Planning a trip to Newport and wondering what to do while you’re there? You’re in the right place!

Newport is the perfect destination for a fun coastal getaway. It’s packed with New England charm, from grand Gilded Age mansions and scenic cliffside walks to historic forts and beautiful sailing experiences. In short, it’s ideal for a long weekend or as a stop on a classic American road trip!

In this guide, we’re sharing the best things to do in Newport, from cruising Narragansett Bay and touring the famous mansions to the iconic Cliff Walk and sampling plenty of fresh seafood. There’s plenty here to keep you busy, so let’s get into it.

Don’t miss out!

Our Top Choice

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our FAVORITE thing we did in Newport was this historic mansion trolley tour! This let us easily visit Newport’s iconic mansions, like The Breakers, and other can’t-miss sights.

Check the 4,100+ reviews and book this tour here.

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Newport At A Glance

Newport is a compact and charming city in Rhode Island that’s best known for its Gilded Age mansions and sailing heritage. It’s mostly an easy place to explore but, as always, knowing what to expect will make your visit even smoother! Here are a few helpful things to know before you go so that you can make the most of your time in Newport.

Use the local transit and trolley: Downtown Newport gets very busy during the summer, and parking is both expensive and hard to find! We recommend leaving your car at your hotel and using the local buses and trolleys to get between the main attractions around town, and then driving when you want to explore outside of the city center.

Book in advance: Summer is by far the busiest time to visit Newport, so it’s a good idea to book your hotel and any popular tours well in advance. Many of the city’s top experiences sell out, especially mansion tours and sailing cruises. If you prefer quieter streets and milder weather, you might want to consider visiting in the spring or fall instead.

How I Would Spend Three Days in Newport

We found three days to be the ideal amount of time to spend in Newport! Here’s what we did to see the highlights and local hot spots:

Day 1: Start your Newport trip by diving into the city’s Gilded Age history on this mansion trolley tour, which includes admission to The Breakers. Afterward, grab a lobster roll for lunch, cruise around Narragansett Bay, and end the day with sunset drinks at Castle Hill Inn before dinner at the historic White Horse Tavern.

Day 2: Today, it’s time to check out Newport’s famous Cliff Walk, where you’ll get ocean views on one side and grand mansions on the other. Then spend the afternoon tasting your way around the city on this food tour before shopping in Bowen’s Wharf and ending the day with a sunset sail.

Day 3: Spend your final morning exploring Fort Adams State Park, then head to Newport Vineyards for lunch and wine tasting before one last spooky adventure on this Newport ghost tour.

Things to do in Newport 

1. Get the best views on a Narragansett Bay cruise

Newport is known as the “Boat Capital of the World,” so getting out on the water while you’re here is practically mandatory! This sightseeing cruise is such a fun way to see the city, and it gives you a much better sense of Newport’s strong maritime heritage.

You’ll cruise through Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay on a restored lobster boat, which feels especially fitting for Rhode Island. Along the way, you’ll get fantastic views of the Newport and Jamestown waterfronts, Fort Adams, Newport Bridge, Castle Hill Lighthouse, and Clingstone, which is also known as the “House on the Rock.”

We love that this cruise is narrated too, because as well as admiring the views, you’ll also learn more about Newport’s history as you sail. It’s a really easy way to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed, and the scenery is beautiful throughout.

You’ll also receive a complimentary Del’s Lemonade during the cruise. Del’s is practically synonymous with frozen lemonade in Rhode Island, so this is a fun chance to try one of the state’s most iconic treats! There’s also a cash bar on board if you fancy a beer or glass of wine while you take in the views. 

We definitely think this is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience Newport! It usually sells out, though, so take advantage of the free cancellation policy and grab your spot ASAP. 

2. See Newport’s famous mansions on a trolley tour

Newport is famous for its extravagant Gilded Age mansions, and this trolley tour is one of the best ways to see them. The city’s grandest homes are spread across different neighborhoods, so joining a guided tour makes it much easier to take everything in without worrying about traffic and parking.

