tour full sail

• Request Info
• 800.226.7625

The admissions requirements vary by program and are described in greater detail in the following paragraphs. In all cases, Full Sail retains sole discretion regarding offers of admission and the rescission or expiration of prior invitations to enroll. Completing all listed requirements, processes, and submissions establishes eligibility to enroll, but does not guarantee admission.

Undergraduate Admissions Requirements

Applicants must submit the following to be considered for admission:

• Application for Admission —Applicants must submit the completed application and fulfill all the requirements therein.
• Admissions Interview —Applicants must complete an admissions interview.
• Documentation of High School Graduation. Full Sail requires that all applicants have completed high school and received a standard high school diploma. The University defines a Standard High School diploma using the Florida Department of Education standards at www.fldoe.org . Applicants must provide documentation of high school completion prior to starting a program. Acceptable forms of documentation include: high school diploma, General Educational Development (GED) passing test scores and/or the GED diploma, other equivalent, state-approved diploma examination scores, or documentation of an earned associate or higher-level degree from an accredited postsecondary educational institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Confirmation the student is at least 16 years of age [or beyond the minimum age of compulsory high school attendance] at the time of enrollment. Because Full Sail’s programs are designed to prepare students for the employment market, undergraduate applicants generally must be at least 16 [or beyond the minimum age of compulsory high school attendance] at the time of enrollment. Students younger than 16, who have satisfied all other admissions prerequisites and wish to apply to Full Sail, must submit a request to the Director of Student Affairs demonstrating additional academic achievements, performance on standardized tests, employability at the time of graduation, and/or other characteristics to support the application for admission and confirm program readiness. The GED must be approved by a State Department of Education to be considered.

NOTE: GED TESTS CANNOT BE TAKEN ONLINE AND CAN ONLY BE TAKEN AT AN OFFICIAL TESTING CENTER.

Full Sail may request additional documentation to verify the successful completion of high school (such as, but not limited to, student transcripts) and/or to assess the preparation provided by the issuing institution. In all cases, Full Sail retains the sole discretion to determine whether or not the secondary training completed by the applicant is sufficient to satisfy the high school graduation admission requirement.

• Copy of a Valid State Issued Driver’s License
• Copy of a Valid State Issued Identification Card
• Copy of a Valid Passport

NOTE: COPIES OF MILITARY IDENTIFICATION CARDS ARE NOT ACCEPTED.

• Complete the Technology Assessment Applicants must achieve a score of 70 or higher to be admitted to the program of study.
• Language Proficiency —If primary language is not English, verification of language proficiency is required. All required documentation that is not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation.
• Domestic/United States applicants with international/foreign transcripts will need those transcripts to be translated and evaluated by a 3rd party.

Computer Animation and Game Art Degree Program  applicants must provide evidence of artistic skill. Evidence of artistic skill can be demonstrated by: (1) providing two or more examples of the applicant’s artwork, or (2) by providing academic transcripts indicating successful completion of appropriate art coursework, with a grade of a B or higher. Appropriate coursework is determined by Education, but a foundation of sketching, sculpting, and painting are important for the animation industry and are essential in developing the 3D artist.

If an applicant chooses to submit artwork to fulfill this requirement, note that any art submission is used only for evaluation purposes and will not be used by the University beyond determining the artistic ability of applicants who apply.

Game Development Associate of Science applicants must demonstrate knowledge of Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Geometry. Applicants must complete a Math Self-Evaluation to enter the Game Development Associate of Science degree program.

Interactive Technology Bachelor of Science Completion program with a concentration in Game Design  applicants must demonstrate knowledge of Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Geometry. Applicants must obtain a satisfactory score on a Skills Assessment Test to enter the Interactive Technology Bachelor of Science Completion program with a concentration in Game Design. A Skills Assessment Test covering mathematical concepts will be administered during the enrollment process to determine eligibility for this program.

The potential paths are listed below.

Game Development Bachelor of Science; Computer Science Associate, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Science Completion; and Simulation and Visualization Associate and Bachelor of Science program  applicants must demonstrate knowledge of Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, Trigonometry, and Calculus. Introductory programming classes are also highly recommended.

Applicants to programs that require demonstrated knowledge of mathematics may satisfy this requirement in one of the following ways: (1) provide transcripts that indicate successful completion (B or higher) in previous coursework or (2) complete a Math Self-Evaluation and obtain a satisfactory score on a Skills Assessment Test to enter the Game Development Bachelor of Science; Computer Science Associate, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Science Completion; and Simulation and Visualization Associate and Bachelor of Science programs. For applicants who choose to meet this requirement by taking a mathematics assessment, a Skills Assessment Test covering advanced mathematical concepts will be administered during the enrollment process to determine the path of each applicant.

Music Production Degree Program applicants must provide evidence of prior music experience through a background survey. Applicants that do not have sufficient musical training will be scheduled into one additional course to ensure an appropriate level of prerequisite knowledge. The preparatory course is free of charge.

