Newport

WHAT TO DO

Newport is a seaside city set on Aquidneck Island in the New England state of Rhode Island. It is located in Narragansett Bay, approximately 30 miles southeast of Providence. Newport was founded in 1639 on Rhode Island, which is now called Aquidneck Island. It was the scene of much activity during the American Revolution. William Ellery was a Newport native and one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. By the turn of the 20th century, many of the nation's wealthiest families were summering in Newport, including the Vanderbilts and Astors.

Newport is a charming town that beautifully blends rich history with breathtaking scenery. Known for its opulent mansions and vibrant maritime culture, Newport offers visitors a unique glimpse into America’s Gilded Age. Whether you’re wandering along the picturesque Cliff Walk, taking in the views from the historic Castle Hill Lighthouse, or exploring the fascinating exhibits at the International Tennis Hall of Fame, there’s no shortage of captivating experiences waiting for you in this coastal gem.

Start your journey in the Newport Historic District - it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1968 due to its extensive and well preserved assortment of intact colonial buildings dating from the early and mid 18th century. Bowen's Wharf is a lively waterfront area, offering a mix of boutique shops, art galleries and restaurants housed in historic 18th century buildings. It's a bustling hub with charming cafes, sightseeing tour companies and alfresco bars where you can enjoy a variety of local wines while watching tour boats launch. The wharf is known for its vibrant shopping scene featuring handcrafted jewelry, nautical themed gifts, locally made clothing and artwork. Not far away is Thames Street, a popular destination in the heart of downtown.

The Newport Art Museum is a cultural gem that dates back to 1912. Located on Bellevue Avenue, the museum's multi building campus includes the historic John N A Griswold House and offers a diverse collection of over 3000 works of American art from the late 19th century to contemporary pieces. Nearby is the must visit International Tennis Hall of Fame. It's the birthplace of the US National Lawn Tennis Championships (forerunner of today's US Open tennis tournament) and offers an array of attractions including interactive exhibits, a holographic theater featuring stars like Roger Federer, displays of iconic tennis attire, video highlights of historic matches and even Queen Victoria's 1874 patent for lawn tennis.

The Audrain Auto Museum, housed in the historic Audrain Building on Bellevue Avenue, is another must see for car enthusiasts. It boasts an impressive collection of over 350 cars spanning from the pre War era to the 21st century. With annual thematic exhibits, visitors can immerse themselves in automotive history, design evolution and innovation. An additional museum that should not be missed is The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame. It offers a unique and personalized experience for visitors. Upon entry, guests can design and name their own boat, which they will later race in a digitized regatta style event. The museum provides a hands on experience and features interactive games such as a grinder machine to test sailing skills.

Trinity Church on Queen Anne Square is a historic parish church in the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island. Founded in 1698, it is the oldest Episcopal parish in the state. In the mid 18th century, the church was home to the largest Anglican congregation in New England. The current Georgian building was designed by architect Richard Munday and constructed in 1725. It is one of the largest extant 18th century New England churches and has been designated a National Historic Landmark since 1968. Also noteworthy is Touro Synagogue. Built in 1763, it is the oldest synagogue building still standing in the United States. It was designed by Peter Harrison and features a two story Palladian style. The synagogue has a rich history, with George Washington writing a famous letter to the congregation pledging religious freedom. The interior boasts twelve Ionic columns representing the twelve tribes of ancient Israel. In 1946, it was declared a National Historic Site.

The Cliff Walk is an iconic 3.5 mile trail that offers visitors stunning coastal views and a glimpse into the opulent Gilded Age architecture of Newport. This scenic pathway invites you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the beauty of the ocean crashing against rocky shores. Highlights along the walk include the 40 steps leading down to the water, access to Easton's Beach and spectacular views of historic estates. During the late 1800s, Gilded Age captains of industry and New York City’s elite built ornate mansions in Newport that they called summer cottages. Dripping in crystal chandeliers, lined with marble and furnished with gilt antiques, these homes demonstrated the owners' stratospheric wealth.

Many of these houses have been preserved and welcome visitors for tours through the vast ballrooms, extravagant parlors and meticulous gardens. Note: tickets can be purchased in advance on the Newport Mansions website - I booked The Breakers + 2 option (timed admission to The Breakers and general admission for two other properties of your choosing). The Breakers is a grand summer home built by Cornelius Vanderbilt and his wife during the Gilded Age in 1895. Designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt, this 70 room 'cottage' is the most magnificent of Newport's grandiose mansions. Marble House, a stunning Beaux Arts style mansion, was originally the summer residence of the Vanderbilt family. Also designed by Richard Morris Hunt in 1892, it was a birthday gift from William K Vanderbilt to his wife Alva. The opulent interior features intricate details such as ceiling murals, chandeliers, carved woodwork and a grand staircase. Rosecliff stands as a stunning testament to Gilded Age elegance. Inspired by the French Grand Trianon at Versailles and featuring a dramatic heart shaped grand staircase, this architectural gem was originally constructed for Theresa Fair Oelrichs in 1902. The majestic ballroom boasts crystal chandeliers and a trompe l'oeil ceiling of drifting clouds.

