The Ultimate Guide to Newport, Rhode Island

Drinks at The Lawn (Castle Hill Inn)

Castle Hill Inn is probably one of the most iconic spots in Newport. Even though the inn is pretty pricey to stay at, you can still enjoy everything it has to offer without staying there. Grab a bottle of wine from the restaurant, take it down to The Lawn, and sip it in the Adirondack chairs overlooking the water.

Do the Cliff Walk

The path winds along the coastline, giving you panoramic views of the ocean. Also, gorgeous mansions and historical landmarks (The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff) line the shore. Start at Easton Beach and enjoy the 3.5 miles of bliss!

Tour some of the Newport Mansions

The Newport Mansions are about as iconic as it gets in Newport. Even if you’re not up for touring every estate, you can still soak in the Gilded Age vibes without overcommitting. Start with The Breakers (the classic), grab the audio guide, and wander the gardens before hopping onto the nearby Cliff Walk for those ocean views. If you’re still in the mood, pop into Marble House or Rosecliff for a quick dose of over-the-top glam.

Enjoy the wharf

Start at Bowen’s, wander over to Bannister’s, and pop into the little boutiques and galleries along the docks. Grab an iced coffee (or a lobster roll), snag a waterfront stool, and watch the sailboats drift in and out. If you’re there near sunset, grab a patio table for oysters and something crisp, then linger as the string lights flick on.

Watch Hill/Ocean House

Watch Hill is about an hour drive from the downtown wharf area. If you rent a car, it’s a fun way to explore a little outside the main Newport area (highly recommend it!). After driving around and drooling over the huge houses in Watch Hill, make your way to Ocean House. It’s a gorgeous hotel on top of a hill overlooking the ocean. It’s the perfect spot for a great lunch with a beautiful view.

• Diego's: A delicious modern Mexican restaurant in the Wharf area, great for brunch. Be sure to try the Grilled Bolos Benny, tinga chilaquiles, and a side of the Duck Hash.

• The Mooring: Waterfront dining with front-row marina views. Order the famous “bag of doughnuts” (lobster-crab fritters), pair with a crisp white, and time your reservation for sunset if you can. One of my favorite restaurants in Newport!

• The Black Pearl: A Newport classic on Bannister’s Wharf. Grab a bowl of their legendary clam chowder and snag a patio table by the harbor.

• Clarke Cooke House: The “see-and-be-seen” spot. Start with oysters and a cocktail on the porch, followed by sushi and fresh seafood, then stick around as the energy turns lively as the sun goes down.

• White Horse Tavern: Known to be the oldest tavern in America! Great for a “splurge” dinner. Be sure to make reservations.