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City in Rhode Island, United States
Photo: Lennart Tange, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Newport is a beautiful seaside city in Rhode Island that is famous for its genteel mansions and a rich history of yachting, golf, and tennis. With a population of only 25,000 (2020), this scenic resort town punches well above its weight and was known as the "Summer White House" throughout the 1950s and 60s.
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Dedicated in 1975, this 3.5 mi public access walkway is a beautiful walk, and two-thirds of the trail is easy walking for all ages. The cliff walk offers some of the most beautiful views in New England, and wildlife can be seen throughout. Along the way you'll get a peek at several the famous Newport Mansions. Be sure to look out for the Forty Steps; an amazing staircase leading into the ocean below. During Newport's Golden Age, the steps were a gathering place for servants and workers from the nearby mansions. Here they would hold weekend dances and play the Irish songs and music that reminded them of home. The bottom of the steps are also safe for swimmers, runners and walkers alike. To walk the trail, start at Newport's First Beach and follow the coast to Ocean Drive. While walking, watch out for poison ivy. Additionally, some portions of the walk drop off steeply into the water, rocks can be slippery, and the path is not fully paved; so proceed with caution. Most people complete the Cliff Walk in about 2-4 hours. While bikes are not permitted, dogs are as long as they are kept on a leash. There are no refreshments or picnic areas, so plan ahead. The north end is handicapped accessible and baby carriage accessible. There are multiple ways to exit the Cliff Walk, all of which lead back to Bellevue Avenue and the front side of the mansions. Walking back to your car can take a while, so consider the free RIPTA trolley as a viable return option.
Containing over 180 years of history, the fort itself is the largest coastal fortress in the United States and offers seasonal guided tours that showcase the property’s soldier’s quarters, Naval War College Museum Exhibit, beautiful architecture and engineering. Besides looking at the splendor that is Fort Adams, you can see the view of the Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay from Fort Adams State Beach. A beautiful beach with picnic and fishing areas; concession stand and public bathrooms are also available. Fort Adams is not just a historical part of Newport, it is also home to various festivals and events that take place on the fortress’ six and a half parade field and lawns. Some of these festivals include Family Day, a celebration for families, especially those with small children, which include clowns, face painting, and other fun activities and attractions. Fort Adams is also home to the annual George Wein’s Folk Festival, George Wein’s Jazz Festival, and McGrath’s Public Clambake.
Perhaps one of the most well-kept establishments on Aquidneck Island is Fort Adams. The 30-year construction of the fort began in 1824, and was built by hundreds of immigrants new to America. The fort was used during the Civil War by the Naval Academy. This elaborately constructed fort used to contain more than 500 cannons, some of which were preserved and can be seen today. The stone structure is only used recreationally for festivals, and often for wedding receptions due to its beautiful location. Fort Adams can be seen to the right of the Newport Bridge in crossing.
The team plays a 42-game summer schedule, consisting of 21 home games, plus a Team USA Exhibition and the playoffs, at historic Cardines Field, which dates back to 1908. The New England Collegiate Baseball League is composed of 12 teams in all 6 New England states. The Gulls also host 6 summer camps located throughout Aquidneck Island, benefiting the youth of Newport County. Adults $4; Ages 13–18, Seniors, and Military ID's $2; under $12 1. Seasons passes are $50.
If there were any particular area in Newport that would be described as park perfection, Ballard Park is the unrivaled paragon of parks in Rhode Island, let alone in Newport. Surrounded by a dense forest, the park itself is also shadowed by a massive stone wall in the background, creating a very unique setting to have any sort of event, such as stage music, jack-o-lantern trails, and family picnics. The owners of Ballard Park have hosted many similar public events in the past, all of which had been considered large community successes.
This 1890 lighthouse is made of granite and has some great views.
Built between 1893 and 1895 for the Vanderbilt family.
Newport Casino
A non-profit institution made to preserve the history of tennis. Built in 1880, it shows the icons of tennis and showcases the largest collection of tennis memorabilia in the world. Visitors of all ages can come to this historical casino and experience the art gallery, and the plaques that commemorate the great players.
For reservations call at least 24 hours in advance. Reservations and photo identification are necessary for entry onto the Naval Station.
Afternoons exc. Sa. Hours vary by season. The Touro Synagogue was dedicated in 1762, and serves an active congregation today. The congregation was founded in 1658 by Sephardim who fled the Inquisition in Spain and Portugal and were searching for a haven from religious persecution in the Caribbean. Tours times vary, Adults $5, under 13 free.
Museum at historic Vernon Court houses works by Norman Rockwell, J. C. Leyendecker, N. C, Wyeth, Maxfield Parrish, and more.
