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The Music Hall: Live Music and Performance

December 20, 2012 By

The Music Hall is one of the greatest new centers for the performing arts in the Portsmouth area. This is due in large part to the curators, who have a very clear vision of fun and experimental theatre alongside new interpretations of old conventions. The live entertainment is excellent and internationally touring bands often choose The Music Hall for its outstanding acoustics. The Music Hall runs as a non-profit arts space in its community and clearly cares a lot about its community: local actors and playwrights are featured alongside old classics. It's a great place to bring the kids, too, and get them involved in the arts at a young age. Check The Music Hall's website for the most up to date programming or give a call, make a date, and come by for a night of a uniquely flavored local culture.

28 Chestnut Street
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 436-2400

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Prescott Park: Breathtaking Views

December 6, 2012 By

Right on the harbor and adjacent to the Portsmouth Fish Pier, Prescott Park offers breathtaking views along the waterfront. It's something of an urban oasis, situated just steps from the downtown area. Depending on the season, various public events and festivals are held on the park grounds, from live music to chili cook-offs. The garden is small but very well kept and full of some of the more interesting flowers of the area. The big grassy area makes for a great picnic spot, so visit Prescott Park with your entire family to enjoy the views and fresh waterside air. Although it's a relatively small park, it is right next to the Portsmouth Pier, and various facilities at the park can be reserved, too. Check the website for an events calendar and enjoy this great little park!

105 Marcy Street
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 431-8748

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Portsmouth Athenaeum: Local Research Center

November 1, 2012 By

Colonial Portsmouth has an interesting history with many standout moments along the way, and the Portsmouth Athenaeum aims to keep that vibrant past alive and relevant in a museum and research library. Because of the vast and rich history of Portsmouth, there are a number of museums and historical sites dedicated to the colonial era in the city. Each serves its own niche, but the Athenaeum is without a doubt the best place to come for detailed research. The organization of materials is exemplary and the staff is knowledgeable about the archives. The museum features a permanent collection of historically relevant objects, and traveling exhibitions as well. Check the website for the current schedule and plan for day of learning.

9 Market Square
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 431-2538

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The Green Monkey: Modern Thai Cuisine

October 11, 2012 By

The Green Monkey is a Thai food and New American cuisine restaurant located right between the sea shore and South Mill Pond. The lovely surroundings make for an intimate experience at this warmly lit and relaxing restaurant. Although the Pad Thai is excellent, the range of Thai cuisine offered here goes far beyond the typical menu. Macadamia Encrusted Mahi on Risotto, for example, is one of the fine dishes you will find expertly crafted here and nowhere else along the water. The Thai ribs are another local favorite that goes down great with the fresh and local shrimp. The European influences on the menu are undeniable, with a creme brulee that rivals any other restaurant. Weekend nights are popular here, so it's best to call in a reservation if you can. Walking along the pond, heading up to the Green Monkey for a delicious dinner for two, and heading down to the water would make for a perfect date.

86 Pleasant Street
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 427-1010

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Strawberry Banke Museum: New England Charm

September 20, 2012 By

The Strawberry Banke Museum is one of New England's wonderful local estates-turned-museums. The surround space features a number of houses and shops to wonder through and experience a throwback to an historic era. Actors in period costumes roam the grounds, and are very knowledgeable when it comes to the history of the grounds and its many buildings as well. The tour guides are great resources for historic Americana and they're happy and able to answer any questions you might have along the tour. The Strawberry Banke Museum's hours change by the season and vary depending on particular attraction, so it's best to call ahead or check the website before planning a visit. A trip here is a great way to experience a lovely slice of old New England.

14 Hancock Street
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 433-1100

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Peirce Island: Views From Every Angle

August 16, 2012 By

Peirce Island is a small and fun park on island just off the shore of Portsmouth. There are so many great restaurants and bars along this stretch of the coast that the island is a no-brainer when it comes to sitting down and letting the end of the day rush over you with fresh air and clear skies. The park has a number of recreational and picnic areas, and the large open fields with lovely views make for wonderful low key picnic on a blanket. One of the great things about the island is that at any time of day you can have a wonderful view without having the sun in your eyes. Just walk around the marked perimeter and enjoy the views from every angle. You're almost certain to come back again for another fresh perspective at this unique and homey feeling local park on on island with majestic views.

Portsmouth, NH 03801

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The Golden Egg: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch

July 12, 2012 By

Open for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, The Golden Egg is a lovely little diner along the sea coast. The daily specials are one of the things that keep people coming back for more. Each special really is special and probably something you'll never see on the menu again. The kitchen here is very willing to flex the standards of traditional American cuisine. Note that there is no alcohol served here, so if you're looking for a bloody mary you might look a short ways down the road. Locals rave about such menu staples as the Chicken Sausage Scramble with apples and other dishes. Well, it seems like The Golden Egg is out to change that, and to the benefit of all in the area or just passing through. Even if you're just coming for a hot cup of joe on the way to work, The Golden Egg is a great spot.

960 Sagamore Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 436-0519

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Shio: Authentic Japanese Cuisine and Sushi Bar

June 21, 2012 By

Shio is one of the most talked about casual sushi bars and Japanese restaurants in the Portsmouth area. The ambient noise level is fairly low here, and the modern shinto design makes for a welcoming atmosphere. The sushi chefs here are absolute perfectionists, and locals rave about the spicy tuna roll in particular. Vegetarians will find themselves happy at Shio as well, with many vegetarian rolls and other menu items such as sweet potatoes and miso soup. It's a great place to stop by with a coworker for lunch, or to pick up for the whole office. It's also a nice way to wind down an evening with a close friend or two and enjoy a delicious Japanese tea over a half order of sushi. The waitstaff is very courteous and happy to help anyone new to Japanese cuisine in making his or her selection.

2454 Lafayette Road
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 319-1638

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Flatbread Company: High End, Gluten Free Flatbread, Pizza, and More

February 16, 2012 By

Pizza, flatbread, what's the difference? A lot, and the Flatbread Company aims to educate you with its delicious brick oven dishes. The folks here really know baking, and they bake their pizza crusts with the same thought and care as they make their flatbreads, artisan breads, organic salads with a tumble of goat cheese, and delicious brownie sundaes. The Company is very much a part of its community, looking to source its ingredients locally wherever it can. Come by for pick up or dine in for a truly unique pizza experience. Gluten free options are available.

138 Congress Street
Portsmouth, NH 03804
(603) 436-7888

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Looking for Something Fun to Do?

December 2, 2011 By

If you’re looking for fun things to do and interesting places to see—you’ve come to the right place! Check back here for upcoming activities and events in your area as well as local restaurant reviews and much more!

Filed Under: Around Town