The Ultimate Guide to Newport, Rhode Island

Nestled along a picturesque rocky coast, Newport, Rhode Island, provides a quintessential New England experience. Whether you’re a foodie or a history enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing oceanside escape, Newport has it all. Even better, Newport is easily within driving distance of both New York City and Boston. Below are our recommended activities, restaurants/bars, and hotels.

Do:

• Explore Downtown & the Wharf: Newport is a small coastal town filled with shops, restaurants, and history. One of our favorite things to do is simply stroll through the town, pop into places, and take note of the homes that been around since the 1600s and 1700s. Shopping tip: We found the clothing shops down by the water a bit more touristy, and found some cute boutiques up by the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
• Walk Along the Cliff Walk: There’s no better way to see Newport’s stunning rocky coast up close than the 3.5 mile Cliff Walk, much of which is paved and easily accessible. On the opposite side of the water, you can find some of Newport’s most beautiful mansions.
• Drive Along Ocean Drive: This 10-mile loop is a must, offering stunning ocean views and beautiful homes, all of which seem like they are straight out of a postcard. Tip: For the runners out there, check out the Newport Marathon and Half Marathon, which travels along this road for some time.
• Visit a “Summer Cottage” Mansion: Newport is one of the most historic towns in the US, and that includes its collection of seaside mansions, once known as “summer cottages.” The Breakers Mansion, which appears to be the most popular option, was the most like a royal residence I have seen in the US. I also loved the Marble House for the same reasons.
• Watch a Tennis Match at the International Tennis Hall of Fame: Especially if you’re a tennis enthusiast, consider visiting this museum, complete with a restaurant and grass courts. Even better, check out the schedule for when you visit; it would be an amazing experience to watch a match there.
• Take a Boat Ride Along the Harbor: What better way to see the coast than from the water. Check out Newport Classic Cruises for sunset sails, private charters, and other options.
• Relax on the Beach: There are multiple beaches in Newport. Easton’s Beach (aka First Beach) is the largest, and is close to the Cliff Walk. If you are looking for a smaller option, check out Collins Beach.
• Visit Newport Vineyards: If you’re looking for a different type of scenic view, visit Newport Vineyards, which makes for a fun afternoon, perfect for groups. If beer or hard seltzers are more of your thing, there is also an onsite brewery.
• Watch a Polo Match at Newport Polo: A bucket list item for Karen and me! When visiting Newport, be sure to check the schedule so you can catch a match at America’s oldest polo club, Newport Polo.

Eat/Drink:

• Mamma Luisa: If you like Italian food (who doesn’t?!), Mamma Luisa is an absolute must. Slightly off the beaten path, this charming restaurant in what feels like a family home serves authentic, freshly made Italian food and the most lovely experience.
• The White Horse Tavern: White Horse Tavern dates back to the 1600s(!), making it the oldest in the country. We stopped by for a delicious drink in its small bar, and would love to eat there one day. PS, it may also be haunted.
• The Lawn Terrace at Castle Hill Inn: Perhaps the most ideal spot for a cocktail in all of Newport, grab a drink on the lawn at Newport’s well-known Castle Hill Inn with stunning ocean views.
• The Black Pearl: This restaurant’s well-designed outdoor bar area was a fantastic option for grabbing a drink on the wharf.
• Pasta Beach: Another Italian option, Pasta Beach is the trendy-designed restaurant, perfect for a great meal and Instagram.
• Cru Cafe: The perfect place for a casual brunch, with delicious food, and BYOB!
• Diego’s: Mexican food and margaritas are usually enough to sell me. Diego’s offers that and a cool experience right by the water, making it a fantastic option in Newport.
• Stoneacre Brasserie: This large and beautifully designed restaurant serves an upscale brunch, complete with spritzes, mimosas, and other breakfast cocktails, as well as dinner.
• Brick Alley Pub: This eclectic restaurant set in an 1800s-style building is a Newport staple, offering pub-style food perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.
• The Red Parrot: We’ve not yet had the chance to eat at The Red Parrot, but considering it makes many of the restaurant lists we have come across, it is on our bucket list.
• 22 Bowens Wine Bar & Grill: Also on the wharf, 22 Bowens has an extensive wine list and is great option for an upscale dinner. However, it also has a lovely outdoor bar, perfect for grabbing a drink alongside the sailboats.

Stay:

Unfortunately, we’ve only stayed at an Airbnb or a hotel we didn’t truly love, but here are the hotels at the top of our list for future visits:

• Castle Hill Inn
• The Vanderbilt
• Hammetts Hotel
• The Chanler at Cliff Walk

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-Kasey