Must-do Activities in Newport, Rhode Island

Explore Bowen’s Wharf

After lunch, the complimentary shuttle or water taxi at Newport Harbor Island Resort is available to transport you to and from Bowen’s Wharf in downtown Newport. You can also take in the sights on a quick walk over our causeway to historic downtown.

Bowen’s Wharf is a bustling waterfront lined with beautiful boats, boutiques, galleries, award-winning restaurants, and live music. We also recommend exploring the cobblestoned Thames Street, steps away from Bowen’s Wharf, which is home to additional shops and restaurants.

You can’t go wrong with any of these downtown restaurants for a seaside dinner, particularly overlooking the harbor from Bowen’s Wharf. Whichever you choose, reservations are highly recommended!

Sunset Cruise 

Did you know that Newport is the sailing capital of the world? There are several different sailing tours out of Bowen’s Wharf that provide immersive sightseeing in Newport Harbor. Each charter boat is unique, including tours on 12 Meter yachts, restored lobster boats, and classic schooners. 

These cruises will take you along the coastline, showcasing historical mansions, Fort Adams military post, mega-yachts and impressive sailboats, beautiful lighthouses, and, of course, the iconic Newport Bridge. Along the way, the captains and crew will often point out the sites and provide light commentary. Enjoy snacks and drinks on board as you witness the stunning sunset over the water.

 

Day 2

Breakfast at Newport Harbor Island Resort

Fuel up for a day of adventures with breakfast from The Restaurant or For Five Coffee. The Restaurant features a la carte favorites such as egg specialties, avocado toast, omelets, pancakes, and French toast. Or, grab a quick breakfast sandwich and coffee to-go at our lobby café, For Five Coffee.

Tour the Mansions

Take a trip back in time to the Gilded Age and explore an era when America’s wealthiest families built impressive seaside mansions during an exciting period of growth and change.

These waterfront summer “cottages” include The Breakers, the grandest of the mansions, built in the late 1800’s by the Vanderbilt family.

The Breakers and Marble House – another former Vanderbilt property – are open for self-guided tours year-round, with The Elms, Kingscote, Rosecliff, and other mansions opening for the spring and summer. There are more than a dozen historic mansions and landscapes to visit in Newport!

Cliff Walk

After touring the mansions, the renowned Cliff Walk is accessible near The Breakers. The Cliff Walk is a 3.5-mile path along the breathtaking coastline with ocean views on one side, and the beautiful mansions on the other. Pause at the scenic overlooks along the way, and as an added adventure, take Forty Steps down to the rocks and watch the waves crash into the rocky coast.

Relax at Newport Harbor Island Resort

Embrace harbor island life around our outdoor saltwater pool. Grab a poolside cocktail or light bite from The Pineapple Club and enjoy a peaceful afternoon at Newport’s only waterfront hotel pool.

Wine Tasting & Dinner at Newport Vineyards

Newport Vineyards sits on 100 acres of preserved farmland in Middletown, minutes from downtown. The vineyard blends award-winning wine, fresh craft beer, and farm-to-table dining experiences. Before dinner, enjoy a wine or beer tasting at their walk-up bars. There are a variety of seating options indoors, on their outdoor patio, or their overlook with views of the wine-making area and vineyard.

At least two weeks prior to your trip to Newport, visit their website for important details on reservations and seating types!

Day 3

Local Breakfast

Head back to Thames Street or Bellevue Avenue to kick start your day. Local breakfast favorites include Cru Café and Drift Café for their seasonal menus and quality ingredients. 

One More Adventure

Complete your Rhode Island getaway with a unique adventure on (or above) the island. The pedal-powered Rail Explorers take riders along the Old Colony Railroad built in 1862. The rails meander alongside the Narragansett Bay, providing riders unique views of Jamestown, the Mt. Hope Bridge, the Hog Island Lighthouse, and coastal woodlands.

Newport Helicopter Tours is another spectacular way to see the island with tours that showcase special areas of the island. Soar over miles of coastline and experience a new perspective of the Newport Bridge, Ocean Drive, Rose Island Lighthouse, the mansions, and more. 

 

Book your next stay and prepare to set sail for harbor island life!