Whether you're a resident of Portsmouth or just visiting the area, it's certain that you're going to want to know where the best attractions and entertainment options in the city lie. And lucky for those in Portsmouth, there are plenty of options to suit any taste. Whether you're the type to stay out all night barhopping or are more looking to learn faux painting techniques at a local community center, you can find it here.

Olde Towne should be the first stop for anyone looking for an entertaining afternoon. This district is home to three hundred years of architecture, a large collection of antique and specialty stores and a variety of walking tours. There is even a schooner charter for those interested in a sailboat keel to take a ride around the area. The boat is called Spirit of Independence and has three rides available each day.

If you're looking for the tourism hotspots, there are several throughout the city. For the history buff, there is the Hill House, which is a 19th century home still mostly in its original condition. The Path of History Tour will take you through the Naval Medical Center and the Naval Shipyard. The former was America's first naval hospital while the latter holds artifacts of over two hundred years of naval service.

Arts and culture are alive and well in Portsmouth and there are a number of facilities in the area holding arts events. nTelos Wireless Pavilion is an outdoor 6500-seat theater that hosts a variety of music concerts throughout the year. Everyone from Tom Petty to Tony Bennett has appeared on this stage. If you're looking for folk or hardcore punk you should look here first. Willett Hall is a 2000-seat theatre, which is the site of theater productions, concerts and guest speakers.

After a day of riding out of the water or maybe buying some unique aquarium decorations at one of the Olde Towne shops, you're probably looking for some dinner and a little nightlife. Hampton Roads in Olde Towne is a great place to find clubs for dancing and a place to sit and have a quiet meal. The city is full of great options for those looking for some southern cooking and those in the mood for more international flavors. There is even the option to take in dinner and a movie at the same time at the Commodore Theater, which is a restored Art Deco-style theater from the 1940s.

There are also a variety of festivals and events going on throughout the year that offer everything from food fests to a car raffle. You could take part in the Olde Towne Pub Crawl held in June, attend the Reggae Summer Splash in August or celebrate the Christmas season with the Olde Towne Holiday Music Festival. Whatever time of year, the city of Portsmouth is celebrating something.

Even for residents of the city, there is always something to keep you entertained in Portsmouth, Virginia. Whether you're enjoying the water or taking a history lesson there are hundreds of ways to take advantage of all this area has to offer.