21 Of The Top Things To Do In Newport, RI

Newport is a very popular East Coast destination and one of Rhode Island’s most beloved cities.

It offers a huge range of activities for every taste. From the Tennis Hall of Fame, sailing tours, endless shopping, and incredible food, you’re sure to find something you enjoy here.

I was able to spend a few days in Newport during my year living in New York and did most things on this list, I can’t wait to return and see more of what Newport has to offer.

Planning a trip to Newport yourself and wondering what to do? Read on for the top things to do in Newport, Rhode Island!

The Best Things To Do In Newport, Rhode Island

Walk Bowen’s Wharf

Bowen’s Wharf is the main tourist hub in Newport, it’s definitely worth checking out.

This popular waterfront district on Newport Harbor is teeming with shops, outdoor bars and restaurants with live music, and boats ready to take excited tourists out on the water. 

The location is central and the energy is excellent, making it one of the most fun things to do in Newport, RI.  

Walk Thames Street 

Thames Street is right next to Bowen’s Wharf and is another of the city’s main attractions.

It’s lined with restaurants, boutique shops, and unassuming bars, all of which carries on for blocks and blocks. 

While in Newport plan to walk Thames Street at least once. Leave plenty of time to also explore the side streets and quiet marinas surrounding this popular street.

Since Thames is located right next to Bowen’s Wharf, it’s easy to explore these popular areas together in one day.

Tip: I do not recommend driving on Thames Street, this narrow roadway sees a lot of traffic. We found parking a few blocks away and walked.

Sunset Sailing Tour 

Set sail in the sailing capital of the world! One of the best ways to see Newport is from the calm waters surrounding the city.

A sailing excursion provides excellent views of waterfront mansions, Fort Adams State Park — a 19th century military post — Newport Bridge, and old lighthouses.

Cozy up with a blanket and cocktail during sunset and enjoy the magic of sailing.

There are tons of reputable tour companies offering various cruises out of Bowen’s Wharf. We chose to tour with Sailing Excursions, Inc Schooner Adirondack II and were very happy.

White Horse Tavern

Just north of Bowen’s Wharf is White Horse Tavern, a National Historic Landmark dating back to 1673. It’s acknowledged as the 10th oldest operating restaurant in the world, and the oldest in the United States.

White Horse Tavern is quintessential old-style Newport and a perfect place to grab a bite while visiting. Reservations are required.

Visit The Audrain Auto Museum

In a historic building centered in Newport, this auto museum seeks to preserve and celebrate automobile history with its visitors.  

At the Audrain Auto Museum you’ll find a wonderful collection of motorcars from the past, often celebrating the industry’s great achievements of previous generations.  

For those who love classic cars, this is an absolute must while visiting Newport, RI. Even if you’re not the biggest car-enthusiast, the museum is well done and definitely interesting to see.

Tour The Breakers Mansion 

While visiting Newport, you’ve got to see Rhode Island’s number one tourist attraction, the Breakers Mansion.

This “summer cottage” was built by Cornelius Vanderbilt in the late 1800’s and is eye-popping in its grandeur. It’s built right on the ocean, with no detail to spare. 

Historic homes like this in the United States are very uncommon, which is part of what makes the mansion so special. Upon seeing it, you’ll understand why so many visit.

Mansion tours are self guided. Upon arrival you’ll download an app, this provides an audio tour as you walk through the home. You’ll need headphones and you’ll want to download the app ahead of time, as cell service in the home is poor.

Newport Mansions

While The Breakers is the most famous mansion here, it’s not the only one worth seeing.

Newport, RI was a summer hot spot for the United States’ wealthiest during the late 1800’s, including the Vanderbilts, the Oelrichs, and the Berwinds family… just to name a few.

The splendor of the lavish Gilded Age is still evident here today, thanks to the well-preserved historic mansions lining Bellevue Avenue. Each mansion has its own story to tell, and the finishes are more grand than you could begin to imagine. 

