AC Hotel Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront Review
Opened in 2020, the 157-room AC Hotel Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront is notable for its upscale contemporary decor, hip aesthetic, and rooftop restaurant and bar, The Rooftop at Envio, which turns into the-place-to-be on temperate nights.
A few minutes walk from downtown Portsmouth, the AC Hotel is perfect for flirtatious escapades, girlfriend getaways, or celebrations of every kind (including weddings).
If the AC Hotel group has a symbol, an identifier, though, it would be the Berkel Meat Slicer. The polished cherry-red version of those bland, utilitarian deli counter staples stands out – actually “grand”-stands out – at every AC Hotel breakfast buffet.
As with many resort-area hotels, AC Portsmouth charges a Destination Fee (in mid-’25 it was $25 per person), which includes a welcome cocktail, use of AC bikes, access to unlimited online library, and can be used towards snacks in the lounge, among other perks.
First Impressions of AC Hotel Portsmouth
Don’t you love being greeted by a genuine smile when you walk into a room? Seasoned travelers know that the first few seconds of a hotel experience sets the tone for what comes afterwards. AC Hotel Portsmouth passes the friendliness test with flying colors.
The lobby is divided by a double-sided glass fireplace – aflame even in the midst of a summer heat wave. There’s seating on one side and a lounge bar on the other – blending chic with comfy in the most eye-catching way.
Rooms at AC Portsmouth
Large guest rooms, consisting of leather seating and dreamy beds, are modern and handsome in shades of grey and gold tones. Bathrooms are sleek – and blessedly well lit. Overall, the decor, neither glitzy nor stuffy, is actually calming. If you’re looking for a tranquil stay – this is it.
If possible, ask for a room with a water view – which will afford you early morning views like the one above.
Food and Beverage at the AC Hotel Portsmouth
Breakfast
The AC’s lovely and bountiful European-style breakfast costs less than many breakfast buffets with half its options. There’s enough of a selection to make both vegans and carnivores happy; plus, the offerings are very tasty.
First and foremost, though, the prosciutto slicer – or more precisely, the gorgeous cherry-red Berkel hand-cranked meat slicer – is the centerpiece of every AC Hotel’s morning meal.
Even if you don’t eat ham – the machine’s presence and beauty will put a smile on your face. (But you are not allowed to use it yourself. Due to insurance restrictions – only AC’s chefs are trained to operate this delicate and very sharp appliance).
Rooftop at the Envio
This is the venue that draws most Portsmouth visitors off the main streets of bustling downtown. Overlooking both the bucolic Piscataqua River, the Envio Rooftop at AC Hotel, with both indoor and outdoor seating, is a literal breath of fresh air – and an uber popular scene on summer evenings.
The menu tends toward leveled-up bar bites: shareables, salads, burgers, and bowls. And, of course, there are plenty of mixed drinks, wine choices, and canned adult beverages, perfectly paired with those gorgeous water views. I made a meal of the Asian-style green beans and a glass of wine, and was perfectly happy.
Wrapping it Up
Situated between Portsmouth’s downtown hustle and bustle and the Piscataqua River waterfront, the AC Hotel Portsmouth makes for a great off the main drag – but eminently walkable – upscale getaway. With spotless guest rooms, spic-and-span bathrooms, a cozy-trendy fireplace lobby-bar, and four-season rooftop restaurant, the AC Hotel checks all the boxes for a romantic – or girlfriend group vacay. Check out the package below.
AC Portsmouth Girlfriend Getaway Package
Portsmouth NH, with a multitude of customized make-and-take home and body goods (candles, soaps, spices, signs, pottery, more), gobs of cocktail bars, and seaside vibe, is appropriately fitting for a Girlfriend Getaway. And, man, does the AC Hotel Portsmouth provide the perfect package.
What’s Included:
- Two-night stay at the AC Hotel Portsmouth — Sleek, design-forward rooms just steps from downtown.
- $100 gift card to The Rooftop at The Envio — Enjoy picturesque views, handcrafted cocktails, and fresh local cuisine at our stunning rooftop restaurant. #MeetYouAtTheRooftop
- Complimentary valet parking for one vehicle (regularly $45/night).
Plus, enjoy hotel perks like:
- Daily European-style breakfast at AC Kitchen available for purchase
- 24-hour fitness center
- Free Wi-Fi throughout your stay
- A $25/day destination fee also includes:
- $25 daily food & beverage credit, use it at The Rooftop or for breakfast at the AC Kitchen
- Complimentary bike rentals to cruise the town
- A welcome cocktail for each guest (up to 4) on arrival
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, bachelorette, or just living your best life, this weekend is all about good times, great energy, and that perfect coastal vibe.
What to Do While You’re Here
- Rooftop Bites + Sips – Kick things off with shareable plates and next-level cocktails at The Rooftop at the Envio. Your $100 gift card covers sunset toasts, skyline views, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. #MeetYouAtTheRooftop
- Wander Downtown – Cobblestone streets. Cute shops. Local coffee. Downtown Portsmouth brings serious charm and weekend-it-girl vibes—just steps from your room.
- Reset + Recharge – Book that facial, get the massage, and fully unplug. Local wellness spots are just around the corner, and your room is the perfect post-spa vibe.
- Culture Mode: On – From indie galleries to 3S Artspace and Strawbery Banke, Portsmouth serves up art, history, and a whole lot of creativity.
- Make Something Cool – Get hands-on with a DIY workshop—think candle pouring at Sealove, group paint nights, or crafty projects at Board & Brush.
- Coastal Cruising – Hop on a sunset harbor cruise or grab a hotel bike and ride along the water. Want to chill? Pack a snack and head to Prescott Park for a picnic moment.
- Nights Out, Turned Up – Catch a show at The Music Hall or swing by Jimmy’s for smooth jazz and late-night cocktails. The vibe stays strong well after sunset.