Bellevue Av. Built between 1891 and 1894 for Oliver Belmont.
Tour philanthropist Doris Duke's eclectic art collection housed in one of Newport's finest "cottages".
JPT Film & Event Center
This unique art house cinema was built in 1834 as a church and converted to a two–story theater in 1919. The theater has a capacity for 500 people. Jane Pickens' beautifully renovated interior is a perfect setting to watch the newest independent films and documentaries. The theater can be rented out for private functions such as fundraisers, parties, business events, weddings, and anniversaries. With its small stage, Jane Pickens can also accommodate artists and filmmakers to debut their work for a private audience or to the general public. This theater is one of the only cinemas in Rhode Island that will re-release classic films for the public to enjoy again. Today, the theatre retains its charm by bringing the arts to the public through movies, films, performances and more. Attractions range from 2011 release “The Artist” to the La Corsaire from the Bolshoi Ballet.
This is a 10-mile drive along the beautiful Newport shoreline. Along the drive you will see, Green Bridge, The Private Beaches (Gooseberry Beach, Hazards Beach, Bailey's Beach), Brenton Point State Park, Castle Hill Inn, and many gorgeous houses that hug the shoreline.
Offers all levels of classes, heated power vinyassa, and slow flow/restorative. Mats available for rent, towels and water available for purchase, blocks available for use.
A tandem jump is offered with an instructor, which consists of a 40-second free fall, and about a 5-minute parachute ride. Hands on training is available.
Provides mat, reformer, and virtual classes.
Rejects' Beach
This private beach is one of the most exclusive on the East Coast. The beach club has historically been a summer getaway for Senators and other wealthy families. Tennis courts, parking, and concessions are not available to the public. Though the beach mostly remains off limits, the northeast end is accessible to the general public—separated by a fence, of course. This section is popularly known as Reject's Beach, though club members refer to it delicately as "the public end.".
First Beach
One of the top 10 beaches in New England, this 3/4 mile sandy beach has a wonderful view of the beautiful Cliff Walk as well as ocean swimming, beach board, surf board, umbrella and beach chair rental. A skateboard park, playground, seasonal carousel, and an exploration center for "Save the Bay" are available for children and adolescents. The concession stand is seasonal, so if you are visiting during the off season, be sure to pack a lunch. Picnic tables, indoor/outdoor showers and restrooms are available. Many restaurants and hotels are within walking distance. Free parking is available off of side streets off Memorial Boulevard.
Hazard Beach
The scenery here is particularly striking, even by Newport standards, with grand houses sitting atop cliffs surrounded by water. Both the water and vibes are calm, and visitors can wade out to some interesting large rock formations. Showers, chair, umbrella, and kayak rentals are available to the public. The concession stand is one of the state's best, with some surprisingly fresh and creative options; don't leave without trying the strawberry lemonade. Hazard beach is the next strip of sand over and closed to the public.
It has a free boat ramp, but this beach is fairly small and the sand is just ok. It does have a great view of the Newport Bridge. Adjacent Kings Park also offers picnic tables and areas to barbeque. Close to the action, but often overlooked by tourists. Not to be confused with King's Beach across town.
Tour the Newport harbor on a classic ’80 Schooner, experience a different view of Newport from the water. Available for private charters, and offers daily ticketed sails multiple trips a day, departing from Bowen’s Wharf.
Harbor tours with a different view. Classic Maine-built wooden vessel sails daily from the private dock at the Inn on Long Wharf at 142 Long Wharf. A classic Maine-built wooden vessel; later in the day, enjoy ice cream and toppings; in the evenings, sample award-winning "Stuffies"- RI stuffed quahogs. Light beverages always compliments of the Captain. Expert guest speakers narrate the sights of this enchanting harbor and the lower bay. Private charters available.
Newport Sailing School and Tours. Goat Island Marina, Dock A5. Offers 1-2 hour leisure sailing tour of Newport Harbor. For those more hands on, courses are available in three experience levels. Beginners are welcome.
Daily ticketed sails aboard a 12-meter yacht. Offers two-hour afternoon and evening cruises aboard 12 Meter yachts. Not your typical harbor cruise, 12 Meter Charters' ticketed cruises combine the history of Newport with the experience of sailing on Narragansett Bay. Enjoy historic Newport sights including Fort Adams and the Newport Bridge, lighthouses and lavish estates, aircraft carriers and historic schooners, and learn the history of sailing in Newport.
Newport Quest Fishing Charters
This collaboration is a state-wide experience, boats leaving from Newport docks and fishing towards Block Island.
