Curator’s statement
I’ve been visiting Newport, Rhode Island, for more than 30 years. It’s where my husband and I spent our first weekend away, and I’ve been smitten ever since. Newport checks every box for a romantic escape—fine dining, coastal charm, beautiful beaches, great shopping, and sunsets that glow over Newport Harbor. Here’s how I love to experience it now—where to stay, what to book, and the best spots to watch the day fade over the water.
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Where to stay in Newport
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Who it’s for & what to do in Newport
While this trip report is written from the lens of a romantic weekend, Newport is also a wonderful family destination. When our son was little, he loved to sail around Newport Harbor—and the giant anchor at Bowen’s Wharf and the playground at King Park on Wellington Avenue were instant hits.
The view from our beach cottage at Castle Hill
My favorite things to do
Sunrise coffee on the cottage deck, listening to the ocean.
Early bike ride along Ocean Drive, looping up to Bellevue Avenue for the mansions and the Cliff Walk.
Late breakfast and a few lazy hours on the sand.
Afternoon shopping on Thames Street and Spring Street (or boutiques around Bellevue if you prefer).
Golden hour at Castle Hill—dinner on the porch at Castle Hill Inn or a pair of Adirondack chairs on the lawn to watch sunset. TikTok may have blown it up, but I’ve loved this spot for years.
Sunset on the lawn at Castle Hill
Beach time: Second Beach (Sachuest) is my favorite—and where the locals go.
Lobster roll ritual: Castle Hill Inn, Luke’s Lobster, or Brick Alley Pub.
Cliff Walk, early: Go between 8 and 9 am to beat the crowds—mansions on one side, ocean on the other, and the path mostly to yourself.
Mansion tours: My two favorites are Marble House and Rosecliff.
Photo by Michael Denning
Need to know
While summer is glorious in Newport, fall is magic. Crowds thin, dinner reservations become easier, and rates dip a bit—September is perfect if you still want beach time. If you’re driving from the Northeast, try to stay Sunday night; traffic is noticeably lighter on Monday.
Closest airports to Newport
Providence (PVD – T.F. Green Intl.): About 35–45 minutes, 28 miles
Boston Logan (BOS): About 1.5–2 hours, 75 miles
Hartford Bradley (BDL): About 2 hours, 100 miles
Amtrak to Kingston, RI (KIN) or Providence: About a 30–45 minute rideshare to Newport
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Newport page.
Travel Advisor
Lee Newell
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