This City by the Sea was once a thriving colony, a summer playground where wealthy industrialists of the late 19th and early 20th century built “cottages” reminiscent of European mansions they visited, and until the mid seventies a rough and tumble navy town.
Today Newport is a world class resort that offers something for everyone. Summer brings the famous Newport jazz and folk festivals as well as high quality arts and craft shows. September celebrates the Irish with its Labor Day Irish Festival. The food festivals and cook offs throughout the season are legendary.
Speaking of food, Newport hosts the most eclectic collection of restaurants in New England. Within a few short blocks, one can find everything from the most casual or ethnic fare to haute cuisine. Newport is also a Mecca for shoppers. The myriad shops along America’s Cup Avenue, the Brick Marketplace, and the wharves contain something for every taste and wallet.
No trip to Newport is complete without a ride around the majestic thirteen mile ocean drive or a visit to those “summer cottages” along tree lined Bellevue Avenue. Don’t forget to visit the beaches and walk the cliff walk. Bring your camera as you will be at the doorstep of the mighty Atlantic, and the view is breathtaking.
Those who like the water can take a harbor cruise along the bay, sail their own boats or learn to sail. History buffs should take a cruise on Rum Runner II, a restored boat built for two New Jersey mobsters used to elude the Coast Guard during prohibition. When customs agents patrolled the shore, a decoy boat was used to confuse them. Rum Runner II hid among the rocks in the bay as the decoy boat left the shore. The customs agents gave chase allowing Rum Runner II to deliver its contraband cargo on shore. Legend has it that the smugglers used the house and land of someone who was rarely in residence, and left several hundred dollar bills in the mailbox each time for him the use of his property.
Fall and winter are special times in Newport. The frenzied pace of summer slows to a more relaxed cadence, however, there is still much to do. “Secret Garden Tours” offer visitors seldom seen gardens of some of the most exclusive homes. The Yachting Center hosts a two day “Taste of Rhode Island” festival featuring Newport’s best chefs and caterers serving up appetizer portions of their specialties. Escape to Germany during Oktoberfest and enjoy the bier and weingartens. Art and craft fairs allow visitors to take home a unique hand crafted gift.
The Newport Dinner Train runs right through the fall and offers events such as a Murder Mystery Dinner ride.
Winter has its own charm in Newport. Early December sees the lighting of the boats in the Harbor, and the inns and mansions dress up in their holiday finery just for you. Many inns offer cozy rooms with fireplaces, and special romantic getaway packages at special rates, along with passes to the mansions, museum and other attractions.
If you’re not sure where to begin, the friendly and knowledgeable folks at the Gateway Visitor’s Center will inform you of special events, and help you make the most of your trip.