Gracious Day Care

Travel back to a time when the only mode of mass transportation was the railroad. A slice of that history is still very much alive in Portsmouth with the Pokey Smokey. Efforts to raise funds to complete the repair of an impressive scale replica of this 19th century steam locomotive are underway. For 41 years, the Pokey Smokey traveled through Portsmouth City Park and offered the opportunity for visitors to ride through and see the area from a truly unique perspective. Soon, that tradition will be continued again. Until then, history buffs and train enthusiasts can still flock to see the Pokey Smokey for a closer look and for many excellent photo opportunities.

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.

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.