best 43 programs in Portsmouth, NH

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

At Portsmouth Aikido, we strive to foster a safe and supportive environment to help our students learn the art of Aikido. Our certified instructors have been teaching in the New Hampshire seacoast since 1995, and have helped hundreds of students learn this traditional Japanese martial art. We emphasize the development of effective techniques that don’t rely on physical strength or cause harm to either the attacker or the defender. Through this approach, we strive to create a positive learning environment for both children and adults.

GateWay offers a variety of classes to help you find the balance between body and mind. Our experienced and passionate instructors provide classes ranging from Taiji (Tai Chi) Qigong (Chi Kung) to Gentle Yoga and meditation. Our class schedule includes online, in-person, and simulcast classes. Our Gentle and Chair Yoga classes offer a mindful exercise that is safe and gentle on your body. These classes provide a full body stretch and strengthening workout, while still maintaining an “easy” and “gentle” atmosphere. We also have advanced classes such as the Fighting Set which explores the martial intent of the Taijiquan form, and is an interlocked pattern between two players. This class is ideal for those with previous experience in Taijiquan and are looking for a challenge.

At Guy Chase Academy of Martial Arts, our mission is to provide quality instruction and training in traditional and authentic martial arts forms, and to promote the physical, mental, and spiritual development of our students. Our instructors are dedicated to helping students gain the highest level of martial arts proficiency, while instilling respect, discipline, and self-control. We strive to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all students, regardless of their age, gender, or ability.

Bring your child to explore and experience some of the most pristine, protected and safe backwaters in New England. Our dynamic kayak camp is sure to provide the perfect opportunity for kids to learn the sport of kayaking while also having fun. We'll teach your child all the fundamentals of kayaking, along with important safety and rescue techniques. Plus, our camp has an environmental component, emphasizing the natural and local history of the region. Regardless of their level of experience, all campers will be challenged through adventure-based learning in nature's classroom. So why not give your child a summer to remember with an exciting kayak camp experience?

As parents of young children, it’s more important than ever to prioritize time spent outdoors. Experiences outside offer hands-on lessons, valuable social interaction, and much-needed restorative activity that just can’t be replicated through a digital device. Knowing how to make the most of these outdoor opportunities can be a challenge. But there’s good news: you don’t have to be an expert to provide your kids with meaningful outdoor experiences. Taking the first step of simply getting outside is the best place to start. From there, you can explore activities such as nature walks, outdoor games, gardening, or even a picnic. With a little creativity, you can create your own special family moments that are sure to bring smiles.

At our dance program, we emphasize proper placement and technique to help build strong foundations for our dancers. We understand that each dancer is unique, and strive to nurture their individual talent and creativity in a caring and professional manner. Our instructors are dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment, where every student, from beginner to pre-professional, can explore and enjoy the art of dance and its many rewards. We believe in providing our dancers with the resources to reach their personal best. We use the best methods and instruction available, inspiring our students to strive for excellence while building self-confidence and respect. We also provide performance opportunities and selections competitions, so our dancers can test their skills and gain valuable experience.

Welcome to our pottery studio! We have a wide variety of pottery pieces, all with prices that include the paint and firing. With over 100 colors to choose from and available stamps, stencils, transfers and guidance from our creative staff, you're sure to find the perfect project for you! No experience or studio fee required, so bring the whole family and let the fun begin!

Seacoast Rep is a vibrant nonprofit regional theater located in historic downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Through their mission of enriching the culture of the community, the theater has established itself as a bold innovator on the American theater scene. Their award-winning productions have been applauded in the New York Times and have been streamed live to audiences around the world. By providing a platform for shared experiences, the theater encourages its audience to take a walk in someone else’s shoes, deepening their understanding of the human condition and fostering a more empathetic society.

Established in 1854, The Granite YMCA has been part of the state for over 166 years. We have branches in six locations across the state – Manchester, Goffstown, Concord, Londonderry, Portsmouth, and Rochester – and provide a range of youth development, healthy living, family strengthening, and social responsibility services. We also offer camping programs to help foster growth and development in young people. Our commitment to the community extends beyond our programming. In 2020, The Granite YMCA provided over $1 million in assistance to 5,144 individuals across New Hampshire. This included a sliding scale fee structure to ensure those in need had access to our services, free use of facilities to various non-profits, camp scholarships, and reduced fee or free child care services.