Explore > Rhode Island > Rhode Island Spotlight
spotlight header

Newport

In Newport, the finer things in life are right at your fingertips. From teeing off at Scottish links-style golf courses to wandering through the lavish Gilded Age mansions, this New England town serves luxury and elegance on a silver platter.

Gilded Age glamor

Peppered near the eastern shore is a cluster of National Historic Landmarks known as the Gilded Age mansions. Get a taste of old-fashioned opulence and see where the Vanderbilt family spent their summers by touring The Breakers, a 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo, and the Marble House which was inspired by the Petit Trianon in Versailles. For a different perspective, stroll the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk to see the estates set behind crashing waves and rocky coastline.

A side view of the Marble House on Cliff Walk

Pixabay

The Classic Coast

Just like most towns in New England, life revolves around the water in Newport. When the sun’s out, dig your toes in the sand and go for a swim at popular beaches such as Fort Adams, Gooseberry and Easton’s. You can also kayak around Newport Harbor or hire a charter to reel in striped bass, sea bass and fluke from local waters. When it’s time to refuel, dig into the freshest seafood around at classic lobster shacks and acclaimed chef-owned restaurants.

Forts and fairways

Golf has flourished ever since the first U.S. Open Championship was held here in 1895. Pack your clubs and play at courses with sweeping ocean scenery like Green Valley Country Club, Windmill Hill and Newport National Golf Club. You can soak up more panoramic views of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay from Fort Adams State Park. Other popular activities in the park include fishing, boating, picnicking and walking through the old military compound’s underground tunnels.

The Bannister's Wharf decorated from Christmas

Pixabay

Yachting HQ

Newport is known as the sailing capital of the world and it sure lives up to its name. It’s home to the U.S. Naval Station Newport, hosts yachting’s prestigious America’s Cup every March and possesses the largest fleet of America’s Cup 12 Meters on the planet. Embrace the town’s nautical spirit by learning how to sail or taking a scenic cruise around Narragansett Bay. The Herreshoff Marine Museum is a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning more about the America’s Cup and yachting history

For More Information

Discover Newport

800-326-6030

www.discovernewport.org

Rhode Island Tourism Division

800-556-2484

www.VisitRhodeIsland.com