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.
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. 30 Bannister’s Wharf, blackpearlnewport.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 seafood linguine. 24 Bannister’s Wharf, clarkecooke.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 first-floor tavern has a buzzy, relaxed vibe, while 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 seasonal craft cocktails. 345 Thames St., midtownoyster.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 Captain 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 guitarist or jazz musician, as the restaurant is a favorite among the arty types. 19 Charles St., perrosalado.com
Established inside the award-winning Gardiner House Hotel, this chic restaurant serves up delectable Mediterranean cuisine, integrating flavors and culinary traditions of Marbella, St-Tropez and Capri. The restaurant’s expansive menu, curated by acclaimed head chef Somoza, features the freshest seafood and produce from Rhode Island’s local farms, fishermen and producers. With his emphasis on farm-to-table cooking, chef Somoza’s menu spotlights delectable dishes and treats, like pan-seared halibut and garlic shiitake rigatoni. 24 Lee’s Wharf, floranewport.com
Part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, The Vanderbilt is housed in a historic downtown mansion once owned by businessman and heir Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt. The hotel boasts a glamorous Gilded Age yet coastal theme through its reimagined and detailed rooms and suites, decorated with handcrafted architectural details and eccentric furnishings. 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. 41 Mary St., aubergeresorts.com/vanderbilt
Flora in the Gardiner House
This stunning waterfront hotel is the ideal destination for a sumptuous summer getaway in Newport. Located on Lee’s Wharf, the boutique 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. 24 Lee’s Wharf, gardinerhouse.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 to their Spa Fjor and unwind at the refreshing indoor pool. 1 Bellevue Ave., hotelviking.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 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 stay at one of actress Grace Kelly’s favorite Harbor Houses by the bay. 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. 590 Ocean Ave., castlehillinn.com
The waterfront property opened in 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. 4 Commercial Wharf, hammettshotel.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 hotel’s rooftop hot tub and fire pit, as well as the indoor pool, offer guests different ways to relax, while their wellness offerings at the Newport Beach Micro Spa ensure a restful stay. 1 Wave Ave., newportbeachhotelandsuites.com
Newport was once 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 grand homes, their gardens and grounds. Plan to visit the Marble House around lunchtime to enjoy a bite in the Chinese Tea House. Multiple locations, newportmansions.org
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.
This 3.5-mile walk is the best way to take in Newport’s stunning landscape. The ocean is on one side of you, and on 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. 119 Memorial Blvd., 401.835.5544
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 almost 40 years. Experience what it’s like to be a sailor on board one of America’s Cup-winning boats with a chartered sail. 49 America’s Cup Ave., americascupcharters.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 267 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 at any time of year. 194 Bellevue Ave., tennisfame.com
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 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 on the grounds.
Photography by: Discover Newport; Discover Newport; Auberge Resorts; Newport Harbor Corp; PSNC 7; Corey Favino; Discover Newport; Discover Newport; Nick Mele
