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If you don’t fall in love with Newport’s incredible coastline, you will once you wander it’s charming cobblestone streets. This quaint New England town has something for every history lover, beach bum, or foodie! It’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. There’s plenty to see in three days in Newport, Rhode Island!
I went to Newport for my first solo trip! I spent my time relaxing, eating some delicious seafood, and learning all about Newport’s rich history. With sweeping views of the ocean, it’s no wonder the prestigious families from the Gilded age chose Newport as the place to build their massive summer homes.
Newport is the epitome of a seaside New England town. The sailboats, cold ocean water, old architecture, and lobster dishes, make it the perfect east coast getaway. Three days in Newport will give you enough time to explore, relax and see almost anything your heart desires! Here’s how to spend three days in Newport, Rhode Island.
Table of Contents
DAY 1 IN NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND
Newport’s Cliff walk
Kick off your three days in Newport, with one of the most interesting walks you’ll ever take! Located on the eastern shore of Newport, the cliff walk is a public trail with paths that hug the shoreline of Rhode Island. This walk combines the beautiful natural landscape, with the architectural history of Newport. As you walk along the 3.5 mile pathway, you’ll see many of the historic Newport mansions built in the gilded age.
In 1975, the walk was declared a National Recreation Trail, making it the 65th in the nation, and the first in all of New England.
The cliff walk is 3.5 miles one way. 70% of the trail is considered easy walking condition. However, the southern part can get rough with jagged steps and stone walkways, so be sure to wear proper shoes!
You can do the cliff walk at any pace. You’ll be able to stop and see the outside of some of the most incredible mansions in Newport. If you want to learn more about what you are seeing along the way, purchase this self-guided tour. It will help you get even more out of the walk as you hear stories from local guides about the families who owned each mansion.
Search for parking ahead of time based on which entry you’d like to start. If you have limited time, park your car at Narragansett Ave and walk to Ruggles Ave along the path. This entrance allows you to see the major sites such as Salve Regina University, The Breakers, and Ochre Court, without having to hike the complete 7 miles.
Must have items for the cliff walk:
- Backpack
- Water
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Phone/Camera
- Light Snacks
- Headphones for the self guided tour.
Dinner and Drinks at Castle Hill Inn & Resort
Castle Hill Inn & Resort- 590 Ocean Drive Newport, RI 02840
While doing the Ocean Drive, make a stop at Castle Hill Inn & Resort. This is a resort and restaurant with some of the best views of the Narragansett Bay. With secluded beaches, specialty cocktails and a mouth watering menu, the Castle Hill Inn & Resort is the perfect stop to make for a fancy dinner or dessert and a night cap. The lawn is a perfect place to watch the sunset while sipping your favorite beverage!
Please note, reservations are highly recommended and they have a business casual dress code. Call 401-849-3800 to make reservations!
Cruise around Ocean Drive at sunset
Ocean Drive is a 10 mile loop around the cliffs of Newport. Taking this drive around sunset, you will see some of the most stunning views Newport has to offer! Since 1906 (the year the Rolls Royce was invented) this drive became a popular way for rich families to show off their fancy cars. Even today you can rent your own vintage car, or hire a driver to tour you around the island. Otherwise you can drive your own car.
On Ocean Drive, there are many attractions you’ll see along the way such as:
- King Park
- Ida Lewis Yacht Club
- Hammersmith Farm (where President Kennedy’s wedding reception was held.)
- For Adams State Park
- U.S. Coast Guard Station
- Brenton Point State Park
If you would like a trolly tour of Newport, book this tour! A guide will take you around Ocean Drive and downtown Newport, making stops at the most historic landmarks. It also has an option for adding a ticket to The Breakers mansion.
Ice Cream at Clementine’s
Clementine’s- 62 Wave Ave, Middletown, RI 02842
If you are up for dessert, make your way over to Clementine’s in Middletown. You won’t regret trying a scoop of their incredible delicious homemade ice cream!
In 2021, Clementine’s Oatmeal Cookie flavor was named “The Best Ice Cream Scoop in Rhode Island” by the Food Network Magazine. Although this specific flavor has stole the show, Clementine’s is known for having some of the best homemade ice on the east coast. In fact, they have over 25 different flavors including ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt and dairy free options! Their flagship location is located in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, but they opened their second location in Middletown (near Easton’s Beach) in 2020.
It was fantastic!
DAY 2 IN NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND
Easton’s Beach
Easton’s Beach is the perfect place to spend a couple hours on a sunny summer day in New England. Everything you’ll need for a beach day is right in one place: cool ocean breezes, stunning cliffside coastlines, public bathrooms, and food. I highly recommend spending some time taking in the gorgeous New England views on Easton’s beach for a bit and just relaxing after the long hike yesterday.
