Prescott Park, Portsmouth

4.6

#3 of 56 in Things to do in Portsmouth

Garden · Park

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Prescott Park is a ten-plus acre waterfront park in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, United States. The land was purchased in the 1930s by two sisters, Josie and Sarah Prescott. The sisters, public school teachers, had used an inheritance to systematically purchase and clear properties along the Piscataqua River. The sisters' goal was to create a public waterfront park, free and accessible to all, replacing what had become a run-down and seedy industrial area. In 1949 the Prescott sisters' trust was established with $500,000. The park was willed to the city of Portsmouth in 1954 for public enjoyment.
Prescott Park comprises over 10 acres (4.0 ha) of waterfront property along the Piscataqua River. Since 1974 it has hosted full outdoor productions of Broadway plays for family audiences during the summer months. There are also many flower gardens and water fountains maintained since the mid-1960s.

The park is directly across Marcy Street from the Strawbery Banke Museum.

The Players' Ring Theater is located in the park.

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Prescott Park reviews

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706 reviews

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4.7

By 846jonip

Here's a small, free park tucked into the city. Features 3 different fountains, many trees and a huge variety of plants and flowers. Don't miss it!

Here's a small, free park tucked into the city. Features 3 different fountains, many trees and a huge variety of plants and flowers. Don't miss it! more »
By NHjo

I don't know how anyone can be lackadaisical about this park. It's right on the waterfront and has fantastic views. There's an enclosed formal garden with brick walks, fountains, and beautiful trees..... more

I don't know how anyone can be lackadaisical about this park. It's right on the waterfront and has fantastic views. There's an enclosed formal garden with brick walks, fountains, and beautiful trees..... more »

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By bryan rooth

Great park with beautiful views. Parking was easy and the walk to the park was nice. We got lucky and not only saw a tug boat go by but also got to see the bridge go up and down. The fountain was cool and it looked like a school was practicing a play at the amphitheater. This park is a must if you want to take a break from driving or walking around.

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By W. Jeff Crawford

The air of friendliness and inviting traits of the people of Portsmouth are on display when visiting the area. Prescott Park is no exception. We happened to catch the open-air version of Footloose, the musical, setup on an amazing stage near to the water. Cultural and creatives united to make it all happen and this just feels like the ultimate community for friendly, endearing folks. But the makeup of the area is cool, with a beautiful fountain of Neptune (?) In the center that lights up at night. And although the park isn't seriously well-lit during the night, you don't get the feel like it's Central Park or anything, although the scenery is just as nice. Beautiful place, as is the town. Make sure to stop in on your way north (or south).

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