A Guide to Newport, RI

NEWPORT, RI Aguideto

Everything you need to know about relocating to, or vacationing in Newport, Rhode Island.

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Newport

What Newport is Known for Today

Neighborhoods of Newport

Major Attractions

Annual Events

Best Restaurants

A Guide to Beaches

Breweries and Wineries

For the Kids

Helpful Resouces

Key:

Child friendly

Cost indicator

Dog friendly

Seasonal

important tip

Want to learn more about the history of Newport, Rhode Island? Check out the following resources:

Newport Historical Society

Preservation Society of NPT County

A Brief History of Newport, Rhode Island…

Founded in 1639, Newport was one of the most important port cities in the North American British Colonies during the 18th Century. Commerce included whale-oil candles, rum and fine furniture. During the Revolutionary War and its aftermath, the city’s fortunes declined.

By the mid-1800’s Newport had garnered its reputation as a fashionable summer resort favored by the wealthy leaders of the finance industry from New York. Newport’s prominence grew as it became a destination for ornate and elaborate summer “cottages,” socialite dinners and parties

Today, we know these cottages included European-inspired palaces such as Marble house, The Breakers, The Elms and Rosecliff - some of the most famous of the Preservation Society Mansions today. Following the advent of federal income tax and the First World War, The Great Depression accelerated the decline of the great fortunes that Newport had become familiar with. Because of this, the mansions received less upkeep, were abandoned or fell to demolition…

SOURCE: THE PRESERVATION SOCIETY OF NEWPORT COUNTY

What Newport is Known for Today…

1.

2.

Newport is the Sailing Capital of the World and home to famous regattas such as America’s Cup and a stop-over in the Volvo Ocean Race. Gilded Age Mansions once owned by the aforementioned socialites of New York, these summer cottages are maintained by the Preservation Society.

3. Home to International Tennis Hall of Fame and acclaimed matches with the pros in the summertime.

4.

Stunning beaches, the famous Cliff Walk and sweeping views of Narragansett Bay.

5.

The luxury car market and audience thrives in Newport more than ever with the addition of two major car museums.

What else does Newport have to offer?

Although the luxe of Newport is part of the attraction, there‘s so much more to our City-by-the-Sea than fancy cars, sailboats and tennis.

Newport is home to some of the best seafood, beaches, walking paths, nature preserves and natural beauty.

Eustis/ Easton’s Pond

Quiet, quaint and beautiful, what more could you ask for! This neighborhood is conveniently central to everything without being in the middle of the summer crowds.

HistoricBellevue/ OchrePoint

Situated amongst gilded mansions and Salve Regina University, Ochre Point is a stunning neighborhood with easy access to the famous Cliff Walk.

MemorialBoulevard/ OldBeach

An idyllic strip in Newport, Memorial Boulevard and Old Beach is close to First Beach and offers stunning views and walking paths around the reservoir.

LowerThames/ FifthWard

This neighborhood is ideal for it’s close proximity to the waterfront, downtown shops and restaurants!

TheNorthEnd/ ThePoint

The Point is quintessential Newport at it’s finest. Launch your boat from a few public locations, or kick back at the various parks and docks for sunset.

”Where the locals go!” Broadway is known to be a bustling neighborhood with ecclectic shops, restaurants and nightlife.

Major Attractions Newport & Surrounding Areas

The Cliff Walk

The Newport Cliff Walk is one of our most loved attractions! The walk will take you on a 3.5 mile ocean-side stroll past rocky shores and sprawling mansions.

TheNewportMansions

PartofThePreservationSocietyofNewportCounty

The Newport Mansions will take you back some 250 years ago to the Gilded Age. Experience the Vanderbilt’s summer cottage for yourself and enjoy a picnic lunch on the stunning grounds. Enjoyable any time of year - though they usually close in January!

Newport International Polo

Newport Polo operates June through September in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, only a 15 or 20 minute drive from Newport. Book your grandstand tickets ahead of time and BYOB and snacks for a fun afternoon of sport and socializing!

Fort Adams

For the history buffs, Fort Adams is a great opportunity to tour a historic fort, take in sweeping views of the Narragansett Bay, watch the sailers and yachtsmen as they fly by…and maybe even grab a bite or two from the foodtrucks. Fort Adams also offers a walking and biking loop around the grounds.

The Audrain Museum

If you love cars, you will have no problem calling Newport home! The Audrain museum offers and unbeatable selection of classic and luxury cars as well as many events throughout the year.

HistoricBellevueAve

Historic Bellevue is a wonderful neighborhood to stroll. Sight-see, enjoy an al-fresco lunch, watch a match at Tennis Hall of Fame and shop ‘til you drop on this beautiful, historic avenue, flanked by marvelous mansions.

Bowen’s Wharf & America’s Cup

Also referred to as “the Waterfront,” Bowen’s Wharf offers unmatched views of the luxurious yachts in Newport Harbor, as well as some of the best restaurants, cocktail spots and shopping. You could enjoy a whole day on these streets alone!

