Local Resident’s Guide to Newport, Rhode Island: Summer Edition

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Advisor - Brie Rogatz
Curated By

Brie Rogatz

  • Food & Wine

  • Weekend Getaways

  • Beaches

  • Newport

  • Summer

Advisor - Local Resident’s Guide to Newport, Rhode Island: Summer Edition
Curator’s statement

Newport holds a special place in my heart as both my home and my favorite summer escape. From its historic Gilded Age mansions to peaceful harbor sunsets, it’s a destination that perfectly blends coastal charm with timeless luxury. Whether you’re exploring the Cliff Walk or relaxing with a cocktail on Castle Hill’s lawn, Newport is the kind of place that makes every moment feel memorable.

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Where to stay in Newport, Rhode Island

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Things to do in Newport, Rhode Island

Cliff walk

Take in stunning ocean views and historic mansions on this iconic 3.5-mile coastal path.

Newport Vineyards

Sip locally crafted wines and enjoy the beautiful vineyard grounds, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Sailboat harbor cruise

See Newport from the water with a scenic sail through Narragansett Bay — ideal at sunset!

Visit the mansions

Tour legendary Gilded Age mansions like The Breakers and Marble House to experience Newport’s storied past.

Lawn at Castle Hill Inn

Grab a cocktail and settle into an Adirondack chair for the best sunset view in town.

Newport beaches

Spend a relaxing day at Gooseberry, Second or Third Beach for sun, swimming and coastal views.

Pilates at the Gardiner House

Start your day with an outdoor Pilates class overlooking the water — rejuvenating and scenic.

Ocean Drive

Take a peaceful, scenic drive along Ocean Drive for sweeping views of the Atlantic coastline.

Audrain Auto Museum

Visit the impressive vintage car collection at the museum.

Where to shop

  • Little Chateau (newly expanded!) — A beautifully curated shop blending coastal chic with modern style.

  • Homeport — A classic stop for coastal-inspired home décor, furniture, and gifts.

  • Gingy’s — A fun boutique offering fashion-forward styles and perfect little gifts.

  • Wald & Sea (don’t miss!) — Gorgeous global finds and unique gifts for the coastal-inspired home.

  • Cottage & Garden — Timeless home furnishings and elegant coastal pieces.

  • Primavera — Cozy shop featuring home décor and Jellycats right on Bowen’s Wharf.

  • Harper & Tucker — For consciously made, luxury fashion from labels like Palm. Noosa and Hunza G.

  • ISLE — Relaxed, coastal-inspired fashion and gifts perfect for that laid-back Newport look.

Places to eat & drink in Newport, Rhode Island

Best coffee shops & breakfast spots in Newport

Local Tip: Expect lines at popular spots during summer weekends. Plan for an early start if you want to avoid a wait!

Nitro Bar (obviously) — Famous for its nitrogen-infused cold brews and creative seasonal drinks. A must-visit for caffeine lovers and trend seekers alike.

Springline Coffee — Located at Bannister’s Wharf, Springline Coffee offers expertly prepared espresso drinks and beautiful harbor views.

Beaucoup — A French-inspired café serving freshly baked pastries, quiches and specialty coffee drinks.

The Coffee Grinder — A Newport institution for over 40 years, offering fresh pastries and coffee with waterfront seating at Hammetts Wharf.

CRU Café — An all-day breakfast café known for fresh ingredients and creative breakfast and brunch options, including the popular Bellevue Burrito.

Best restaurants in Newport for dinner

Local Tip: Summer reservations book up fast. Plan ahead to secure a table, but note that some restaurants offer walk-in or bar seating options if you’re flexible.

Clarke Cooke House — A classic New England dining experience located on Bannister’s Wharf, known for fresh seafood and elegant coastal ambiance.

Pasta Beach — A relaxed yet modern Italian restaurant serving handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas.

Giusto — Contemporary Italian cuisine made with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Located at Hammetts Wharf with views of the harbor.

Flora — A farm-to-table restaurant offering a seasonal menu focused on fresh, sustainable ingredients.

Black Pearl — One of Newport’s most iconic dining spots, Black Pearl is known for its creamy clam chowder and casual waterfront dining.

Bar ‘Cino — An Italian-inspired neighborhood spot with a focus on wood-fired pizzas and an excellent wine list.

Smoke House — A casual BBQ restaurant with outdoor seating and live music.

Thames Street Kitchen — Known for creative small plates and a rotating seasonal menu.

22 Bowen’s — A classic waterfront steakhouse offering premium cuts, fresh seafood and an extensive wine list — all with beautiful harbor views.

Newport’s best nightlife & cocktail spots

The Landing — A lively waterfront bar known for harbor views and live music, ideal for a casual night out.

Midtown Oyster Bar — Featuring a rooftop deck, fresh oysters and a lively atmosphere, Midtown Oyster Bar is a great choice for seafood and cocktails.

One Pelham East — A popular downtown nightlife spot with live music and dancing.

Clarke Cooke House — A multi-level venue offering dining, cocktails and nightlife all in one place.

Blues Café — A music-forward venue offering live blues performances and a laid-back vibe.

Need to know

Summer is Newport’s busiest season, so advance reservations for hotels and restaurants are highly recommended. Expect lines at popular breakfast spots and coffee shops—getting an early start to the day will help you avoid crowds. For those planning special events or celebrations, many hotels offer exclusive packages and VIP experiences. I’m happy to help arrange those for a seamless and luxurious stay.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Newport page.

Advisor - Brie Rogatz

Travel Advisor

Brie Rogatz

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