Shopping in the
Greater Portsmouth Area

Those visiting downtown Portsmouth for the first time may get the impression they've stepped into the 17th century. Many of the brick buildings lining the entry roads to Market Square haven't changed in centuries, giving the appearance of some popular western European cities like London and Amsterdam.

If it weren't for the cars and more contemporary store fronts, you could almost imagine running into George Washington, John Hancock or some of the other historical notables who visited Portsmouth in their time.

While monstrous mega-malls have drained the vitality from many American city centers, Portsmouth enjoys a healthy and vibrant downtown business climate. Boutiques and specialty shops have made Portsmouth a virtual cornucopia of styles and tastes. A stroll down Bow, Market or Congress Street will help you to discover some true treasures for every member of the family. For the kids, stop in at G. Willikers! If you're looking for a memento of your visit, stop by Tugboat Alley's extensive maritime gift shop, or sample the unique art and other treasures at Kennedy Studios, Celtic Crossing, Ganesh Imports, Cottonwood Designs, Runner's Alley, J.L. Combs, or Somnia Bed & Bath.

After a long day of shopping or sightseeing, most visitors like to settle down for a rest and a bite to eat-and Portsmouth has a veritable smorgasbord of eateries to suit every taste. A stop for cappuccino, espresso or hazelnut coffee and a fresh pastry on the patio at Breaking New Grounds or Popovers On The Square. Starbucks provides a rest for your weary feet and a sample of the local culture.

For those visiting in the warm summer months, stop in at Annabelle's Ice Cream or the favorite of stars Robin Williams and Billy Joel-Izzy's Frozen Yogurt. Both are located along Ceres Street.

Antiquarians will find a treasure trove of collectibles in Portsmouth at Ed Weissman Antiques on Chapel Street and Strawbery Banke's Visitor's Center in Portsmouth's historic South End all offer fine reproductions of early American antiques. And throughout the summer, Prescott Park offers two daily arts shows to the visiting public.

For a look at some really unique handcrafted jewelry, vist Alie Jewelers in Market Square, Chrisrial & Co. Fine Jewelry, Springers' and Summerwind Jewelers.

The summer also brings a number of outdoor festivals, where you can find the city's retailers and crafts people displaying a wide variety of unique wares. Market Square Day in June and the Bow Street Fair, held the second Saturday in July, are popular events. Market Square Day draws more than 100,000 people to the city.

If you want to try a different kind of grocery shopping, visit Portsmouth's Farmer's Market, held every Saturday from May through October on the hill overlooking the South Mill Pond, just 300 yards from the city center. During the winter months, Portsmouth hosts a full schedule of holiday crafts fairs.

For bargain hunters, the nearby Kittery Outlet Association provides more than 120 shopping choices. Explore a wealth of stores featuring name brands like Timberland.

The Portsmouth area also sports a number of malls that house just about every major retailer. The Fox Run Mall, located on Woodbury Avenue in Newington, offers tax-free shopping at more than 100 stores.

For a more complete listing of the stores and boutiques in the Greater Portsmouth area, call the Chamber at (603) 436-1118, and we'll send you a copy of our Guide the Seacoast. Or just surf over to www.portsmouthchamber.org and click on "visitor information."