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Situated at the southern tip of Aquidneck Island in Rhode Island, Newport is a charming weekend getaway that attracts a diverse range of visitors. Here, you’ll find groups of friends exploring the elegant shops along Thames Street, while sailing enthusiasts prepare for thrilling regattas on Narragansett Bay. Of course, like any quintessential New England coastal town, Newport delights in offering delicious seafood lunches and fun-filled beach days. However, what truly captivates tourists is the city’s captivating architecture. The 19th-century summer “cottages” dotting the shoreline and the colonial-era buildings in the downtown area lend Newport an enchanting and aristocratic atmosphere reminiscent of the Old World.
Newport, a charming port town, offers a delightful getaway with its simple and elegant seashore ambiance. While the mega-rich have moved on and opened their mansions for public tours, a visit to this desirable destination still comes at a considerable cost. The town’s popularity for special occasions like bachelorette weekends and second honeymoons tends to drive prices higher. Despite the expense, experiencing Newport’s allure is truly worthwhile.
Newport offers the best conditions for visiting between March and May, as well as from September to November. During these times, the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures and fewer rain showers. It’s an ideal opportunity to explore the city’s renowned mansions without the crowds of tourists that flock during the summer months. Additionally, hotel rates are more affordable compared to the high prices in the peak season. However, be prepared for cold temperatures and snow during winter. If you don’t mind the chilly weather, you can take advantage of the best hotel deals in Newport.
Here are some of our favorite things to do while visiting Newport. Take your pick!
Embark on a delightful stroll along Newport’s picturesque shoreline. This charming 3.5-mile pathway gracefully winds past the opulent mansions that adorn the town’s landscape. Begin your journey at either Easton’s Beach or The Breakers mansion, then …
Nestled in Fort Adams State Park, with a breathtaking view of Brenton Cove in Newport, this old military stronghold served as a protective outpost for Newport’s harbor long ago. Generously donated to the state of Rhode Island in 1965, the fortress …
One of the must-visit places near The Breakers mansion is the Marble House, which is also rich in historical significance. Originally belonging to the Vanderbilt family, this magnificent residence draws inspiration from the Petit Trianon building in …
One of the biggest collections of illustrated art in the United States can be found at the National Museum of American Illustration. This collection includes images that were specifically created for magazine covers, posters, and advertisements. …
Rough Point, once owned by the Vanderbilt family, came under the ownership of Doris Duke, a local philanthropist, tobacco heiress, and art collector. In 1993, Doris Duke renovated the estate and generously donated it to the Newport Restoration …
Thames Street, located near the waterfront, has been Newport’s primary shopping destination for over 200 years. It offers a variety of stores catering to different tastes. You can explore unique local shops like Thames Glass and Newport Fudgery, or …
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Newport’s mansions stood as a testament to the extravagant lifestyles of America’s richest industrialists. Among these renowned homes, The Breakers mansion shines brightly as the epitome of summer retreats. …
Dating back to 1658, the Orthodox Jewish congregation in Newport has a deep-rooted connection with the city. Established as the oldest synagogue in the United States, Touro Synagogue’s construction was finished in 1763. Don’t miss the opportunity to …