Creative Writing, BFA Degree Program applicants’ career objectives will be considered when an admission decision is made.

Completion Programs & Concentration

Applicants for Completion Programs & Concentrations must meet all of the University’s admission requirements (see Requirements for Admission section) and:

• Documentation of Earned Associate’s or Higher-Level Degree—Applicants must provide documentation of their earned associate’s or higher-level degree from an accredited postsecondary educational institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The degree must be related to the educational program objectives of the baccalaureate degree completion program. Documentation must be received prior to starting. For related degrees earned at institutions other than Full Sail, applicants may also be required to take prerequisite courses before beginning the completion program.

Online Admissions

Applicants to online-only degree programs will be required to complete a technology assessment. The assessment will determine whether students have the skills, competencies, and access to technology necessary to succeed in a distance education environment prior to their enrollment in the program or course of study.

Once enrolled into a program, students will complete the orientation module. The module explains the best practices for conducting online learning, overall operation of the online platform, procedures for troubleshooting problems and contacting the technical support team, and general school policy as it applies to the online format.

Applicants to online degree programs are required to have access to a reliable computer or tablet capable of running multimedia applications and navigating media rich websites. Applicants are also required to have access to a reliable high-speed Internet connection.

Graduate Admissions Requirements

Graduate School applicants must possess one of the following to be eligible:

• A Full Sail Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.

A baccalaureate or higher level degree from another accredited postsecondary educational institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Degree held must be of similar scope and subject matter as to prepare applicants for the educational program objectives of the Graduate School Degree Program, with a transfer academic average of 2.0. Applicants who meet these criteria will be considered for admission pending an evaluation of a copy of official transcripts. Transcripts are required to include graduation date, final GPA and degree earned. Documentation of high school graduation or GED is not required.

• Complete the Technology Assessment. Applicants must achieve a score of 70 or higher to be admitted to the program of study.

Computer Science and Game Design Master of Science Program applicants must possess a baccalaureate or higher level degree from an accredited postsecondary educational institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Degree held must be of similar scope and subject matter as to prepare applicants for the educational program objectives of the program, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. Applicants who meet these criteria will be considered for admission pending an evaluation of a copy of official transcripts. Transcripts are required to include graduation date, final GPA, and degree earned.

Computer Science Master of Science Program applicants must demonstrate knowledge of Algebra II, Discrete Math, Probability, Statistics, Programming, and Data Structures. An Advanced Programming and Math Assessment covering advanced mathematical and programming concepts will be administered during the enrollment process to determine entrance into the program. Applicants must obtain a satisfactory score of 70 on the Advanced Programming and Math Assessment to enter these programs.

Game Design Master of Science Program applicants should have extensive academic coursework in Computer Animation, Game Art, Game Design, Game Development, Mobile Development , or Computer Science . Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the Game Design Master of Science curriculum before applying to ensure they have acquired the requisite skills in order to be successful in the program.

Creative Writing, MFA  applicants must be employed in a creative, content-producing position or a field that requires narrative design or editorial input such as film and television, games, digital or print media, or corporate environments that require copywriting or copyediting.

International Undergraduate Admissions Requirements

International applicants must meet all of the University’s admissions requirements (see requirements for Admissions section). In addition, International applicants must meet the following requirements in order to be considered for admissions:

• Paper and pencil test: minimum score accepted is 550
• Computer-based test; minimum score accepted is 213
•  New internet-based test; minimum score accepted is 79
• The minimum required score is 6
• Achievement of appropriate official scores from certified independent online based English Language assessment test (Accuplacer) Additional language proficiency exams may be accepted. Contact your admissions representative for more information.
• Financial Guarantee  - for those seeking a visa for a campus-based program, a financial guarantee must be provided to verify available funding for tuition and related expenses for the first academic term of the chosen degree program.
• Documentation of High School Graduation  - Full Sail requires that all applicants who have completed high school at a foreign institution must provide official documentation to the International Department to determine U.S. equivalency.
• Foreign School Credentials  - must be submitted to an outside evaluation service for determination of U.S. equivalency. Please contact your Admissions Representative or an International Liaison for recommended evaluation services.
• English Translation  - any documentation not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation.
• Obtain Visa  - applicants for a campus-based degree program are required to obtain the proper visa in order to study full time. (not required for online-based degree programs)

NOTE: REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION APPLY EQUALLY TO ALL APPLICANTS WITHOUT REGARD TO RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEX, DISABILITY, AGE, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, OR MARITAL STATUS.

*INTENSIVE ENGLISH APPLICANTS ONLY: A LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY ASSESSMENT IS REQUIRED PRIOR TO PLACEMENT IN THE IE CERTIFICATE.

International applicants must meet all of the University’s admissions requirements (see requirements for Admissions section). In addition, college transcripts must be submitted to an outside evaluation service for determination of U.S. Bachelor equivalency. Please contact the International Department for recommended evaluation services.

Admissions Application Process

The Admissions Department is prepared to assist with completing the application process. To apply:

• Complete an interview with your Admissions Representative. 
• Complete the Application for Admission.
• Submit $75 registration fee.

