Top 25 Things To Do in Newport, Rhode Island

Experience Newport's unique mix of historic grandeur and laid-back beach vibes through mansions, sailing, and hidden gems.

Newport, Rhode Island, is a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to savor every moment of its coastal beauty and rich history. Picture yourself strolling along the famous Cliff Walk, the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the rocks on one side, while the silhouettes of magnificent Gilded Age mansions loom on the other. As the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the water, you'll feel the unique magic that has drawn visitors to this seaside gem for centuries.

But Newport is far more than just pretty views and fancy houses. This charming coastal city defies expectations at every turn, seamlessly blending its storied past with a vibrant present. Here, you can explore opulent mansions in the morning, sail on a former America's Cup yacht in the afternoon, and end your day savoring fresh seafood at a dockside restaurant that's been serving locals for generations.

Whether you're a history buff, a beach lover, a foodie, or simply someone in search of a perfect New England getaway, Newport has something special in store for you. Let's dive into the 25 best things to do in this captivating city by the sea.

Tour The Breakers

Step into the pinnacle of Gilded Age extravagance at The Breakers, the crown jewel of Newport's mansion scene. This 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo will transport you back to the late 19th century, when the Vanderbilt family spared no expense in creating their summer "cottage." As you wander through opulent rooms adorned with gilded ceilings, rare marbles, and priceless artworks, you'll gain a vivid sense of the era's over-the-top luxury. Don't miss the Great Hall, with its 50-foot high ceiling and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

• Location: 44 Ochre Point Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: $29 for adults, $9 for children 6-17

Why Visit: The Breakers offers an unparalleled glimpse into America's Gilded Age and the lives of one of its most prominent families.

Insider Tip: For a unique perspective, take the "Beneath The Breakers" tour to explore the mansion's underground tunnel system and cutting-edge technology of the time.

Stroll the Cliff Walk

Lace up your walking shoes and prepare for one of the most scenic strolls in America. The Cliff Walk is a 3.5-mile trail that winds along Newport's eastern shore, offering breathtaking views of the crashing Atlantic waves on one side and the rear lawns of magnificent Gilded Age mansions on the other. As you traverse this National Recreation Trail, you'll encounter a mix of paved paths and rocky scrambles, adding a touch of adventure to your journey. Keep an eye out for native wildlife and the occasional mansion garden peeking over the fences.

• Location: Memorial Boulevard, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: The Cliff Walk provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor, encapsulating Newport's unique charm.

Insider Tip: Start your walk early in the morning to catch a spectacular sunrise and avoid the crowds.

Explore Marble House

Prepare to be dazzled by the sheer opulence of Marble House, another Vanderbilt masterpiece that takes extravagance to new heights. This Beaux-Arts style mansion, inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles, features a staggering 500,000 cubic feet of marble throughout its interiors. As you tour the lavish rooms, including the famous Gold Room covered in 22-karat gold leaf, you'll learn about the fascinating life of Alva Vanderbilt, a prominent figure in the women's suffrage movement. The Chinese Tea House on the grounds offers a serene spot to reflect on the excesses of the Gilded Age.

• Location: 596 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Thursday-Monday, 10 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: $24 for adults, $8 for children 6-17

Why Visit: Marble House offers a stunning example of Gilded Age architecture and a window into the life of one of America's most influential families.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the basement kitchen, which provides a fascinating contrast to the opulence above and offers insights into the lives of the mansion's staff.

Sail Newport Harbor

Feel the salt spray on your face and the wind in your hair as you set sail on Newport Harbor, experiencing the city's rich maritime heritage firsthand. Whether you choose a relaxing sunset cruise or an exhilarating ride on a former America's Cup yacht, you'll gain a new appreciation for Newport's deep connection to the sea. As you glide past lighthouses, fort ruins, and magnificent waterfront homes, your knowledgeable captain will regale you with tales of Newport's nautical history and point out local landmarks.

