Newport Travel Guide

Last Updated on 09/14/2020

In this quick Newport travel guide, I’ll share where to stay, things to do and where to eat in this coastal New England town.

Where to Stay in Newport

For a great central location check out the Newport Marriott. If you want to stay out of the downtown area, Castle Hill Inn is an upscale, ocean front accommodation with each room decorated for the likings of a Vanderbilt.

Where to eat and drink in Newport

The Corner Café serves a diverse menu for three meals a day, but they are most famous for their breakfast. I’ve always had a weakness for breakfast sandwiches. The potatoes had a hint of pesto flavor that I was not expecting, yet 100% appreciated.

If you go when they are serving lunch or dinner on the weekend, don’t forget to bring your own booze. Surprisingly, I saw a few restaurants advertising BYOB. Who would have thought Newport, the epitome of class and high society, would have such a large BYOB following?

We had to stop at the swanky Castle Hill Inn restaurant for a drink and to enjoy the sunset from their seasonal outdoor patio, The Lawn.

For a more casual atmosphere, Pour Judgment serves great food in a relaxed setting. Their Gouda fries are infamous.

Things to do in Newport

Easton’s Beach for soaking up some rays if you’re there in the summer.

Visit Saint Mary’s Church where Jackie and John tied the knot.

Take a stroll along the Cliff Walk to see the architectural gems of Newport’s coast. The area is known for the “summer cottage” of the Vanderbilt family.

The Breakers tour offers a peak into their lifestyle and ornate home. You can also book a trolley tour to see more of the area with a tour from a local guide.

From the kitchen and the servant’s quarters to the elaborate bedrooms upstairs, I felt like I was in a New England Downton Abbey. The audio tour even included anecdotes from the servants to highlight the contrast in lifestyles.

The Breakers is open year-round, but other houses operated by The Preservation Society of Newport County are seasonal.

I’m glad lobster is also available year round, too. Next time I make my way to Newport, it will definitely be in the summer when I can really make the most out of those Adirondack lawn chairs.