Location: Portsmouth
Top Things to do in Portsmouth
The 7 Best Museums in Portsmouth, Virginia (VA)
Portsmouth is an independent city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. As of the 2010 census, the population was 95,535. It is part of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area.
Restaurants in Portsmouth
1. The Hill House
2. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 45 reviews
History museum displays a wide range of water craft, from pleasure to aircraft carriers, including artifacts related to the armed forces.
Reviewed By nauticalnerd12
A wonderful place to visit to see and read about the history of the US Navy Dockyard and the role it has played in the history of the US. The wonderful ferry ride from the Norfolk Waterside sets the stage perfectly for a visit to the museum. Located a short distance from the ferry, where you are close up to the present day dockyard, this is a wonderful museum to visit and enjoy and learn the rich history of this important dockyard. Staff are very helpfu too.
3. Children's Museum of Virginia
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 286 reviews
Reviewed By Jeramie - Marion, United States
Children's Museum of Virginia is an excellent museum. They have lots of exhibits and they work! We have literally taken our three kids ages 5 (twins) and 11 to kids museums throughout the continental U.S. and this one rates right up there as one of the best.
4. Lightship Portsmouth Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 38 reviews
Reviewed By 265edwardw - Port Charlotte, United States
Visited the museum for the first time in thrity years and found ti to be well-run and well-maintained. Only open Fri, Sat and Sun.
5. Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By SouthCaro - Charleston, United States
I loved visiting this place. The items available were nicely placed and the center was warm and friendly. Staff was helpful and shared the history of the building. Perfect spot for personal or gift shopping. Recommend to visit.
6. The Railroad Museum of Virginia
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 32 reviews
A 1910 4-8-0 locomotive, coal tender, mail cars, dining car & caboose make up this specially museum pertaining to steam trains & railroad history. Fun for ALL ages!
Reviewed By RobynH1291
I concur with the other reviews - worth the stop! - great curators: they're knowledgeable about the train and it's artifacts and go out of their way to take care of you on your visit. Their passion is contagious! - all of the museum is housed inside the train cars. There's old railroad memorabilia, train toys and Thomas shows for smaller kids, and a large, running HO layout. - everyone in my family, young and old, thoroughly enjoyed their time!
7. Jewish Museum & Cultural Center
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 2 reviews
This restored synagogue is a simple Colonial-Revival style. Its interior represents a rare surviving example of Eastern European Jewish orthodoxy. We are committed to preserving historic records of a culture brought from Europe in the early 20th century. The building is recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and designated an historic site by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