• Location: Various departure points along the harbor
• Hours: Vary by tour operator
• Price: Varies by tour, typically ranging from $30 to $100+ per person

Why Visit: Sailing offers a unique perspective on Newport's coastline and allows you to experience the city's favorite pastime.

Insider Tip: For a truly memorable experience, book a sunset sail and watch the sky turn brilliant shades of orange and pink over the harbor.

Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame

Serve up some sports history at the International Tennis Hall of Fame, housed in the stunning Newport Casino building. This impressive museum chronicles the evolution of tennis from its origins to the present day, showcasing memorabilia from legendary players and pivotal moments in the sport's history. You'll find everything from vintage racquets and classic tennis fashions to interactive exhibits that let you test your tennis knowledge. After exploring the museum, step outside to admire the meticulously maintained grass courts, which still host professional tournaments.

• Location: 194 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: $18 for adults, $8 for children 6-16

Why Visit: The International Tennis Hall of Fame offers a fascinating look at tennis history in a beautifully preserved architectural setting.

Insider Tip: Time your visit during the Hall of Fame Open in July to watch professional matches on the historic grass courts.

Discover the Touro Synagogue

Step back in time at the Touro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue building still standing in the United States. This beautifully preserved Georgian-style building, completed in 1763, stands as a testament to religious freedom in America. As you tour the synagogue, you'll learn about its rich history, including George Washington's famous letter to the congregation affirming religious liberty. The interior, with its twelve Ionic columns supporting balconies, represents one of the finest examples of 18th-century architecture in the country.

• Location: 85 Touro Street, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Sunday-Friday, 10 AM - 4 PM (closed Saturdays)
• Admission: $14 for adults, $6 for children 6-12

Why Visit: Touro Synagogue offers a unique glimpse into American Jewish history and the principles of religious freedom.

Insider Tip: Visit during one of the scheduled talks to hear more in-depth stories about the synagogue's history and its significance in American culture.

Relax at Easton's Beach

Sink your toes into the soft sand of Easton's Beach, also known as First Beach, Newport's largest and most popular public beach. This mile-long stretch of coastline offers the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching. The beach's gentle waves make it ideal for boogie boarding and body surfing, while the nearby Save The Bay Exploration Center and Aquarium provides a fun educational diversion for curious minds. Don't forget to take a spin on the historic beach carousel, a cherished local landmark.

• Location: 175 Memorial Boulevard, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk
• Parking fee: $20 on weekdays, $25 on weekends (Memorial Day to Labor Day)

Why Visit: Easton's Beach offers a classic New England beach experience with modern amenities and stunning views.

Insider Tip: Grab lunch at the snack bar and enjoy it on the upper deck for panoramic ocean views.

Tour Fort Adams

Delve into military history at Fort Adams, once America's largest coastal fortification. This impressive structure, completed in 1857, offers a fascinating look at 19th-century military engineering. Join a guided tour to explore the fort's underground tunnels, climb to the top of the walls for panoramic views of Newport Harbor, and learn about the fort's role in defending Narragansett Bay. The fort also serves as the venue for the renowned Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals, adding a musical note to its historical significance.

• Location: 80 Fort Adams Drive, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Vary seasonally, check website for details
• Admission: $15 for adults, $8 for children 6-17

Why Visit: Fort Adams offers a unique blend of military history, architectural marvel, and stunning coastal views.

Insider Tip: Time your visit for sunset and enjoy breathtaking views of Newport Harbor from the fort's walls.

Explore the Newport Art Museum

Immerse yourself in creativity at the Newport Art Museum, housed in a beautiful Victorian mansion. This intimate museum showcases a diverse collection of American art, with a particular focus on Rhode Island and New England artists. As you wander through the galleries, you'll encounter everything from 19th-century landscapes to contemporary installations. The museum's rotating exhibitions ensure there's always something new to discover, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

• Location: 76 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 AM - 5 PM; Sunday, 12 PM - 5 PM
• Admission: $15 for adults, free for children under 17

Why Visit: The Newport Art Museum offers a thoughtfully curated collection in a charming, historic setting.