Lunch at Easton’s Beach Snack Bar
Easton’s Beach Snack Bar- 175 Memorial Blvd, Newport, RI 02840
While you’re here, you must have lunch at Easton’s Beach Snack Bar. Voted “best twin lobster rolls in Newport, Rhode Island,” I knew I had to try them while visiting Newport. The lobster roll was fantastic. With heaping amounts of lobster piled onto a melt in your moth buttery roll, I can say firsthand, it lived up to his first place vote!
Stroll Around downtown Newport & Bowen’s Wharf
One of the best parts of Newport is its bustling downtown. Around Bowen’s Wharf and along Thames Street, you’ll find many quaint souvenir shops, bars, boutiques, restaurants and marinas packed with yachts and sailboats. At night, many of the restaurants in downtown Newport have live music playing near the water.
You can almost feel the history of Newport as you walk the cobblestone streets and look up at the historic architecture with old glass windows. Even off the main streets, you can tell some of the houses are hundreds of years old. They truly add to the old New England feel and historic charm of Newport.
Ready for dinner? Try one of these incredible restaurants in downtown Newport:
- White Horse Tavern– The White Horse Tavern is not only a fantastic upscale restaurant in Newport, but also a National Historic Landmark. It is the oldest restaurant in the US, and 10th oldest in the world! It was converted into a tavern in 1673 and today is an upscale farm to table restaurant in the most historic setting.
Note: Make reservations well in advance for White Horse Tavern.
- The Mooring– Having been around for 35 years, the Mooring is known for being one of the best upscale seafood restaurants in Newport. With panoramic views of the Narragansett Bay, you’ll be sure to have an authentic New England dining experience!
- Diego’s– If you are in the mood for a fun environment with Mexican cuisine, Diego’s is the place for you! Their menu has every Mexican dish you can imagine with playful tiki drinks and an entire vegan menu.
- Clarke Cooke House– Known as “one of the most sophisticated restaurants in Newport,” Clarke Cooke House has harbor side views with both casual and fine dining options. Their menu has something for everyone including an oyster bar, summer sushi, burgers, seafood, and even Sunday brunch.
- The Red Parrot– This three level restaurant is a staple of Newport. You’ll find a variety of cuisine at The Red Parrot such as pasta, pizza, and surf n’ turf.
- Bar And Board– If you aren’t looking for a fancy dining option, this may be the place is for you! The relaxed Bar and Board has make your own charcuterie boards with a wine and cocktail list that goes on forever. Perfect for a girls getaway or bachelorette party!
Sunset Cocktail Cruise around Narragansett Bay
Who doesn’t love a sunset over the water? Enjoy the scenic views of New England via boat while sipping on your cocktail of choice. You’ll cruise around the bay and see million dollar yachts, sailboats, and lighthouses!
I recommend booking the sunset cruise here. It departs right from Bowen’s Landing and lasts around 1.5 hours. Plus, it includes a free cocktail in your ticket!
DAY 3 IN NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND
Empire Tea & Coffee
This may be the last of your three days in Newport, but there’s still plenty for you to do!
After waking up, make your way to Empire Tea & Coffee for a light breakfast and coffee. Empire has an extravagant menu including specialty coffees, bubble tea, avocado toast, acai bowls, and donuts. I opted for a chocolate croissant and Nutella latte, and they were fantastic.
Tour of the Breakers Mansion
44 Ochre Point Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island
The Breakers is the largest and most adorned of all the mansions in Newport. Cornelius Vanderbilt had his “summer cottage” built as a symbol of the Vanderbilt family’s social and financial status. Cornelius Vanderbilt established his families wealth through his contribution to the steamship and railroad industry.
Unfortunately, the original Breakers mansion was destroyed in a fire in November of 1892. The following year, architect Richard Morris Hunt was commissioned to built a new Italian Renaissance style palazzo. Construction began on the new Breakers, with extra safety precautions in mind to help prevent future fires.
Completed in 1895, the new Breakers mansion has a total of 70 rooms and is 125,339 total square feet. Every square inch is decorated from floor to ceiling with intricate mosaic marble and décor imported from around the world. Looking closely, you’ll see hidden symbols throughout the mansion such as a V for Vanderbilt or acorns. Acorns were thought to be a symbol of strength since a single acorn sprouts a mighty oak tree.
The Breakers lawn is covered in brightly colored flower beds, maze like pathways, and finely manicured grass overlooking the Atlantic ocean.
Visiting the Breakers Mansion:
Free off-street parking is available across the street from the Breakers mansion.
