Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Newport, Rhode Island. The Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island, is a great way to enjoy this beautiful New England town. I love walking by the water, admiring the grand mansions, and enjoying lobster and saltwater taffy. Where to Eat Stay and Play in Newport Rhode Island
The Newport Cliff Walk is a 3.5-mile trail along the stunning coastline. You can see the ocean cliffs, beautiful views, and famous mansions from the Gilded Age. Newport is just three hours from New York City and is a classic East Coast destination. Rhode Island may be small, but it’s full of charm!
Take a Mansion Tour
First Choice
The Breakers is the most famous mansion. It was built by the Vanderbilt family, who made their fortune in railroads. This Italian Renaissance mansion has 70 rooms and is the largest on the Cliff Walk.
If You Have More Time
- Vinland Estate is a Beaux-Arts style mansion. Today, it is part of Salve Regina University.
- Rosecliff was designed like the Palace of Versailles by a Nevada silver heiress.
- The Elms, built in 1901, was one of the first homes in America to have electricity.
- Chateau Sur Mer, built in 1852 by the Wetmore family, was the biggest mansion until the Vanderbilts arrived.
- Kingscote, built in 1839 in Gothic Revival style, was the home of a Florida plantation owner.
- Isaac Bell House, built in 1883, is a top example of shingle style architecture.
- Hunter House, built in 1748, is special because it was constructed 100 years before the other mansions. It features Georgian Colonial design.
- Chepstow is an Italian-style mansion built in 1860. It holds important American paintings and documents.
- Rough Point was built for Fredrick Vanderbilt. His daughter, Doris Duke, inherited it at age 12 and later became a famous philanthropist.
- Belcourt Mansion, built in 1891, is known as a “Man’s Mansion.” It was designed for Oliver Belmont and his many horses.
Where do I park for the Newport Cliff Walk?
Parking can be tricky during the busy tourist season. However, there is plenty of metered parking available.
If you can’t find a spot, try parking further up on Memorial Boulevard, closer to the town center.
If you want to park near the walk, look for these streets along Memorial Boulevard:
- Narragansett Avenue near the famous Forty Steps.
- Webster Street at the Salve Regina campus.
- Sheppard Avenue near the Breakers Mansion.
- Easton Beach Trail Head.
Is visiting Newport worth it?
This New England gem is best known for its Gilded Age mansions on Bellevue Avenue. But it’s also famous for hosting the America’s Cup and the Newport Jazz Festival.
The grandeur of Newport and these “summer homes” is unlike anything you’ve seen. These mansions were built when America’s wealthiest industrial and oil families spent lavishly.
Today, 11 of these mansions are open to the public as museums.
You might recognize some from movies! Yes, visiting Newport is definitely worth it! Newport has beautiful coastal views, historic mansions, and a charming town atmosphere. It’s a perfect place for a day trip or a longer stay!
Newport Cliff Walk Important Tips
- The Preservation Society of Newport sells tickets for mansion and garden tours. Check their website to see which mansions are available.
- One ticket gives you admission to up to 5 mansions.
- You might also enjoy a trolley tour in a vintage trolley car.
- The Newport Restoration Foundation maintains some of the mansions too.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes. Some parts of the walk are on rocks. If you plan to climb the famous Forty Steps, be prepared!
When is the best time to visit Newport?
Summer: Newport is beautiful all year, but summer is the best time for the beach. The weather is warm, and you can enjoy the seaside.
Fall: New England in the fall is still warm and full of vibrant colors. It’s less crowded, making it a nice time to visit.
Winter: Winter days can be lovely, but it can be chilly. Dress warmly for the walk. Some mansion tours might be closed or limited.
Spring: Spring in New England is unpredictable. You might experience rain, snow, or sun. The best time to visit Newport is from late spring to early fall.
- Late Spring (May-June): The weather is mild, flowers are blooming, and there are fewer tourists.
- Summer (July-August): It’s warm and ideal for outdoor activities, but also crowded. Newport hosts major events like the Newport Jazz Festival during this time.
- Early Fall (September-October): The weather is pleasant, and the summer crowds have thinned. It’s a great time for walking tours and coastal views with fewer people around.
Winter (November-March): It’s quieter and can be charming, but some attractions might be closed.