Once all documents are completed and submitted, applicants will be notified in writing of admission decision. The registration fee and deposit(s) are credited to the cost of tuition but are not covered by financial aid. All deposits are fully refundable

Transfer Credit

Credit for previous education.

Students with previous postsecondary education may request credit for previous education.

Those seeking transfer credit from another accredited postsecondary school while attending Full Sail must submit a copy of official transcripts to the Document Management Team. To receive transfer credit, students must have successfully completed courses similar in scope and content to Full Sail courses. The submission of a copy of official college transcripts must occur within the first two weeks of attendance at Full Sail.

For those classes that begin the first week in a degree program, a copy of official college transcripts must be received before class begins. The right to receive transfer credit for a course is only granted for successful completion of prior education in subjects that have received a grade of C or better. Transfer credits are awarded based on courses already completed and recommendations to attend courses at other institutions cannot be provided. Acceptance of transfer credit may change a student’s eligibility for certain types of financial aid. All credits will be automatically applied to the end of the student’s academic program, unless specification not to transfer some or all of the credits is received.

Full Sail may request additional documentation to verify and/or assess the preparation provided by the issuing institution. In all cases, Full Sail retains the sole discretion to determine the transferability of credits.

• Upload a copy of official transcripts through Launch (the student portal).
• Transcripts will be reviewed by the Document Management Team.
• Applicants will be notified of transfer credit approval or denial prior to their expected start date.

To determine the cost and transferability of credits, contact Full Sail’s Admissions Department.

Credit by Examination

Undergraduate, campus-based students are eligible for credit by examination (CE) to earn credit toward graduation. Undergraduate campus students who have work experience or who cannot provide a college transcript prior to the deadline for submission, may take a CE test in each course for which credit is being sought and must obtain a score of 75 percent or better in order to receive credit. CE tests must occur within the first two weeks of attendance at Full Sail. For those classes that begin the first week, the test must be taken before the course begins. A minimum of 25 percent of an undergraduate degree program’s semester hours or equivalent must be taken to receive a degree from Full Sail University. Matriculation agreements with other postsecondary institutions or universities are handled on an individual basis and may negate the usual testing procedure.

CE tests can only be taken one time. There is no fee to take the exam, but it must be scheduled through Enrollment or the Student Success Department prior to the beginning of a course. If a student starts a course, they are no longer eligible to take the CE test for that course.

Graduate, online students who have at least five years of management and/or leadership experience may be eligible for credit by examination. For the following graduate degree programs: Business Intelligence Master of Science, Entertainment Business Master of Science, or Digital Marketing Master of Science, a maximum of five courses may be considered for credit by examination. Prospective students will be asked to submit their undergraduate transcript, a résumé, and a letter of intent to qualify for credit by examination. The final decision to allow CE tests rests with the Program Director of the graduate degree program. Not all courses in these programs are eligible for credit by examination. Students must achieve a score of 85 percent or better in order to receive credit. A majority of the credits required for a graduate degree program must be completed at Full Sail University.

Credit for Military Education and Training

Students who have completed Military Courses or Military Experience can submit a copy of their Joint Service Transcript (Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard) or Community College of the Air Force transcript to the Document Management Team. Consideration for the possibility of awarding credit will also be given for any course or experience that has an ACE credit recommendation. Please be aware that the credit recommended by ACE does not guarantee the awarding of Full Sail University credit for that course or experience.

Active military students should audit and review their military transcripts periodically (every 6 months if on active duty) for updates and modifications. Speak with your academic advisor if there have been updates.

Transferability of Credit

Questions regarding matriculation should be directed to the institution at which continued education is being sought. The transferability of credit from Full Sail to another institution is at the discretion of the accepting institution. It is the student’s responsibility to confirm whether or not credits will be accepted by another college.

Individual Courses

Some courses may be taken on an individual basis. A $200 deposit for each individual course must be included with the application. The balance of tuition is due on or before the first day of class. Individual course students are not eligible for financial aid.

Most individual courses have prerequisites. Acceptance into a course is determined by the respective Program Director and/or the Director of Student Affairs. Contact an Admissions Representative for more information.

Full Sail Prepaid Tuition Program

Full Sail offers a Prepaid Tuition Program to applicants who have not yet graduated from high school. This plan allows early applicants to secure a future Full Sail education at current tuition prices.

Tuition pre-payment is only available to applicants who:

• have not completed high school,
• apply for the pre-payment plan,
• begin the pre-payment plan prior to completing high school,
• upon acceptance of the pre-payment plan, pay the tuition either in a lump sum or begin making equal monthly installments,
• start a Full Sail education by December 31 of their high school graduation year, and
• pay the tuition in full prior to the first day of class.

Seven and one-half percent simple interest will be charged for the on-going tuition balance each year. Should the plan be canceled at any time, a full refund will be made within 30 days. Interest will not be paid on money deposited with Full Sail. Financial aid, for those who qualify, is available for living expenses to those participating in the Prepaid Tuition Program.

