Two excellent self-guided tours show you the best of historic Portsmouth, NH.
The well-designed ghost tour uses a GPS app that automatically triggers spooky stories and historical tales as you walk past significant locations. I especially like this tour’s mix of local legends and authentic 18th-century history.
For active travelers, the coastal bike route hits all the highlights along a scenic 22-mile path.
The route offers beautiful ocean views and historic architecture while letting you set your own pace – perfect for photography stops.
Let’s look at Portsmouth’s top self-guided experiences.
Key Points
- The self-guided haunted walking tour of Portsmouth offers an informative and immersive experience with GPS-activated audio descriptions of key haunted landmarks.
- The self-guided bike tour provides a scenic 22-mile route with historical markers and a customizable itinerary to explore various Portsmouth sites.
- The haunted walking tour has received an overall rating of 4.0 from 50 reviews, praised for its informative content despite some technical issues with the app.
- The bike tour rental package includes a hybrid bicycle, map, lock, helmet, and safety vest, ensuring a safe and enjoyable exploration of Portsmouth.
- The self-guided nature of both tours allows for personalized experiences, with flexibility to explore at one’s own pace and focus on areas of individual interest.
Self Guided Haunted Walking Tour in Portsmouth (APP/GPS)
Embarking on a self-guided haunted walking tour of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, visitors can explore the city’s eerie past using the WalknTours app. This 45-minute or longer experience takes guests on a GPS-activated journey through key landmarks, including the Old Red Light District, African Burial Grounds, and the Sheaffe Street Inn Tavern.
Along the way, the app provides audio descriptions, allowing participants to enjoy the haunted history at their own pace.
With a 4.0 overall rating from 50 reviews, the tour has been praised for its informative content and self-paced nature. However, some users have reported technical issues with the app and connectivity, suggesting the need for clearer instructions and a notification system for wrong turns.
The experience has also received mixed reviews, with the daytime versus nighttime atmosphere being a factor to consider.
Priced at $7.75 per person with a lowest price guarantee, the self-guided haunted walking tour offers a unique way to discover Portsmouth’s spooky side. Visitors can start the experience at the Ceres Bakery and end at the Portsmouth Brewery, making the most of this immersive and flexible exploration.
Read our full review: Self Guided Haunted Walking Tour in Portsmouth (APP/GPS) Review
Book now: Check availability
New Hampshire Self-Guided Bike Tour – Portsmouth
Visitors to Portsmouth, New Hampshire can explore the city’s charming scenery and historical landmarks on a self-guided bike tour. This half-day experience allows you to discover the area at your own pace, stopping at key sites like Prescott Park, Fort Stark State Historic Site, and Wentworth-Gardner House.
The rental package includes a hybrid bicycle, map, lock, helmet, and safety vest, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. The tour begins and ends at the John Paul Jones House Historic House Garden, conveniently located near public transportation.
With a maximum of 6 travelers per group, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience. The self-guided nature of the tour means you can tailor the route to your interests and abilities, making it suitable for most visitors. The historical markers guide and booklet provide valuable information to enhance your exploration.
Reviews praise the scenic 22-mile route and the courtesy of local drivers, further adding to the appeal of this unique way to experience Portsmouth.
Read our full review: New Hampshire Self-Guided Bike Tour – Portsmouth Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Portsmouth offers a variety of self-guided tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history and picturesque landscapes at their own pace. Whether you choose a haunted walking tour or a leisurely bike ride, these experiences provide an immersive and flexible way to discover the unique charm of this New Hampshire destination. With the convenience of GPS-enabled apps and well-marked routes, you can create your own adventure and uncover the hidden gems that make Portsmouth truly special.