Rough Point

680 Bellevue Avenue Newport, RI, 02840 Phone: 401-847-8344 Commissioned in 1887 by Frederick Vanderbilt, this majestic oceanfront home was then the largest of the Newport summer mansions. Set at the very end of Bellevue Avenue, it’s picturesque landscape was created by Frederic Law Olmstead’s firm. James B. Duke took ownership of the home in 1922 and left the estate to his 12 year-old daughter, Doris, upon his death in 1925. The heiress spent her teenage summers here, and in 1958 Duke began purchasing art and antiques for the house that she would combine with original family treasures. The estate is still as she left it, filled with French furniture, European art, Chinese porcelains, and Flemish tapestries. Upon her death in 1993, Doris bequeathed the property to the Newport Restoration Foundation, which opened the house to the public as a museum in 2000

Ochre Court

100 Ochre Point Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island Phone: 401-847-6650 This palatial former summer home was built in 1892, and is now the main administration building for Salve Regina University.

Chepstow

Narragansett Avenue Newport, RI Phone: 401-847-1000 This Italianate-style villa was designed by architect George Champlin Mason in 1860 and is a classic example of a Victorian summer cottage. It was the summer residence of the prominent Morris family from New York, which included a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The house contains the Morris family's collections, including 19th century landscape paintings by the Hudson River school of artists.

Rosecliff

Bellevue Avenue Newport, RI, 02840 Phone: 401-847-1000 Rosecliff was built in 1902 by Theresa Fair Oelrichs, a silver mining heiress from Nevada. It was designed by the eminent architect Stanford White and it imitated the Grand Trianon, the garden retreat of French kings at Versailles. The architectural style is Baroque and Baroque Revival. It is a prime example of Newport's Gilded Age mansions. It is open to the public as a historic house. Many annual seasonal events are held here, including the beloved Newport Flower Show in the spring. Rosecliff has been used as a setting for a number of movies, including "The Great Gatsby," "True Lies," "Amistad," and "27 Dresses." Consult mansion website for public hours, which may change seasonally.

Marble House

Bellevue Avenue Newport, RI Phone: 401-847-1000 In 1888, William K. Vanderbilt asked architect Richard Morris Hunt to design for him, "the very best living accommodations that money could buy." The result was Marble House, completed in 1892 at a cost of $11 million, and containing 500,000 cubic feet of American, Italian and African marbles. Vanderbilt presented the deed to the house to his wife Alva as a 39th birthday present. The grounds include a colorful Chinese teahouse overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Consult mansion website for public hours, which may change seasonally.

Chateau-sur-mer

Bellevue Avenue Newport, RI Phone: 401-847-1000 This 1852 stone mansion is a classic example of High Victorian architecture and furnishings, including wallpaper, ceramics and stenciling, constructed for China Trade merchant William Wetmore. His son, George Peabody Wetmore, became Governor of Rhode Island and U.S. Senator. The house is noted for its original Victorian park, with century-old weeping and copper beech trees, a Chinese moongate, and Colonial Revival garden pavilion.

The Breakers

Ochre Point Avenue Newport, RI Phone: 401-847-1000 The grandest of the Newport summer cottages and a National Historic landmark, Cornelius Vanderbilt II, President and Chairman of the New York Central Railroad, commissioned architect Richard Morris Hunt to design a summer retreat for his large family. This 70-room Italian Renaissance-style house, completed in 1895, includes a 45-foot high central Great Hall. It sits on a 13-acre estate overlooking a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean, where the waves crashing on the rocks below gave the house its name. Consult mansion website for public hours, which may change seasonally.

Kingscote

Bellevue Avenue Newport, RI Phone: 401-847-1000 This was one of the early summer houses designed in the Gothic Revival style, in 1839, for Georgia planter George Noble Jones. The family's connection to Newport was severed by the Civil War, and the house was acquired by China Trade merchant William Henry King, a prominent Newporter. Five generations of King family collections are on display. Kingscote's dining room, added in 1881, includes the earliest known installation of Tiffany glass. The house is a National Historic Landmark.

The Elms

Bellevue Avenue Newport, RI Phone: 401-847-1000 A National Historic Landmark, The Elms is a French-style chateau built in 1901 by architect Horace Trumbauer as a summer house for millionaire entrepreneur Edward Julius Berwind. It contains every technological marvel of its time, and was one of the first Newport houses to be fully electrified. The estate includes a 10-acrre park and elaborate sunken garden. Consult mansion website for public hours, which may change seasonally.