Taylor Swift Cruise 2024: When, How, Where? All Questions Answered for the Ultimate Fan Experience

The Eras Tour is where Swifties from around the globe unite. They celebrate all the eras Taylor Swift  has lived through, trade friendship bracelets, and sing every word to every song of the pop sensation. However, for those who did not get the chance to be a part of this Eras Tour extravaganza, the universe has arranged a way for them to enjoy all the Swiftie traditions at sea. The cruise era is about to begin, and it would be a crime to let it pass by. 

Here is everything one needs to know about the Taylor Swift cruise that will set sail this year. 

No need for tour tickets when the Cruise era is around

Travel agency Marvelous Mouse Travels, in association with Royal Caribbean, has orchestrated a four-night sailing with a Taylor Swift-themed cruise that leaves from the Port of Miami. The trip is called In My Cruise Era and will be taking place on the day after Swift ends her three-show run in Miami, i.e., October 21, 2024. The whole trip would be led by the three Marvelous Mouse Travels advisors - Jessica Malerman, Nicole Rivera, and Shelby Reyes. 

“ Whether you've got tickets to the tour or not, we invite you to join us ,” they wrote on a website dedicated to the excursion. On the cruise, fans will be diving into all things Swift every day and celebrate the singer and her fandom. There will be a welcome cocktail, the mandatory trading of friendship bracelets, themed dance-offs, Taylor Swift karaoke showdowns, trivia nights, and nightly outfit themes inspired by her iconic eras. But the important question is, how does one get signed up for this trip of a lifetime?

The tickets for the Cruise adventure is currently sold out. However, there is still a way to get in on this incredible journey.

The process to get on the Taylor Swift-themed Cruise's guest list

According to the In My Cruise Era website, they still have room options on the cruise. However, due to high demands, they are now pulling from a waitlist. Therefore, to secure a spot In My Cruise Era, fans will have to first get on the Cruise’s waitlist. Upon joining the waitlist, one shall be notified of the additional sailing dates. Swifties are then required to fill out a form with their personal details. Once approved, fans will receive an email link to a portal for billing, which will be followed by a ping from one of the advisers. 

Additionally, the agency also has some rooms from Royal Caribbean at higher rates for those who do not mind spending a little extra to partake in the Swiftie extravaganza. However, for those daydreaming about spending their vacation with the pop star and her NFL boyfriend , Travis Kelce, unfortunately, the fan cruise is not affiliated with Taylor Swift or her music label in any way. 

Are you going to get yourself signed up for this epic Cruise era? Let us know in the comments below!

Portsmouth summer 2024: Guide to festivals, tall ships, music, shows, history, food, more

PORTSMOUTH — It’s shaping up to be a summer of song, sea, history and the arts in Portsmouth in 2024. There are many ways to celebrate the season in the city.

Read on to learn about the not-to-be missed special events and gems that make summer shine in Portsmouth. We cover everything from maritime history and events, to historic homes to new restaurants and breweries, to live concerts and shows, festivals of all kinds and more.

Enjoy Portsmouth on the water

At the heart of the city is its maritime history from its beginnings as an abundant fishing ground to its world-class shipbuilding reputation that has spanned centuries. A visit to Portsmouth is not complete without getting out on the water, sailing the Piscataqua River, Portsmouth Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean, which brought settlers to its shores.

2024 Sail Portsmouth tall ships festival

This year’s Sail Portsmouth Festival will bring the nation’s most famous tall ship, the Coast Guard’s cutter The Eagle to the Piscataqua River. It will arrive in the Parade of Sail from the mouth of the river into Portsmouth on the morning of Friday, July 26 and dock at the State Pier on Market Street for public tours on Saturday and Sunday, July 27-28. Two additional tall ships — the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey and the S/V Denis Sullivan — will join the Eagle in the Parade of Sail and then offer sails for the public to experience life on the sea in a tall ship. There’ll also be a dockside tent with educational and entertaining activities. Visit sailportsmouth.org for tickets and information.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

More: Eagle to lead Sail Portsmouth tall ships festival in 2024. Here are the details.

Cruise to lighthouses

Friends of Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouses will offer two Sunset Lighthouses Cruises this summer on June 21 and 28 aboard the M/V Granite State, departing from Rye Harbor on Route 1A in Rye. The cruises will pass close to Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, Whaleback Lighthouse, and White Island Lighthouse in the Isles of Shoals. The narrator will be lighthouse historian/author Jeremy D’Entremont, and there will be raffles for prizes and a snack bar on board.

The group will also offer a Five Lighthouse Cruise Saturday, Sept. 21 leaving at 8:30 a.m. Information: portsmouthharborlighthouse.org .

Explore on The Heritage

You can learn about Portsmouth Harbor on a narrated cruise on The Heritage, a 49-passenger boat where you can see the city, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and lighthouses from the water, and learn about the river’s role in the area’s eco-system. Information: portsmouthharbor.com .

