Portsmouth, Colonial coastal town in Newport County, Rhode Island, United States.
Description
Portsmouth is a coastal town in Rhode Island that sits on an island with views toward Narragansett Bay and spans several neighborhoods and districts. The community includes residential areas, public spaces, and commercial zones that serve residents and visitors year-round.
History
The town was established in 1638 by people seeking religious freedom who had been forced out of neighboring Massachusetts. It became one of the earliest permanent settlements in what is now Rhode Island.
Culture
The town carries strong ties to maritime traditions and early settlement practices that still shape how residents and visitors experience the community. Walking through the streets, you can see how these colonial roots remain visible in the architecture and local identity.
Practical
The town offers schools, parks, and various amenities for residents and visitors throughout the year. Since it sits on an island, arriving by car or public transit requires crossing bridges from the mainland.
Did you know?
The national governing body for American sailing competitions and certifications operates its headquarters here. This connection makes the town a center for sailing instruction and international racing events.
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Portsmouth Abbey School
1.9 km
Mount Hope Bridge
4.5 km
Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum
6.2 km
Green Animals Topiary Garden
2 km
William G. Low House
5.5 km
Herreshoff Marine Museum
7.3 km
Battle of Rhode Island Site
1.2 km
Prescott Farm
6.3 km
Stone Bridge
4 km
Portsmouth Abbey
1.9 km
Conanicut Island Light
10.6 km
Bristol Ferry Light
4.8 km
Prudence Island Light
4.5 km
Musselbed Shoals Light
4.1 km
Bristol Customshouse and Post Office
7.7 km
Hog Island Shoal Light
4.1 kmWreck Sites of HMS Cerberus and HMS Lark
4.9 km
Bristol County Courthouse
7.3 km
Bailey Farm
9 km
Borden Farm
1 km
Union Church
4.7 km
Portsmouth Friends Meetinghouse Parsonage and Cemetery
1.1 km
Greenvale Farm
7.4 kmFarnham Farm
6.1 kmGould Island Light
10.7 km
Taylor-Chase-Smythe House
10.1 km
Dennis J. Murphy House at Ogden Farm
8.7 km
Fogland Beach
5.4 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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