Newport, Rhode Island Travel Guide || Summer 2023

After months of planning, we finally made the New England trip I’d been dreaming of a reality. I’ve lived on the East Coast my whole life but it wasn’t until this year that I’d ever explored Rhode Island or Massachusetts. Don’t get me wrong, there are still lots of places I’d love to see— The Hamptons, Nantucket, Vermont, and Maine are all on my bucket list but this mini road trip was a start!

We started off in the cute, quaint town that is Newport, Rhode Island. I paid Newport a quick visit back in February and despite it being five degrees during the time of my visit, I fell in love with it! I knew then that I’d need to come again in the summer once the beach town hustle and bustle returned. It was alive this time around and we had the best few days exploring.

As always, today I’m sharing a full travel guide— complete with things to do, restaurant recommendations, hotel accommodations, and packing tips. Enjoy!

WHERE TO STAY

We stayed at the cutest hotel called Newport Beach Hotel & Suites. This property is nestled in Middletown, just a five-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Newport. Next to his property, you have a handful of restaurants, bars, and of course the beach! If you’re looking to catch some rays and do some swimming, you’re in the perfect location.

While this hotel does have typical hotel rooms, they also offer spacious suites that are perfect if you’re traveling with a large group or family. Our party of three stayed in one of their 2 Bedroom King Suites. There were two bedrooms here each complete with cozy linens and nautical decor.

Here’s a peek into the master bathroom. We had the most amazing tub with a beachside view!

My dream getting ready space—a huge mirror, double sinks, and enough counter space for both of us to get ready at the same time.

As I mentioned, this was a suite so we also had a full living room and kitchenette. There was a dining table, dishwasher, and stove so if you’re planning an extended beach stay you’re able to cook your favorite meals comfortably from your room. Newport Beach Hotel & Suites strives to make your stay as comfortable and seamless as possible which means they also have in room washer and dryer in case you need to throw in a load of laundry.

How sweet was our welcome surprise?! They had fresh flowers, cupcakes, little cheesecakes, and a bottle of wine ready and waiting upon arrival. It’s the small details like this one that will keep me coming back!

I love a hotel with amenities— this property has an on-site gym, a large indoor pool, and a beautiful rooftop with stunning marshy views and a hot tub area that’s perfect if you’re looking to nightcap with your girlfriends after a fun evening out!

Parking is available on-site. We had the most pleasant stay at Newport Beach Hotel & Suites. Their staff couldn’t have been more accommodating and we truly enjoyed our slice of luxe living during our Rhode Island travels. For current availability and best rates, click here for more details.

WHAT TO DO

Most beach towns you visit have few things to do besides eat and shop. Newport, Rhode Island is one of those rare ones that has quite a bit of history packed into it. This town is known for its Gilded Age Mansions and famous residents. It was too rainy to enjoy a beach day so we were able to do all the other things throughout our stay. Here’s a full breakdown of our itinerary.

Walk Around The Wharf

The wharf has some of the best shopping in town. So many of my favorite preppy boutiques have storefronts here—The Balck Dog, Keil James Patrick, and Lily Pulitzer can all be found along this strip. There are also tons of other high-end stores that are packed full of pretty dresses and coastal jewlery.

Most of it is out of my price range but it’s certainly fun to browse. The wharf is also home to several waterfront restaurants and bars as well as the marina. If you’re wanting to take a boat cruise during your stay, this is where you will leave from!

Shopping Along Thames Street 

Thames Street is another area full of amazing shopping. if you’re wanting a tacky tourist tee or basic souvenir, this is the place to go. The street stretches nearly a mile long and has all kinds of good shopping. There’s a mix of vintage, high-end, and affordable places. This is also where you’ll find the iconic American flag sweaters—The Pink Pineapple had my favorite ones!

Take A Historical Boat Tour 

A boat cruise is the perfect thing to do while visiting Newport. They have tons of options—private charters, sunset sails, and boozy options too. We took the Rum Runner which was a 75-minute cruise around the Rhode Island coast. Our tour guide was amazing sharing a bit of history as we cruised passed some iconic spots like the Castle Hill lighthouse, the Susan B Anthony House, and the filming location for The Great Gatsby.

If you book a tour during the daytime, chances are you’ll get lucky and have just a few people on board with you. Lots of people hit the beach during the day so this is a great time to go!

Visit The International Tennis Hall of Fame 

If you’re channeling the “country club summer” trend that’s dominating my Tik Tok feed right now, you’ll have to pay a visit to the International Tennis Hall of Fame! There are several tennis courts here where numerous important tournaments happen throughout the year. You can also stop in the museum to learn more about historical players and other tennis contributors.