But the trolley ride isn’t just convenient – it’s actually a big part of the fun! Riding around on a trolley feels really old school, and it has actually become a classic Newport experience in its own right! 

Along the way, you’ll pass more than 150 points of interest, including Bellevue Avenue, Ocean Drive, the Cliff Walk, Fort Adams State Park, and Bowen’s Wharf. There will be a local guide on board to provide commentary throughout and teach you all about Newport’s most famous landmarks. 

Best of all, this tour includes admission to The Breakers, which is Newport’s best-known mansion! It’s an enormous Italian Renaissance-style estate built for the Vanderbilt family in the late 1800s, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of America’s wealthiest families during the Gilded Age. It may have been described as a summer cottage, but the word “cottage” is definitely doing a lot of work here!

You’ll also pass other celebrated mansions, including Marble House, Rosecliff, and The Elms. We think this tour is a fantastic introduction to Newport, and we’re not the only ones – you can read THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews here.

3. Stroll along the Newport Cliff Walk

The Newport Cliff Walk is one of the city’s most iconic attractions, and you absolutely cannot miss it while you’re here! This beautiful coastal trail runs for 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers), with sweeping ocean views on one side and some of Newport’s most extravagant mansions on the other. 

We recommend starting at the northern end of the trail. This is the easiest and most accessible part of the walk, with around a mile paved path that’s suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. From here, you can admire the coastline and catch glimpses of famous estates like The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff.

The trail becomes much rockier as you continue south, with uneven paths and sections that require a little more care. We still loved walking this section, but do make sure to wear sturdy shoes, especially if it has rained recently.

You can walk for as long as you like before turning back, so there’s no pressure to complete the entire trail. However, we do think the full route is well worth doing if you have the time and ability. It took us around 3 hours, with plenty of stops to enjoy the views and take photos along the way.

If you want to do the whole route, we recommend checking the official Cliff Walk website beforehand. It contains a route map, parking and transport info, and useful accessibility details.

4. Relax on a sunset sail

A sunset sail is one of the dreamiest ways to experience Newport, and it’s the perfect way to spend an evening here! On this cruise, you’ll head out onto Narragansett Bay aboard the Schooner Adirondack, a classic New England sailboat.

The start time varies throughout the year to ensure that you head out around golden hour and get to see Newport’s historic landmarks at their most beautiful before enjoying a breathtaking sunset.

The exact route depends on the wind and sailing conditions, which we think is fantastic because the crew can choose the best possible route for the conditions and give you the most enjoyable sailing experience. Depending on the day, you may pass sights like Hammersmith Farm, which served as JFK’s summer White House, or Fort Adams and some of Newport’s most impressive waterfront estates.

As you sail along, the crew shares local stories and points out landmarks along the way, so you’ll still learn plenty about Newport. However, this is primarily designed to be a scenic and relaxing experience, so we think it works perfectly after a day of sightseeing.  

This tour could definitely be a romantic choice for couples, but it’s equally lovely with friends or family. Sunset sails are very popular during peak season, so we recommend booking in advance, and make sure to bring a warm layer, even during the summer, because it can feel chilly out on the water as the sun starts to go down!

5. Explore Fort Adams State Park

We love visiting Fort Adams State Park because it combines history with beautiful coastal scenery – how very New England! The fort itself is fascinating, but even if military history isn’t usually your thing, the panoramic views over Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay make this park well worth a visit.

Fort Adams has roots dating back to 1799 and was used from the Civil War through World War II, so there’s a huge amount of history packed into the site. We found exploring the main fort really interesting, especially the hidden underground tunnels, which give you a much better sense of what life here would have been like.

However, the park offers much more than the fort alone. The entire site covers 105 acres and includes a beach, walking and biking trails, scenic viewpoints, and plenty of open space to enjoy.

