Newport Travel Guide

Read this comprehensive travel guide for Newport, Rhode Island, to know about its rich history, places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, local culture, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Newport

Newport, located in Newport County, Rhode Island, is a charming coastal city that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture. Founded in 1639, Newport is famous for its stunning architecture, historical landmarks, natural beauty, and lively entertainment scene. The city is known for hosting the America’s Cup and is a cultural hub. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, scenic views, and outdoor adventures, along with tasting local cuisine, visiting museums and mansions, and immersing themselves in the local culture. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best things to do and see in Newport, along with tips on where to stay, what to eat and buy, and how to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Newport

Here is a list of top attractions in Newport, Rhode Island:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Breakers Mansion
  • The Elms Mansion
  • Marble House
  • International Tennis Hall of Fame
  • Newport Art Museum
  • Touro Synagogue
  • Redwood Library and Athenaeum

Natural Attractions of Newport: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cliff Walk
  • Fort Adams State Park
  • Brenton Point State Park
  • Easton’s Beach
  • Norman Bird Sanctuary
  • Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge

Hiking/Biking Routes of Newport

Newport is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts who love to hike and bike. Here are some scenic routes to explore:

  • Ocean Drive
  • Cliff Walk
  • Newport Beach Bike Path
  • Fort Adams Bike Trail
  • Sakonnet Greenway Trail

Best Things to Do in Newport: Activities and Tours

  • Sailing Tours and Yacht Charters
  • Whale Watching Tours
  • Scenic Helicopter Tours
  • Historic Trolley Tours
  • Newport Gulls Baseball Games

Week-Long Itinerary for Newport

Here is a 7-day itinerary for Newport:

Day Activities
1 Cliff Walk, The Breakers Mansion, Ocean Drive
2 Fort Adams State Park, Sailing Tours, Newport Beach Bike Path
3 Easton’s Beach, Scenic Helicopter Tours, Museum of Newport
4 Newport Vineyards, Second Beach, Old Stone Mill
5 Touro Synagogue, Redwood Library and Athenaeum, Gurney’s Newport Resort
6 Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge, Newport Mansions, Thames Street Shopping
7 International Tennis Hall of Fame, Thames Street Food Tour, Newport Gulls Baseball Game

Food and Drink Scene of Newport

Newport has a melting pot of flavors that represents its rich history and culture. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Clam Chowder
  • Lobster Roll
  • Stuffed Quahogs
  • Johnnycakes
  • Stuffies

Local Beverages

  • Del’s Lemonade
  • Rhode Island Red Ale
  • Newport Vineyards Wine Tasting
  • Thomas Tew Rum Tours

Where to Stay in Newport: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Newport offers a range of accommodation options for every budget and style. Here are a few options:

  • The Chanler at Cliff Walk
  • Gurney’s Newport Resort and Marina
  • The Vanderbilt
  • Newport Marriott
  • Forty 1 North

What to Buy in Newport: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Newport is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local products. Here are some popular items:

  • Nautical Home Decor
  • Newport T-Shirts
  • Handmade Jewelry
  • Sailcloth Bags and Accessories
  • Newport Candle Company Candles

Local Culture and Customs of Newport

Newport has a rich history and culture that reflects in its architecture, cuisine, and lifestyle. Here are some local customs and traditions:

  • Respect cultural landmarks and monuments
  • Dress appropriately for the occasion
  • Do not litter in public spaces
  • Use polite language and manners
  • Tip service staff at restaurants and cafes

Best Time to Visit Newport

The best time to visit Newport is from May to October when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to participate in.

Do’s and Don’ts of Newport

Do:

  • Take a walking tour of Newport’s historical district
  • Sample local seafood and beverages
  • Visit Newport’s beaches and parks
  • Explore Newport’s mansions and museums
  • Connect with the local community

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public spaces
  • Damage or litter historical landmarks and natural areas
  • Disrespect the local culture and customs
  • Damage wildlife and ecosystems
  • Drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Safety and Health

Safety in Newport

Newport is generally a safe city, but visitors should take precautions to stay safe. Here are some safety tips:

  • Keep valuables out of sight in public spaces
  • Do not leave belongings unattended on the beach or parks
  • Avoid walking alone at night in deserted areas
  • Use life jackets and safety equipment while boating or sailing
  • Be aware of rip currents and dangerous surf conditions at beaches

Health in Newport

Newport has good healthcare facilities, including hospitals and medical centers. Visitors should take necessary precautions to stay healthy, including frequent hand washing, staying hydrated, and using sunscreen.

Getting to Newport: Transportation Options and Logistics

Newport is easily accessible by air, bus, or car. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Newport

  • T.F. Green International Airport, Providence
  • Logan International Airport, Boston
  • Bradley International Airport, Hartford

Bus Stations Near Newport

  • Peter Pan Bus Lines, Providence
  • Greyhound Bus Lines, Providence

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station, Kingston
  • Car Rentals at T.F. Green International Airport

How to Get Around in Newport

Newport is a walkable city, and visitors can easily explore the downtown area on foot. Visitors can also use bicycles, scooters, or cars to get around. The town has many bike rentals and ride-sharing services available for convenience.

Where to Go Next from Newport: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations that can make for excellent excursions include Block Island, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket Island.

Conclusion

Newport, Rhode Island, is a small city with a big history and plenty of attractions that cater to visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you want to admire historical landmarks, explore natural beauty, or indulge in local cuisine, Newport has it all. With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan your itinerary, enjoy your trip, and make the most of your time in Newport.

The Breakers The Breakers Cliff Walk Cliff Walk Newport Art Museum Newport Art Museum International Tennis Hall of Fame International Tennis Hall of Fame Second Beach Second Beach Bannister's Wharf Bannister's Wharf Clarke Street Clarke Street Flo's Clam Shack Flo's Clam Shack Castle Hill Inn & Resort Castle Hill Inn & Resort