30 Unique & Fun Things To Do In Newport (Rhode Island)

Looking to catch fun, entertainment, and have a deep rich feel of history, craftsmanship, and innovation all at once, then Newport is the right place for you!

Walking the streets of Newport gives you that kind of special feeling of their ancient culture and lifestyle like you were the city’s first inhabitants.

How about talking about the local eateries where you are privileged to taste and eat freshly harvested oysters from nearby waters?

The city has many things to offer you while you are there.

However, Newport, also known as the “City by the Sea,” is enriched with ancient architectural masterpieces and long sailing history.

The beautiful sights and fun don’t end here. Therefore, we’ve created a list of the best and most enjoyable things to do in Newport.

Things To Do In Newport, RI

1. The National Museum of American Illustration

A museum and also a mansion. Visiting the National Museum Of American Illustration is taking on double fun at the same time.

Just founded in 1998, this Newport mansion is the only one of its kind in the United States.

A great collection of original works of art and paintings by iconic Gilded Age Artists is readily available for display.

Immediately you enter, you’ll be shown a short introductory film that offers you an overview of the collection.

Then, as you walk around the rooms and marvel at the art, each visitor is given a tablet with headphones that serve as a guide.

It’s fantastic since you can read or listen to music while walking at your own pace. This is helpful because the estate is loaded with artwork, and it allows the visitor to see it all.

Some of the famous artists you get to see their work on display include Norman Rockwell, Howard Pyle, Violet Oakley, etc.

The collections are as iconic as the mansion itself.

This Newport Mansion is just one of the most beautiful places you can visit.

Address: 492 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

2. Newport Helicopters Tours

Arguably the biggest and most memorable fun and the best thing to do in Rhode Island, this incredible experience is not to be missed!

A mix of the comfort and awe that comes with flying with the Newport helicopter tours to see the fine view and get to catch all in just one flight is just too beautiful to be told the story about; what’s better than you experiencing it yourself?

To make it more educative, it would be advisable to get a tour guide on the flight with you.

Also, you can book the helicopter as an individual, a couple, a group, and even as a family.

However, you can customize the tour packages to include the attraction you want to see.

The mansion tour, the island tour, and the lighthouse tour are just a few very exciting tours available.

Address: 211 Airport Access RD, Middletown, RI 02842, United States

3. Newport Classic Car Tours

Do you want to tour Newport in another adventurous and exotic way? Newport Classic Car Tours is your go-to.

Tourists can have a private guided and driven tour of Newport as passengers in a classic automobile provided by the institution.

They also provide private classic automobile rentals, allowing you to cruise around town at your leisure. You control the pace, choose the route, and, best of all, sit in the driver’s seat when you rent a classic car.

The cars available for touring include A 1966 Mustang, a 1962 Thunderbird, a 1929 Model A, and a 1924 Studebaker.

Peradventure, you are out in Newport with your partner, and you want to enjoy Newport Classic Car Tours.

It’s recommended you do it at the night—extreme fun, romantic, and mind-blowing experience.

Address: 23 America’s Cup Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

4. Newport Classic Boat Cruise

Anyone visiting Newport or in Newport already must have a taste of the classic boat cruise readily available in Newport.

Being nicknamed “City by the Sea” goes beyond a city just by the sea, but it encompasses many fun things you can do by and on the sea — one of which is a boat cruise.

Sight Sailing in Newport is available anytime, in the morning, afternoon, and evening. While sailing, you get to see breathtaking views of Rhode Island and Narragansett Bay.

You don’t need to worry about your budget anything as there are private and public charters.

Looking to catch maximum fun with tourists like you, take the public charter. But if you need a confidential sail where you can have the most pleasing and romantic type with your partner, take the private sail.

It will be one of the most romantic experiences you will ever experience, amongst other things to do in Newport.

5. Naval War College Museum

America has ten museums operated by the US NAVY, and one of them is the Naval War College Museum located in Rhode Island.

The Naval War College Museum, founded in 1884, provides visitors and tourists the opportunity to educate themselves on historic Naval equipment, historical exhibits and gain firsthand knowledge and experiences on active Naval equipment.

Some of the things you get to experience at this museum include the origin of the naval base, unique model ships, the island used for torpedo testing, and many more.

It is such a great place with significant history!

Address: Luce Ave, Newport, RI 02841, United States

6. Ocean Drive

How do 10 miles of pure, lovely, and blissful sightseeing sound to you? Ocean Drive is the perfect place to experience that.

You can start your journey from different locations. If you are starting from downtown, begin at the intersection of Thanes Street and Wellington Avenue.

And if you are starting from Bellevue Avenue, begin at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Coggeshall Avenue at the very end of Bellevue Avenue.

