This building was the public library for decades. It's owned by the City, and when a new library was built, this building was turned over to the Portsmouth Historical Society. They do an amazing job informing, advising and educating the public about Portsmouth's history and attractions. They have a very fine small gift shop with lots of unique local items... More

We stopped in here when we arrived in Portsmouth and the lady behind the desk had all the info and map we needed for a great day of Vintage Christmas. Stop here first to get suggestion on where to go while in Portsmouth.

First time in town? Need some friendly help in findng your way? First impressions are important and I was positively impressed with the friendly help I received there. And it's a great place to soak up some history facts and see fantastic art.

Good place for a history check on a very historical town. Explains the locals to a "T". The video offered is about 12 minutes long and well worth watching. Nice gift shop with local artisans hand crafted items.

The DIscovoery Center is the best place to learn about Portsmouth and its history,,,then you can start walking and enjoying the city.

I thought I would take a day trip from York Beach Maine and visit the city where my mother met my father. He was stationed at the Porstmouth Navy yard back in the 1940's. What a perfect place to roam around. So many little shops and great restaurants. I had lunch and drinks down my the water - and went... More

Had a great time here learning so much about Portsmouth history, and the history of the US. There is a lot more than most people realize - the history of seafaring, the US Navy, African American history, architecture, archaeology - the list goes on.

Think of this as the Portsmouth visitor center and has wonderful information about all the historical houses etc in town. It is loaded with information about places to visit. There is an exhibition space which always has something interesting on view. If you have limited time, this the best place to go and make your plans which might even include... More

Interesting cross between Chamber of Commerce and Museum, featuring local art exhibits, author talks etc. Really high quality exhibits, nice place to pop by (air conditioned! gift shop!) while on a walkabout the town. Def recc. stopping by if it is on your route... (it's right across from Jumpin Jay's Fish Cafe at the fourway stop; John Paul Jones house... More