We especially loved the Fort Adams Bay Walk, a 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) loop around the edge of the fort and park. The views over the water are absolutely gorgeous, and it’s a great way to see more of the coastline.

6. Taste your way around Newport on a food tour

A food tour is one of the best ways to experience a more local side of Newport. The city may be famous for its mansions and waterfront views, but its food scene is much more varied than you might expect, and this tour gives you the chance to discover places you could easily miss on your own.

You’ll visit a mix of locally owned restaurants away from the busiest tourist streets, with tastings that may include Jamaican patties, seasonal farm-to-table dishes, locally inspired Mexican food, craft coffee, and more. The exact stops can change, which keeps the experience feeling fresh, but you can expect plenty of food along the way, so definitely arrive hungry!

We also love that this tour gives you a better understanding of Newport as a city. As you walk between stops, your guide will share stories about the area’s history and local culture, so each tasting feels connected to the place you’re exploring.

The small-group format makes the experience feel relaxed and personal, and it gives you more time to chat with your guide and the other guests. It also takes all the guesswork out of choosing where to eat, while still letting you try a broad mix of flavors in one outing. 

7. Enjoy sunset at Castle Hill Inn

Castle Hill Inn is one of the most beautiful places in Newport to enjoy a drink and watch the sunset, but there’s also plenty of history behind this elegant waterfront property.

The mansion was originally built in 1875 as the summer home of marine biologist and oceanographer Alexander Agassiz. It later housed naval officers during World War II before becoming a summer hotel, so the property has witnessed several different chapters of Newport’s history.

Today, you don’t need to be staying at the inn to enjoy its gorgeous setting. We’ve yet to stay here (although it’s on our list), but it’s still one of our favorite sunset spots in Newport. We love heading out to the lawn, grabbing a cocktail, and watching the sun go down over Narragansett Bay from one of the Adirondack chairs. It doesn’t get more New England than this! 

8. Explore Bowen’s Wharf

Bowen’s Wharf is one of Newport’s loveliest waterfront areas and a great place to soak up the city’s classic New England charm! The historic brick buildings and rows of boats in the harbor make it a picturesque spot to wander around.

Shopping is one of the main reasons to visit. You’ll find a mix of local boutiques, galleries, gift shops, cafes, and small independent businesses, so it’s a good place to pick up souvenirs or browse for something a little more unique.

This is also an excellent area to try one of New England’s most iconic foods: a lobster roll. Newport Lobster Shack Kitchen is a local waterfront spot known for fresh seafood, and we think it’s a must-try while you’re in town. We kept it simple with a lobster roll and fries, but you could also add clam chowder if you’re feeling extra hungry.

Between the shopping, seafood, and harbor views, Bowen’s Wharf is the perfect place to spend a few hours without needing a strict plan in place. You can just grab a coffee and explore as you watch the boats come and go – sounds pretty dreamy, right?

9. Discover Newport’s spooky past on a ghost tour

Newport may be known for grand mansions and pretty scenery, but this ghost tour reveals a much darker side of the city! It’s a fun way to experience Newport after dark while learning about the strange stories and unsettling events connected to its oldest landmarks.

You’ll explore the historic Old Town with a storyteller guide who brings the city’s past to life through tales of hauntings and unexplained happenings. Along the way, you may pass famous sites such as the White Horse Tavern, Washington Square, Trinity Church, the Artillery Company of Newport, and the Jailhouse Inn.

We really enjoyed how much history was woven into the experience. Along with jump scares and dramatic ghost stories, this tour also gave us a lot of context about Newport’s colonial past. It really made us look at the charming streets and historic buildings in a totally different way! 

This tour is spooky without being too intense, so it’s a good choice for families as well as couples and groups of friends. The atmosphere is eerie and entertaining, but it’s still lighthearted enough to be fun. We had a blast on this tour, and judging by the hundreds of 5-star reviews, we’re certainly not the only ones!

