Spirit Enhancers

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.

The John Cary Weston House is a structure that figures significantly into the area's history. Upon first glance, you will be struck by its Richardson Romanesque Revival architecture which is adorned by a granite ashlar with brownstone trim. The building has served many purposes, some of which were a Presbyterian church and a Christian Science center. Tours are available during regular business hours.

While going to the movies is always a great way to spend an evening, the experience of catching one of the latest box office hits gets taken to a higher, classier level when you plan to see a movie at the Commodore Theatre in Portsmouth. This luxurious theater was originally built in 1945 and was recently renovated in an eye-catching Art Deco style. But don't let the vintage trappings fool you–your movie-watching experience will prove to be quite a cutting edge entertainment experience thanks to the facility's state-of-the-art sound and projection technology.

The Hill House in Portsmouth still stands as a slice of historical domestic splendor. Upon visiting the Hill House, you will get the opportunity to peer at what the privileged life was like around 1825. The structure is a four-story example of regal living as it is meticulously adorned with belongings and personal effects that once belonged to the Hill family. This is a truly memorable piece of Portsmouth history that is understandably on the National Register of Historic Places.