If you go to the southern coast of Rhode Island, you’ll find Newport. This seaside town is known best for some of the best views of the ocean nearby, as well as Gatsby-style mansions. Without a doubt, it has to be one of the most glamorous areas on the East Coast. If you are planning a day trip to Newport, Rhode Island, this is all you need to know.
Getting to Newport
Getting to Newport from Providence is really simple. If you are travelling by car, then it is just a 40 minute journey along the I-95 South and the RI-138 East. It is an incredibly scenic journey, and you’ll cross the iconic Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge. You’ll also get incredible views of Narragansett Bay.
If you haven’t rented a car and fancy a more relaxed journey, there is a bus from Providence too. These are operated by RIPTA and, along Route 60, takes about an hour. During the spring and summer, an alternative is by ferry.
Tip: For an extra $1, you can extend your bus ticket to one that can be used on Newport’s transport system too.
Morning: Mansions and History
Tour The Breakers
Any day trip to Newport has to begin at the Breakers. If you want to see the biggest and grandest of all the mansions of Newport, it is here. The building actually began as a summer cottage (if you can believe it) to the opulent Vanderbilt family back. It oozes charm and sophistication and is quite frankly one of the most beautiful buildings in the USA… Not to mention the gorgeous coastal views. To explore this mansion, tickets cost $29 per adult or $10 for children under 12.
Walk Along the Cliff Walk
After immersing yourself in history, take a stroll along the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile coastal trail that runs alongside Newport’s mansions and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. My favourite time to visit has to be in the autumnal months; the reds and oranges of the trees really add to the atmosphere.
Midday: Lunch with a View
Dine by the Water
After exploring and building up an appetite, the next obvious stop is to sample the delicious seafood. Newport is known for this and you’ll find heaps of restaurants offering all the local delicacies. One of my favourites is The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar; the harbour views are excellent and the food is fantastic. If however you fancy some classic clam chowder (a must-try), then The Black Pearl in Bannister’s Wharf could be the ideal spot.
Afternoon: Explore the Town
Stroll Through Thames Street
After your lunch, my next stop would be Thames Street in the middle of downtown Newport. This offers you the best of the town. You’ll find quaint boutique shops with vibrant colours, along with excellent options for souvenirs. If you’re still hungry or fancy a coffee, there are also some good cafes here too.
Visit Bowen’s Wharf
Make your way to Bowen’s Wharf, a historic harbor area where you can browse quaint shops or enjoy an ice cream (or two?) by the water. If you have time, hop on a harbor cruise to see Newport from a different perspective.
Late Afternoon: Fort Adams or Ocean Drive
Option 1: Fort Adams State Park
I love taking in all the history of any place I visit. If you are like me, check out Fort Adams State Park. This is a historic military fort where you can learn more about the area, but also enjoy panoramic views of Newport Harbour and Narragansett Bay. You can also stop here to enjoy a late picnic lunch if you fancy it; the spot is ideal.
Option 2: Ocean Drive
If you want to set out in a car, then I would recommend the famous Ocean Drive. This is a 10-mile loop where you can truly take in Newport’s dramatic and expansive coastline. You’ll see plenty of elegant homes, gorgeous views and windswept beaches. If you want to stretch your legs, then stop at Brenton Point State Park.
Evening: Sunset and Seafood
Catch the Sunset
For one of the best views of the sunset, all washed down with a homemade cocktail, check out Castle Hill Inn. You’ll get some incredible drinks matched with equally lovely views, all from the comfort of an Adirondack chair.
Dinner by the Bay
The delicious taste of fresh seafood is exactly how you should end any trip to Newport. My two top-picks are 22 Bowen’s Wine Bar & Grille and Clarke Cooke House. Both of them have some delicious food and perfectly-paced atmospheres; it is really difficult to pick between the two! However, both of them are great choices and a perfect way to say goodbye to this historic town.
Tips for Your Day Trip:
- Getting Around: Newport is walkable in many areas, but having a car means that you can explore the surrounding areas. The Ocean Drive in particular is beautiful.
- Seasonal Highlights: Newport changes with the seasons, so make sure that you plan ahead to get what you want out of your visit.
Final Thoughts | A Day Trip to Newport
A day trip to Newport is a must-do when you’re visiting Rhode Island. There is so much history and beauty here, both from a manmade and natural perspective. If you spend a day here, you like me will instantly fall in love with this charming gem on the East Coast.