Ocean Drive

You won’t want to miss a cruise down Ocean Drive! Hop on your bikes, on a scooter or get in your car and head down Bellevue. Follow the signs for Ocean Drive and take in the sights, sounds and smell of the salty, breezy air. 10 miles of picturesque harbor views.

Calendarof Events

PoloSeries Begins

Our Favorite Restaurants In Newport

Ourfavoritespotsfordate night…

Clark Cooke House

Clark Cooke House is known to be a watering hole for the sailing industry in Newport. Known for their spectacular summer sushi, and attentive wait staff, Clark Cooke House is the best of the best! End your meal with a “Snowball in Hell” for the full experience.

The Mooring

If you’re a seafood lover, or enjoy dining with a view, you won’t want to miss the Mooring on Sayer’s Wharf with unbeatable harbor views Take in the sunset from fully-covered dining to protect you from the elements We recommend the “Bag of Doughnuts” and half priced raw bar on Wednesdays in the off-season

22 Bowens Scales and Shells

Said to be one of the best dinner spots in Newport, 22 Bowen’s features harborside dining with up close and personal views of sailboats Their outdoor bar is a fabulous spot to catch up with an old friend or to enjoy some people watching with an aperol spritz in hand

Located on Lower Thames, Scales and Shells offers some of the freshest seafood in Newport! We can’t get enough of “Half Shell,” their trendy yet top notch, bar

Dinnerswelove!

All of these spots have lovely outdoor seating and some of our favorite food and beverage options!

White Horse Tavern

White Horse Tavern is said to be the oldest tavern in the US and rumored to be haunted! But that hasn’t yet stopped them from serving up topnotch cuisine. We highly recommend checking out their fireplaces on the back patio.

Perro Salado

A true local’s spot! This Mexican restaurant is tucked away on a side street in a historic home off of Washington Square! Stop by for the most delectable sticky ribs, tacos and margaritas with the freshest ingredients!

La Vecina Taqueria

La Vecina is fairly new to Washington Square in Newport. With both a full bar and outdoor seating, La Vecina is a great spot for tacos, nachos, margs and more!

Wharf Pub

Wharf Pub is a southern-inspired barbecue joint that we can’t get enough of! They specialize in whiskey cocktails, though they offer a full bar and a delicious menu to complement whatever you fancy

CasualPatioFar

Looking for a more casual alternative for happy hour? Consider any of these local favorites!

O’briens Pub

O’Briens is a local favorite! Known for their expansive patio seating that typically opens up around mid-April, O’Briens is a great spot to grab a quick bite and enjoy a drink in the sunshine. They are best known for their mudslides!

Smugglers Bar

Smugglers sits smack dab on the waterfront, making it a great spot for before-dinner drinks We recommend heading to Smugglers for golden hour so you can take in the views from their Adirondack chairs

Fast Net Pub

A fan-favorite, this Irish Pub is known for bringing the nightlife to Broadway That being said, they offer English breakfasts, pool, darts, a large back patio and an open-air bar, making it a great spot for a round of drinks

Pour Judgement

With an expansive menu, Pour Judgement has something for everyone! We recommend visiting for brunch on the weekends and then strolling through Broadway and America’s Cup

For the Kids Good, old Family Fun

Children’s Activities Fun for all ages

LocatedonSpringStreet,theNewport PublicLibraryoffersplentyof enrichmentopportunitiesandfunfor childrenofallages!

SAVE

THE BAY

SavetheBayisanonprofitthatoffers yourfuturemarinebiologistaheadstart withaslewofhands-onopportunitiesto learnhowtoprotectNarragansettbay

SAILING LESSONS

WheninNewport…!

ContactSailNewporttolearn moreaboutyouthsailing programs!

NORMAN BIRD SANCTUARY

LocatedinMiddletown,RI,Norman BirdSanctuaryisbestknownfor therifallHarvestFestandthe start-offpointforthefamous HangingRockwalk!

SIMMONS FARM PETTING

SimmonsFarmoffersmanyfun activitiesforthewholefamily Visitfarm animals,walkaroundthegrounds,learn howtomakemozzarellaandeven participateingoatyoga!

PYO AT SWEET BERRY

OpeninginMid-May,SweetBerrylets youpickyourownflowers,apples,and berries-seasonally,ofcourse!

NEWPORT LIBRARY

Children’s Activities Fun for all ages

RYAN AMUSEMENTS

Aperfectrainydayactivity!Check outRyanFamilyAmusementson ThamesStreetforsomeold fashioned,family,arcadefun!

Audrainhastwocarmuseum locations,oneonBellevueAvein Newportwithchangingexhibits,and amuchlargerlocationinPortsmouth, RI!

GLASS BLOWING

ContactThamesStreet GlassBlowingtolearnmore!