Fort Adams State Park is a historic site located in a strategic position overlooking Narragansett Bay. It served as a coastal defense system from pre Revolutionary War times up to World War II. The park offers guided tours of the fort's interior, underground tunnels and scenic overlook posts with stunning 360 degree views of Aquidneck Island and Narragansett Bay. Additionally, it hosts the renowned Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals during the summer months. Nestled at the end of Ocean Avenue, Castle Hill Lighthouse stands as a beacon of maritime history since its completion in 1890. This stunning granite structure, rising 34 feet above Narragansett Bay, was designed to guide vessels through the East Passage between Aquidneck and Conanicut Islands.

Conclude your tour of Newport on the water or perhaps at a vineyard. Embark on a delightful daytime boat tour or a mesmerizing sunset cruise with Coastal Queen Cruises to witness the city by the sea from an entirely new perspective. The experience includes a guided tour of Newport, offering both fun and informative insights into the area. If you prefer a relaxing sail in Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay, go with On Watch Sailing. This private charter offers tours beginning mid April through the end of October. The Newport area is home to several wineries - book a table for a wine tasting at Newport Vineyards. Located just minutes from downtown, this 100 acre vineyard is both a beverage and culinary destination that blends together award winning wine, fresh craft beer and farm to table dining.

WHERE TO EAT

Newport has a number of excellent places to eat and have a drink. Start your day at Corner Cafe, located at 110 Broadway. This bustling neighborhood spot attracts both locals and visitors alike with its friendly atmosphere and delicious breakfast options. I enjoyed Portley's Portuguese French Toast - stuffed with fresh berries, banana and sweet cream. Cru Cafe can be found at 1 Casino Terrace. This popular place prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients to create a menu filled with seasonal dishes. It offers all day breakfast options like the Newporter sandwich and creative avocado toasts, as well as hearty omelets and signature coffee.

Franklin Spa, located at 229 Spring Street, is a well liked destination known for its hearty classics and New England inspired specials. Despite its unassuming exterior, the crowd of locals and visitors waiting outside speaks to its reputation as one of the best breakfast spots in town. This diner style eatery offers bottomless coffee and generous portions of dishes like eggs Benedict with lobster and the Portuguese Sailor breakfast sandwich. The Nitro Bar is a trendy and relaxed coffee spot that offers locally sourced specialty brews and light snacks. What started as a small cart in Providence has now expanded to three locations, including two in Newport (2 Pond Avenue and 404 Thames Street). Their nitro cold brew is a standout, pressurized in kegs for a creamy texture without the need for milk or sugar. The menu features signature lattes like lavender and specialty teas such as blood orange hibiscus.

For lunch, head to The Black Pearl, located at 30 Bannister's Wharf. This renowned waterfront establishment is known for its nautical themed decor and delectable seafood. The venue features an atmospheric wharf bar and a formal restaurant, offering a famous creamy New England style clam chowder and refreshing drinks like ice cold mudslides and frozen dark 'n' stormies on tap. Visitors can enjoy the best bar seats on the bustling waterfront patio at Bannister's Wharf next to the boat docks. Brick Alley Pub is a lively, landmark pub that has served comforting classics and fresh seafood since 1980. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, it's a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking delicious food and genuine hospitality. Found at 140 Thames Street, it boasts an extensive wine list with over 250 vintages, earning recognition with the Wine Spectator Award for Excellence.

The Red Parrot is a popular venue located in a historic 1898 building. It offers a wide menu featuring contemporary American dishes, burgers, pizzas and fresh seafood. The lively interior overlooks Thames Street and the wharf beyond, providing a vibrant atmosphere for diners. With an Irish flair and jazz combos, this local favorite also offers signature cocktails in addition to its tasty eats. Mother Pizzeria, located at 49 Long Wharf Mall, is not your average pizza joint. It's a haven for food enthusiasts, with a focus on sourdough as the star ingredient. Their square Roman style pizzas are made with naturally fermented dough that promises a slow and delightful experience. The crust is crispy yet airy, while the center offers the perfect chewiness. Toppings are fresh, seasonal and bursting with flavor to complement the exceptional dough.

Across the way at 20 Long Wharf Mall is Yagi Noodles. This charming eatery, led by chef Basil Yus, specializes in crafting exquisite bowls of ramen from scratch using handmade noodles made from locally sourced stone milled wheat. Drawing inspiration from his Chinese heritage and extensive ramen hunting adventures across Asia, each bowl bursts with aromatic flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Perro Salado is a vibrant Mexican restaurant at 19 Charles Street. The menu features gourmet tacos, flavorful moles and tequila flights. The outdoor patio provides a charming setting beneath colorful string lights and a pergola. Signature dishes like sticky pork ribs and battered fish tacos are complemented by top notch margaritas.

