There’s something for everyone in this classic New England city on the sea; history buffs can experience life in the Gilded Age, sporty types can play tennis and set sail, and those wanting to kick back and relax have their choice of beaches. No matter how you spend the day, everyone will enjoy nights at top-notch restaurants and dreamy dwellings.
30 Bannister’s Wharf, blackpearlnewport.com
One of Newport’s most well-known and beloved restaurants, the Black Pearl is a must for classic New England fare and the best chowder in town. On a warm summer day, their waterfront patio is the perfect lunch spot for oysters and people-watching. For a cozy dinner, head downstairs to the wood-paneled Commodore Room. Or pop into their Tavern for a lively happy hour.
24 Bannister’s Wharf, clarkecooke.com
No visit to Newport is complete without a stop at this quintessential restaurant that has been serving celebrities, America’s Cup winners and loyal locals for decades. For a fancy dinner, head to the upscale SkyBar and Porch for innovative seafood - but be warned, men are required to wear jackets. The Bistro and Candy Store offers a more casual, yet equally delicious, dining experience. Don’t miss the beef carpaccio and incredible sushi.
345 Thames St., midtownoyster.com
Come for the oysters and stay for the scene. Boasting the largest raw bar in town, as well as two floors and outside decks, this is the place to see, be seen, and enjoy fresh seafood. The downstairs tavern has a buzzy, relaxed vibe, and the upstairs dining room is more suited for a long, sit-down dinner. The perfect spot to bring friends or a date. And be sure to check out their sister property, the Surf Club, for pizza and craft cocktails.
19 Charles St., perrosalado.com
Dining here feels like eating at a friend’s house - if your friend happens to make creative Mexican cuisine and darn good margaritas. Housed in the former home of Caption Stephen Decatur, a famous 18th-century naval officer, the space is both homey and lively with twists and turns that open up to dining rooms, corner bars and a patio lined with twinkling lights. Don’t be surprised if your dining companion happens to be a rock star or jazz musician, as the restaurant is a favorite among the arty types.
41 Mary St., aubergeresorts.com/vanderbilt
Part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, The Vanderbilt is housed in a historic downtown mansion once owned by Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt. This past spring, the hotel revealed a newly reimaged and refreshed look with updated rooms that nod to the glamour of the Gilded Age. The property boasts four restaurants; the handsome navy Dining Room with leather chairs offers elevated pub fare, the Conservatory has lighter fare in its sun-dappled room, the Roof Deck serves up views with oysters, and the Garden is the perfect place to relax at the end of the day with a glass of wine by the pool.
24 Lee's Wharf, gardinerhouse.com
A new arrival to Newport, this stunning waterfront hotel is the ideal destination for a sumptuous summer getaway. Located on Lee’s Wharf, the boutique stay boasts 21 rooms hosting serene architectural detail and unforgettable views of the harbor and seascape. Plus, guests are steps away from the popular Thames Street, where an abundance of restaurants and boutiques await.
1 Bellevue Ave., hotelviking.com
At almost one hundred years old, this historic property is a member of the Historic Hotels of America. Touches of the iconic hotel’s history can be seen throughout, like the original key boxes located behind the front desk and the brass letterbox in the lobby. But the modern luxurious amenities set the place squarely in today. Book a visit at their Spa Fjor and unwind at the newly renovated pool.
590 Ocean Ave., castlehillinn.com
A Relais & Chateaux property, this is the epitome of quiet luxury. Guests have several options to stay on the inn’s 40 acres. Choose oceanfront in a Cottage or in the Beach House, both perched on the sands of the inn’s private beach. Or on the hill in the historic Agassiz Mansion overlooking Narragansett Bay. Or choose to be like Grace Kelly and stay by the bay in the Harbor Houses. No matter where you lay your head, you must spend one afternoon lounging on the sprawling lawn with a cocktail in hand, gazing out to the sea and the Castle Hill lighthouse.
4 Commercial Wharf, hammettshotel.com
The waterfront property opened n 2020, replacing a parking lot and a big concert tent that previously blocked the view of the water. Three years later and the boutique hotel is thriving. All 84 rooms are donned in modern yet laid-back decor, feature photography from local artists, and have views of the harbor and downtown. Guests can enjoy drinks in several outdoor spaces that connect the wings of the hotel. If you stay here or not, be sure to check out the hotel’s restaurant Giusto, helmed by Kevin O’Donnell, who also owns the popular SRV restaurant in Boston.
1 Wave Ave., newportbeachhotelandsuites.com
Since 1940, this recently renovated beachfront hotel has offered a stunning setting for travelers to unwind, boasting chic, beachy décor, custom-designed furniture and extravagant suites that range from 550 to 1,300 square feet. The on-property restaurant Ocean Bar & Grill welcomes guests to enjoy fresh seafood, while their wellness offerings at the Newport Beach Micro Spa ensure a restful stay.
Multiple locations, newportmansions.org
Newport once was the summer destination for the exquisitely rich and, to this day, is known for the mansions that dot its coastline. Buy tickets to tour any of the grand homes, their gardens and grounds. Plan to visit the Marble House around lunchtime so you can enjoy a bite in the Chinese Tea House.
Spend the afternoon walking around downtown Newport and popping into the numerous independent boutiques. Some standouts include Monelle (17 Bowens Wharf) for high-end, on-trend fashions, Duris Studios (480 Thames Street) for one-of-a-kind jewelry and the Pink Pineapple (380 Thames St.) for playful, nautical clothing.
119 Memorial Blvd., cliffwalk.com
This roughly 2.5-hour walk is the best way to take in Newport’s stunning landscape. The ocean to one side of you, and to the other side, famous, majestic mansions. Beginning at the western end of Easton’s Beach, it runs south all the way down to almost the end of the peninsula at Bailey’s Beach. The terrain isn’t always easy and often rocky, but there are plenty of places to exit along the way.
49 America’s Cup Ave., americascupcharters.com
Newport is often referred to as the sailing capital of the world. There’s a boat-building industry and sailing schools, and the city has hosted the America’s Cup for more than 50 years. Experience what it’s like to be a sailor onboard one of America’s Cup-winning boats with a chartered sail.
194 Bellevue Ave., tennisfame.com
Located in the Newport Casino, a National Historic Landmark, the beautiful property is open to the public year-round. Visit the museum and celebrate 262 Tennis Hall of Fame inductees while admiring art, fashion, photos and more from the sport’s greatest moments. If you happen to be visiting in July, check out the Infosys Hall of Fame Open and watch the only professional tournament played on grass in the United States. Or sign up for a private lesson on the courts any time of year.
For those who prefer a little surf with their sand, head to Easton’s (also known as First Beach), where the waves attract anyone looking to ride. There’s also a snack bar and plenty of room on the ¾ mile stretch. Looking for something a little quieter? Head to King Park Beach overlooking the harbor or Gooseberry Beach that’s tucked away in a cove.
Take in gorgeous scenery with your history lesson. The historic fort, which is celebrating its 200-year anniversary, sits on the tip of the peninsula, offering stunning ocean views. Sign-up for a guided tour or simply explore on a self-guided adventure. Stay for the summer concert series and the sunset. And if you happen to be visiting at the end of July or the beginning of August, see if you can score tickets to the Folk Festival or Jazz Festival that’s held on the grounds.
Photography by: Discover Newport; Discover Newport; Auberge Resorts; Newport Harbor Corp; PSNC 7; Corey Favino; Discover Newport; Discover Newport;
