I have lived in Portsmouth, New Hampshire for a few years now, and it just dawned on me that this time of year is the best time to visit.

Why should you visit Portsmouth, New Hampshire in the winter?

One reason - locals only.

Whenever I visit a new city or town I try to find the local hot spots - not just the touristy traps.

My wife and I did our Christmas shopping this past weekend all in downtown Portsmouth, NH - here is your reminder to shop local :)

What we found, as we were bundled up walking the frozen streets, is that it was so peaceful. There were far fewer people, meaning more parking spots. There were far more restaurants open for seating, meaning no waiting.

What is there to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire in the winter?

TONS. Everything...

The majority of things you can do in the summer in Portsmouth - shop, eat, try fun things, historic tours, etc. - you can do in the winter.

There is ice skating downtown in Strawberry Banke.

To see where the downtown, outdoor ice rink is, click below:

Puddle Dock Pond, Downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 

Visiting Portsmouth, New Hampshire in the winter:

It will be just as fun if not more fun. You will have the same experience, just with fewer crowds.

This is my favorite time of year to be a tourist in my own hometown, and I recommend it to all.

And for those not from the seacoast, now is the best time to enjoy all the perks of Portsmouth, without all the crowds of the summer travelers.

If you are wondering What to Do in Downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire While Your Wife or Girlfriend Shops, keep scrolling.