Curator’s statement
Newport holds a special place in my heart; I got engaged and married there. It's one of those rare destinations that delivers so much in such a compact, walkable package: historic mansions that rival anything in Europe, a working waterfront steeped in sailing culture, incredible restaurants, and charming streets that reward slow exploration—all within easy reach of the Northeast. Once Newport gets you, it really gets you.
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Where to stay in Newport, Rhode Island
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Things to do in Newport, Rhode Island
Standing in front of the beautiful Rosecliff Mansion (where I got married); Photo: Courtney Pare
Walk the Cliff Walk
This iconic 3.5-mile coastal trail hugs Newport's shoreline with crashing Atlantic waves on one side and the grand backyards of Gilded Age mansions on the other. It's free, stunning, and absolutely unmissable in summer.
Tour the Newport Mansions
The Breakers, Marble House, Rosecliff... these palatial summer "cottages" are jaw-dropping in person. Summer is the perfect time to tour one or two and understand just how the Vanderbilts and their contemporaries lived during America's most extravagant era
Explore Thames Street & Bowens Wharf
Newport's main commercial street has been buzzing since the 18th century. Browse local boutiques, galleries, and gift shops before wandering down to the waterfront wharves, where you can watch the sailboats come and go.
Catch a sunset at Castle Hill Inn
Even if you're not staying there, the sweeping lawn at Castle Hill is one of the best spots in Newport to watch the sun go down over the bay. Grab a drink, find a spot on the grass, and settle in for a quintessential Newport summer moment.
Go sailing on the harbor
Newport is one of America's great sailing cities and has been home of the America's Cup for decades. In summer, there are plenty of ways to get on the water, from crewed charters to sunset sails, and seeing the harbor from the water is a completely different experience.
Newport vineyards
Just a few minutes from downtown in Middletown, this 100-acre working vineyard makes for a wonderful afternoon escape. Taste local wines and craft beer, have lunch on the patio, and enjoy a completely different side of the Newport area.
Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame
Located in the stunning Newport Casino on Bellevue Avenue, this is the only Hall of Fame in the world where you can play on historic grass courts. A great stop even if you're not a tennis fanatic, as the architecture alone is worth the visit.
Places to eat & drink in Newport, Rhode Island
Summer drinks at the Rooftop Bar of the Vanderbilt Hotel; Photo: Courtney Pare
Midtown Oyster Bar
A lively, multi-level spot in the heart of downtown that's great for groups and perfect for summer. The raw bar is the star, but the menu is broad enough for non-seafood eaters, and the outdoor seating makes it one of the best people-watching perches in the city.
Lucia
This cozy Italian restaurant on Thames Street is a go-to for authentic pastas, aperitifs, and a warm trattoria atmosphere. The kitchen is accommodating to plant-based diners, so vegans and vegetarians will find plenty to love here.
Root
Newport's most dedicated plant-forward restaurant, Root is a must for vegans and a revelation for omnivores who think they won't miss the meat. The menu is creative, seasonal, and genuinely exciting.
Diego's
A breezy, Cali-style Mexican spot on Bowen's Wharf with a lively vibe and an extensive menu that has something for everyone, making it a fantastic choice for groups. The margaritas are legendary and come by the pitcher, which is all the reason you need to linger a little longer.
Wally's Wieners
Don't let the name fool you. Wally's has built a cult following for its cocktail menu, including 30-ounce "dog bowl" drinks made for sharing and an outrageous selection of 14 espresso martini flavors. Vegetarian and vegan options are available on the food menu too, making it a crowd-pleaser all around.
22 Bowen's Wine Bar and Grille
The classic upscale Newport dining experience. Located right on Bowen's Wharf, it's the place for a celebratory dinner, an impressive wine list, and polished New England cuisine with harbor views to match.
The Black Pearl
A Newport institution on Bannister's Wharf that has been drawing locals and visitors for decades. The outdoor patio is always buzzing in summer, and it's a classic stop for anyone who wants to soak in the authentic waterfront atmosphere.
Clarke Cooke House
One of Newport's most storied dining spots, right on the wharf, with a lively bar scene and a menu that spans fresh oysters, sushi, and American classics. Great for a special occasion or simply a long, leisurely summer evening.
Need to know
Best time to visit
July and August are peak season and the most vibrant, but late June and early September are Newport's best-kept secrets. The weather is still beautiful, crowds thin out noticeably, and you'll have a much easier time getting dinner reservations and mansion tickets. If your schedule is flexible, aim for late June or the weeks just after Labor Day for a noticeably more relaxed experience.
Getting there & parking
Newport sits at the southern tip of Aquidneck Island, accessible by bridge, which means traffic can back up significantly on summer weekends. If you can, arrive Thursday either before the 5 p.m. rush or late in the evening to beat the weekend congestion. Once you're in town, parking lots are scattered throughout the city and can be a solid option if your hotel isn't within walking distance of downtown. They can be pricey, but worth it if you're settled in for a full day. That said, downtown traffic during peak months is notoriously slow, so once you're parked, leave the car and walk. Newport rewards it.
Book ahead
Most waterfront restaurants fill up quickly in summer, so reservations are always preferred when available. Not every spot takes them, so it's worth checking ahead of time rather than assuming. For the mansions, reserve tours in advance through the Preservation Society of Newport County, especially for The Breakers, which is the most popular.
What to wear & pack
Newport is a casual-meets-dressed-up kind of place. Days call for comfortable walking shoes since you'll be on your feet a lot, especially on the Cliff Walk. For evenings, think coastal chic: sundresses, Nantucket Red shorts, and something with a little polish for waterfront dining. Always bring a layer too, as ocean breezes pick up after sunset even in the height of summer.
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