Newport, Rhode Island: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Newport, Rhode Island boasts the highest concentration of colonial homes in America, with over 300 buildings predating the American Revolution? This coastal gem combines stunning Gilded Age mansions with rugged Atlantic coastlines, creating a unique destination where maritime history meets luxury. Whether you’re drawn to sailing adventures, architectural wonders, or seaside relaxation, Newport delivers unforgettable experiences in a compact, walkable city.

Getting to Newport

Newport is easily accessible by various transportation methods. The closest major airport is T.F. Green Airport (PVD) in Providence, about 30 minutes away. Boston’s Logan International Airport (BOS) is approximately 90 minutes by car. Consider booking flights in advance, especially during the peak summer season.

If driving, Newport is accessible via the Newport Bridge (Route 138) from the west and Route 114 from the north. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Newport and the surrounding coastal areas at your own pace.

Public transportation options include Amtrak train service to Kingston or Providence with connecting bus service to Newport. The RIPTA bus system also connects Newport to Providence and other Rhode Island destinations.

Best Time to Visit Newport

Newport shines brightest from May through October. Summer (June-August) brings warm temperatures (70-85°F) perfect for beaches and sailing, but also peak crowds and prices. Consider these seasonal highlights:

Winter visits (November-April) offer the quietest experience with some seasonal closures but provide a peaceful atmosphere for mansion tours and cozy dining experiences. Holiday season (November-December) brings special mansion decorations and festive events.

Getting Around Newport

Newport’s compact size makes it ideal for exploration. The downtown area and many attractions are walkable, though some destinations require transportation:

Where to Stay in Newport

Newport offers accommodations for every preference and budget, from luxury waterfront hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Consider these neighborhoods when booking your stay:

For budget-conscious travelers, consider staying in nearby Middletown or Jamestown, where accommodations tend to be more affordable while still providing easy access to Newport attractions.

Top Things to Do in Newport, Rhode Island

1. Tour the Newport Mansions

Newport’s Gilded Age mansions offer a glimpse into America’s past opulence. The most famous is The Breakers, the Vanderbilts’ 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo. Don’t miss Marble House, known for its 500,000 cubic feet of marble, and Rosecliff, which appeared in the 1974 film “The Great Gatsby.”

Purchase a multi-mansion ticket to save on admission. The Preservation Society offers various tour options, including behind-the-scenes and specialized architectural tours. Book a guided mansion tour for expert historical context.

2. Stroll the Cliff Walk

This 3.5-mile National Recreation Trail combines the natural beauty of Newport’s shoreline with architectural history. The path winds along the eastern shore of Newport, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the backyards of many Gilded Age mansions on the other.

The northern section (from Memorial Boulevard to Forty Steps) is the easiest to navigate. The southern portion becomes more rugged but rewards adventurous walkers with spectacular views. Begin early morning for fewer crowds and magical lighting for photographs.

3. Drive Ocean Drive

This 10-mile scenic route showcases Newport’s stunning coastal landscape. The drive passes Brenton Point State Park, offering perfect picnic spots and kite-flying opportunities. You’ll also see Hammersmith Farm (Jackie Kennedy’s childhood summer home) and Fort Adams.

For an elevated experience, consider booking a classic car tour to travel this route in vintage style. The drive is especially magical at sunset when the coastline glows with golden light.

4. Experience Newport by Water

As America’s sailing capital, Newport offers numerous ways to enjoy its maritime heritage. Options include:

5. Explore Fort Adams

This impressive coastal fortification is the largest of its kind in America. Built between 1824 and 1857, Fort Adams protected Narragansett Bay for over a century. Today, guided tours take you through underground tunnels, officer quarters, and defensive bastions with spectacular harbor views.

The fort hosts major events including the Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival. The surrounding state park offers picnic areas, swimming spots, and a sailing center. Tours run hourly during summer months.

6. Shop and Dine on Thames Street

Newport’s main thoroughfare offers a delightful mix of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants housed in colonial-era buildings. The northern section features more local shops, while the southern portion (near Bowen’s and Bannister’s wharves) offers upscale shopping and waterfront dining.

Don’t miss sampling fresh seafood at local favorites like The Black Pearl (famous for clam chowder) or The Mooring for waterfront dining. For dessert, Kilwin’s ice cream or Newport Fudgery provide sweet treats to enjoy while strolling the historic streets.

7. Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame

Housed in the historic Newport Casino, this museum celebrates tennis history through interactive exhibits and memorabilia. The complex features the world’s oldest grass tennis courts still in use for public play. During summer, you might catch professional tournaments or even book court time yourself.

The museum showcases equipment evolution, player achievements, and the sport’s cultural impact. Allow 1-2 hours for a complete visit. Tennis enthusiasts can arrange to play on the historic grass courts (seasonal, reservations required).

8. Taste Local Flavors

Newport’s culinary scene combines fresh seafood with farm-to-table excellence. Don’t miss these food and beverage experiences:

Newport’s Beautiful Beaches

Newport’s beaches offer diverse experiences for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts:

Beach parking fees apply during summer months (approximately $15-25 per day). Consider weekday visits to avoid weekend crowds, especially during July and August.

Seasonal Events in Newport

Newport’s calendar brims with world-class events throughout the year:

Practical Tips for Visiting Newport

Experience the Magic of Newport

Newport, Rhode Island, offers a perfect blend of historical richness, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy. From the opulent mansions that whisper tales of America’s Gilded Age to the refreshing ocean breezes along the Cliff Walk, this coastal gem delivers experiences that linger in memory long after your visit ends.

Whether you’re sailing Narragansett Bay at sunset, touring architectural masterpieces, or simply enjoying fresh seafood with harbor views, Newport rewards visitors with authentic New England charm and unexpected discoveries around every corner.