The kids will love learning about the history and tradition of lightships and their nautical significance when you visit the Lightship Portsmouth Museum. Lightships were originally known as “floating lighthouses” that guide ships into harbors our out to sea. Their legacy is kept alive thanks to the preservation of Lightship Portsmouth, a vessel that now serves as a museum to tell its story and of similar types of watercraft through exciting exhibits and attractions.
Fans of history will not want to miss the opportunity to visit the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum in Portsmouth. This is much more than a history lesson–this impressive facility houses an incredible collection of military artifacts, pictures, weapons and many historic ships including the CSS VIRGINIA (EX-MERRIMAC) as well as the world's first aircraft carrier, the LANGLEY.
Twisted Pig Ale & Smokehouse is one of those unassuming nightlife places that is as comfortable as a pair of favorite jeans. The folks here are friendly and welcoming to anyone who strolls in and takes their place on one of the many bar stools. The waiters and waitresses are always serving up your favorite beverages along with a large helping of great service. A fun, relaxing place to enjoy a few drinks with friends on those nights when you don't feel like dressing up or dealing with large crowds.
If it's an onstage event happening in Portsmouth, there's a good chance that it is happening at the city's Willett Hall. This entertainment venue has been a benchmark site of many types of performances that have delighted audiences for years. Everything from rock and country concerts, impressively staged theatrical performances, thought-provoking speakers or seminars, or graceful ballets or dance recitals, Portsmouth's great performances can always be found on the Willett Hall stage.