Here’s a simpler and more readable guide to where to eat, stay, and play in Newport, Rhode Island, including a chart with websites and ratings:
Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Newport, Rhode Island
At the White Horse Tavern, we strive to create a fresh, contemporary culinary experience in “America’s Oldest Tavern.”
| Category | Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 | Option 4 | Option 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eat | The Deck | The White Horse Tavern | The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar | The Red Parrot | The Newport Lobster Shack |
| Website | The Deck | The White Horse Tavern | The Mooring | The Red Parrot | The Newport Lobster Shack |
| Rating | 4.3 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.4 stars | 4.2 stars | 4.1 stars |
| Stay | The Chanler at Cliff Walk | Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina | Hotel Viking | The Breakers Inn | The Attwater |
| Website | The Chanler | Gurney’s Newport | Hotel Viking | The Breakers Inn | The Attwater |
| Rating | 4.7 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.4 stars | 4.3 stars | 4.6 stars |
| Play | Cliff Walk | Newport Harbor | Bowen’s Wharf | Fort Adams State Park | Easton’s Beach |
| Website | Cliff Walk | Newport Harbor | Bowen’s Wharf | Fort Adams | Easton’s Beach |
| Rating | 4.8 stars | 4.6 stars | 4.5 stars | 4.4 stars | 4.3 stars |
pros and cons of visiting Rhode Island:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Beautiful Coastal Scenery | High Costs |
| Rhode Island offers stunning beaches, scenic coastal views, and charming seaside towns. | Costs can be high, especially in popular tourist areas like Newport. |
| Rich History and Culture | Traffic and Parking Issues |
| The state has a rich history with historical sites, museums, and colonial architecture. | Traffic congestion and limited parking can be challenging, particularly in cities like Providence. |
| Charming Towns and Villages | Weather Variability |
| Features picturesque towns like Newport, Bristol, and Watch Hill, each with its unique charm. | Weather can be unpredictable, with cold winters and occasional summer rain. |
| Delicious Seafood | Limited Public Transportation |
| Known for its excellent seafood, including clam chowder, oysters, and calamari. | Public transportation options are limited, making a car useful for getting around. |
| Outdoor Activities | Small Size |
| Offers a range of outdoor activities such as sailing, hiking, and beachcombing. | Its small size means fewer major attractions and activities compared to larger states. |
Conclusion
The Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island, is a blend of natural beauty and historical charm. This 3.5-mile trail offers stunning ocean views. Along the way, you’ll see famous mansions from America’s Gilded Age. The walk is a great chance to admire Newport’s grand homes. These mansions, built during a time of great wealth, show off beautiful designs and lush gardens. The trail mixes rocky areas with peaceful grassy spots.
Whether you love history, architecture, or just want a beautiful walk, the Cliff Walk is a must-visit. It gives you a taste of New England’s charm and Newport’s rich past. With amazing views and historic homes, the Cliff Walk promises a memorable experience.
FAQs
Q1. What kind of food does The Deck serve?
The Deck offers delicious seafood, including fish and chips. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal with a view of the water!
Q2: Is The White Horse Tavern a good place for families?
Yes, The White Horse Tavern serves classic New England dishes and has a cozy atmosphere that families will enjoy.
Q3: What makes The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar special?
The Mooring is known for its fresh seafood and beautiful harbor views. It’s a perfect spot for a tasty meal with a scenic backdrop!
Q4: Does The Red Parrot have vegetarian options?
Yes, The Red Parrot has a variety of tropical dishes, including options for vegetarians.
Q5: What can I expect at The Newport Lobster Shack?
The Newport Lobster Shack is a casual place where you can get classic lobster rolls and other seafood treats.
Q6: What is special about The Chanler at Cliff Walk?
The Chanler offers luxurious rooms with stunning views of the ocean. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery!
Q7: Is Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina family-friendly?
Yes, Gurney’s Newport has spacious rooms and a marina. It’s a great choice for families who want to enjoy waterfront activities.
Q8: What makes Hotel Viking unique?
Hotel Viking is a historic hotel with modern features. It’s located in the heart of Newport and offers a mix of charm and comfort.
Q9: Are there any special amenities at The Breakers Inn?
The Breakers Inn provides a cozy atmosphere and is conveniently located for exploring Newport. It’s a nice spot for a comfortable stay.
Q10: What kind of experience can I expect at The Attwater?
The Attwater has stylish rooms and a friendly vibe. It’s known for its welcoming atmosphere and great location.
Q11: What should I see at Cliff Walk?
Cliff Walk is a beautiful trail with views of the ocean and old mansions. It’s perfect for a scenic walk and some fresh air!
Q12: Can you do boat tours at Newport Harbor?
Yes, Newport Harbor is a great place for boat tours. You can enjoy a relaxing ride and see the harbor’s attractions.
Q13: What can I find at Bowen’s Wharf?
Bowen’s Wharf is a fun area with shops, restaurants, and galleries. It’s a lively place to explore and enjoy Newport’s culture.