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Newport

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.

See
26
Do
32
Eat
22
Drink
8
Buy
5

93 places

  1. Eat

    Annie's

    An inexpensive breakfast option. The menu features classic diner food and their Early Bird Special is a substantial meal.

    7AM-3PM daily$10-15

  2. See

    Castle Hill Lighthouse

    This 1890 lighthouse is made of granite and has some great views.

  3. See

    Fort Adams

    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.

    Guided tours $20; ages 6–17 $10; 5 and under free

  4. See

    Fort Adams State Park

    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.

    9AM-6PM daily, lifeguards in season

  5. Do

    Gooseberry Beach

    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.

    Sunrise-sunset daily$5 walk on fee, snacks $5-10, parking $30

  6. See

    International Tennis Hall of Fame

    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.

    9:30AM-5PMAdults $11, seniors, military or students with ID $6, under $16 4, family rate $20

  7. See

    Jane Pickens Movie Theater

    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.

    $15-25

  8. Do

    King Park Beach

    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.

    Sunrise-sunseet dailyFree

  9. See

    National Museum of American Illustration

    Museum at historic Vernon Court houses works by Norman Rockwell, J. C. Leyendecker, N. C, Wyeth, Maxfield Parrish, and more.

    Summer Hours: Fri 3PM Tour, Sat Sun 11AM-5PMGeneral Admission. $18 Adults, $16 Seniors/Military, $12 Students, $8 Children (ages 5–12 only)

  10. See

    Naval War College Museum

    For reservations call at least 24 hours in advance. Reservations and photo identification are necessary for entry onto the Naval Station.

    Year round, Mon-Fri 10AM-4PM, noon-4PM on weekends Jun-Sep. Closed holidays

  11. See

    Newport Cliff Walk

    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.

    Sunrise-sunset dailyFree

  12. See

    Newport Gulls Baseball Team

    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.

  13. Do

    Newport Jazz Festival

    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.

  14. See

    Rough Point

    Tour philanthropist Doris Duke's eclectic art collection housed in one of Newport's finest "cottages".

    Seasonally Tue-Fri 10AM-4PM, Sat Sun 10AM-5PM$20, students $10

  15. Eat

    Scales & Shells

    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.

    Sun Mon Wed Thu 5-9PM, Fri Sat 5-10PM, closed Tue$26-33

  16. Eat

    The Black Pearl

    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.

    10AM-9PM daily$30-60

  17. Eat

    The Hungry Monkey

    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.

    7AM-2PM daily$15-20

  18. See

    Touro Synagogue National Historic Site

    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.

  19. Eat

    White Horse Tavern

    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.

    Mon-Thu 5-9PM, Fri-Sun 4-10PM$40-60

  20. Do Not mapped

    12 Meter Charters

    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.

  21. Eat Not mapped

    22 Bowen's Wine Bar & Grille

    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".

    11:30AM-3:30PM; 5-9PM daily$40-80

  22. Do Not mapped

    Adirondack II

    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.

  23. Eat Not mapped

    Aquidneck Growers Wednesday Farmers Market

    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.

    Wed 2-6PM May 17-Oct 25$5-15

  24. Do Not mapped

    Bailey's Beach

    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.".

    Sunrise-sunset dailyFree

  25. See Not mapped

    Ballard Park

    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.

  26. Eat Not mapped

    Belle's Cafe

    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.

    7:30AM-2:30PM, closed Tue$10-15

  27. Do Not mapped

    Boating/Sailing

    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.

  28. Do Not mapped

    Bowen’s Wharf Christmas Tree Lighting

    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.

  29. Eat Not mapped

    Brick Alley Pub

    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.

    11:30AM-9PM daily$20-30

  30. Eat Not mapped

    Buskers

    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.

    Noon-1AM daily$18-25