Strawbery Banke Museum
Step back in time at Strawbery Banke Museum, a 10-acre living-history museum showcasing 300 years of New England life through restored homes and garde...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Strawbery Banke Museum
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Strawbery Banke Museum, a 10-acre living-history museum showcasing 300 years of New England life through restored homes and gardens.
"This is an excellent place to visit for history and culture in Portsmouth, New Hampshire."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the 10-acre site. Prioritize comfort! :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! To truly absorb the history, dedicate at least 2-3 hours.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Homes
Throughout the museum grounds
Step inside meticulously restored homes spanning centuries, each telling a unique story of New England life.
Period Gardens
Various locations within the museum
Wander through vibrant, historically accurate gardens showcasing heirloom plants and traditional landscaping.
Living History Interpreters
Various buildings and outdoor spaces
Engage with costumed interpreters who bring the past to life with demonstrations and stories.
Candlelight Stroll
Museum grounds
Experience the magic of the holidays with a festive stroll through beautifully lit historic homes and gardens.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Outdoors
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the 10-acre site. Prioritize comfort! :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! To truly absorb the history, dedicate at least 2-3 hours.
Check for Special Events
The museum hosts unique events like the Candlelight Stroll. Plan around them! :calendar:
Engage with Interpreters
The costumed staff are a wealth of knowledge. Ask questions! :speech_balloon:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the 10-acre site. Prioritize comfort! :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! To truly absorb the history, dedicate at least 2-3 hours.
Check for Special Events
The museum hosts unique events like the Candlelight Stroll. Plan around them! :calendar:
Engage with Interpreters
The costumed staff are a wealth of knowledge. Ask questions! :speech_balloon:
Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the beautifully maintained historic gardens. They're a peaceful escape. :seedling:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Strawbery Banke Museum for its exceptional historical preservation and immersive living-history experience. The well-maintained buildings and gardens, coupled with engaging costumed interpreters, offer a deep dive into centuries of New England life. While some wish for more hands-on activities for children, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its value as a cultural and educational destination.
"This is an excellent place to visit for history and culture in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The buildings are well preserved, and it’s really fun to walk around and visit all of the buildings and see the exhibits inside. It’s definitely a must see for the history of the city. The buildings are very old from the 1700s and 1800s, and some of the buildings feature period actors. There are employees at many buildings to answer your questions, and everyone was very friendly."
Jeff
"Amazing neighborhood preserved as it was from its first inception. Only one structure has been moved. Most buildings were homes and had multiple owners and modifications through the years. Beginning in early 1600 through the late 1950's families lived here together. Theuseum has done a fantastic job of preservation through time."
Cindy Balfour
"Beautiful day.. Nice exhibits. Would have liveyd the kids to have a more hands on experience.. Try on clothes.. More people in costumes to capture their interest. However they do get to weave on a loom and the classes are cool.. We did cookie baking"
ofelia elfakih
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Strawbery Banke Museum is located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may also be available depending on your starting point.
Yes, there is parking available near the museum. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current parking information and any associated fees.
Absolutely! Strawbery Banke Museum is situated within walking distance of downtown Portsmouth, making it convenient to combine with exploring the city center.
The museum grounds are spread across 10 acres. A map is highly recommended to explore all the historic homes and gardens efficiently. Comfortable shoes are essential!
Yes, Strawbery Banke Museum is close to other Portsmouth attractions like Prescott Park and the historic downtown area, making it ideal for a day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Strawbery Banke Museum website for the most up-to-date admission fees and any potential discounts or membership options.
Yes, purchasing Strawbery Banke Museum tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events like the Candlelight Stroll, to secure your entry.
Museum hours can change seasonally. Always consult the official Strawbery Banke Museum website for the most accurate operating hours before your visit.
Strawbery Banke Museum hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including the popular Candlelight Stroll during the holidays. Check their events calendar online!