If you can’t get enough of The Breakers, be sure to tour additional mansions along Bellevue Avenue such as: 

• Marble House
• Rosecliff
• Hunter House 
• Rough Point
• Issac Bell House
• The Elms
• Gilded Age Mansions

Tip: Many of the area’s mansions are ran by The Preservation Society of Newport County. This organization offers individual tickets to each mansion, or bundles if you wish to tour more than one.

Newport Trolley Tours

There are a number of trolley tours available which take you along Ocean Drive and Bellevue Avenue. The guides will point out famous summer cottages (ahem, mansions) while sharing facts and history regarding the homes. 

Most tours include a guided trolley tour, plus admission to one mansion.

You can book a tour through Viking Tours, they allow you to choose from admission to The Breakers, Marble House, or Rosecliff. 

Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge

Satuest Point is a must-see for outdoor lovers.

This is one of the most highly regarded bird watching sanctuaries on the Eastern seashore. Sachuest Point is home to the second largest flock of wintering Harlequin ducks on the Atlantic Coast and is a vital stopover point for many wintering birds.

The refuge has over 40 acres, 3 miles of hiking trails, and fantastic saltwater fishing. This is a great way to get outside and enjoy the quiet outdoors while visiting Newport. 

Tip: Be sure to also check out Norman Bird Sanctuary in Middletown. 

Go For A Walk Along The Newport Cliff Walk 

The cliff walk is a 3.5 mile trail along the rugged Rhode Island coastline. This free attraction is one of the top things to do while visiting Newport thanks to its beautiful views.

Since it runs parallel to famed Bellevue Avenue, it offers excellent views of both the coastline to the east and historic mansions to the west. 

The trail is 3.5 miles in each direction, so you’ll need to plan accordingly. Although, it’s possible to arrange a ride at the end of the trail or take a trolley back into town if you’d rather not walk 7 miles. 

The trail is very rugged and runs close to the rocky shores in some sections. This walk is not for those with mobility issues.

Tips For Hiking The Cliff Walk:

• Wear proper footwear, some sections are very rocky and can be wet.
• Pack sun protection – hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, etc. 
• Bring water and snacks.
• It takes most about 2 hours to walk one direction, keep in mind you may be stopping for lots of photos.
• There are exit points along the trail. More-so on the north end, the south end has very few exit points.  
• The northern half of the walk is paved and easier, the southern half gets very rugged. Consequently, you’ll find more people on the north end than the south. 

Go Golfing

If you love golf, a tee time is a must in Newport!  

Newport has a storied golf history, namely surrounding the Newport Country Club. This club famously held both the first US Amateur Championships and the first US Open in the 1890s, and more recently, the 2006 US Women’s Open.  

Newport is also the home to Jamestown Golf Course, which remains the oldest 9 hole golf course in the United States. 

Rhode Island Red Food Tours

Foodie? You’re in luck, Newport has some incredible dining options.

Join a Rhode Island Red Food Tour and eat where the locals do. Check out favorites tucked away from the city’s main drag, and learn about Newport’s architecture and history as you go. 

You can book this highly popular foodie tour here: Rhode Island Red Food Tour.

The tour cost includes food, so you’re getting a large meal and a walking tour all in one!

Ocean Drive

If you want to see the historic mansions, but would rather not walk (or if you have time to do both, as we did) I highly recommend spending an afternoon cruising Ocean Drive. 

The famous roadway wanders through a picturesque neighborhood overlooking the surrounding ocean.

We enjoyed driving aimlessly through the area while imagining what life must’ve been like here over 100 years ago. 

The drive doesn’t require too much time, we spent about 30 – 40 minutes driving through the area following a mansion tour.

Brenton Point State Park 

Brenton Point State Park is another great attraction for outdoor lovers.

The park offers wide vistas over the Atlantic Ocean, plus plenty of hiking trails and rugged coastline for the public’s enjoyment. The park is located at the island’s southern tip, near the famed Ocean Drive homes. It’s definitely worth a stop while touring the area.

This free park is open 24 hours a day, every day, and is very popular for kite flying.