Insider Tip: Check the museum's calendar for artist talks and special events, which offer deeper insights into the exhibits.

Visit the Green Animals Topiary Garden

Step into a whimsical world of living sculptures at the Green Animals Topiary Garden. This seven-acre estate features over 80 topiaries shaped into various animals and geometric forms, creating a playful and surreal landscape. As you wander the gardens, you'll encounter everything from elephants and giraffes to teddy bears and birds, all meticulously crafted from yew, California privet, and English boxwood. The garden also boasts beautiful flower beds, fruit trees, and vegetable gardens, offering a colorful and fragrant experience throughout the growing season.

• Location: 380 Cory's Lane, Portsmouth, RI 02871
• Hours: Vary seasonally, check website for details
• Admission: Included with Newport Mansions ticket or $18 for adults, $8 for children 6-17

Why Visit: Green Animals offers a unique and whimsical garden experience unlike anything else in New England.

Insider Tip: Visit in late spring or early summer when the roses and other flowers are in full bloom, adding splashes of color to the green topiaries.

Discover the Redwood Library and Athenaeum

Step into America's oldest lending library and immerse yourself in centuries of knowledge and culture. Founded in 1747, the Redwood Library and Athenaeum is a treasure trove of rare books, important colonial artifacts, and fine art. The building itself, a National Historic Landmark, is a prime example of Palladian architecture in the New World. As you browse the shelves and exhibits, you'll feel the weight of history and the enduring power of ideas that have shaped our nation.

• Location: 50 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM; Sunday, 1 PM - 4 PM
• Admission: $10 for adults, free for children under 18

Why Visit: The Redwood Library offers a unique glimpse into America's intellectual history in a beautifully preserved setting.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the Harrison Room, which features rotating exhibitions of rare books and manuscripts from the library's collection.

Experience the Newport Folk Festival

Tune into one of America's most iconic music events at the Newport Folk Festival. Held annually at Fort Adams State Park, this legendary festival has been at the forefront of folk, blues, and roots music since 1959. Over three days, you'll experience an eclectic mix of established stars and emerging talents across multiple stages, all set against the stunning backdrop of Newport Harbor. The festival is known for its intimate atmosphere, surprise collaborations, and commitment to musical innovation.

• Location: Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI 02840
• Dates: Typically held in late July
• Admission: Varies by ticket type, check website for details

Why Visit: The Newport Folk Festival offers a world-class musical experience in a historic and picturesque setting.

Insider Tip: Bring a blanket and stake out a spot on the fort's lawn early in the day for the best views of the main stage.

Explore the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge

Escape the bustle of downtown Newport and immerse yourself in nature at the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge. This coastal gem offers over 2.5 miles of nature trails winding through diverse habitats, from salt marshes to rocky shorelines. Keep your eyes peeled for over 200 species of birds, including the largest winter population of harlequin ducks on the East Coast. The refuge also provides excellent opportunities for wildlife photography, fishing, and simply enjoying the serene coastal scenery.

• Location: 769 Sachuest Point Road, Middletown, RI 02842
• Hours: Sunrise to sunset, daily
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Sachuest Point offers a peaceful natural retreat and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities just minutes from Newport.

Insider Tip: Visit during the fall migration season for the best birdwatching opportunities.

Tour Rough Point Museum

Step into the world of the enigmatic tobacco heiress Doris Duke at Rough Point Museum. This sprawling oceanfront estate, left largely as it was when Duke lived there, offers a more intimate and lived-in feel compared to other Newport mansions. As you tour the house, you'll see Duke's eclectic art collection, which includes European fine art, Chinese porcelains, and Turkish carpets. The stunning ocean views from the solarium and the meticulously maintained gardens add to the estate's charm.