There is also a restaurant right along here called La Forge Casino Restaurant that has outdoor seating along the courts. Sit out here and watch a match while enjoying an afternoon cocktail! Such a fun atmosphere.

Tour The Mansions

As I said, Newport is known for its huge mansions belonging to various families like the Vanderbilts, Kennedys, Astors, and more. If you’re stuck in the rain one afternoon like we were, I highly suggest giving one a visit. We toured The Breakers which is a huge mansion from The Gilded Age. This property belongs to The Vanderbilts and has been preserved since the 1890s.

Buy a ticket and enjoy a guided audio tour explaining the history and relevance of this massive estate. This reminded me so much of my trips to Europe.

If you get lucky and ahve sunny weather you definitely need to hit the beach! Other favorite things we did during my last visit were the Cliff Walk, a gorgeous three-mile walk along the water. So scenic and such a good morning workout if you’re up for it. Of course, don’t forget to check out all of the chic hotels and have a drink on the Castle Hill lawn. These happen to be some of the most popular wedding venues and reception halls in all of New England! Very classy.

WHERE TO EAT

As you know eating out is one of my favorite parts of traveling. There’s nothing I love more than a good meal and a better atmosphere. It was a short and sweet trip so I only have a few recommendations for you…

Bar and Board Bistro 

menu || directions 

We went to Bar and Board the last time that we were in Newport and had such a lovely happy hour that we had to come back for round two! I got their Just Peachy, a mix of Kettle One vodka and hints of fruit and it was so yummy. They are known for their build-your-own charcuterie boards. We got a yummy mix of cheese, meats, and spreads. You have to get the burrata!

For my meal, I ordered the shrimp and grits which were the perfect blend of cheese and spice. This is technically an appetizer but this was the perfect portion size for me!

22 Bowens 

menu || directions 

If you’re looking for a chic dining experience along the water, I suggest stopping by 22B. They have a gorgeous bar area and a large marina view. We went for lunch and I got a chicken sandwich with cheese, spicy sauce, lettuce, and tomato. Although my meal was good, I suggest coming for dinner instead.

This is a pricier steakhouse and it’s honestly not worth getting anything else. Come for a fancier meal and enjoy a nice cocktail as the sun goes down!

Newport Vineyards 

menu || directions

Newport has several different vineyards, all worht checking out. We spent an evening at Newport Vineyards and had an amazing time. Their menu is super easy to read with all whites, reds, and roses listed from dryest to sweetest. Flights are $15 and allow you to sample four different wines.

This is one of the few vineyards that has a full food menu too! They have a ton of appetizers, pizza, pasta, and salads. I highly suggest building a charcuterie board–I loved their aged cheddar and yummy spreads.

Night Out At The Landing

menu || directions

Definitely stop by The Landing while you’re in town. This is a restaurant that turns into an outdoor bar with cheap drinks and live music. We had the most amazing band here that played all kinds of 2000s rom-com bangers. People were singing and dancing so much that we thought it was a wedding reception before entering. Definitely a place you can and should bring your parents too!

There were plenty of chic adults having fun here too.

WHAT TO WEAR/PACKING LIST

Not sure what to wear in Newport, Rhode Island?! Don’t worry I’ve got you covered—sharing all seven outfits I wore during my trip in this blog post. Per usual I’m sharing links to everything so you can shop as well as directions to each photo location so that you can spice up your Instagram feed!

Things to add to your summer packing list:

• Linen Button-Up: It gets chilly here in the evening. I highly suggest bringing a lightweight linen button-up with you when going to dinner/out for the evening. Aerie has some of my favorites right now.
• Pair Of Jeans: This was one of those trips I was so glad I had a pair of jeans packed with me. As I said, it gets a little brisk in the evenings, especially by the water so I suggest throwing a pair into your bag.
• Claw Clip/Hat/Hair Ties: It was so humid and rainy during our stay that I just couldn’t wear my hair down. I definitely suggest bringing a claw clip, hat, or a hair tie to tame your mane.
• Umbrella: Newport is known for their rainy afternoon thunderstorms. Definitely bring an umbrella with you in case you get stuck amid a shower or two.
• Flat Shoes: I tried sporting chunky wedges in this city and quickly learned that the narrow sidewalks and bumpy cobblestones just didn’t work well for me. Pack a few flat sandals or baby-block heels to complete your outfits.

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On your way to Newport soon? If so, I hope you found this post helpful! As you know I visited Newport back in February and am so happy we were able to visit again so soon! It was so special getting to see it alive during the summertime. If you’re wanting to live your best East Coast summer life, this is definitely the place to be.

I’ll catch you in a few days with a full travel guide breaking down my stay in Cape Cod, Massachusettes. Talk soon!

Latest Post: 7 Outfits To Wear In New England This Summer
Related Post: New England Travel Guide Winter 2023
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