Hands-On and Heartfelt: Creative Date Ideas to Enjoy Together in Portsmouth
Why settle for an ordinary date night when you and your partner can create something truly special. Portsmouth’s Seacoast is filled with hands-on art spaces where you can experiment, have fun, and craft meaningful memories together. Here are some of my favorite places just a short drive or quick walk from Tide House.
Seacoast Artspot
4.7 miles from Tide House
Seacoast ArtSpot offers a wide range of fun, hands-on classes, from printmaking and painting to working with air-dry clay or creating handmade charcuterie boards. It's a great place to get creative, whether you’re with your partner or the whole family. You can check out their upcoming events, book, and pay right on their website. While some classes are designed for kids, they also have options perfect for a date night with your partner. The classes are budget-friendly, so you can enjoy a fun date night without spending a fortune.
The Wheelhouse
1.2 miles from Tide House
If you’ve ever wanted to turn a lump of clay into a mug or bowl, this is the perfect spot! Opened at the end of 2024, this place offers classes where you can try your hand at wheel throwing and pick up a fun, rewarding skill. The space has an open, industrial vibe and is just a short distance from downtown—ideal for a date night. Most classes last about 1.5 hours, leaving plenty of time to grab dinner and explore more of Portsmouth. While you won’t take your creations home the same day, they’ll be fired and glazed for you to pick up later or even have shipped if you’re not local. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience!
Board and Brush
1.4 miles from Tide House
Similar to paint classes but with a twist , Board & Brush is a nationwide company that lets you create a wooden masterpiece that lasts forever. Each class features a different themed wooden sign, and they guide you step by step while providing all the paint, stains, and materials you need. It's BYOB, and some classes even offer complimentary snacks. You can also book private events for larger groups—perfect for bachelorette parties or a fun night out with friends. Check out their calendar to see what events are happening during your visit.
Sea Love Candle Bar
1.0 miles from Tide House
Sea Love is a newer spot in Portsmouth that offers a fun, hands-on experience where you can create your own custom candle. You get to choose your scents, pick a vessel, and learn how to pour your own candle—one you can take home with a story behind it. The whole process takes about 30-45 minutes, and after 2-3 hours of cooling, your candle is ready for pickup. It’s a great, budget-friendly date night idea, costing around $40-$55 per person. They also welcome walk-ins, so if you're exploring downtown, they're just steps from Prescott Park and surrounded by great shops and restaurants.
Firefly Pottery
1.5 miles from Tide House
Unlike making pottery from scratch, Firefly Pottery lets you get creative by painting your own designs onto ready-made pieces. Once you’re done, they’ll fire it for you, and you can come back to pick up your one-of-a-kind, functional artpiece. Be sure to check their calendar for class offerings, as many are geared toward kids, but there are ones for adults as well. The weekends can get busy so be sure to give them a call or stop by early before classes get filled.
After getting your creative fix, you might be ready to grab a bite to eat or do a little shopping. Check out our top picks for amazing dining spots around the Seacoast, and take some time to explore our favorite shops and boutiques that carry some amazing local art in downtown Portsmouth—you never know what hidden gems you’ll find.