• Location: 680 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Vary seasonally, check website for details
• Admission: $20 for adults, free for children 12 and under

Why Visit: Rough Point offers a unique glimpse into the life of one of America's most fascinating heiresses and her passion for art and design.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the special exhibit rooms, which often feature items from Duke's extensive wardrobe and jewelry collection.

Visit the Audrain Automobile Museum

Rev up your Newport experience with a visit to the Audrain Automobile Museum. Housed in a historic building on Bellevue Avenue, this museum showcases a rotating collection of rare and exotic vehicles that will thrill car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. From vintage classics to modern supercars, each exhibit tells a story of automotive innovation and design. The museum's intimate setting allows you to get up close to these mechanical marvels, appreciating every curve and chrome detail.

• Location: 222 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM - 4 PM
• Admission: $18 for adults, $8 for children 6-17

Why Visit: The Audrain Automobile Museum offers a unique blend of automotive history and artistry in the heart of Newport.

Insider Tip: Check the museum's event calendar for "Cars and Coffee" meetups, where you can see rare cars and mingle with fellow enthusiasts.

Explore The Elms

Step into another world of Gilded Age splendor at The Elms, a magnificent mansion designed to rival the grand summer houses of Europe. Built for coal magnate Edward Berwind, this French-style chateau boasts opulent interiors, including a grand ballroom and a stunning conservatory. What sets The Elms apart is its focus on the lives of the servants who kept these grand houses running. The "Servant Life Tour" takes you behind the scenes, offering a fascinating glimpse into the contrast between upstairs luxury and downstairs practicality.

• Location: 367 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: $25 for adults, $8 for children 6-17

Why Visit: The Elms offers a comprehensive look at Gilded Age life, from grand parties to the hidden world of domestic staff.

Insider Tip: Take the rooftop tour for stunning views of Newport and a closer look at the mansion's intricate architecture.

Stroll Down Thames Street

Soak in the vibrant heart of Newport as you stroll down Thames Street. This historic thoroughfare, lined with charming colonial-era buildings, is the city's main shopping and dining artery. As you wander, you'll find an eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and pubs. Stop for a coffee at a quaint café, browse for unique souvenirs in locally-owned shops, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere and people-watching opportunities. The street's proximity to the harbor adds to its nautical charm, with salty breezes and glimpses of bobbing sailboats.

• Location: Thames Street, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Vary by business
• Admission: Free to explore

Why Visit: Thames Street offers a perfect blend of history, local culture, and modern amenities in the heart of Newport.

Insider Tip: Visit on a Thursday evening in summer for the Newport Gallery Night, when many art galleries stay open late and offer special exhibits.

Relax at Brenton Point State Park

Find your perfect picnic spot at Brenton Point State Park, where the Narragansett Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. This scenic park offers sweeping water views, making it an ideal place for leisurely afternoons and spectacular sunsets. Fly a kite in the ocean breeze, explore the rocky shoreline, or simply relax on the grassy areas and watch sailboats glide by. The park's location at the southern tip of Newport makes it a popular stop along the famous Ocean Drive.

• Location: Ocean Drive, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Sunrise to sunset, daily
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Brenton Point State Park offers some of the most breathtaking coastal views in Newport, perfect for picnics and outdoor relaxation.

Insider Tip: Bring a kite - the consistent ocean breezes make this one of the best kite-flying spots in New England.

Visit the Newport Art Museum

Immerse yourself in creativity at the Newport Art Museum, housed in a beautiful Victorian mansion. This intimate museum showcases a diverse collection of American art, with a particular focus on Rhode Island and New England artists. As you wander through the galleries, you'll encounter everything from 19th-century landscapes to contemporary installations. The museum's rotating exhibitions ensure there's always something new to discover, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

• Location: 76 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 AM - 5 PM; Sunday, 12 PM - 5 PM
• Admission: $15 for adults, free for children under 17

Why Visit: The Newport Art Museum offers a thoughtfully curated collection in a charming, historic setting.

