Fort Foster during the war was to prevent German torpedo boats and submarines from penetrating the harbor. It now rests as a recreational sight with trails to walk and bike. Enjoy the coastal views and have a barbecue, dogs are allowed.  Remember to “carry in, carry out” to keep this treasure clean. Hidden Gem in Kittery

Fort McClary was manned during five significant wars including the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, and World War I.  Come wander through the history high above the Piscataqua River, enjoy the views and have a picnic. A pond is cleared in the winter for ice skating too.

 

 

Excellent views of the Naval Shipyard, the river, the Memorial Bridge, and a great vantage point for seeing boats of all kinds. You’ll see huge freighters, boat tours and the Portsmouth Gundalow. The island has picnic tables and grills; there also is a small pavilion that can be reserved.  Sorry, no dogs are allowed. A short walk over the bridge takes you to the beautiful Prescott Park gardens.

A seaside public botanical garden including roses, perennials, tulips, annuals, desert, tropical and Japanese gardens. This is a non-profit that also hosts many events during the season. The gardens are open to the public daily from mid-May through mid-October.

 

New Castle Beach and 32 acres of seaside space with picnic tables and a playground for the kids.  View Portsmouth Harbor and Lighthouse in New Castle and look across the river to Fort McClary in Kittery Point Maine.  The freshly restored Wood Island Life-Saving Station and Whaleback Lighthouse are also visible in the waters off Kittery. The Isles of Shoals can be seen on a clear day.   A renowned metal sculptor, Walter Liff, has created “an artist with his easel“   in the common to help capture the beauty of this spot.

The historic isles of the coast are available by local tour boats that include narrating the sights and sounds of the trip as well as sharing stories from the past. You can also stay at the Oceanic Hotel on Star Island!

 

Check out the skating at Puddle Dock Park. The pond is surrounded by the history of Strawbery Banke homes.  The is a fire pit and refreshments available to keep you warm.   The pond schedule is on the website: www.strawberybanke.org/labrie-family-skate

 

 

The trail has both self-guided and guided tours to explore African-American history and life in New Hampshire. Learn how, since the 1600s, African Americans have contributed to the history and culture of the Granite State.

 

 

Views of the salt marsh and birds This 2.0-mile loop trail is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and running. The best times to visit this trail are April through October. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

 

The beautiful trails at Vaughan Woods go along the Salmon Falls River and through the woods.  Waterfalls, rock bridges, wildlife... and check out the Hamilton House (on the property).  Easy terrain and, a good family hike.

 

The "Big A," is 692 feet in elevation and used to be a ski area from 1966 to 1974.  The views, after ascending the switchback road to the summit, include Cape Elizabeth, Isles of Shoals, Boston, and Mount Washington!  There are many trails to explore on the mountain.  It is also known to be a great place to sight hawks.