As you drive along, roll down your windows not only to catch a glimpse of the beautiful sceneries along the coastline properly, but also to enjoy the relaxing sound of sweeping waves crashing on the scoreline.

Address: Newport, RI 02840, United States

7. Marble House

This magnificent Marble House mansion was designed by Richard Morris Hunt in the Beaux-art style and took four years (1888 – 1892) to build it.

The history behind this mansion is quite a controversial one. William K. Vanderbilt gifted his wife, Alva, the mansion as a birthday gift, but shortly afterward, they divorced.

The house interior is characterized by riches and wealth, from the beautiful ceiling murals, chandeliers, carved and gilded woodwork, and a grand staircase — but none is as glamorous as the ballroom, which is built with gold.

However, be sure to download the Marble house mansion app on your phone, as the tour of the building is self-guided.

The tickets cost $16 for adults, while children between the ages of 6 – 17 costs $8 and are free for children under six years of age.

Address: 596 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

8. Newport Beach

Newport city being nicknamed “City by the Sea” is not just a mere coincidence. Going to the beach is one of the best and most fun things you can do while still in Newport.

It is a clean, safe, and beautiful area for children and adults. The beach seashore is large enough to stroll around with your family or partner.

It also has a playground for kids to play while taking a break from the water.

And when hunger sets in, worry less because you can just head to the snack bar located on the beach and get yourself something to eat and munch on.

Sweet and easily accessible.

9. The Elms

Built by the coal baron Edward Berwind, The Elms is a beautiful masterpiece adorned with paintings and furnishings from the Gilded Age Era.

The glittering marbles also add to the already exotic mansion.

A walk through the interiors of The Elms is “A Walk of Art.” This tour is even made easy for you because a self-guided audio tour is made readily available.

The interior is not the only beautiful thing about The Elms.

Have you seen the gardens? Just like Alice, it is surely going to be a wonderland for you. Be sure to check out the gardens while you are there.

Address: 367 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

10. Cliff Walk

Looking to catch all the beauty of Newport all at once, the cliff walk is the perfect avenue for you to do so.

On one side, there are panoramic ocean vistas, crashing waves, and just the right amount of sea breeze; on the other, there are gorgeous, century-old Gilded Age houses.

If you have the strength, you can walk the whole cliff — it will take you about 2.5 to 3 hours.

But if you don’t, there are exits stationed at strategic places along the cliff; you can take any of them out.

11. Fort Adams State Park

Another beautiful place to explore in Newport is Fort Adams State Park.

Established during the American Civil War, Fort Adams served as a coastal fortification for the United States Army at that time. However, it is a part of the park today.

More importantly, if you are a lover of military history, you just have to visit Fort Adams. You’ll learn a lot about the design and history of the fort and get to see the historic interior of the fort.

Also, if you know a lot about cars and you are looking for a place to admire vehicles, observe them physically and closely. Fort Adams State Park is your go-to park.

There are a lot of rare and mind-blowing cars on display for you to feed your eyes.

Address: 80 Fort Adams Dr, Newport, RI 02840, United States

12. Newport History Museum

Are you a lover of art? If yes, then Newport History Museum should be on your bucket list of things to do in Newport.

Aside from learning and admiring a beautiful work of art, you get to see Newport in prehistoric times and live those historical moments.

It is surely a beautiful place to be to feel alive in history.

Address: 127 Thames St, Newport, RI 02840, United States

13. Newport Art Museum

One of the most glamorous places to visit in Newport is still the Newport Art Museum. Tourists from far and near can’t help but visit the museum during their stay in Newport.

Since its inception in 1912, the Newport Art Museum has been a cultural powerhouse in Rhode Island.

The contents, arts, artifacts inside this museum are a must-see not only for art lovers but for everyone. Beautiful stuff that will surely wow you.

Some of them are: 3,000 works of art, ranging in mediums from sculptures and paintings to decorative arts and installation works, as well as paper works like watercolors and photographs, which are on display as part of the museum’s distinctive permanent collections.

Address: 76 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

14. The Breakers

Newport is home to many mansions, but the Breakers have to be the grandest of them all. The Breakers is a four-story structure with a whopping 70 rooms in it.

An extraordinarily magnificent mansion with a fascinating history and backstory. Like the Newport Art and History Museum, the Breakers is another place to visit for lovers of arts and antiques.

Sequel to its magnificent furniture and furnishings is the huge garden just outside the mansion.

A very spacious garden that can be used even for commercial farming. It is worth seeing!

Address: 44 Ochre Point Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

15. International Tennis Hall of Fame

Another beautiful one for sports lovers! Newport is home to the International Tennis Hall Of Fame.