Insider Tip: Visit on Friday evenings when admission is free from 5-7 PM, often featuring special programming or events.

Explore the Newport Vineyards

Savor the fruits of Rhode Island's largest grower of wine grapes at Newport Vineyards. This 60-acre vineyard offers a delightful escape just outside the city, where you can tour the winemaking facilities, stroll through the vines, and of course, sample a variety of locally produced wines. The vineyard's Brix Restaurant provides farm-to-table dining with stunning views of the vines, while the Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling Co. on-site offers alternatives for beer and spirits enthusiasts.

• Location: 909 E Main Road, Middletown, RI 02842
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM - 6 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
• Admission: Wine tasting fees vary, check website for details

Why Visit: Newport Vineyards offers a taste of Rhode Island's burgeoning wine scene in a beautiful countryside setting.

Insider Tip: Book a guided tour to learn about the winemaking process and the unique challenges of growing grapes in New England.

Discover the Newport Tower

Ponder one of Newport's most intriguing mysteries at the Newport Tower. This curious stone structure in Touro Park has baffled historians and archaeologists for centuries. Is it a colonial-era windmill, as some suggest, or could it be the remnant of a much older Viking settlement? As you examine the tower's archways and astronomical alignments, you'll find yourself drawn into the debate. The surrounding park provides a pleasant green space for reflection and picnics.

• Location: Touro Park, Mill Street, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Park open daily, dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: The Newport Tower offers a fascinating glimpse into historical mysteries and ongoing archaeological debates.

Insider Tip: Visit during the winter solstice, when the tower's alleged astronomical alignments are most apparent.

Enjoy a Polo Match

Experience the "sport of kings" at the Newport International Polo Series. Held at Glen Farm in nearby Portsmouth, these weekly matches showcase top-level polo in a festive, picnic-like atmosphere. Whether you're a polo aficionado or a first-time spectator, you'll be swept up in the excitement as thundering hooves and skilled riders battle for victory. Bring a picnic, or enjoy food and drinks from on-site vendors. Don't forget to participate in the half-time divot stomp - a polo tradition!

• Location: 715 East Main Road, Portsmouth, RI 02871
• Schedule: Saturdays, June through September
• Admission: Prices vary, check website for details

Why Visit: Newport Polo offers a unique blend of sport, social event, and Newport tradition.

Insider Tip: For a true VIP experience, book a spot in the Coaches and Players Lounge for up-close views and interactions with the players.

Shop at the Armory Antique Marketplace

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Hunt for treasures at the Armory Antique Marketplace, housed in the historic Newport Armory building. This sprawling antique mall features over 70 dealers offering a wide range of vintage items, from nautical artifacts and estate jewelry to mid-century modern furniture and rare books. Even if you're not looking to buy, browsing the eclectic mix of goods provides a fascinating journey through the past. The building itself, with its distinctive yellow brick facade, is a piece of Newport history.

• Location: 365 Thames Street, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: Free to browse

Why Visit: The Armory Antique Marketplace offers a treasure trove of unique finds in a historic setting.

Insider Tip: Take your time and chat with the dealers - many are local history buffs with fascinating stories to share about Newport's past.

Visit the National Museum of American Illustration

Step into the golden age of American illustration at this unique museum housed in Vernon Court, a Gilded Age mansion. The National Museum of American Illustration showcases works by renowned illustrators such as Norman Rockwell, Maxfield Parrish, and N.C. Wyeth. As you wander through the ornate rooms, you'll see how these artists shaped American visual culture in the early 20th century. The museum's setting in a lavish mansion adds an extra layer of historical context to the artwork.

• Location: 492 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Friday, 11 AM - 5 PM; Saturday-Sunday, 11 AM - 5 PM (Memorial Day-Labor Day)
• Admission: $20 for adults, $10 for children 5-12

Why Visit: The National Museum of American Illustration offers a unique blend of art history and Gilded Age splendor.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the Frederick Law Olmsted Park on the grounds, featuring beautiful landscaping by America's premier landscape architect.