10. See Newport’s lighthouses on a morning mimosa cruise

We love a scenic cruise (who doesn’t?!), and this one is such a fun way to see Newport from a completely different perspective. Newport’s history is very closely tied to the sea, so getting out onto Narragansett Bay helps you understand the city in a way that you simply can’t from land. Plus, there’s something very appealing about starting the day with a mimosa and some beautiful coastal views!

On this 75-minute cruise, you’ll sail through Newport Harbor and past several of the area’s most famous lighthouses, including Goat Island, Rose Island, and Castle Hill. You’ll also get fantastic views of Fort Adams, Hammersmith Farm, waterfront mansions, and the rocky Rhode Island coastline. There’s live commentary throughout, so you’ll learn more about Newport’s history as you sit back and relax. 

What really makes this cruise worth doing is that it packs a lot into a relatively short amount of time, and it doesn’t require a lot of energy, either! And once you’ve enjoyed your welcome mimosa, there’s a bar on board where you can grab more drinks if you like.

We think this is perfect for groups of friends visiting Newport, but don’t just take our word for it because you can read all of the 5-star reviews here! 

Related Read: Need help organizing all of these activities? See our 3-day Newport itinerary for a seamless weekend away!

Where to Stay in Newport

Now that you’ve planned all of your Newport activities, you just need a great place to stay! To make your visit as easy as possible, we recommend staying in the historic Newport area or close by. 

With that in mind, we’ve picked out the best hotel options below. Whether you’re seeking a luxury stay or a budget base, we’ve got you covered!

Luxury – $$$

America’s Cup Inn Newport is a great luxury pick if you want to stay right in the heart of historic Newport. It’s located on Thames Street, so you’ll be within easy walking distance of restaurants, bars, shops, and the waterfront.

The inn has a classic New England feel, with individually decorated rooms and colonial-style furnishings that give it lots of character. Some rooms even have four-poster beds or antique wicker furniture, so it feels much more charming than a standard hotel. There’s also a common room, a library, and a rooftop deck where you can relax after sightseeing.

Rooms here usually start at around $350 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$ 

Gilded is a stylish option in Newport’s historic area, and it’s a great choice if you want somewhere with personality. The hotel has a fun, boutique feel, with bold decor, comfortable rooms, and a shared lounge where you can relax between exploring. There’s also free parking, which is a big bonus in Newport, especially if you’re following this itinerary with a rental car.

Breakfast is included here, which is another great perk, and the International Tennis Hall of Fame is nearby. Easton’s Beach is also less than a mile away! 

Rooms here usually start at around $300 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!

Budget – $

Atlantic Beach Hotel Newport is a good budget-friendly option if you don’t mind staying slightly outside the center. It’s located across from Easton’s Beach and Easton’s Pond, so it’s ideal if you want easy beach access while still being close to Newport’s main attractions. Plus, it’s still just a short drive into the historic center, so following our itinerary from here is easy-peasy. Downtown Newport, the mansions, Cliff Walk, and Ocean Drive are all around 2 miles away. 

The hotel also has some handy amenities, including a lovely rooftop sundeck and an indoor pool! We think it offers awesome value for this price point, plus they offer a generous cancellation policy and the option to pay on arrival. 

Rooms here usually start at around $275 USD per night during summer, but they book up quickly, so don’t wait too long. Book your stay here!

Renting a Car in the USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the USA

• Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
• Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
• Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms?

Book with Discover Cars here

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Thanks for reading!

Newport was such a fun East Coast getaway. From the stunning beaches and sailing to the immaculate architecture and history, we found it pretty hard to leave! Be sure to book any activities and hotels well in advance, as it’s a pretty popular spot during the summer.

Before you go, be sure to check out our other USA blogs. We have plenty of resources to help you plan a getaway, whether you’re looking for full itineraries, where to stay guides, or more lists of top things to do! Here are a few related blogs to get you started. Cheers!

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