You are also right if you say it is the birthplace of American Tournament Tennis. It celebrates tennis players as well as other contributors to the sport.

The property, which includes a museum, grass tennis courts, and an indoor tennis facility, formerly known as the Newport Casino.

The Hall of Fame houses a large museum dedicated to the rich history of tennis as told through the lives and careers of the Hall of Famers.

Exhibits include a big assortment of art, fashion, photography, and movies. It also includes an incredible collection of memorabilia from tennis’ greatest moments and most inspiring champions.

The most interesting part for me in all these; is the collection of videos at the International Tennis Hall of fame disposal — legendary and iconic.

It might be your favorite too. Who knows?

Address: 194 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

16. Kingscote

There are a lot of mansions in Newport. Amongst them is the Kingscote Mansion.

The building is also known for its special architectural structure, which is the American Gothic Revival style.

Though a small mansion, it contains deep details of the American colonial era, with many unique rooms on the inside.

If you are going to visit Kingscote, be sure to go with a tour guide.

It will be of immense value to you because the tour guide will explain everything you need to know about the historic mansion in detail.

Address: 253 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

Planning a road trip outside of Newport? Be sure to check our lists of things to do in Cranston and Providence!

17. Trinity Church

Religion has always been and will always be a part of human history.

It is no different in Newport, as the Trinity Church in Newport appears to be the ideal model for a New England village church.

This awesome church that towers just over Newport also has a ton of history to its name.

From being the oldest Episcopal Church in the United States, to have had very important personalities worshipped at the church — personalities like George Washington and General Rochambeau during the revolution.

The church has an ancient organ dated back to 1733, which was once played by George Frideric Handel.

Even after many wars and revolutions, some of which have its way into the church, still, there is a crown above the organ and Union Jack-shaped woodwork above the rear pews.

Queen Anne’s bell, also found in the church, is said to be the first church bell that rang in New England.

Address: 1 Queen Anne Square, Newport, RI 02840, United States

18. Touro Synagogue

Big historical site you have here!

Touro Synagogue is the oldest surviving synagogue building in the United States and the only surviving synagogue building in the United States originating from the colonial period.

It is also the oldest surviving Jewish synagogue building in North America.

Though old, it is still very much active. Perhaps if you are still around at the time of their services, you can come in to check it out and get an amazing glimpse into Jewish history.

You needn’t worry about its location because it is just right in the middle of town.

The synagogue is also a national symbol of civil liberty, having received George Washington’s pledge in 1790 that the new nation would protect religious freedom for all religions.

A historic Jewish cemetery, dating from 1677, is also part of this National Historic Site.

Address: 85 Touro St, Newport, RI 02840, United States

19. Chateau-Sur-Mer

It is no more news that Newport is home to many mansions.

Earlier in this list, you would have come across some of them, such as The Breakers, the Elms, and Marble house.

However, another in the collection of mansions that can be found in Newport is the Chateau-sur-Mer.

Chateau-sur-Mer is different from any other mansion you might have come across in Newport because it has a bit of French taste and style.

Inside Chateau-sur-Mer, you get to see a lot of colorful and beautiful paints, wallpapers, and ornamentals.

Walking through the interiors of this mansion is like going on a treasure hunt as it is plagued with beautiful and expensive works of art.

Address: 474 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

20. Rosecliff Mansion

The Rosecliff Mansion is another beautiful and exceptional place you want to be in Rhode Island.

The Rosecliff Mansion was built between 1898 and 1902 and was designed by Stanford White of the McKim, Mead & White architectural firm.

It was home to Theresa Fair Oelrichs, an American socialite and daughter of James Graham Fair, a multimillionaire silver miner, and her husband, Hermann Oelrichs, a successful shipping magnate.

It is one of the visitors’ favorite places to be in Rhode Island because of its exotic exoticness and glamorous appearance.

The beautiful flowers adorned the mansion, giving it a scenic and heavenly feeling.

The Rosecliff Mansion is your safest bet if you are looking for a serene environment to chill or stroll with your loved ones.

Just walk and allow yourself to feel the soothing nature of the flowers, the calmness they speak and ooze; that can be found therapeutic.

What if you now wait till sunset and see the sun setting from the mansion? Surely might be the most beautiful view you will ever come across in your lifetime.

Address: 548 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

21. Rough Point

Another magnificent mansion in Rhode Island, the Rough Point, is home to many arts and antiques alike. It was just available for touring recently.

The Rough Point mansion is a very recent historical site because Heiress Doris Duke spent her summers here until her death in 1993 when she gave it out to Newport Restoration Foundation, the same foundation she had founded to protect historic homes.

A tour of the Rough point mansion will allow you to see and behold some of the Heiress’s personal works of art and her antique collections.