Explore the Carvings at St. Mary's Church

Marvel at the intricate stone carvings and stunning stained glass windows of St. Mary's Church, where Jacqueline Bouvier married John F. Kennedy in 1953. This Gothic Revival church, completed in 1852, is renowned for its beautiful interior, featuring elaborately carved oak pews and a magnificent pipe organ. As you explore, you'll discover why this church is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the United States.

• Location: 12 William Street, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Open for masses and by appointment
• Admission: Free, donations appreciated

Why Visit: St. Mary's Church offers a blend of architectural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual atmosphere.

Insider Tip: If possible, attend a concert or recital to experience the church's exceptional acoustics and magnificent organ.

Bike the Ocean Drive

Experience Newport's stunning coastline on two wheels as you cycle the Ocean Drive. This 10-mile loop takes you past magnificent waterfront mansions, rocky beaches, and panoramic ocean vistas. As you pedal along, you'll understand why this scenic route has been a favorite of locals and visitors alike for over a century. Stop at Brenton Point State Park for a picnic, or take a detour to Fort Adams for a dose of history.

• Location: Start at Memorial Boulevard and continue along Ocean Avenue
• Hours: Accessible 24/7
• Cost: Free to ride, bike rentals available in town

Why Visit: Ocean Drive offers unparalleled coastal scenery and a great way to experience Newport's natural beauty.

Insider Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid traffic and catch the stunning sunrise over the Atlantic.

Structuring Your Newport Adventure: A 7-Day Itinerary

Now that we've explored the best things to do in Newport, let's put it all together into a week-long adventure. This itinerary is designed to give you a perfect blend of history, nature, and local culture. Feel free to adjust based on your interests and energy levels!

Days 1-2: Historic Newport and Mansion Tours

• Start with a walking tour of historic downtown Newport, including Thames Street and the Colonial-era houses.
• Visit The Breakers and Marble House for a deep dive into Gilded Age opulence.
• Explore the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
• End your days with dinner at one of Newport's excellent seafood restaurants.

Insider Tip: Purchase a Newport Mansion tour package for significant savings if you plan to visit multiple mansions.

Days 3-4: Coastal Beauty and Outdoor Activities

• Begin your day with a sunrise walk on the Cliff Walk.
• Spend time relaxing at Easton's Beach or exploring Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge.
• Take a sailing tour of Newport Harbor.
• Bike the Ocean Drive for stunning coastal views.
• Enjoy a picnic and kite-flying at Brenton Point State Park.

Insider Tip: Rent bikes for a couple of days to easily explore Newport's scenic areas.

Day 5: Arts and Culture

• Start your day at the Newport Art Museum.
• Visit the National Museum of American Illustration.
• Explore the Redwood Library and Athenaeum.
• End your day with a show at the Newport Playhouse or a concert if you're visiting during the Newport Folk Festival.

Insider Tip: Check local event calendars for special exhibitions or performances during your visit.

Day 6: Beyond the Mansions

• Tour Fort Adams State Park.
• Visit the Audrain Automobile Museum.
• Explore the Green Animals Topiary Garden.
• If it's polo season, catch a match at the Newport International Polo Grounds.

Insider Tip: The "Beneath The Breakers" tour offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the mansion's underground systems.

Day 7: Relaxation and Last-Minute Explorations

• Start your day with a wine tasting at Newport Vineyards.
• Spend some time shopping and people-watching on Thames Street.
• Visit any mansions or museums you missed earlier in the week.
• End your trip with a sunset sail in Newport Harbor.

Insider Tip: Leave some flexibility in your schedule for unexpected discoveries or return visits to favorite spots.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion. Newport is a place that rewards leisurely exploration, so don't hesitate to wander off the beaten path or linger in spots that capture your interest. Whether you're marveling at Gilded Age excess, enjoying the coastal scenery, or mingling with locals at a dockside bar, Newport has a way of making every moment feel special.

