Along Rhode Island's coast, this historic port city has grand 19th-century mansions, America's oldest synagogue, and a yacht-filled harbor dating back to 1639.
Newport, Rhode Island occupies Aquidneck Island, where you'll walk past grand 19th-century mansions like The Breakers and The Marble House. Sailboats fill the harbor, while the Atlantic coastline includes the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk and several beaches. The city's attractions range from the International Tennis Hall of Fame to Fort Adams, North America's largest coastal fort. You can explore colonial-era buildings, dine at seafood restaurants, and relax on beaches along the Atlantic coast.
Exploring Newport's Mansions
The mansions on Bellevue Avenue showcase America's Gilded Age through their Italian Renaissance designs and European craftsmanship. The Breakers, a 70-room mansion built in 1895 for the Vanderbilt family, contains marble imported directly from Europe. You can visit five other major mansions, including Marble House and Rosecliff, each built in distinct architectural styles from the late 1800s. The mansions remain open year-round, with guided and self-guided tours available.
Coastal Walks and Beaches
The 3.5-mile Cliff Walk takes you along Newport's eastern shore, where you'll see both the Atlantic Ocean and the backs of several mansions. The path includes both paved sections and rocky areas. At Easton's Beach (First Beach), you'll find calm waters and full facilities for swimming and sunbathing. Brenton Point State Park catches strong ocean winds, making it a popular location for kite flying.
Maritime Newport
Newport's harbor buzzes with sailing activity throughout the warmer months. You can book sailing excursions ranging from afternoon trips to sunset cruises. At Fort Adams State Park, you'll see Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay from multiple vantage points. The park includes the Museum of Yachting, and the 1799 fort remains intact as North America's largest coastal fortification.
Cultural Landmarks
The International Tennis Hall of Fame sits in the Newport Casino building, the site of the first U.S. Open in 1881. You can explore tennis history exhibits and play on grass courts during summer. The Redwood Library, dating to 1747, still operates as both a public library and art gallery. The Touro Synagogue, built in 1763, is North America's oldest existing synagogue building.
Newport's Food Scene
Restaurants throughout Newport serve seafood caught in local waters. In the waterfront district, you'll find New England classics like clam chowder, lobster rolls, and fresh oysters. Thames Street and the wharves contain both casual eateries and high-end restaurants, many located in restored colonial buildings.
Getting Around Newport
Most major sites sit within walking distance in the downtown and mansion districts. Trolleys run regular routes to main attractions, and water taxis connect different areas of the harbor. During summer, expect limited parking near beaches and mansions.
