862.
11. Tidewater Yacht Marina
PREMIER EAST COAST MARINA
Tidewater Yacht Marina is one of the finest deep water marinas along the East coast, marking mile marker '0' on the Intracoastal Waterway. The marina features a 22-acre protected harbor, on-site service center, and restaurant for boaters and visitors. This premier facility serves as both a destination and starting point for maritime adventures along the Atlantic seaboard.
12. Way Back Yonder Antiques
CURATED VINTAGE TREASURES
Way Back Yonder Antiques has offered a fine selection of quality antiques to customers worldwide since 1991. The shop carefully curates its inventory from the local area, selecting only the finest pieces to showcase in their collection. Visitors can discover unique historical items and vintage treasures while exploring this established Portsmouth antiquing destination.
13. Portsmouth Murals & Public Art
OUTDOOR ART GALLERY
Portsmouth's Murals & Public Art transform the city into an outdoor gallery with more than a dozen examples scattered throughout Olde Towne. The collection includes whimsical murals like a two-story tall Speckled Trout and meaningful installations such as the First Amendment Sculpture. Visitors can enjoy these artistic expressions while strolling the brick sidewalks of the Portsmouth Cultural Arts District, which encompasses the waterfront and continues down High Street.
14. Rivers Casino Portsmouth
ENTERTAINMENT AND GAMING
Rivers Casino Portsmouth offers a comprehensive gaming and entertainment experience for visitors to the area. The venue features casino games, dining options, and live entertainment under one roof. Guests can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere while trying their luck or simply taking in the various amenities available at this Portsmouth attraction.
15. Hill House Museum
VICTORIAN HOME PRESERVATION
The Hill House Museum preserves a slice of Victorian-era life in a historic Portsmouth residence. Visitors can explore authentic period furnishings and decor that provide insight into domestic life of the past. The museum offers a unique historical experience as part of Portsmouth's collection of educational cultural institutions.