An adult ticket for entry into the Breakers is $26.00. You are able to do a self guided audio tour, which will guide you throughout the home with history and secrets of each room. The tour lasts about 45 minutes.
If you plan to visit other mansions, look into combo tickets. For $36.00, you can get the Newport Mansions Duo Ticket which allows you entry into two of the following: The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms, or Chateau-sur-Mer.
However, if you only have time to visit one mansion, I recommend the Breakers. It’s the largest and most well known, and has incredible detail that will be sure to leave you speechless!
Note: Be sure to bring your own headphones and phone!
Brunch at Stoneacre Brasserie
Stoneacre Brasserie- 28 Washington Square, Newport, RI 02840
There’s not better way to wrap up your three days in Newport, than a brunch to remember!
Stoneacre Brasserie is known for having one of the best brunches in Newport. With an evolving menu depending on the season, they pride themselves in sourcing their food from local butchers, fishermen and farmers. Some of their brunch items include Smoked Salmon Toast, Braised Pork Chili Verde, and homemade Buttermilk Biscuits. Is your mouth watering yet? If you can’t make it to their brunch, they also have a fantastic dinner menu!
WHERE TO STAY IN NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND
Keep in mind, Newport is not a cheap place to stay. Even “budget” hotels in Newport, I would consider expensive options for most destinations. Book during the week days if you want a more affordable option!
- Budget: Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina– With comfortable rooms, walking distance to most attractions, and an indoor pool, this hotel is perfect for a weekend in Newport.
- Mid-Range: Newport Marriott– This hotel is in a great central location (right in downtown Newport) and has a terrace overlooking the harbor.
- Luxury: Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina– Located on Goat Island (right off Newport) this hotel is located on a small island with 360 degree views. It even has a spa, which is perfect for a relaxing getaway!
Budget friendly hotels near the beach:
If you prefer to stay near the beach, I recommend staying in Middletown, Rhode Island. This is the perfect location if you want to be close to the water (within walking distance) and near the cliff walk and mansions. It’s about a 10 minute drive to downtown Newport from Middletown. If you are able to go during the week days, these hotels can be really affordable!
- Budget: Newport Beach Hotel & Suites– I had searched for months for budget friendly places to stay in Newport. This ended up being the most affordable I found for a weekend in Newport. Although it’s outside of downtown, it was great for me since I wanted to be closer to the beach and cliff walk. The rooms were a little stuffy and outdated, but it worked perfect for just me!
- Mid-Range: Atlantic Beach Hotel Newport– Right next to the Newport Beach Hotel & Suites, the Atlantic Beach Hotel is in a great location with beach views and access with nicer, more updated rooms than the Newport Beach Hotel & Suites. Although it is more expensive, if you want a nicer room, I recommend staying here!
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Now that you know how to have the most perfect three days in Newport, Rhode island, you are ready for a weekend trip you’ll never forget! With interesting history, mouth watering food, and fantastic seaside views, Newport’s quintessential New England vibe will make you fall in the love with the east coast of the U.S.
Have you ever been to Newport, Rhode Island? What’s your favorite part?
BEST NEWPORT TRAVEL RESOURCES
1. BOOK FLIGHTS WITH SKYSCANNER
2. BOOK ACCOMMODATIONS WITH BOOKING.COM or HOTELS.COM
3. BOOK ACTIVITIES AND TOURS WITH GET YOUR GUIDE
4. BOOK TRAVEL INSURANCE WITH WORLD NOMADS.
Need help planning your trip to NEWPORT? Go to my travel resources page for my favorite travel companies to save you money, time, and headaches!
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Thank you for a very helpful layout of three days in Newport. RI.
You are so welcome! So glad you found it helpful!
I grew up in Newport. Your article sounds great. You hit all the places I love, especially Cliff Walk and Ocean Drive. I try to get back every few years. Heading there later this month. One other place I would mention is Flo’s Crab Shack.. And I think the Breakers rebuild was completed in 1895.
Hi Nancy! Oh that is such a great place to grow up. I am so glad this article reflects some of your favorite places as well. You are 100% correct about the rebuild, and I just made that edit. Thank you for bringing it to my attention. I appreciate your comment so much, and am so happy you enjoyed the post! I will have to check out Flo’s Crab Shack next time I go back.
When I hit the States Newport will be on my list. Thanks for great post.
I am sure you would love it! Such a great place. I am so happy you enjoyed the post!
If you can swing it, there are several sailboats you can charter just for your group. So much more intimate and less crowded. Most captains are very friendly and knowledgeable.
Oh, and Pasta Beach is another great dinner option.
These are amazing suggestions, thank you! Chartering a sailboat would be fantastic for a good size group. Thanks so much for the comment!