On the southern tip of Aquidneck Island in Rhode Island Sound, Newport is famous for its scenic landscapes, rich sailing history, and renowned music scene. Located southeast of Providence, Newport is easily reachable from Boston and New York City. Its yacht-filled harbor has played host to the world’s oldest and most famous sailing competition over the years, and the town is also the site of Naval Station Newport, a crucial Navy training center housing the United States Naval War College, and the Naval Undersea Warfare Center.

In downtown, 18th-century clapboard houses line the narrow streets, whereas Bellevue Avenue is home to Gilded Age mansions, some of which have become museums. Several public and private beaches welcome visitors, with Easton Beach being the most popular for swimming and kite-surfing. Just outside of town, you’ll find picturesque vineyards offering wine tasting and alfresco dining. And to the north, Colt State Park offers walking paths, playing fields, and an open-air chapel.

You can reach Newport via car, train, bus, or boat. The nearest airport is T.F. Green Airport (PVD) in Warwick — a 30-minute drive to Newport. Amtrak offers connecting service on the Northeast Corridor with stops in nearby Kingston, Rhode Island, connecting to Newport via car service. The Providence train station provides a complimentary shuttle to the Providence to Newport ferry service. Parking is limited downtown, especially on the weekends, so you may want to park at one of the Park & Ride lots and rent a bike to get around the city. Downtown Newport's cobblestone streets are lined with historic houses, restaurants, and boutique shops, making it pleasant to explore on foot.

Like many New England towns, Newport's weather can vary throughout the year. Summers are pleasant with warm temperatures, sunny days, and an abundance of events to keep you busy, including the city’s world-renowned folk and jazz festivals and international tennis tournament in July. As temperatures cool, fall foliage is on full display in late September, early October. Enjoy a scenic drive to take in the colors. While winters are cold and snowy, it may be the best time to enjoy your Newport vacation rental and a cozy dinner at one of the local vineyards. May brings warmer temperatures, drier weather, and delicious oysters and chowders from local growers and vendors at the annual Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival.

Newport Cliff Walk

The Newport Cliff Walk is a 3.5-mile elevated and paved path that borders the shoreline. Designated a National Recreation Trail, it provides breathtaking views into Narragansett Bay. The Cliff Walk starts from the east end of Bailey's Beach and runs to the western end of Easton Beach. Several access points allow you to walk part or all of the path.

Ocean Drive

You can get in your car and head out along the coast via Newport's famous Ocean Drive, where ten miles of landmarks and panoramic coastal views stretch along one winding road. The self-guided drive starts at Bellevue Avenue and continues along the way, passing historic mansions, Brenton Point State Park, Fort Adams State Park, and Gooseberry Beach. You may even want to get out of the car, set out your blanket, and enjoy an afternoon picnic in the ocean breeze.

East Bay Bike Path

The 14-mile East Bay Bike Path is a mostly flat, paved biking and walking trail that runs from India Point Park in Providence to Independence Park in Barrington, passing through state and local parks. Running along the eastern shore of Narragansett Bay, you'll have clear views of the Atlantic Ocean as you weave through coves and marshes.