Privately owned operation, located just outside of Newport within a mile of first beach (Easton's). Saltwater activities range from fly fishing, surf-casting and light or heavy tackle; staff providing a compilation of offshore and onshore experience.
Fly fishing oriented, and light tackle and fly fishing gear provided. Other than Newport areas also covered are Narragansett Bay, Westerly and Watch Hill.
Enjoy a day on the links at Newport National, an 18-hole public course which offers great views and picturesque holes throughout. With paths made of sea shells, players may feel as though they are on a remote island.
Viking Tours
This standard tourist trolley accommodates the same amount of passengers as a bus on a more breezy, clean and pleasant ride. Choose from any number of mansion and scenic tours of Newport.
Offering three fun 3-3½ hour cultural, walking and tasting tours that takes you through historic off the beaten path neighborhoods and several of the best-kept secret local eateries. Regional foods from some of the most talented chefs in New England. Rain or Shine, Best to book advance tours fill up fast. Meeting place directions will be on ticket.
This is the place to be for St. Patrick’s Day. The parade kicks off the day, while countless parties and festivities follow until the wee hours of the night. Parade route: City Hall to Washington Square to Thames Street and ending at Saint Augustine’s Church.
First Saturday in December, America’s Cup Ave. Frosty the Snowman arrives at 4:30PM, children’s musical program begins at 5PM. The mayor lights the tree at 6PM and Santa arrives by a Coast Guard Crash Boat (weather permitting) immediately after tree lighting.
Marble House, the Elms and the Breakers are open and decorated for the holiday season. Celebrate a timeless holiday season amid elegantly decorate surrounding. All three houses are adorned with period-inspired ornaments, elaborate yuletide decorations and ring with music of the season.
Citywide. Features more than 150 individual events combining food, music and entertainment for all ages. Includes concert series, sand sculptures, chili cook-off, citywide scavenger hunt, ice sculpting competition, children’s fair, pizza cook-off and fantasy auction.
The Newport Jazz Festival is a famous annual festival held every August at Fort Adams State Park. It was first founded by jazz pianist George Wein in 1954, and has hosted many famous jazz musicians ever since.
Throughout the summer, the Sunset Music Series features national and international entertainment overlooking beautiful Newport harbor. This upscale event is set in a great location and allows entertainers to expose themselves to the public. 2,500 seats are reserved under a colorful waterfront tent with a separate tent for VIP receptions.
Each Labor Day weekend, the Newport Waterfront Irish Festival offers a celebration of Irish music, culture, food, libations and crafts. This event provides quality family entertainment and an authentic cultural experience. It is a community celebration that features five stages of national and international entertainment, an Irish Marketplace with Irish and handcrafted items for sale, a dance hall and a children's play area. A festival great for all ages!
The Taste of Rhode Island offers a unique experience featuring food, crafts, talent and culture. This annual event includes over 100 exhibitors comprised of restaurants selling appetizer size portions of the areas finest cuisine, beverages, craft and marketplace vendors. Live entertainment, strolling acts, a wine garden, and children's activities are some of the exciting happenings to be enjoyed.
The Great Chowder Cook-Off provides an opportunity to taste the Nation's best chowder in the downtown Newport. The Cook-Off features over 25 international and national restaurants competing for the coveted title of Best chowder in the Nation in 3 categories: clam, seafood, and creative. This event offers 3 stages of continuous entertainment, culinary demonstrations, a community tent with activities for children.
The ending of the fall festival season, an authentic German Oktoberfest celebration with lively Bavarian music from throughout New England, delicious German food and American cuisine (seafood, pierogies and more), an International Biergarten, Weingarten, and special area for children.
The largest Spring Boat Show in the Northeast. A first class exhibition of brokers and dealers selling brokerage boats, past-season and new models. Booths offer attendees an array of products, services and accessories throughout the boat show.
The third largest in-water boat show in the country covers over 14 acres of Newport's waterfront. Hundreds of exhibitors offer a full spectrum of new boat related products and services to any boating enthusiast. Music, food, and fun abound at one of the leading boat show in the world.
Japanese American society.
Vendors from all over Rhode Island sell fresh produce, coffee, fish, and the odd craft retailer. While the market mostly offers ingredients for locals; you can find some great baked goods, sandwiches, juices, and the like. Rain or shine. Additional pop-up markets in the high season.
An inexpensive breakfast option. The menu features classic diner food and their Early Bird Special is a substantial meal.
Newport Shipyard
Open for breakfast and lunch, Belle's Cafe is a casual eatery within the Newport Shipyard. They also offer an extensive prepared menu available for takeout or delivery to your boat, a great option if you are looking for a quick bite to eat while cruising around Newport Bay.
