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Photo: David (dbking) from Washington, DC, USA, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
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.
Fort Adams State Park is a public recreation and historic area preserving Fort Adams, a large coastal fortification located at the harbor mouth in Newport, Rhode Island, that was active from 1841 through the first half of the 20th century. The state park hosts the annual Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival and is the home of Sail Newport and Eisenhower House.
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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.
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.
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.
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.