Best Places to Visit in Portsmouth, VA

10 places

Explore Portsmouth, VA, where rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty come together. Discover interactive museums, charming theaters, and delightful dining experiences that celebrate the city's unique spirit.

Children's Museum of Virginia photo

Children's Museum of Virginia

Opens at

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4.5

Discovering interactive exhibits and a planetarium, the Children’s Museum of Virginia offers endless fun and learning for families in Portsmouth.

Lightship Portsmouth Museum photo

Lightship Portsmouth Museum

Opens at

Moored downtown, the Lightship Portsmouth Museum offers a glimpse into maritime history with its 1915 design and restored 1955 appearance.

Yellow brick road

Commodore Theatre

Opens at

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4.0

Experiencing the Commodore Theatre is special due to its Art Deco charm, in-theater dining, and a stunning 41-foot screen bringing movies to life.

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum photo

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum

Opens at

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3.0

Enriching is the perfect word for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum, where I explored 250 years of shipbuilding history and maritime artifacts.

Photo by TravelScoutCUThere

Hill House

Closed today

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5.0

Stepping into Hill House, I marvel at the preserved 19th-century furnishings and rich history, vividly capturing life in Portsmouth's past.

Paradise Creek Nature Park photo

Paradise Creek Nature Park

Opens at

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4.0

Wandering the looped trails, I enjoy abundant wildlife, vibrant art installations, and the serene kayak ramp amidst restored green spaces.

Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center photo

Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center

Opens at

Immersed in history, this 1846 courthouse buzzes with local art and community events, making it a vibrant hub for culture in Olde Towne.

Photo by Samir C

Still Worldly Eclectic Tapas

Opens at

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4.5

Savoring the historic ambiance combined with globally-inspired tapas and craft cocktails makes this hidden gem unforgettable.

Chocolate praline cake.  Very light.

The Bier Garden

Opens at

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5.0

Captivatingly authentic, this family-run gem serves award-winning Bavarian cuisine alongside over 400 brews in a cozy 19th-century vibe.

Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion photo

Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion

Closed today

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4.0

Mesmerizing waterfront views enhance live performances at the Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion, making every concert a memorable experience.