VisittheNewportFilmwebsiteto learnwhentheseasonstartsand getalookatthemoviesthey’ll beshowingatvariousoutdoor locationseachsummer!

Thebestplacetospendasunny summerday!GrabakiteandaDel’s frozenlemonadethenkickbackwith aBBQatoneofthegrills.Don’t forgetyoursoccerballsandfrisbees -tonsofopengrasstorunandplay!

GREEN ANIMALS TOPIARY GARDENS

PartoftheNewportPreservation Society,GreenAnimalsTopiary Gardenisahistoricattractionin Portsmouth,RI Checkoutstunning lawnsculpturesandenjoythe sunshine!

NEWPORT FILM

NEWPORT CAR MUSEUM

BRENTON POINT STATE PARK

Breweries & Wineries

Beaches in and Around Newport

Getting to Know Newport Beaches

FirstBeach

Known for being a favorite among families, First Beach (also known as Easton’s) is complete with a popular snack bar, restrooms, parking & a playground.

SecondBeach

Located in Middletown, Second Beach is a fan favorite among tourists and locals. Ample parking and graced by foodtrucks makes this beach a popular summer choice.

RejectsBeach

Aptly named, Rejects Beach marks the tail-end of the private Bailey’s Beach.

No frills or parking, just a beautiful coastal inlet with sparkling water. You’ll need to walk or Uber to access this local favorite.

Private Newport Beaches

GooseberryBeach

A fabulous spot to visit after hours or by bicycle, a snack bar and lifeguards make this a popular choice for families. Keep in mind you’ll need to be a member to park during the summer season.

Peabody’sBeach

A stunning beach in Middletown, RI, for an annual fee and membership renewal, Peabody’s Beach has lifeguards, a snack bar, parking, hot showers and changing rooms!

Hazard’sBeachClub

One of the more private beach clubs in Newport, second only to SRBA, Hazards is family-friendly, located along Ocean Drive and a great spot to cool off in the summer and socialize.

Some Local Favorites

BUSINESSES WE LOVE

FOR THE COFFEE LOVER

EMPIRE TEA, LOCATIONS ON BELLEVUE & BROADWAY

NITRO BAR, LOCATIONS ON POND AVE& THAMES

KAFFEOLOGY, THAMES STREET

SIMPLE MERCHANT, BROADWAY

FOR GIFTING

YOUNG FLORALS & DESIGN, THAMES STREET

THE LITTLE CHATEAU, WASHINGTON SQUARE

WALD & SEA, SPRING STREET

PRIMAVERA, BOWEN’S WHARF

FOR THE FOODIES

SPICE AND TEA EXCHANGE, THAMES STREET

MOZZ, BELLEVUE

A MARKET, BELLEVUE

HARVEST MARKET, CARROLL AVE

FOODLOVE MARKET, MIDDLETOWN RI

LOCAL FARMER’S MARKETS

FOLLOW AQUIDNECK GROWER’S ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR SEASONAL DAYS, TIMES AND LOCATIONS!

PARKING, PROXIMITY& TRANSPORTATION

NEWPORT PUBLIC PARKING & TRANSPORTATION

GATEWAY PARKING GARAGE

01 02 03

23 AMERICA’S CUP AVENUE, NEWPORT NOVEMBER 1 - APRIL 30, FREE MAY 1 - OCTOBER 31

$5 PER HOUR, MAX $40 PER DAY

MARY STREET LOT

LOCATED NEAR STARBUCKS ON THAMES STREET, THIS LOT IS A GREAT OPTION WHEN NO METERS ARE AVAILABLE, $3 PER DAY, MAX $20.DAY. 3 HOURS FREE WITH RESIDENT STICKER.

TOURO STREET LOT

ENTER FROM CLARK STREET, THIS SMALL LOT OFFERS 30 FREE PARKING SPOTS NOV-APRIL. REST OF THE YEAR, PAY BY PLATE PER HOUR.

METERED PARKING

AMPLE METERED PARKING IS AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT DOWNTOWN NEWPORT COST VARIES AND CAN BE PAID WITH PASSPORT PARKING OR AT METER.

FREE TROLLEY

NEW THIS YEAR, NEWPORT OFFERS A FREE HOP-ON-HOP-OFF TROLLEY TO TRANSPORT YOU TO VARIOUS SPOTS AROUND TOWN PARK FOR $5 AT THE GATEWAY CENTER AND HOP ON THE TROLLEY! BEGINS MAY 26 THRU OCTOBER.

11hr,30mins ~71miles

440mins ~34miles

11hr,30minsto WoodsHole&the Cape

Welcome to Newport

It is my absolute pleasure to welcome you to Newport, a place I have adored for X years now. In 19XX I called Newport home for the first time, and I am sure you will fall in love with it just as quickly as I did.

If there is anything I can do to make your relocation process easier, please let me know. I am always one call away.

-Tracie