Yes, Strawbery Banke Museum likely offers membership options that can provide benefits like free admission and discounts. Inquire directly or check their website for details.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Explore over 30 historic buildings, meticulously maintained period gardens, and engage with living history interpreters who demonstrate crafts and daily life from different eras.
The museum offers various tours, including garden tours. It's best to check their schedule upon arrival or on their website for specific tour times and availability.
While educational, some visitors suggest more hands-on activities for children. However, demonstrations like cookie baking and weaving can be engaging.
Interpreters often demonstrate traditional crafts such as weaving, blacksmithing, and cooking, offering a glimpse into historical skills.
Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use. However, always be respectful of the historic buildings and any ongoing demonstrations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might not be a full-service restaurant within the museum itself, there are often opportunities for refreshments or snacks. Check their website for current offerings.
Portsmouth has a vibrant culinary scene. You'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries just a short walk from the museum in the downtown area.
Picnicking might be allowed in designated areas. It's best to confirm the museum's policy on outside food and beverages before your visit.
Sometimes, the museum offers historical food demonstrations, like cookie baking, which can be a fun and tasty way to experience the past.
Portsmouth offers a diverse range of dining, from fresh seafood and classic American fare to international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner offers a picturesque view! The historic homes, charming gardens, and costumed interpreters provide endless photo opportunities.
Policies for professional photography sessions may differ. It's advisable to contact the museum directly to inquire about any specific guidelines or permits required.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – often provide the most beautiful light for capturing the historic architecture and gardens.
While personal photography is generally welcome, be mindful of private residences within the museum and any areas where photography might be restricted for preservation or privacy reasons.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide shots of the grounds and details of the historic buildings. A prime lens can be good for portraits with interpreters.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during special events like the Candlelight Stroll for an extra magical experience. Pack snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking across the 10-acre site.
+1🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore the interiors of the homes and engage with the knowledgeable living history interpreters. Their insights and demonstrations provide a rich, contextual understanding that goes beyond textbook learning. Don't miss the chance to learn about the heirloom gardens, which offer another layer of historical perspective on daily life and resourcefulness.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
+1 The changing seasons also offer unique photographic potential, from the vibrant colors of fall to the stark beauty of winter. Experiment with different times of day to capture the best light, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The Candlelight Stroll offers a particularly magical, albeit challenging, lighting environment for photographers.
+1 Remember to be respectful of the site and any ongoing demonstrations while capturing your images. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of Strawbery Banke
Visitors can explore homes that represent different architectural styles and periods, from the earliest saltbox houses to Victorian-era residences. Costumed interpreters bring these homes to life, demonstrating traditional crafts, cooking methods, and daily routines. This immersive approach allows guests to truly experience history, rather than just read about it.
The museum's commitment to preservation extends to its gardens, which are recreated to reflect historical planting practices and feature heirloom varieties. These gardens not only add to the aesthetic beauty but also provide context for the lives of the people who inhabited these homes, showcasing their relationship with the land and their use of plants for food, medicine, and decoration.
The Magic of the Candlelight Stroll
+1The stroll features beautifully decorated trees, often sponsored by local businesses and individuals, creating a 'Grove of Holiday Trees' along a winding path. Many of the historic houses are open, offering a glimpse into how different eras celebrated the holidays. You might even catch live musical performances or ice skating demonstrations, adding to the festive atmosphere.
+1Due to its popularity, tickets for the Candlelight Stroll often sell out quickly. It's essential to plan ahead and purchase your tickets well in advance if you wish to experience this enchanting holiday tradition. The event typically runs for several weekends in December.
Gardens of History and Beauty
Visitors can explore a variety of garden styles, from formal colonial layouts to more informal cottage gardens. You'll find heirloom vegetables, medicinal herbs, and ornamental flowers that were common in New England homes of the past. These gardens are not only visually appealing but also serve an educational purpose, showcasing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of previous generations.
Seasonal tours of the gardens are often available, offering a deeper understanding of the plant collections and their historical significance. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or simply appreciate natural beauty, the gardens at Strawbery Banke Museum offer a tranquil and informative experience.
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