As you leave this city by the sea, you'll understand why visitors have been drawn to Newport for centuries. From its historic mansions to its vibrant waterfront, Newport offers a perfect blend of past and present, relaxation and adventure. So pack your walking shoes, bring your sense of wonder, and prepare to fall in love with one of New England's most charming destinations.

Watch Glassblowing at Thames Glass

Heat things up with a visit to Thames Glass, where you can watch skilled artisans transform molten glass into beautiful works of art. This working studio and gallery offers daily glassblowing demonstrations, giving you a front-row seat to this mesmerizing craft. You'll be amazed as the glassblowers shape and mold the glowing glass into intricate vases, ornaments, and sculptures. For a truly unique Newport souvenir, you can even sign up for a workshop to create your own glass piece.

• Location: 688 Thames Street, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM - 5 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
• Admission: Free to watch demonstrations, workshop prices vary

Why Visit: Thames Glass offers a unique opportunity to witness the ancient art of glassblowing up close.

Insider Tip: Call ahead to check the demonstration schedule and try to catch the making of a complex piece like a vase or sculpture.

Explore the White Horse Tavern

Step back in time at the White Horse Tavern, America's oldest operating restaurant. Established in 1673, this historic tavern has been serving patrons for nearly 350 years. As you dine on classic New England fare in rooms lit by candles and fireplaces, you'll feel the weight of history around you. The tavern's colonial architecture, complete with giant beams and small-paned windows, transports you to Newport's early days as a colonial port town.

• Location: 26 Marlborough Street, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Dinner served daily, lunch on weekends (check website for specific times)
• Price: Entrees range from $30-$50

Why Visit: The White Horse Tavern offers a unique dining experience steeped in American history.

Insider Tip: Try the Beef Wellington, a house specialty that's been on the menu for decades.

Visit the Audain Automobile Museum

Rev up your Newport experience with a visit to the Audrain Automobile Museum. Housed in a historic building on Bellevue Avenue, this museum showcases a rotating collection of rare and exotic vehicles that will thrill car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. From vintage classics to modern supercars, each exhibit tells a story of automotive innovation and design. The museum's intimate setting allows you to get up close to these mechanical marvels, appreciating every curve and chrome detail.

• Location: 222 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM - 4 PM
• Admission: $18 for adults, $8 for children 6-17

Why Visit: The Audrain Automobile Museum offers a unique blend of automotive history and artistry in the heart of Newport.

Insider Tip: Check the museum's event calendar for "Cars and Coffee" meetups, where you can see rare cars and mingle with fellow enthusiasts.

Conclusion: Newport's Timeless Charm

As the sun sets over Newport Harbor, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold, you might find yourself already planning your return trip. That's the magic of Newport - a place that captures your heart with its perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant local culture.

From the opulent mansions that whisper tales of Gilded Age extravagance to the salt-kissed air of the Cliff Walk, Newport offers a unique journey through America's past and present. You've walked in the footsteps of industrial tycoons and sailing legends, savored fresh seafood with views of bobbing yachts, and perhaps even created your own glass masterpiece.

But beyond the famous attractions, it's the unexpected moments that often leave the most lasting impressions - the friendly chat with a local shopkeeper on Thames Street, the perfect wave you caught at Easton's Beach, or the breathtaking vista you discovered while biking Ocean Drive.

Whether you came for the history, the beaches, the food, or simply to escape the everyday, Newport has a way of exceeding expectations. Its charm lies not just in its famous sights, but in its ability to make you feel part of its story, if only for a little while.

So as you pack your bags and bid farewell to this gem by the sea, remember - Newport isn't just a place you visit, it's a place you experience. And like the tides that shape its shores, it has a way of drawing you back, time and time again.

Until next time, Newport. Your lighthouses, your mansions, your winding colonial streets, and your warm community spirit will be waiting, ready to welcome you home to the City by the Sea.