State Parks Near Newport

If you’re a fan of state parks, be sure to check out the following parks in and near Newport:

• Fort Adams State Park
• Fort Wetherill State Park 
• Beavertail State Park 

Be sure to tour the Beavertail Lighthouse Museum if visiting Beavertail State Park.

Sunset Drinks At Castle Hill 

Located just off Ocean Drive, near Brenton Point State Park, is the highly popular Castle Hill Inn.

Their famous restaurant, The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn, is a great place enjoy drinks (and a sunset!) over the Narragansett Bay.

Cozy up on the grassy hill or an Adirondack chair while enjoying cocktails and light fare. Be sure to grab a reservation beforehand, Castle Hill Inn is always a popular spot.

Tip: While here, take a short walk to the Castle Hill Lighthouse. 

Spend A Day At The Beach

The Ocean State boasts some of the most desirable beaches in the country, and Newport is no exception. 

Spend the day lounging out on a beautiful sandy shore, surrounded by incredible scenery. What more could you ask for in a summer trip to Newport?

The city’s beaches have very creative names: Second Beach, Third Beach, and First Beach (also referred to as Easton’s Beach).

Second Beach is the one we visited, it was excellent.

Each beach has a large parking lot, however, even with plenty of spaces, spots do fill quickly. Be sure to arrive no later than 10 am to avoid parking hassles and snag a good spot!

Tip: Cool off with Del’s Frozen Lemonade during your beach day.

International Tennis Hall Of Fame

The International Tennis Hall of Fame is another one of the top things to do in Newport. 

The museum has excellent exhibits honoring more than 250 inductees, historic grass courts (open to the public to play!), and a gorgeous historic theater dating back to 1882. 

Interestingly, the museum was formerly a local casino with a deep tennis history. In the 50’s it was in danger of being demolished, but was successfully sanctioned by Jimmy Van Alen in 1954. 

Located right in downtown, this is a fantastic stop for those who love the sport.

Sip Local Wine At Newport Vineyards

Enjoy some local wine from Newport Vineyards & Restaurant during your visit. 

This 60 acre vineyard in nearby Middleton, RI — just 15 minutes from Newport — is in a beautiful setting. 

Not only is the wine delicious, but it also has an excellent eatery and local brewery on site, making this an great option if some people in your group aren’t as keen on wine. 

Advance reservations are recommended, especially during summer months.  

You may also like Greenvale Vineyards, another one of the area’s local wineries.

Enjoy One Of Newport’s Many Festivals 

Festival opportunities in Newport are endless.

Just about any weekend, especially in summer, will offer an event where you’re likely to find local food, good music, and flowing cocktails.

Below are some of Newport’s most popular festivals throughout the year: 

• Newport Jazz Festival 
• Newport Folk Festival
• Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival
• Newport Kite Festival  
• Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival 
• Newport International Boat Show

Touro Synagogue National Historic Site

The Touro Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in the United States, opening its doors in 1763.

Tours at this National Historic Site include information regarding the synagogue’s history, interactive exhibits, and access to their beautiful grounds. 

Guided tours times vary throughout the year. Be sure to check their website, Touro Synagogue, before visiting.

Visit The Newport Art Museum

The collections at Newport Art Museum’s celebrate Rhode Island’s rich cultural heritage and dynamic contemporary art scene. Here you’ll find intriguing art from many different styles and eras, and from cultures both near and far. 

The museum’s exhibits are housed in two beautiful and historically significant Newport buildings, which are alone worth seeing.

Be sure to check hours before heading out as they do change fairly regularly: Newport Art Museum.

As you can see, there are so many things to do in Newport, Rhode Island! You’re sure to have the best time in this beautiful city.

Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Looking for more ideas? Check out my additional Rhode Island guides below or head on over to Discover Newport.

More Information For Your Newport Vacation:

• Newport, Rhode Island: Weekend Itinerary
• Top Hotels In Newport, Rhode Island

More Ideas For Your Rhode Island Travels:

• Watch Hill, Rhode Island Guides

More Information For Your New England Travels:

• Connecticut Guides
• Massachusetts Guides
• New Hampshire Guides
• Vermont Guides
• Southern New England Road Trip: 9-Day Itinerary