Issues → December 2006 → Travel →
Portsmouth, NH: A Timeless Christmas
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As I continue to walk, the warmth of a cafe beckons. Breaking New Grounds, in the center of Market Square, has a wall of international coffees and teas. Local musicians often play here in the evening, and the cafe's brownies are fresh, delicious, and more than enough for two. Try the hot chocolate -- it's thick and rich, but not too sweet. For dinner I head to Lindbergh's Crossing, a small and intimate eatery tucked away on Ceres Street, overlooking the harbor.
After dinner, I pass again through Market Square, where the city's Christmas tree sparkles. At the annual tree lighting (this year on December 1), you'll find bagpipers and festive carolers, with local businesses passing out cookies and drinks.
The following evening brings the Holiday Parade, a staple for more than 25 years, with a spirited array of floats, bands, and people dressed in costume. The scene gets only more beautiful when it snows. Even Scrooge might smile then.
Portsmouth: Don't Miss
Players' Ring
The annual performance of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is held at this intimate theater. [DETAILS]
Strawbery Banke
A living-history museum on the site of the town's original seaport, Strawbery Banke brings the holidays alove with interactive exhibits spanning the eras between the late 1600s and the 1950s. [DETAILS]
Music Hall
At the historic Music Hall, the New Hampshire Symphony Orchestra graces the stage with its Holiday Pops concert. [DETAILS]
Portsmouth: Stay Here
Wentworth by the Sea, A Marriott Hotel and Spa
Dine at a lavish brunch buffet. Entrées: $26-$38; Sun. brunch: $29.95. [DETAILS]
Sheraton Harborside Portsmouth
The Sheraton Harborside offers a breakfast buffet every Sunday in December with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Rates: $159-$289. Entrées: $17-$35; Sun. breakfast buffet: $15.95. [DETAILS]
Sise Inn
A lovely spot to rest and only a five-minute walk to the center of town. Rates: $119-$279, including continental breakfast. [DETAILS]
Portsmouth: Shop Here
Anna Street Studio
Designer Carrie James mixes and matches fabrics to create stylish handbags. [DETAILS]
Attrezzi
This shop has a distinctive collection of cookware, dinnerware, glassware, kitchen utensils, and gadgets, plus wines and gourmet foods. [DETAILS]
Byrne & Carlson
A local chocolatier. [DETAILS]
Cobble Hill
A furniture and home design shop featuring antiques and contemporary pieces. [DETAILS]
Macro Polo
Find cultish toys, knick knacks, retro trinkets, and games that are perfect as offbeat gifts. [DETAILS]
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