15 Best Things to Do in Newport RI You Can’t Miss
I fall more in love with Newport RI with each visit. There are so many incredible things to do in Newport RI, from scenic coastal walks to historic mansions and family-friendly activities. No matter how many times I visit, I always find something new to explore.
If you are planning a trip, here is a list of the best things to do in Newport RI.
The Best Things to do in Newport, RI
1. Enjoy the Views Along the Cliff Walk
Walking the Cliff Walk is easily one of the best things to do in Newport RI. This 3.5 mile coastal trail offers stunning ocean views on one side and iconic Gilded Age mansions on the other.
Most of the path is paved and stroller friendly, though the southern end becomes rocky. Don’t miss the famous 40 Steps, where you can climb down for a closer look at the water.
2. Tour a Mansion
Touring the historic mansions is one of the most popular things to do in Newport RI. These grand “summer cottages” showcase how wealthy families lived during the Gilded Age.
If you are visiting with kids, one or two mansions is usually enough. The most popular choices are The Breakers, The Elms, and Marble House. Each visit takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
No reservations are needed, and tickets can be purchased right at the gate. Each mansion offers a self-guided audio tour through an app, allowing you to move through the rooms at your own pace. Simply tap through each stop as you go. Be sure to bring earbuds for the best experience, and keep in mind that strollers are not permitted inside the mansions.
3. Visit Green Animals Topiary Garden
This whimsical garden is one of the most unique things to do in Newport RI, especially with kids. With more than 80 animal-shaped topiaries, it feels like stepping into a storybook.
Located just outside of Newport in Portsmouth, the garden also features beautiful seasonal flowers and views of Narragansett Bay.
4. Cruise Down Ocean Drive
Ocean Drive is a must when looking for scenic things to do in Newport RI. This coastal road offers breathtaking views of the ocean, rocky cliffs, and impressive homes.
It is a great way to take in the beauty of Newport without even leaving your car.
5. Stop at Brenton Point State Park
Brenton Point State Park is one of the best outdoor things to do in Newport RI. It is the perfect place to stop, stretch your legs, and enjoy sweeping ocean views.
This state park is located right at the point of land where the Narraganset Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. You can walk right across the street to look out over the rugged New England coastline.
Families love flying kites here, and there are picnic tables if you want to relax for a bit.
6. Have a Beach Day
There is no shortage of beautiful beaches, making a beach day one of the best things to do in Newport RI and nearby Middletown.
Easton’s Beach, also known as First Beach, is the most popular option. Located just steps from the famous Cliff Walk, it offers ample parking, restrooms, showers, and lifeguards on duty. Kids will especially love the snack bar, the Save the Bay Aquarium, and the carousel.
For a quieter experience, head to Third Beach. This family-friendly, east-facing beach has gentler waves and overlooks Third Beach Harbor near the mouth of the Sakonnet River. You will find grills, picnic tables, and a shaded area near the boat ramp, with portable restrooms available in the parking lot.
For a full list of beaches, click here.
7. Eat at the Oldest Tavern in the Country
The White Horse Tavern is the oldest operating restaurant in the country and is acknowledged as the 10th oldest in the world. The tavern has been listed as a National Historic Landmark, having served guests since 1673. Open for dinner every night, lunch on Friday and Saturday as well as brunch on Sunday.
It is a fun and memorable dining experience, especially for history lovers.
8. Have a Picnic at Fort Adams
Fort Adams was once the largest coastal defense fortification of its kind in the United States. Today, it is best known for its lively summer concerts, including the Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival, which draw thousands each year.
Located at the mouth of Newport Harbor, Fort Adams State Park offers sweeping panoramic views of both the harbor and the East Passage of Narragansett Bay.
9. Stroll Newport Harbor at Sunset
Strolling Newport Harbor at sunset is one of my favorite things to do in Newport RI. The soft pink hues reflecting off the water make it feel especially magical. Kids will also love stopping by the arcade at Ryan Family Amusements.
Bowen’s Wharf is home to some of Newport’s best restaurants, and Thames Street is perfect for browsing shops. Personally, I like to skip the tourist traps, grab an ice cream from Kilwin’s Chocolates and Ice Cream, and simply wander along the harbor checking out all the boats.
10. Take a Seal Watch Cruise
Newport RI is known for its sailing culture, and getting out on the water is one of the best things to do in Newport RI. There are many harbor cruises to choose from, making it easy to find one that fits your schedule.
If you are visiting with kids, the Save the Bay Seal Watch and Nature Cruise is a great option. Children will love the boat ride out to Citing Rock to see seals in their natural habitat, while also learning about the local ecosystem during this one hour tour.
For a longer experience, the 1.75 hour cruise includes a stop at Rose Island, where you can dock and explore the lighthouse up close.
11. Visit a Museum
Newport is filled with museums for just about any interest! The most notable are:
- Tennis Hall of Fame
- Newport Art Museum
- National Museum of American Illustration
- Naval War College Museum
- Museum of Newport History
- Audrain Automobile Museum
12. Take a Food Tour
Taking a food tour is one of the most delicious things to do in Newport RI, and Rhode Island Red Food Tours does an excellent job showcasing the local food scene.
Each tour brings you off the beaten path to at least six independently owned restaurants, where you will sample creative dishes made with local ingredients. Along the way, you will learn about the chefs, their inspiration, and the history and culture that shape Newport’s dining scene.
From historic taverns to vegan juice bars, you will experience a wide range of flavors. It is the perfect way to explore Newport while enjoying great food and drinks along the way.
13. Explore Norman Bird Sanctuary
Just outside of Newport RI in nearby Middletown, you will find the beautiful Norman Bird Sanctuary. This nonprofit wildlife sanctuary spans more than 325 acres and features seven miles of scenic hiking trails.
This spot is a true hidden gem and was a highlight of my trip. I walked the Hanging Rock Trail, which is about one mile long and includes sections of wooden boardwalks. At the end of the trail, you are rewarded with a stunning ocean overlook that is well worth the walk.
Wear good shoes because the areas unique rock formations called “puddingstone” or Purgatory Conglomerate can be real ankle twisters.
14. Ride the Rails with Rail Explorers
This is one of the most unique things to do in Newport RI. Rail Explorers offers a one-of-a-kind experience where you ride a pedal-powered vehicle along historic railroad tracks that are no longer in use.
The route follows the Old Colony Railroad, built in 1862, and winds alongside Narragansett Bay. Along the way, you will enjoy scenic views of Jamestown, the Mount Hope Bridge, Hog Island Lighthouse, and coastal woodlands.
Younger children may not be able to reach the pedals, but they can safely sit back and enjoy the ride. Toddler harnesses are available for added security, making this a fun experience for the whole family.
15. Rent a Scooter
A “Scoot Coupe” looks like a really fun way to explore and is one of the more unique things to do in Newport RI. Scooter World offers a wide range of rentals, from e-bikes and three-wheeled scooters to convertible mokes and golf carts, making it easy to find an option that works for your family.
There are so many incredible things to do in Newport RI that it is easy to see why families return year after year. From scenic coastal walks and historic mansions to beaches, boat tours, and hands-on activities for kids, Newport offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Whether you are visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, you will find plenty of ways to fill your days and create lasting family memories.
Keep exploring
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