For dinner, make your way to Clarke Cooke House at 24 Bannister's Wharf. This local favorite offers a mix of casual and formal dining options in an 18th century building. The upscale dining room serves fancy New England cuisine, while the Candy Store/Bistro provides a more relaxed atmosphere with simple New England fare. Midtown Oyster Bar can be found at 345 Thames Street. This airy, high ceilinged space offers two decks and spacious dining rooms, including an outdoor rooftop deck. It has one of the largest raw bar selections in town, featuring locally sourced fresh oysters, smoked bluefish dip, Hamachi sashimi, littleneck clams, chilled shrimp, octopus tacos and the Leviathan shared platter.

The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar is an elegant restaurant located on Newport's historic waterfront at 1 Sayers Wharf. With stunning views of Narragansett Bay and specializing in fresh, locally sourced seafood - this stylish eatery provides an unforgettable dining experience accompanied by an award winning wine list with over 300 vintages. Giusto is a chic Italian restaurant that offers a variety of pasta, meat dishes and seafood along with an assortment of cocktails and wines. Located at 4 Commercial Wharf, the open air porch provides stunning harbor views, making it an ideal setting for a delightful dining experience during late spring or summer. Chef Kevin O'Donnell and his team have been recognized for their outstanding hospitality, earning a James Beard Foundation semifinalist nomination for 2026.

Thames Street Kitchen (TSK) is a lively, chef driven boutique steakhouse located at 509 Thames Street. This trendy spot is known for its large cuts of beef, creative cocktails and energetic atmosphere. Note: reservations are recommended. My most memorable dining experience in Newport was at the White Horse Tavern, found at 26 Marlborough Street. It has been operating since 1673, which makes it America’s oldest restaurant and a National Historic Landmark. The menu keeps the history tied to Rhode Island, with Narragansett Bay fish, clams and lobster, plus local farm produce, artisan cheeses, beef Wellington, duck scotch egg and New England clam chowder - served in a space that exudes colonial charm. Note: the restaurant is open daily from 5p.

Conclude your evening in Newport with a drink and some entertainment. Pour Judgement is at 32 Broadway. This sought after speakeasy is celebrated for its craft brews and elevated pub eats. The venue hosts live music events every Thursday and Sunday, featuring up and coming acts and the longest running jam band in the area. Note: the bar is open daily until 1a. Nearby at 1 Broadway is The Fastnet Pub. Named after the southernmost lighthouse in Ireland, this classic Irish pub features live music, including Irish folk bands and jam sessions on Sunday evenings. It offers over 30 draft beers, TVs for sports enthusiasts, darts, ping pong, pool tables and a spacious outdoor patio with plenty of seating. Note: the pub is open daily until 1a.

One Pelham East is a family owned and operated nightlife landmark that has been entertaining locals and visitors since 1975. Located at 270 Thames Street, this lively hangout features three floors and multiple bars. It offers live music nightly followed by DJ sets late into the night. The upper level hosts a popular, interactive dueling piano show where the entertainers take song requests. Finish up at Newport Blues Cafe, found at 286 Thames Street. This premier, multi story nightclub is housed in a historic 1892 brownstone. The first floor offers an intimate space for live bands. The second floor loft gives a bird's eye view of the stage and a relaxed spot for drinks. Rated Best Live Music by Newport Life Magazine for 20 consecutive years, the club offers a diverse range of music genres including classic rock, indie rock, rhythm and blues, jazz and funk. Note: the venue is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday until 1a.

WHERE TO STAY

Newport offers a number of places to call home during your stay and there are 2 that I especially enjoyed. Both are in prime locations and provide exceptional service, modern amenities and comfort. The first is the Brenton Hotel, located at 31 America's Cup Avenue. Set in the city center, this waterfront boutique hotel is a short walk from Bowen's Wharf and not far from the Newport Art Museum. Stylish rooms with a vintage vibe provide free WiFi, flat screen TVs and sitting areas. Upgraded quarters add marina views, Nespresso machines and minibars. Amenities include an elegant restaurant with industrial chic accents, a bar and a lounge, as well as a rooftop terrace with views of the marina.

A second option is The Vanderbilt, located at 41 Mary Street. Set in a 1909 Gilded Age mansion, this polished upscale hotel is a brief stroll from the International Tennis Hall of Fame and a short drive from the Newport Mansions. The sophisticated suites feature kitchenettes, minibars and coffeemakers, plus flat screen TVs and complimentary WiFi. Upgrades add separate sitting areas and harbor views. Other perks include two restaurants and a bar. There's also a spa and fitness center with indoor and outdoor pools.

Newport has coastal scenery, colonial charm, magnificent mansions, wonderful museums and excellent restaurants. It treated me well and I look forward to returning.