They have outdoor seating along Broadway. The Fitsy’s Irish fry up is a specialty that is well worth the price. The fry up has eggs, black and white pudding, grilled tomatoes, bangers and hash browns making it a large classic Irish breakfast.
Offering a variety of eggs and omelets; the chourico omelet is a popular choice, as are the stuffed waffles. For those with a larger appetite, you can order the Gorilla Special: a combination of 3 pancakes, 2 eggs, your choice bacon, sausage or ham, and steak with home fries.
Fried seafood, raw bar, cold beer. Excellent fried clams close to the beach. Established in the 1930s.
Buskers is a middle-of-the-road traditional Irish pub restaurant. Here, the bartenders have the authentic Irish accent and a fully stocked bar. The atmosphere is appropriate for both families with children or just a group of friends looking for a few good laughs of Guinness drafts. Buskers is complete with a menu full of variety with appetizers, sandwiches, Irish fare and entrees.
Mexican restaurant located in an old Victorian home. Serves dinner only and brunch on Sundays. Two floors of seating with a lively but small bar downstairs. The well lit rooms, some of which have fireplaces, offer a charming atmosphere perfect for a date night or a friendly gathering. They are very accommodating for parties with small children, too, especially if you arrive before 6. Fish tacos and Yucatán pork are favorites. Reservations recommended.
The atmosphere in this restaurant is casual and light-hearted. The menu includes lobster, oysters, corn dogs and fries and is family-friendly. No reservations.
Pub style restaurant, gourmet sandwiches, and a dinner menu.
Extensive, massive menu including steaks, seafood, drinks, pasta dishes, children's menu and they serve a great lobster roll and clam chowder. Custom made salad bar with decorative walls and accessories every place you look. Very, very busy place with a friendly staff.
Winner of the Best Italian Restaurant in Newport several years running. Live jazz music on Wednesdays starting at 7PM.
Diego’s combines classic Mexican style cuisine with a modern twist, successfully combining the fresh fish Newport is known for with classic Mexican preparation. They focus on fresh ingredients, homemade sauces and bold flavors. They also have a long list of Mexican-inspired cocktails, and provide seating at an outside patio and inside.
Come in for their drink and meal specials in a casual dining atmosphere.
A strictly seafood restaurant that carries a wide variety of fish such as grilled fish (salmon, mahi mahi and bluefish) as well as a wide selection of wines. The entrees feature muscles marinara, linguine with clams, and lobster fra diavolo. Menu of fresh selections scrawled on a chalkboard.
Offers two outdoor patio seatings with views of the bay, three different bars, and private rooms. Their focus is on fresh and local seafood and they have an impressive raw bar menu, offering approximately 10 different raw bar options.
Waterfront seafood restaurant featuring one of the state's most extensive wine lists.
The Candy Store
With an 18th century flair, Clarke Cooke House offers elevated cuisine in a nautical setting. Many artifacts from the America's Cup and other sailing memorabilia crowd the walls. From May to October the restaurant offers an open air atmosphere, menu and even a sushi bar. The attached Candy Store is a colorful and lively pub, featuring live music Saturday nights at 10PM. The harbor-side views are complimentary.
The Black Pearl is one of the more popular restaurants in Newport, and it features a selection of grilled shrimp, baked cod, sea scallops, and New England lobster. You also have your choice of sitting in the tavern, or out on the patio depending on the season. From the patio you have a nice view of the water as well as the various boats and yachts tied to the surrounding docks.
Established in 1673, this was the meetinghouse for Rhode Island's General Assembly during colonial times. Today they provide top-notch food and service. Reservations and jacket required.
Serving prime beef, New England's finest seafood, 35 wines by the glass and over 500 labels on their wine list, visit them and enjoy "a little bit of tenderness".
Cappy's is a local sports bar. This is a great spot for enjoying a drink and watching the game in an open, friendly environment. Cappy’s offers billiards, fooseball, and an outdoor smoking area.
This genuine Irish pub is easily the best place in Newport to hear live Irish music. Performances start at 10PM Thursday to Sunday. It's always full but not packed, and the service & ambiance are great. Start here: you won't regret it.
Serves an eclectic menu with dishes like wasabi tuna wrap. They also host live entertainment during late spring and all summer long.
Dinner served until 10PM when the live music starts and you must be 21+.
Brews beer well known throughout around Rhode Island. For those of you who don't like beer, have no fear, the brewery also offers their own rum. You can do a tasting and take a glass home with you as a souvenir.
Outside bar open seasonally. Outdoor patio includes plentiful seating and fountain, both dog and kid friendly. Kitchen offers a gluten free menu. Open year-round serving pub-style food inside by the fire in the winter. Pool table, live music, and merch.