Visit the Isles of Shoals

Sail out to the Isles of Shoals, which are about seven miles from Portsmouth, with the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company for trip into an earlier time and a serene setting. You can also disembark for a tour of Star Island, once home to grand hotels and world-famous artists, and now home to educational retreats run by the nonprofit Star Island Corporation, which now owns the island. Visit islesofshoals.com/ to see when its Thomas Leighton’s next trip is and don’t miss the boat.

Sail on The Gundalow

You can learn about the area’s maritime heritage sailing aboard an authentic gundalow, a cargo barge with a shallow draft that was commonly used to transport goods and materials around the area’s rivers and estuaries for centuries. The Gundalow Company offers sails of different kinds and themes on the Gundalow Piscataqua several times a day during the summer. Visit  gundalow.org/sahttps://portsmouthwatertaxi.com/il-with-us for tickets and times.

Portsmouth Water Taxi

New this year is a water taxi service located at the Sullivan Boat Launch on Pierce Island in Portsmouth. You can get a ride into Portsmouth by boat so you can enjoy the city on foot with no worries about parking or having to drive home. Information: portsmouthwatertaxi.com or call 603) 550-1380.

Historic museums and sights in Portsmouth

Strawbery banke museum.

You can stroll through centuries as you tour the historic homes preserved at Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth. The museum has some hidden gems you don’t want to miss this summer.

There’s a new activity, “Think Blue, What Can You Do?” in the museum’s Water Has A Memory exhibit; new features at the Walsh House like an interactive dining etiquette lesson from 1802; Guided Garden Tours on weekdays from June 10 to Sept. 29 to learn about preserving the museum’s heirloom flora; and Behind-The-Scenes Guided Tours where you can handle objects and learn history firsthand.

‘The Matter of Memory’ exhibit

Over at the Discover Portsmouth Center at 10 Middle St., the Portsmouth Historical Society presents “The Matter of Memory,” its exhibition this summer which is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The exhibit studies the role of museums in preserving and shaping a community’s memory and how these institutions’ choices affect how we understand our history. Information: portsmouthhistory.org .

Historic Portsmouth walking tours

The Portsmouth Historical Society presents the Historic Portsmouth walking tour daily during the summer. It also offers four themed walking tours highlighting the city’s LGBTQ history, women’s history and others. Visit portsmouthhistory.org/walking-tours .

Black Heritage Trail tours

The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire is offering 11 different Sankofa guided walking tours covering a variety of events and aspects of the city’s Black history. Check topics and times, and register at blackheritagetrailnh.org/sankofa-guided-walking-tours-2 .

John Paul Jones House

The John Paul Jones House at 43 Middle St. opens on Memorial Day Weekend for tours from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays to Mondays, and contains the society’s ongoing history exhibits. Information: portsmouthhistory.org/jpj .

Juneteenth celebrations

This year’s Juneteenth celebrations presented by the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire will have the theme “Dreaming Black Art: Gateways to a New Awareness.” Events in June in Portsmouth include an artist reception, an in-depth conversation on Black masculinity, a live concert, a children's drumming workshop, African drumming, and more. The annual ceremony at the African Burying Ground in Portsmouth will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 19 and that night there’s a concert celebrating “The Magic Of Motown” at The Music Hall at 7:30 p.m. Visit blackheritagetrailnh.org/juneteenth-celebration-2024 .

Portsmouth’s historic homes

Historic New England oversees three of the city’s most popular historic houses and will hold free Open Houses for the public on Saturday, June 1. The Jackson House, 76 Northwest St., will be open 11a.m. to 3 p.m.; The Langdon House, 143 Pleasant St., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the Rundlet-May House, 364 Middle St., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will also host special events like “From the South End to the West End: A Walking Tour of Portsmouth” on June 28, July 12 and Sept. 13 at 1 p.m. leaving from the Langdon House; “Behind the Scenes of the Rundlet-May House” on June 29 and July 27 at 10 a.m.; and the Jackson House and Christian Shore Landscape Tour, Aug. 24 at 2:30 p.m. Call (603) 436-3205 for more information and tickets or visit historicnewengland.org .

Frederick Douglass Reading

Community leaders will gather at Strawbery Banke Museum’s Goodwin Garden on Hancock Street to read Frederick Douglass’ “What To The Slave Is Your Fourth of July?” and reflect on its meaning from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 29. This event is free and open to the public. Visit blackheritagetrailnh.org/frederick-douglass-statewide-readings .

Portsmouth’s flair for flavor

Summer is here and the eating is easy in Portsmouth. With more restaurant seats than residents, Portsmouth has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to excellent chefs, welcoming restaurants, variety of cuisines and great food to experience.

Chowderfest kicks off a season of seafood

Celebrate New England’s quintessential chowder culture at the annual Chowder Festival Summer Kickoff on Saturday, June 1 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Chowder Festival presents chowders from 20 to 30 local restaurants to sample as they compete for the prized Golden Ladle.You can vote for the People’s Choice award winner, a restaurant that will reign along with the judges’ choice for the Seacoast’s best chowder. Tickets to this fundraiser for the Prescott Park Arts Festival are available at prescottpark.org .

