4 reasons to visit Newport, Rhode Island
I worked a trip over Labor Day Weekend that had not one, but two long layovers in Providence, Rhode Island.
I'd only been through the state once on a train ride from Boston to New York, so I was pretty thrilled at the opportunity to stay there for the first time and explore a brand new place - on a holiday weekend, no less!
While on the first day I decided to venture into the Federal Hill neighborhood with a fellow crew member and chow down on some seafood, the second day gave me significantly more time to explore the greater Providence area - and I had to head to famed Newport, a seaside town known for its postcard-perfect looks that have been attracting celebrities and socialites since the Gilded Age.
A friend of mine came down from Boston to adventure with me, and off we went to discover a summer haven at once fanciful, relaxed, and downright beautiful.
Never been? Keep reading for 4 reasons you should plan your visit right now:
1. The mansions
You'll feel like you're in Downtown Abbey - just, you know, in America. As you cruise down Bellevue Avenue, you'll find yourself mesmerized by the massive remnants of Old-Money-American-Society's past. Each "cottage" is more magnificent than the next, featuring sweeping grounds, intricate fountains, incredible architecture, and panoramic views onto the Atlantic beyond. For families like the Astors and Vanderbilts, these may have just been summer homes, but for the rest of us, they're downright remarkable.
With the exception of privately-owned homes, many of the mansions allow you to access the grounds for free, as well as purchase tickets to tour the interior. To plan your mansion tour, click here for more information.
Not to miss: The Elms, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer, Rosecliff, and of course the most famous of them all, The Breakers 😎
2. The ocean views
The drive alone into Newport will have you floored, what with the stunning vistas surrounding you on all sides as you cross the bay. Think miles upon miles of rippling blue waters, dotted with a million white sailboats and disappearing amidst emerald-green curls of land.
Once you're in Newport, you'll be treated to sugary glimpses of the ocean beyond the mansions and storefronts, and you can even tackle the 3.5-mile long Cliff Walk, which takes you along the shore on winding pathways. With the backsides of Gilded Age mansions on one side, and vistas of the sea stretching into the distance on the other, the trail sets the bar when it comes to taking the scenic route.
3. The seaside dining
If there's anywhere you can expect to find amazing seafood, it's Rhode Island. It is the Ocean State, after all. As Newport is seasonal, the restaurants are unsurprisingly pricey, but what undoubtedly compensates for the cost is the surroundings; Newport has no shortage of positively lovely alfresco and seaside dining. Dig into some lobster tail and scallops while gazing out at the ocean sparkling beneath the sun, or perhaps enjoy a few brews while watching the yachts glide back and forth from the dock.
4. The downright New England charm
Lighthouses, anchors, navy-colored storefronts, and nautical decorations everywhere you look: Newport is New England charm at its absolute finest. Simply being there feels like stepping inside a Northeastern picture book, bringing to life every dreamy image you've ever imagined when someone's talked about summer in this nook of the country.
There are local toffee shops to sample, upscale shopping to peruse, and plenty of pubs and oyster bars to fit your fancy. *sigh* Oh, Newport...how have I gone so long without knowing you?!
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