Molly & Joe
Things To Do
Portsmouth Harbor Cruises
Great way to explore Portsmouth, NH and Kittery, ME waterfront and there are options out to the Isle of Shoals (one of Molly's dad's favorite fishing spots). You might even get lucky and see a seal or a whale!
Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion
Wentworth Coolidge Mansion is historically significant as the only original surviving residence of a Royal Governor in the United States. It also served as an artist colony in the 1800s and attracted many notable talents including John Singer Sargent, Beatrix Potter, Edmund Tarbell, and Isabella Stewart Gardner. The Mansion is also nearly the backyard of Molly's parents' home. Molly is the 4th generation to live on Martine Cottage Road (off of Little Harbor Road). If you feel like going on a brief hike, check out the Little Harbor Trail that spans the waterfront, with views of the Wentworth by the Sea Hotel in Newcastle, and brings you through the Wentworth-Coolidge and Creek Farm properties.
Strawbery Banke Museum
A living history museum in the heart of Portsmouth. Across the street is Prescott Park, great annual gardens right on the Piscataqua River.
Elephantine Bakery
Great option for pastries and coffee in downtown Portsmouth.
Wallis Sands Beach
One of Molly's favorite beaches. Out of town guest encouraged to buy parking pass online in advance.
The Ice House
Simple and delicious ice cream joint on the Rye/New Castle border. Pro-tip is to grab ice cream on the way back from Wallis Sands Beach or cruise over to historic presidential hotel, Wentworth by the Sea Hotel, and check out all the yachts docked at the marina.
Petey's Summertime Seafood
Hands-down the BEST seafood in New Hampshire. Molly's mom, Beth, loves their seafood chowder. Molly enjoys the fried scallops and clams combo platter. Joe loves their fried haddock sandwich.
Gardener's Supply at Rolling Green
The garden center Molly's parents founded and owned for 35 years. Beautiful park-like setting and only a few miles from downtown and the beaches in Rye and North Hampton.
Liars Bench Beer Co
There are so many great breweries in and around Portsmouth. Liars Bench is popular and in walking distance from downtown. You can find more options here: https://www.goportsmouthnh.com/craft-breweries/. We've also listed a couple other options in North Hampton/Hampton that are worth the visit.
Throwback Brewery
Great spot to spend the afternoon, especially with little kids. They have lawn games, farm animals, and a great pub menu in addition to really good craft beer.
Smuttynose Brewing Co. - Tasting Bar & Retail
Great spot for lunch and to try a flight of beers.
Kittery Foreside
Kittery Foreside has a great little selection of restaurants and shops. Molly's favorite store is FOLK - natural wine, cookbooks, and great selection of housewares. Joe loves a cocktail from Wallingford Dram. Also nearby (in addition to Lil's), Maine MEAT, a really special whole animal butcher; Black Birch, a restaurant and fun bar with elevated pub food; Anju, a fantastic spot for ramen and okonomiyaki (japanese style pancake); and, a little further down the road, Loco Cocos Tacos, which serves great southern California-style mexican and strong margaritas.
Lil's Cafe
The wait is worth it at Lil's. The crullers are fantastic (& NYTimes famous) but all their baked goods are special. Molly is a big fan of their olive sourdough bread. Lil's also recently opened a sister spot, The Islander Cafe, 52 Main St, New Castle, NH 03854.
Kittery Premium Outlets
Lots of great outlet options if you are inclined to do a little shopping. Check out Joe's favorite, Lululemon, or Molly's favorite, Crate and Barrel.