Taste a local oyster

Oysters are a rising star of the region’s cuisine. Farmed right here in the Great Bay and the waterways around Hampton and Seabrook, local oysters are a must-try on a visit to Portsmouth. Check out the Little Bay Beauties or 603 Oysters and others at Franklin Oyster House or Row 34 and don’t miss the Shuck a Buck on Tuesdays at Jumpin’ Jay’s Fish Cafe . Shuck a Buck season at Jay’s ends June 25 and starts up again in the fall.

More: Portsmouth's booming restaurants hit 36,000 seats in city of 22,000 residents

Portsmouth Farmers’ Market

The Portsmouth Farmers’ Market takes place each Saturday during the summer and features an array of local produce, meat, crafts, artisans, products and music. It runs from 8 a.m. to noon at the parking lot in front of City Hall at 1 Junkins Ave. in Portsmouth.

Tour breweries in Portsmouth

You can easily take a stroll through Portsmouth’s downtown and visit multiple breweries. Park in one of the city’s two garages or Uber in and taste a sample, from Great Rhythm Brewing , 105 Bartlett St.; Loaded Question Brewing , 909 Islington St., Suite 2; Liars Bench Beer Co ., 459 Islington St. and Earth Eagle Brewings , 175 High St..

New restaurant Bao 155

New on the corner of Congress St. and Maplewood Ave. is Bao 155, offering Thai street food from the same crew that owns Bamee Durham near the UNH campus in Durham. It’s in the building where the Portsmouth Health Food Store was located next to Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club. Check out its menu at bao155portsmouth.com .

Waterview Grill is new, too

In the spot on the waterfront where Poco’s and Rio Tequila Cantina were formerly located, you’ll find the new Waterview Grill. It’s owned by the Labrie Group — brothers and entrepreneurs Michael and Peter Labrie — which also owns Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club, the nearby River House restaurant and the Atlantic Grill in Rye. if it’s nice out, you can dine on the deck looking out at the city’s famous tugs. See what’s cooking at waterviewgrillnh.com .

More: Waterview Grill to replace Rio Tequila Cantina on Portsmouth waterfront this spring

Oar House turns 50

Just down Ceres Street from the Waterview, the Oar House restaurant is celebrating its 50th birthday this summer. New owners Casey Anderson and Halley Bushe plan to commemorate the year by spotlighting the history of the restaurant and the site within Merchant’s Row all year long. Anderson is a fourth-generation Portsmouth resident who bought the business from former owners Raymond Guerin and Peter DiZoglio in 2022 and also owns the seasonal restaurant Purple Urchin in Hampton Beach. Visit oarhousenh.com .

More: Oar House restaurant celebrating 50 years on Portsmouth waterfront

Wentworth By The Sea celebrating 150th anniversary

Next door on the island of New Castle, the Wentworth by the Sea Hotel is celebrating its 150th birthday with a reception Friday, June 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. The theme is “Gilded Era Dishes With Fresh Modern Twists.” According to the hotel’s website, Executive Chef Lee Michael combed through the hotel’s archives and menus for inspiration using Gilded-Era New England staples like pickled vegetables, lamb and salted cod “with fresh, approachable twists.” There’ll be a cash bar, drink specials and live jazz by the David Newsam Duo. Period costumes encouraged. Visit opalcollection.com/wentworth for tickets.

In addition to the party, the hotel is offering events to celebrate its history like Croquet on the Grand Lawn lessons, sessions to learn to cook dishes from the hotel’s Gilded-Era menus, hotel history tours, and High Tea in the Lobby as well as special menus and drinks at its Salt Kitchen & Bar restaurant during the month of June.

Food festivals

Other food celebrations near Portsmouth include the New England Hot Sauce Festival on July 27 newenglandhotsaucefest.com at the Smuttynose Brewing campus in Hampton

Smuttynose will celebrate its own 30th Birthday Bash on Saturday, July 13 from noon to 5 p.m. They’ll mark the anniversary by bringing back the company's very first beer Shoals Pale Ale to mark the occasion at their Hampton campus where they’ll also host the Smutty Games that day for teams to compete in and win prizes. Visit smuttynose.com/event/smuttynose-30th-anniversary-celebration .

The Portsmouth Food Truck and Craft Brewery Festival will take place on Saturday, Aug. 18 from noon to 5 p.m. at Cisco Brewers Portsmouth on the Pease Tradeport. Visit foodtruckfestivalsofamerica.com/portsmouth .

Vintage and Vine

History and wine blend at Vintage & Vine - A Wine Festival in Historic Style at Strawberry Banke Museum on Thursday, Sept. 12 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Rain or shine, for the 36th year, this fine wine and food festival will showcase the Seacoast’s best chefs and wine brokers and raise funds for the museum’s educational and preservation efforts. This event sells out quickly every year. Tickets go on sale for museum members June 10 at 10 a.m.; to the public June 17 at 10 a.m. Get them at strawberybanke.org/vintage-vine .

