Discover Portsmouth
31 carefully curated photography spots with GPS coordinates, shooting tips, and local insights
Elizabeth River Waterfront
The Elizabeth River waterfront offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding cityscape, making it perfect for sunset and cityscape photography.
Virginia Portsmouth Ferry Shine
A scenic spot to capture the ferry and surrounding waterfront, especially during sunrise or sunset for dramatic light effects.
Port Norfolk Historic District
A charming area with Queen Anne and Bungalow/American Craftsman style homes, offering a picturesque setting for architectural and street photography.
Elizabeth River Viewpoints
Scenic viewpoints along the Elizabeth River, providing stunning visuals of the river and surrounding cityscape.
Polaris Missile Fountain
A unique historical landmark, now often decorated for holidays, providing a quirky and festive backdrop for photography.
Elizabeth River Ferry Terminal
The ferry terminal offers views of the Elizabeth River and the cityscape, making it a great spot for capturing riverfront scenes and city life.
Portsmouth Historic Districts Tour
This tour encompasses several historic districts, including Olde Towne, Cradock, and Truxton, offering a comprehensive look at Portsmouth's architectural and social history.
Churchland Riverfront
This area offers scenic views of the river and surrounding landscape, ideal for nature and landscape photography.
Mary View Historic District
A historic district with charming homes and gardens, offering a picturesque backdrop for architectural and landscape photography.
Olde Towne Historic District
This historic district in Portsmouth, Virginia, is known for its Federal and Greek Revival style architecture, including 'basement houses' and other historic buildings. It is listed on the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places. The area offers a rich backdrop for architectural and historical photography, capturing the essence of Portsmouth's past.
Historic Homes in Portsmouth
Portsmouth is rich with historic homes, each offering unique architectural details and opportunities for photography.
Park View Historic District
This neighborhood was developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, and American Foursquare style homes. It provides a picturesque setting for capturing the city's residential architecture.
Commodore Theatre
This historic theater is known for its ornate decor and classic cinema feel, making it a great spot for architectural and indoor photography.
Watts House
Built in 1799, the Watts House is a historic home in Portsmouth that has hosted notable figures such as President Andrew Jackson. It offers a unique blend of colonial architecture and historical significance, making it ideal for capturing the region's heritage.
Lincolnsville
A historic neighborhood with a rich legacy, offering opportunities for capturing quaint street scenes and architectural details.
Portsmouth Olde Towne
Located in Portsmouth, this historic area offers a rich blend of architecture and urban life. It's a great spot for street photography and capturing historical buildings.
Macon House Hotel Site
A historic site with remnants of the Macon House Hotel, offering a glimpse into Portsmouth's past and opportunities for capturing architectural and historical scenes.
Truxton Historic District
Developed exclusively for African-American residents during World War I, this district features a collection of Bungalow and Colonial Revival homes. It offers insights into the city's social history and architectural evolution.
Truxtun Historic District
Corrected to match the original name, this district includes a mix of African-American residences and historical architecture, offering insights into Portsmouth's social and architectural past.
Cradock Historic District
Known for its Colonial Revival and Bungalow style homes built during World War I, this district offers a blend of architectural photography and historical significance.
7-Eleven on High Street
A unique spot for capturing urban life and street photography, particularly during nightlife or busy hours.
Cedar Grove Historic Cemetery
As Portsmouth's oldest cemetery, dating back to the 1700s, Cedar Grove offers a somber and historic setting for photography. It contains a variety of grave markers and historical figures' resting places.
Portsmouth Waterfront
A scenic waterfront area in Portsmouth, offering views of the Elizabeth River and opportunities for street and urban photography.
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum
Located in the historic Gosport area, this museum showcases the history of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. It offers a setting for capturing historical and industrial photography themes.
Portsmouth Art and Cultural Center
This center is a hub for local art and culture, offering a variety of exhibitions and events. It provides a unique setting for capturing contemporary art and cultural practices.
Portsmouth City Hall
This building is a modern civic center with a blend of contemporary and historical architectural elements, offering a unique setting for urban and architectural photography.
Naval Hospital Portsmouth
This historic hospital is known for its architectural significance and offers a unique setting for capturing military and historical themes.
Portsmouth Public Library
This building is a modern architectural gem in the heart of Portsmouth, offering a unique blend of contemporary design and urban scenery.
Hill House Museum
A museum showcasing Portsmouth’s history with a focus on historical photographs and memorabilia, offering insights into the city's past.
Friends of the Portsmouth Public Library
A community hub with a mix of modern and historic elements. Offers opportunities for street and community photography.
Port Norfolk Community Park
This park is a small green space with playgrounds and walking paths, providing a simple yet pleasant setting for family photography.