Isaac Bell House

Bellevue Avenue Newport, RI Phone: 401-847-1000 Presented as a restoration work in progress, this National Historic Landmark is regarded as an innovative compendium of the design influences that characterize the American architectural period known as the "shingle-style." Built in 1883 by the famed architectural firm of McKim, Mead and White, the house combines Old English and European architecture with colonial American and exotic details, such as a Japanese-inspired open floor plan and bamboo-style porch columns. Consult mansion website for public hours, which may change seasonally.

Fort Adams State Park, on the Ocean Drive, is also a must-see. The park offers a slew of seasonal activities, but is perhaps best known for its annual summer concerts, like the Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival. Guided tours of the fort are also available. The Swiss Village Foundation, located along the Ocean Drive, works closely with Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Education to save rare and endangered livestock. Although the village itself is only open to the public one day a year, as you pass by, you’ll notice all sorts of wonderful animals grazing on their lawns, as well as those of the the nearby Hammersmith Farm.

Nature and bird enthusiasts visiting Newport, RI will delight in the Norman Bird Sanctuary, which is open daily to the public.

If you’re strolling around in town on a Wednesday afternoon, the Newport Farmer’s Market is simply wonderful. Offering a variety of farm-fresh produce, from flowers and cheeses to artisanal baked goods and jams, as well as prepared foods, beverages, and live entertainment. This is a great place to relax in the shade on the cool grass and take in the local sights and sounds.

12 Meter Charters and America’s Cup Charters Sail aboard one of the legendary America’s Cup yachts in this prestigious fleet (the contenders aren’t too shabby either). Raise a sail, grind a winch or simply sit back and let the crew do it all for you. Rum Runner Built in 1929 during the height of Prohibition, the motor yacht was once used to smuggle cases of scotch and whisky but today leisurely cruises Newport Harbor for the best views of the city.

Madeleine Sail through Newport Harbor at sunset on Narragansett Bay aboard the classic sailing yacht Madeleine, a 72-foot schooner. The ship maintains 19th century sailboat style with 21st century sailing yacht comfort and convenience—ideal for champagne sipping.

Feeling in the mood to relax in the sand? There’s nothing wrong with wanting to unwind at the beach. First Beach (Easton’s Beach) is a great destination. Located at the bottom of Memorial Boulevard, the beach boasts some great activities for kids: a working carousel on the upper level is always a fun time, as are the playground — located right on the sand — and the selection of evening activities for kids of all ages. The snack bar is impressive and I might suggest the lobster roll, which is delicious and reasonably priced.

Save The Bay’s Exploration Center and Aquarium is a marine science center that’s home to dozens of species native to Narraganset Bay. In addition to the many rare specimens on display, the aquarium also boasts touch tanks that let you meet a variety of marine life — like sea stars, urchins, and dogfish — up close.

Second Beach (Sachuest Beach) offers a long stretch of Rhode Island’s most beautiful shoreline and soft, powder-like sands. Right when you come down the hill, you’ll find yourself at Surfer’s End. This part of the beach has some impressive surf. Pull over and park your car to watch some great surfers in action. Calmer waters and long stretches of beach are just down the road, where there’s plenty of parking available, so pack a cooler with beverages, food, and snacks — and plan to stay a while.

Do be sure to have some cash on hand should you see Del’s Lemonade Truck. A Rhode Island institution, this semi-frozen treat is perfectly refreshing on the hottest of summer days. Try the original lemon, or new flavors such as watermelon, cherry, lemon-lime, and grapefruit. (There’s a truck at First Beach as well.)

Gooseberry Beach, on the famed Ocean Drive, is a semi-private, gated beach that is open to the public (for a fee). With calmer waters, it’s a great choice for those with small children or those who prefer a quieter setting.

The Newport-Jamestown Ferry is a great and affordable way to see Newport without the hassle of summer traffic and parking. This is especially nice on a really hot day. Pick up the ferry at Perrotti Park in the downtown area and enjoy the sights of Narragansett Bay as you make your way over to Fort Adams, Rose Island, or Jamestown. Children will particularly enjoy this ride. Hop off at Jamestown, grab an ice cream cone, and catch the next ferry back. There’s a wonderful lighthouse on Rose Island worth checking out as well.

Tours are fascinating!