N.H. Brewfest

The 16th annual N.H. Brewfest will take place Saturday, Oct. 12 at Cisco Brewers Portsmouth and feature the state’s and the region’s best craft brewers. This is a fundraiser for the Prescott Park Arts Festival and the New England District of the Master Brewers Association of the Americas. Visit prescottpark.org for tickets and information.

Summer happenings

There’s nowhere quite like Portsmouth in the summertime when celebrations of the long-awaited season break out on a daily basis. Here are some of the city’s seasonal highlights.

Market Square Day

Portsmouth’s celebration of the heart of the city is Market Square Day, which will take place Saturday, June 8 from 9 to 4 p.m. The city’s largest street festival is free and will feature food, fun, entertainment, vendors, nonprofit organization, craftsmen and artisans, and the annual 10K race to kick off the morning. Information: proportsmouth.org .

'Legally Blonde' and concerts at Prescott Park Arts Festival

The city’s annual summer celebration of the arts, the Prescott Park Arts Festival, is celebrating its golden anniversary. This outdoor musical theater and concert series fills Prescott Park on Portsmouth’s waterfront just about every night of the summer. This summer, the festival will present “Legally Blonde, The Musical” most Thursdays through Sundays at 7 p.m. from June 21 to Aug. 11. You can bring a blanket or a chair and find your spot on the banks of the Piscataqua River, and enjoy a picnic and a great show. The performances are free. A donation at the gate is suggested for each attendee. You can buy a season pass, make a donation online, or reserve a blanket or a 4-person table with a great view for a fee at prescottpark.org .

The festival’s concert series lineup this year will include The Lone Bellow on Friday, June 14; the Preservation Hall Jazz Band on Wednesday, June 26; folk music icon Patty Griffin on Wednesday, July 17; and singer Allen Stone, who was a huge crowd pleaser at last summer’s concert series, on Monday, Aug. 5 among many others. All theater performances and concerts start at 7 p.m.

Pocket Gardens of Portsmouth Tour

The 35th annual Pocket Gardens of Portsmouth Tour will take place Friday, June 21 from 5 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, June 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year's tour concentrates on gardens in the Little Harbor neighborhood bordered by South Street, Middle Street, and Miller Avenue and will feature eight private gardens, one public garden, and educational opportunities with John Forti, author of “The Heirloom Gardener: Traditional Plants and Skills for the Modern World;” Susan Pike, nature writer for seacoastonline.com ; Pollinator Pathways representatives discussing native plants; Ikebana flower arranging demonstrations; musicians, plein air artists, and cookies. Tickets available at  portsmouthnhtickets.com/organizations/south-church and at five Seacoast locations. Visit southchurch-uu.org/what-we-offer/pocket-garden-tour .

Portsmouth Pride 2024

Portsmouth Pride will be celebrated with a parade anyone can join on Saturday, June 22. Gather outside 40 Pleasant St. at noon and march in the parade down Pleasant and State Street to Strawbery Banke’s Puddle Dock where the celebration will continue until 5 p.m. Enjoy food, music, 100-plus vendors, a beer tent and more. Visit seacoastoutright.org/portsmouth-pride for information.

Fill The Hall

Gather food pantry and The Music Hall are again joining forces for Fill The Hall. The mission is to fill all the theater’s seats with food donations to help feed our Seacoast neighbors in need. Donations will be accepted at 25 Chestnut St. on Saturday, June 22, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and you can always make a cash donation at gathernh.org .

Summer in the Street music series

The Summer in the Street series shuts down Pleasant Street downtown each Saturday afternoon and evening beginning June 29 to create a pedestrian-friendly performance venue in the heart of the city. Pleasant Street from Porter Street to Market Square closes from 4 to 9:30 p.m. Saturdays so folks can literally dance in the streets. The free performances begin at 5:30 p.m., but many have staked out their spot with their lawn chair long before that. Watch proportsmouth.org for announcements about this year’s performers.

Live Under The Arch series at The Music Hall

The Music Hall presents the Live Under The Arch series of outdoor concerts on Chestnut Street in front of the theater. Performing this year will be Dead Meat: A Tribute To The Grateful Dead on Friday, June 14; Assembly of Dust on Thursday, Aug. 8 and Perpetual Groove on Sunday, Aug. 25. Check out themusichall.org for tickets and more concert announcements.

Tuesdays on the Terrace Summer Concert Series

Strawberry Banke Museum presents Tuesday on the Terrace concert series from June 18 to Aug. 27 at 5:30 p.m. On the lawn of Puddle Dock, local musicians perform on the open-air stage. American band North River Music will perform June 18; Portsmouth’s own Sharon Jones on June 25; Beatles tribute 2 of Us on July 2; Kids’ Night with Sages Entertainment and DJ Skooch on July 9; Ben Baldwin and Kent Allyn, July 16; traditional bluegrass with Zoe & Cloyd on July 23; Cormac McCarthy on July 30; Truffle, Aug. 6; Sidewalk Boys, Aug. 13; Kids’ Night with Sages Entertainment and Mr. Aaron on Aug. 20; Liz and Dan Faiella on Aug. 27. Food and drinks are available for purchase. Bring your own chair or blanket.

