Portsmouth, Virginia

Historic points of interest, amazing architecture and a scenic waterfront location make Portsmouth a top getaway destination. The coastal Virginia city is a quick ferry ride from downtown Norfolk and minutes away by car from Virginia Beach and Colonial Williamsburg. Spend the day strolling among the many attractions in the city’s Olde Towne district or check into a great accommodation and delve deeper into the city’s history and fun.

Portsmouth Accommodations

The Portsmouth-Norfolk waterfront has a few large hotels with breathtaking views of the Elizabeth River along with lots of great amenities like onsite bar & grill-style restaurants, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centers and more to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Sit on the balcony and watch the big ships from the Norfolk Naval Station lumber by. Travel back and forth between the sister cities easily with a five-minute ride on the Elizabeth River Ferry. You’ll also find several cozy bed & breakfast inns located in the historic Olde Town District.

Portsmouth Shopping and Dining

Dining here is an experience in itself. Several establishments specialize in seafood with oyster dishes common on the menu. Enjoy your meal with a river view or in an elegant setting. You’ll find farm-fresh American fare, rustic places with craft beer and pub food, restaurants specializing in southern cuisine, international dishes, and everything in between.

Shop to suit your hobbies and lifestyle in the galleries and boutiques of Olde Town. Find that perfect home accent you’ve been searching for and classic or trendy fashions along with unique handmade jewelry. Browse the shops for collectibles and curiosities that reflect the city’s maritime history.

Things to See and Do

The historic Olde Town is highly walkable and a great way to admire the city’s distinct architecture. Pick up a walking tour map at the visitor’s center to serve as your guide to the antique shops and historic homes. No trip to Virginia’s popular port is complete without visiting the Navy Shipyard Museum where the story of the nation’s oldest and largest naval shipyard is told. Be sure to see the Lightship Portsmouth, a ship built in 1915 to serve as a floating lighthouse. A ride on the Elizabeth River Ferry is a must-do, and a great way to enjoy the sights in Norfolk as well.