• Newport Arboretum - several locations, (401) 324-9204
• Newport Historical Society - 127 Thames St., (401) 841-8770
• Fort Adams State Park - (401) 847-2400
• Ghost Tours of Newport - 25 Americas Cup Ave., (401) 841-8600
• Viking Trolley Tours - 25 Americas Cup Ave., (401) 847-6921
• International Yacht Restoration School - 449 Thames St., (401) 848-5777
• Old Colony & Newport Railway - 19 America's Cup, (401) 295-1203
• Newport Pedi Cab - Bannister's Wharf, (401) 432-5498
• Amazing Grace Harbor Tours - (401) 847-9109
• Jamestown Newport Ferry - several locations, (401) 423-9900

Get outside...

• Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge - 769 Sachuest Point Rd., (401) 847-5511
• Norman Bird Sanctuary - 583 Third Beach Rd., (401) 846-2577
• Ballard Park - Hazard & Wickham Rd., (401) 619-3377
• Gulls Baseball - 20 America's Cup, (401) 845-6832
• Sail Newport - 72 Fort Adams Rd., (401) 846-1983
• Newport International Polo - 715 E. Main, (401) 846-0200
• Ten Speed Spokes - 18 Elm St., (401) 847-5609
• Bike Newport - 62 Broadway, (401) 619-4900
• Sweet Berry Farm - 915 Mitchell's Ln., (401) 847-3912
• Rocky Brook Orchard - 997 Wapping Rd., (401) 851-7989
• Newport Equestrian - 287 Third Beach Rd., (401) 837-4188

Broadway/Washington Square

Newport, Rhode Island's Broadway and Washington Square areas are culinary hotspots, offering a diverse array of dining experiences. Here's a curated list of notable establishments to explore:

• Corner Café:  Start your day at Corner Café, where Irish and Portuguese breakfast traditions harmoniously blend. Enjoy hearty dishes and generously sized coffee servings in a cozy atmosphere.
• Empire Tea & Coffee:  A favorite among students and professionals, Empire Tea & Coffee offers a wide selection of loose teas, bubble tea, and quality coffee. It's an ideal spot for a caffeine fix or a relaxed gathering.
• Malt:  At Malt, indulge in American fare with dishes such as slow-roasted Scottish salmon and Black Angus rib-eye steak. Complement your meal with selections from their extensive list of 28 draft beers and specialty cocktails made with fresh ingredients.
• Mad Hatter Bakery:  Satisfy your sweet tooth at Mad Hatter Bakery, renowned for its delectable cupcakes and ethnic specialties, including Irish soda bread and Italian zeppoles. Each treat is crafted to perfection.
• Perro Salado:  Experience a cozy, eclectic Mexican cantina at Perro Salado, set inside an early 18th-century home. Known for its warm ambiance, signature guacamole with homemade tortilla chips, and spicy cucumber margaritas, it's a must-visit.
• Tavern on Broadway:  Housed in a remodeled 200-year-old colonial building, Tavern on Broadway serves classic American dishes, specialty drinks, and offers a selection of 20 beers on tap. The historic setting adds to its charm.
• White Horse Tavern:  Step back in time at White Horse Tavern, America’s oldest operating tavern since 1673. With colonial architecture and romantic candlelit tables, it offers rich dishes like their signature lobster bisque and beef Wellington.
• Pour Judgement:  A popular beer bar with a charming dive edge, Pour Judgement serves generous portions of hearty pub food and boasts an extensive beer list that surpasses typical tourist spots.
• Stoneacre Brasserie:  Stoneacre Brasserie highlights seasonal American cuisine with a farm-to-table approach. Dishes like nettle polenta with poached egg and Atlantic hake with carrot purée are complemented by a predominantly French wine list and carefully crafted cocktails.

Each of these establishments contributes uniquely to the rich and diverse dining landscape of Newport's Broadway and Washington Square areas, offering flavors and experiences to delight every palate.

Upper Thames, Mid-Thames Street & Historic Hill

Newport, Rhode Island, offers a rich tapestry of dining experiences and historic charm, particularly in the Upper and Mid-Thames Street areas and Historic Hill. Here's a curated guide to some must-visit spots:

• Upper Thames, Mid-Thames Street & Historic Hill
• Brick Alley Pub: A Newport staple for over 25 years, affectionately known as "The Brick." This lively pub is renowned for its hearty burgers accompanied by generous steak fries. The interior is adorned with Newport memorabilia, from regatta artifacts to vintage street signs, creating a nostalgic ambiance.
• Ristorante Lucia: Experience authentic Northern Italian cuisine right on Thames Street. Choose between two distinct dining atmospheres: a traditional trattoria setting with soft lighting and crisp linens, or a casual pizzeria vibe. Both spaces offer a menu rich in fresh, simple ingredients, with ample vegetarian options.
• Smoke House: This establishment brings a Southern flair to New England, offering a menu packed with American favorites. Complement your meal with mason jar cocktails, craft beers, and artisan whiskeys, all in a relaxed setting.
• Brick Market Place: Spanning four acres, this marketplace features over two dozen shops, including clothing, shoe, jewelry, and gift stores. It's a shopper's paradise nestled in the heart of Newport.
• Lower Thames Street & Ocean Drive
• The Red Parrot: A family-friendly restaurant boasting three floors and a diverse menu. From Mandarin Coconut Chicken to Lobster Ravioli, there's something to satisfy every palate. The children's menu offers healthy sides like fruit and veggies, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all ages.
• Café Zelda: Blending the charm of a sailor's tavern with semi-formal dining, Café Zelda offers a unique culinary experience. Don't miss the chance to try their signature Chicken Fried Lobster.
• Midtown Oyster Bar: Housed in a century-old building, this restaurant features a raw bar with oysters sourced from coast to coast. With over 40 beers on tap and a menu that includes mouth-watering burgers and seafood entrees, it's a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
• One Pelham East: Known for its vibrant nightlife, One Pelham East hosts live music from local bands and top cover bands from NYC and Boston. For a different vibe, check out Studio 3 located above the main venue.
• Castle Hill Inn: Perched on a private 40-acre peninsula, this former mansion offers panoramic ocean and bay views. Recognized by Conde Nast Traveler and Travel & Leisure as one of the top hotels globally, it's an ideal spot for luxury accommodations and fine dining.
• Ocean Cliff Hotel: Once the site of lavish parties, this boutique hotel sits on 10 rolling acres overlooking Narragansett Bay. With 25 plush guestrooms and the on-site Safari Restaurant and Lounge, it offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities.
• Bowen’s & Bannister’s Wharves
• 22 Portside: An outdoor extension of 22 Bowen’s Wine Bar & Grille, offering an impressive wine list with over 35 wines by the glass and 650 bottles. Enjoy light fare and a raw bar while indulging in prime people-watching along the waterfront.
• The Black Pearl: A summer favorite, especially on the bustling patio. Inside, the former sail loft features two dining spaces: the formal Commodore’s Room and the relaxed tavern, each offering a unique dining experience.
• The Clarke Cooke House: Situated on Bannister’s Wharf, this historic four-story building is a hub of Newport's social scene. From the underground Boom Boom Room nightclub to the elegant Sky Bar on the top level, it offers diverse dining and entertainment options.
• Coffee Grinder: This quaint spot at the end of Bannister’s Wharf welcomes both two-legged and four-legged visitors. Relax in an Adirondack chair with a freshly brewed coffee and soak in the scenic views.
• The Cookie Jar: Follow the irresistible aroma of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies to this sweet spot on Bannister’s Wharf. A treat for the senses and a must-visit for dessert lovers.
• The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar: A waterfront staple offering fresh seafood in a casually sophisticated setting. Signature dishes include the award-winning native scallop chowder and the "bag of donuts," a serving of lightly fried lobster, crab, and shrimp fritters with chipotle-maple aioli.
• Wharf Southern Kitchen & Whiskey Bar: Under new ownership, this Bannister’s Wharf establishment offers a creative take on classic pub food. Menu highlights include artisanal pizzas, BBQ pork shoulder mac n’ cheese, and a raw bar featuring Matunuck Oysters.
• Bellevue Avenue/Memorial Blvd. Area
• Cara: Nestled within The Chanler at Cliff Walk, Cara offers an intimate dining experience with panoramic ocean views. The restaurant features contemporary blind-tasting menus inspired by European elegance and sustainable New England ingredients. Executive Chef Jacob Jasinski crafts avant-garde cuisine, creating new dishes daily to highlight ingredients harvested at their peak. An optional wine pairing from the extensive beverage list, recognized by Wine Spectator with an Award of Excellence, is curated nightly for each dish.
  

FRIDAY

People-Watching and Window-Shopping on Thames Street: Begin your romantic weekend with a leisurely stroll along Thames Street, the vibrant heart of Newport. As one of New England’s oldest streets, Thames Street has evolved from a bustling commercial hub during the Gilded Age to a lively center for shopping and dining. Enjoy the charming colonial-era buildings and historic churches that line the street, offering a glimpse into Newport's storied past. Pause to savor a delightful ice cream cone or a refreshing cold beer at one of the many local establishments. Afterward, check in at the Beech Tree Inn & Cottage, a cozy bed and breakfast within walking distance of the action.

