Parks and the outdoors in Newport

Parks and the outdoors in Newport

1. 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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 daily·Free

5. 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 daily·Free

6. 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.

7. 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 daily·Free

8. 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.

9. Do Not mapped

   Eastons Beach

   First Beach

   One of the top 10 beaches in New England, this 3/4 mile sandy beach has a wonderful view of the beautiful Cliff Walk as well as ocean swimming, beach board, surf board, umbrella and beach chair rental. A skateboard park, playground, seasonal carousel, and an exploration center for "Save the Bay" are available for children and adolescents. The concession stand is seasonal, so if you are visiting during the off season, be sure to pack a lunch. Picnic tables, indoor/outdoor showers and restrooms are available. Many restaurants and hotels are within walking distance. Free parking is available off of side streets off Memorial Boulevard.

   9AM-9PM daily·In season parking $10, $15 on weekends

10. Eat Not mapped

    Flos Clam Shack

    Fried seafood, raw bar, cold beer. Excellent fried clams close to the beach. Established in the 1930s.

    Thu-Sun 11AM-9PM·$15-25

11. Do Not mapped

    Taste of Rhode Island

    The Taste of Rhode Island offers a unique experience featuring food, crafts, talent and culture. This annual event includes over 100 exhibitors comprised of restaurants selling appetizer size portions of the areas finest cuisine, beverages, craft and marketplace vendors. Live entertainment, strolling acts, a wine garden, and children's activities are some of the exciting happenings to be enjoyed.

12. See Not mapped

    The Ocean Drive

    This is a 10-mile drive along the beautiful Newport shoreline. Along the drive you will see, Green Bridge, The Private Beaches (Gooseberry Beach, Hazards Beach, Bailey's Beach), Brenton Point State Park, Castle Hill Inn, and many gorgeous houses that hug the shoreline.

13. Do Not mapped

    The Saltwater Edge

    Privately owned operation, located just outside of Newport within a mile of first beach (Easton's). Saltwater activities range from fly fishing, surf-casting and light or heavy tackle; staff providing a compilation of offshore and onshore experience.

Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Newport (CC BY-SA 4.0).