By Emma Barhydt
If you’re looking for a coastal retreat that blends modern sophistication with New England’s rich heritage, the AC Hotel Portsmouth in New Hampshire is a fantastic choice, this hotel offers clean, updated amenities and special thoughtful details to make your stay even more enjoyable.
The hotel’s close proximity to many attractions like the historic North Church of Portsmouth, the Portsmouth Athenaeum Library, and the USS Albacore ensures plenty of activities for guests. It’s not all just history, there’s a bustling downtown area filled with adorable shops and fantastic restaurants, and it’s just a quick drive to the Kittery Outlets. There are also several local parks and beaches if the outdoors is more your speed.
From the moment you arrive, the valet parking and welcoming staff make you feel at home. It’s the little details that have been thought of that truly make AC Portsmouth standout. In the evenings, there are lavender sachets for guests to take to help them sleep, and the sitting area in the lobby isn’t just a place to wait for loved ones or an uber, it’s as comfortable as a living room during the day and turns into a bar at night.
The rooms at AC Hotel Portsmouth strike a perfect balance between modern design and comfort. Expect luxurious bedding with soft sheets and plenty of pillows, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. The sleek, contemporary decor offers a cozy retreat after a day of exploring.
The bathrooms are spacious and equipped with modern fixtures and great water pressure. The user-friendly shower and Bluetooth speaker mirror add a touch of convenience and fun to your stay.
A standout feature of the AC Hotel Portsmouth is the Rooftop at the Envio (RatE). This bar and restaurant is popular with both guests and locals, serving up signature cocktails, craft beers, and a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. The panoramic views of the Piscataqua River and the iconic bridges provide a beautiful backdrop for any meal.
I thoroughly enjoyed RatE, we tried a couple of their drinks and dishes and each one was fabulous. Recently, they welcomed Deb Weeks to its leadership team and Chef Jesse Souza as Executive Chef. Deb Weeks brings a wealth of hospitality expertise from her successful tenure at several local establishments. Chef Jesse Souza was awarded “Chef of the Year” by Hospitality Maine in 2023.
The AC Hotel Portsmouth is a great base for exploring the charm and history of Portsmouth. The nearby USS Albacore offers an interesting glimpse into naval history. You get to tour the submarine USS Albacore, and we had the great luck of going when we had the sub to ourselves to explore every little crevice at our leisure.
You all know I can’t be that close to the border without taking a quick jaunt to my favorite state so we also stopped by the Kittery outlets to pick up some new wardrobe staples. And if you’re lucky enough to be in town during an eclipse, you might join locals in a cemetery for a unique viewing experience.
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a business trip, or a leisurely exploration of Portsmouth’s historic sites, this hotel has everything you need for a memorable stay. With its great location, excellent amenities, and friendly staff, the AC Hotel Portsmouth is a top choice for travelers.
