Best Places to Visit: 4 Fun Things to Do in Newport, RI

Dreaming of your next beach vacation, yet? Dust off those flip flops, get the sunscreen purchased, and find that beach gear in the back of your closet – we are going to the ocean!

Where to go… hmmmm?  California, maybe… (too far and expensive). Florida, perhaps… (been there, done that). Okay, got it, we have just the beach vacation spot – book a getaway to Newport, RI. Here are 4 cool things to do, places to eat, and spots to stay for a nautical fun time.

• Tour the mansions

  Newport is known for its early 20th century mansions, the former homes of famous families like the Vanderbilts. These ornate, larger-than-life residences are unreal to look at, and you can tour almost all of them! The most popular locations are The Breakers and Marble House, centrally located by Downtown Newport.

  No matter what time of year you visit, the mansions are always open to the public, but summer is definitely the best time to stop by and take in the ocean views from the sprawling backyards of each property.

• Sunbathe on the beaches

  Not just one beach. We’re talking about multiple beaches. If you’re looking for a quiet place to lay out, Gooseberry Beach is a little off the beaten path but still offers a charming New England beach atmosphere. There’s a little more bustle on Second and Third Beaches, which are located a little farther outside the city. Not to mention, the waves here are much better for surfing.

  You can also take advantage of the sunny weather on Ocean Drive, which is full of smaller beaches and huge rocks to lay on. With the Brenton Point State Park nearby, Newport’s beloved kite park, there’s a lot to take in!

• Enjoy fresh seafood (or the food in general)

  Try a local favorite each day you’re here! Grab a Del’s Frozen Lemonade while you’re going for a stroll by the beach, and try out some fried clams with tartar sauce at Flo’s for a light lunch or dinner. If you’re up for an all-day activity, Newport Vineyards offers daily tours of their property and a tasting room for you to indulge in the locally made wines.

  The biggest attraction is (obviously) the seafood selection. Whether you’re dining at a restaurant right on the water’s edge or at a spot downtown (like Scales), you’ll always be served the daily catch fresh from the sea. It’s also worth looking into seasonal food festivals that may be happening during your visit.

• Book a B&B

  Who doesn’t love a quaint New England bed and breakfast? Newport is full of them, the most notable including the Inn on Bellevue, the Beech Tree Inn and Cottage, and the America’s Cup Inn. Depending on how close you want to be to the action downtown versus the beaches, there are lots of options to choose from.

  The best part is, LugLess can ship your luggage to any B&B you decide on! Your bags (and your perfect seaside vacation) will be waiting for you when you arrive.

Now that we’ve given you a few interesting things to do in Newport, Rhode Island get your sandals and sunscreen ready and maybe we’ll see you beachside this summer!