Dance Like a Local: As the sun sets over Thames Street, venture to Broadway Avenue, where the local nightlife thrives. Put on your dancing shoes and head to The Fifth Element, a popular spot known for its eclectic dance music and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you'll find a mix of year-round residents and visitors looking to unwind and dance the night away. Whether you choose to swing your partner into the wee hours or return to the Beech Tree Inn & Cottage for a restful night, your Friday in Newport sets the perfect tone for a romantic weekend.

Saturday

Morning: Cliff Walk and Mansion Tours

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the Beech Tree Inn & Cottage, setting the perfect tone for a day of exploration. Afterward, embark on a romantic hand-in-hand stroll along the renowned Newport Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile path that gracefully weaves between the majestic Atlantic Ocean and Newport's historic Gilded Age mansions. This National Recreation Trail offers breathtaking ocean vistas on one side and opulent estates on the other, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and architectural grandeur.

As you traverse the Cliff Walk, you'll be tempted to delve deeper into the history and splendor of these architectural masterpieces. Plan a visit to The Breakers, the grandest of Newport's summer "cottages," built by Cornelius Vanderbilt II. This 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of America's elite during the Gilded Age. For a more comprehensive experience, consider exploring other notable mansions such as Marble House and The Elms, each offering unique insights into the era's architecture and social history.

If you're inclined toward a more active exploration, rent bicycles from Ten Speed Spokes and pedal along Bellevue Avenue, a historic thoroughfare lined with grand estates and lush landscapes. Cycling provides a leisurely pace to appreciate the grandeur of the mansions and the charm of Newport's streets.

Lunch: Oceanfront Dining at Castle Hill Inn

After a morning of exploration, satisfy your appetite with an al fresco lunch at The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn, located at the western end of Ocean Avenue. This esteemed establishment offers a menu inspired by fresh, local ingredients, complemented by panoramic ocean views. Dine on the expansive lawn, where the sea breeze enhances the flavors of your meal, creating a truly memorable dining experience.

Afternoon: Shopping for Local Delicacies

Post-lunch, indulge in a leisurely afternoon exploring Newport's specialty shops for locally crafted goodies. On Bellevue Avenue, you'll discover a variety of artisanal products, including tea-infused peach truffles, honey harvested from local beehives, and chevre that rivals its French counterparts. These unique finds make perfect souvenirs to commemorate your romantic getaway.

Evening: Dinner and Entertainment

As evening descends, consider dining at one of Newport's esteemed surf and turf restaurants along the harbor, where fresh seafood and prime cuts are served in a romantic setting. After dinner, immerse yourselves in Newport's cultural scene with a visit to the Jane Pickens Theater, a historic venue housed in a renovated 18th-century church. This art-house cinema showcases a curated selection of romantic classics, contemporary documentaries, and independent films, providing an intimate and enriching cinematic experience.

Conclude your day by returning to the Beech Tree Inn & Cottage, where the cozy and design-driven rooms offer a perfect retreat for couples seeking comfort and elegance. Reflect on the day's adventures and relish the tranquility of this charming bed and breakfast, setting the stage for another delightful day in Newport.

Sunday

Morning: Indulgent Brunch

Begin your Sunday with a delightful brunch in downtown Newport. Consider The Dining Room at The Vanderbilt, located at 41 Mary Street. This upscale restaurant, housed in a historic mansion, offers a luxurious and memorable brunch experience. Alternatively, Caleb & Broad, situated at 162 Broadway, is a local favorite known for its inviting atmosphere and delectable brunch menu. Both establishments provide a perfect start to your day, combining exquisite cuisine with Newport's charming ambiance.

Midday: Nature Exploration

After brunch, immerse yourselves in the natural beauty of Newport by visiting the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge and the Norman Bird Sanctuary. Located just a short drive from downtown, these sanctuaries offer serene environments ideal for birdwatching and leisurely walks.

At Sachuest Point, explore trails that wind through salt marshes and beach strand habitats, where you might encounter owls, deer, ducks, and falcons. The refuge is open from sunrise to sunset, and the visitor center operates daily from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

The Norman Bird Sanctuary, established in 1949, spans 325 acres and features seven miles of hiking trails through diverse habitats. It's a haven for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The sanctuary is open year-round and offers a peaceful retreat into nature. 

Afternoon: Departure

As your romantic weekend in Newport concludes, take a moment to reflect on the intriguing history, natural beauty, and elegant architecture that make this New England destination so enchanting. Whether you've sought to slow things down or ignite a spark, Newport offers a cozy and captivating experience for couples.