Top of the Pelham
Dueling pianos, and other live music.
Cheap food and a wide variety of draft beers on lower Broadway.
Former home of the Newport International Hostel, this is as cheap as it gets in Newport. Private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Minimum stay 2 nights.
Close to Newport's Cliff Walk, First Beach, historic Bellevue Avenue. Full 3-course breakfast served each morning.
Offering a full breakfast, afternoon refreshments, and nightly sweets. Inclusive packages with mansions, tours and a lobster dinner are also available.
A luxury beachfront hotel within walking distance to Cliff Walk and 1 mile to downtown Newport. Accommodates up to 200 for group meetings and retreats.
Circa 1856 George Champlin Mason Victorian Bed and Breakfast in Historic Point section. King size beds, private baths, A/C, two blocks to waterfront and downtown.
George Mason House
Home of Newport's first architect and a beautiful inn.
Newport Experience
This timeshare resort offers condominiums for rental. All condominiums are fully stocked with linens, full kitchens, appliances, and other necessities. 1 and 2 bedroom units available. 5 miles from the center of town: bring your own transportation if you plan to stay here. 2-3 night minimum stay.
A historic spa hotel atop Newport's Historic Hill neighborhood with views of Bellevue Avenue offering various guestroom and luxury suite choices. The hotel restaurant specializes in local seafood and New England cuisine.
Villa One Twenty
A boutique inn which has been luxuriously decorated in an eclectic yet relaxed European style.
A Victorian bed & breakfast. This elegant 1890s home has been restored to its original glory and is located within walking distance of many fine restaurants and antique shops.
A historic Victorian Inn, completely renovated in 2011, steps to the Cliff Walk.
On a secluded 40-acre peninsula. Features a restored Victorian Inn as well as beach houses and cottages. The Castle Hill lighthouse is also within walking distance. The inn's chefs artfully craft fresh local fish, regional meats, and produce into a distinctly native seasonal menu, served in four dining rooms. It was awarded the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for five consecutive years.
The only hotel on Newport's famed Cliff Walk, and one of the most historic hotels in New England, The Chanler is surrounded by acres of manicured gardens and overlooks the gorgeous waters of the Atlantic and pristine sands of Easton's Beach. Preserving the refinement and beauty of The Gilded Age. At the onsite Cara Restaurant, most of the tables look out onto dramatic oceanfront views. Visitors dine on one of several tasting menus, each with the option of wine pairing. A chef's table is also available for a nightly Gourmand Tasting Menu.
A Nature and Science Store
The store focuses on jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets, but also offers traditional rock-shop wares such as crystals and fossils. Merchandise is organized by color, type, style and polish (whether the pieces are garnished with silver or gold).
Just a block down from America's Cup Avenue lays this small first floor boutique. The limited space is crammed with numerous racks and shelves of clothes and jewelry that may come across as overwhelming. Pink Pineapple's fashion is focused on bright, bold and pieces that make a statement; popular with a younger crowd. Merchandise can be rather pricey, but the quality and uniqueness is that set apart from other stores in the area.
Pleasant Surprise provides a fun, playful, and colorful atmosphere for shoppers. This adult joke store offers merchandise ranging from hand painted party themed Margarita glasses and quirky birthday cards to silly animal hats and fun home accessories. Prices are moderate and they offer shipping. ATM on premises.
Tourist Trap is perfect for picking up Newport related souvenirs, items ranging from tee-shirts and sweatshirts to bumper stickers and coffee mugs. The store is filled with knick knacks and fun souvenirs of all shapes and sizes. They offer gift certificates, gift wrapping and shipping and accept debit cards, all major credit cards, and cash, although there is no ATM.
Head to Vinyl Guru and start digging in the crates to find that rarity you've been hunting for. Large and eclectic collection ranges from Rock to Blues to Jazz, New Wave and hundreds more. There's also a few CDs and cassettes if you prefer other forms of anachronistic media. Staff is usually chill, helpful, and readily available. Independently owned and operated.
By plane
By bus
RIPTA runs an express bus service from Providence every 30 minutes.
By ferry
Block Island Ferry runs multiple ferries daily from Block Island and Fall River. From Providence, Seastreak Ferries offers four daily round trips with a journey time of just under one hour.
By private boat
If travelling on a private boat, there are many marinas in Newport harbor that offer dock space for sailboats, powerboats, million-dollar yachts, and even cruise ships that set anchor in the harbor.
By car
Parking your car can get pretty difficult at certain times of the year, which is another benefit of walking.
By public transit
By taxi
By bike and moped
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Newport · Regional · NPT
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