Day Trip Portsmouth NH: History, Healing Herbs, and Heavenly Burgers
- John Moscillo
- Mar 23
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 17
When I need a perfect blend of fresh air, good food, a little history, and a touch of magic, I take a trip to Portsmouth, New Hampshire—and this recent visit did not disappoint.
Day Trip Portsmouth NH: Parking at Pierce Island
I like to park at Pierce Island whenever I visit Portsmouth. It's a small detour with a big payoff: fresh sea air and a pleasant 5-minute walk into town that gives me a chance to enjoy the scenery and stretch my legs. The route takes you through charming streets lined with centuries-old architecture—a reminder that Portsmouth isn’t just a coastal town, it’s one of America’s oldest and most historically significant seaports.
Side Note: IYKYK... Jose Monkey featured the first picture (The INN Downtown / The Hill) on the gallery on his channel when a user said Find Me Jose Monkey.
Stepping Back in Time: The History of Strawbery Banke
On your way in, you pass the storied grounds of the Strawbery Banke Museum, which anchors the city’s deep roots in American history. Founded in 1623, this area was the original English settlement in New Hampshire—named after the wild strawberries growing along the Piscataqua River. What began as a colonial neighborhood grew into a bustling port that helped build early New England’s economy.
Today, Strawbery Banke is a 10-acre living history museum that preserves and interprets over 300 years of history. Visitors can explore restored homes, walk through period gardens, and interact with costumed interpreters who bring Portsmouth’s past to life—from early settlers and craftsmen to immigrants who arrived in the 20th century. It’s not just a museum—it’s a time capsule that shows how Portsmouth evolved with the nation itself.
Healing Vibes: Herbal and Metaphysical Shops
Downtown Portsmouth isn’t just about food and architecture—it’s got soul. If you’re into natural healing, tea blends, or metaphysical remedies, there are a few must-visit shops:
This shop is a true herbal apothecary filled with dried herbs, teas, tinctures, and remedies for nearly every need. Whether you’re looking to soothe anxiety, ease digestion, or boost your immune system, the knowledgeable staff will help you find something that fits. There’s a peaceful vibe here that invites you to slow down and breathe.
Steps away is Deadwick’s, a gothic-meets-vintage curiosity shop that feels like stepping into another dimension. Candles, crystals, spell books, apothecary jars—this place has it all. We stopped in to pick up a few things (and just to take in that incredible smell), and as always, the staff were kind, knowledgeable, and totally charming.
Fueling Up at BRGR Bar
All that walking worked up an appetite, and the destination today was one of my personal favorites: BRGR Bar. This locally owned hotspot takes the classic smashburger to another level, using grass-fed beef from Maine Family Farms and offering a menu that blends comfort food with gourmet touches.
Today I kept it light with a cheeseburger over a house salad (yes, it’s speedo season). My crew, however, went all in on THE BRGR—double smashed patties, bacon, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, secret sauce, and a fluffy brioche bun. Sides included fresh fries and salads, and we couldn’t resist grabbing a plate of chicken wings that were so good they vanished before we could get a photo.
It’s the kind of place that delivers every single time. Read our article on the BRGR Bar
Something Sweet: Kilwins Ice Cream & Candy
After lunch, we continued to explore Portsmouth’s bustling downtown, popping in and out of shops until it was time for dessert. With no shortage of sweet spots, today’s pick was Kilwins—a nostalgic candy shop with handcrafted chocolates and some of the best ice cream around.
Kilwins has a long history of small-batch, high-quality sweets, and their Original Recipe Ice Cream, churned fresh in-store, is a must-try. Rich, creamy, and absolutely divine. If you walk out empty-handed, you’ve got stronger willpower than I do.
Notable Mention: Hearth Market
We didn’t stop in this time, but The Hearth Market caught our eye and is definitely on the list for next visit. It’s an open-concept food hall and marketplace offering thoughtfully crafted pizzas, unique meals, coffee, wine, and fresh desserts. It’s also a hub for local artisans and community gatherings, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves food and creativity in equal measure.
Final Thoughts
Portsmouth isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether you’re drawn by history, healing, or just really good food, this vibrant New England town offers something for everyone. From Strawbery Banke's colonial roots to modern-day eateries like BRGR Bar and Kilwins, every block tells a story, and every visit brings something new.
Well, this was my "Day trip Portsmouth NH". Where should we go next?
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Explore NH Life is produced by John Moscillo of ReMax Synergy. With over 20 years serving the New Hampshire Real Estate market you can rest assured that all your real estate needs will be exceeded. Simply email him at JohnM@NHSynergy.com call or text at 603-858-3548. Search for your Dream Home Now
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