Button Factory Stage at WSCA

Portsmouth Community Radio WSCA presents concerts on its Button Factory Stage such as songwriters Wes Pearce, Jon Hatchett, & Hamilton Belk  on  Sunday, June 16. Check out their schedule and get tickets at wscafm.org .

Ukraine’s DakhaBrakha to perform

DakhaBrakha, a music quartet from Kyiv, Ukraine, known for its theatrical shows with strong visuals, will perform at 3S Artspace on Friday, June 21 at 7 p.m. They have played in major international festivals throughout Eastern and Western Europe, Russia, Asia, Australia, and North America. Tickets at 3sarts.org .

More live music

There are a host of venues around Portsmouth that offer live music regularly if not daily. Check out Jimmy’s Bar and Grill at jimmysoncongress.com ; The Music Hall and The Music Hall Lounge, themusichall.org ; The Press Room, pressroomnh.com ; The Goat, goatnh.com/portsmouth/calendar ; The River House restaurant, riverhouse53bow.com , among other bars and restaurants that support live music all year long.

Seacoast Repertory Theatre

The Seacoast Rep’s musicals are alway top-notch and a great way to spend an evening. This summer, they’re presenting “Joseph” from June 7 to July 13; "Rock of Ages" from July 19 to Sept. 1. Visit SeacoastRep.org .

Players’ Ring Theatre

The Players’ Ring Theatre offers a variety of plays for adults evenings and on the weekends they offer productions for children during the day. Neighboring The Puddle Dock Restaurant offers a 10% discount for theater patrons. The Puddle Dock’s sister restaurant Tour on Lafayette Road does the same. Visit playersring.org for showtimes and tickets.

New Hampshire Theater Project

The New Hampshire Theatre Project is presenting the dramatic comedy “Romeo and Her Sister” June 7 to 23 at its West End Theater. Visit nhtheatreproject.org .

Boston Dance Theater at 3S Artspace

Boston Dance Theater returns to 3S Artpsace on May 31 and June 1 with "Pinnacle Works: Galili, Goecke, & Pereira,” contemporary dance works by three choreographers, “each decorated by royalty for their contributions to performing arts,” according to 3S Artspace’s website. Tickets at 3sarts.org .

New for game show fans

Game Show Face Off has opened in the Fox Run Mall. At the venue, you and your friends can play game shows live in a studio just like you see on TV. It’s for those 18 and over and you can reserve the venue for one hour to play three games with up to 20 of your friends. The venue is used for team building experiences for workplaces, but it is open for the public on weekends. Reserve your game show slot at gameshowfaceoff.com .

3S Artspace will host “The Crossword Show” on Saturday, June 22 at 7:30 p.m. Zach Sherwin is the show host and will preside over two comedians who will solve an actual crossword puzzle live on stage. Information: 3Sarts.org .

For art lovers

On the First Friday of every month, downtown Portsmouth’s art and museum galleries host the Art ‘Round Town gallery walk from 5 to 8 p.m. Galleries stay open late to welcome the public with receptions and a chance to meet the artists they represent. Find participating galleries at goportsmouthnh.com/art-round-town .

A YART Sale

Also for art lovers, 3S Artspace will hold its annual YART Sale, a yard sale featuring the work of local artists at great prices, on Sunday, June 9 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Artwork is discounted to 40% or more off fair market value price. Many of the artists will be present to meet the public.

Fourth of July fireworks

The city of Portsmouth hosts a large fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day traditionally scheduled for the evening of July 3 after dusk. Keep an eye on cityofportsmouth.com/city/master-calendar for details as the holiday gets closer.

Movie Mondays

Movies will be shown on a big screen Monday nights at Prescott Park after dusk falls. Check out prescottpark.org for this year’s films when they’re announced. A donation of $5 per person is suggested.

Telluride By The Sea

And fresh off the Telluride Film Festival in Colorado, the Telluride by the Sea Festival will take place the weekend of Sept. 12-14 at The Music Hall in Portsmouth and feature new films that debuted at 50th Telluride Film Festival over Labor Day weekend. The films to be shown in Portsmouth will be announced by The Music Hall right before Labor Day weekend. Weekend passes are on sale now at themusichall.org .

• Yekaterinburg
• Novosibirsk
• Vladivostok

• Tours to Russia
• Practicalities
• Russia in Lists

Rusmania • Deep into Russia

Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

Plan your next trip to Russia

Ready-to-book tours.

Your holiday in Russia starts here. Choose and book your tour to Russia.

REQUEST A CUSTOMISED TRIP

Looking for something unique? Create the trip of your dreams with the help of our experts.

ELECTROSTAL HISTORY AND ART MUSEUM: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Electrostal History and Art Museum - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)