Aside from the exotic interior collection is also the beautiful exterior of the mansion. Beautiful gardens, a place you can picnic and also get to see the ocean.

Address: 680 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

22. Thames Street

A visit to Thames street, downtown Newport is just the best thing you can do while in Newport. Its Name, Thames Street, is derived from the Thames River in London, England.

This historic street allows you to consume most of the attractions Newport is known for in just a walk.

Both the left side and the right side of the street are laced with different kinds of bars, restaurants, shops, historical sites, and Newport magnificent mansions, among others.

Some of the sites you can look out for while walking around Thame Street are: Newport Steam Factory, The John Stevens Shop, Samuel Whitehorne House, Francis Malbone House, etc.

If you are visiting Thames street, you can avoid driving if you have to because the street is always busy and there will always be some sort of festivities or the other going on.

Besides, driving through the street will take you just about 5 – 7 minutes; and I can specifically tell you this won’t be enough for you to absorb the beautiful view the street has to offer. Therefore, I will recommend walking while on Thames Street.

Thames Street holds everything Newport is known for. We can call it the pinnacle of attractions in Newport.

23. Hunter House, Newport

The Hunter House in Newport is another magnificent example of mid-eighteenth-century Georgian Colonial architecture from Newport’s “golden age.”

Jonathan Nichols, a shipowner, had the house erected in 1748.

The property has been beautifully restored and contains remarkable internal elements, including five fully paneled rooms.

Several pieces by cabinetmakers Townsend and Goddard, as well as Gilbert Stuart’s first commissioned oil painting, are among the period furnishings and art.

The house is also very close to the water and you can get a good view of the ocean from the entrance.

Address: 54 Washington St, Newport, RI 02840, United States

24. Newport Vineyards

A huge vineyard for whatever you want to do, Newport Vineyards is all-encompassing. This allows it to attract visitors and tourists all over the US and beyond.

The vineyard is a very large area of land of about 60-acre; it is beautiful, clean, and well kept.

In the vineyard is a winery, a brewery, and a restaurant — all well neatly set and easily accessible.

The most fun part is the brewery and the winery because you get to taste freshly brewed and locally made wine.

This place is exquisite for couples. Just take your partner along, request for tastings in the winery and see the difference in you and your partner’s wine tastes. One can’t be absolutely right though because we all have different tastes and what signals our taste buds send to our brain differs.

Finally, the gift shop sells to-go bottles of all the vineyard’s wine and brews, so you can purchase any of your favorite wine when leaving the vineyards.

Address: 909 E Main Rd, Middletown, RI 02842, United States

25. Samuel Whitehorne House Museum

This is another beautiful colonial architectural masterpiece. Every house, museum, and mansion in Newport is just magnificent, and Samuel Whitehorne House is no exception.

Although it had become a tenement and its interior had changed dramatically, enough of its structure and detail remained – including parts of original hand-painted silk wall coverings – that restorers were able to restore it to its previous state.

Samuel Whitehorne House is known for its aesthetically well-crafted furniture works and cabinets.

However, as most ancient and original works have been replaced, there is still enough to feed the eyes in its interiors.

Its structure remains intact as well as fragments of some furniture can still be seen also silk paintings hanging around the walls of the house are still as beautiful as they were first painted.

Address: 416 Thames St, Newport, RI 02840, United States

26. Narragansett Bay

It is all about water and everything you can do on water here. The Narragansett Bay is home to endless fun.

Sailing, fishing, kayaking, talk about anything that will get you dripping wet with water. Narragansett Bay is the surest deal.

You can also rent canoes, kayaks, boats and jet skis to catch maximum fun.

The Bay is also full of amazing and beautiful islands with rich histories.

Some of these islands you will get to see while at the bay includes: Prudence Island, Patience Island, Hog Island, etc.

At Narragansett Bay, it is all just fun.

27. Bowen’s Wharf, Newport

The centre of hot, bustling fun, Bowen’s Wharf, is a beautiful wonderland to get lost in.

If you are someone who catches fun a lot, then find your way to Bowen’s wharf. You don’t have to worry about what time you visit too because the fun doesn’t stop.

Bowen’s Wharf is one of many excellent areas of interest in Rhode Island, with loads of places to visit around and surrounding it.

Harbor tours, cultural excursions, charter boats, fishing trips, and train experiences are just a few of the various sightseeing opportunities available at the wharf.

For the boats and the restaurants, they are just mind-blowing.

Along the streets of Bowen’s Wharf are beautiful shops stocked with beautiful souvenirs, not to talk about the many restaurants, ice cream stores, lively bars, and many more.

Address: Bowen’s Wharf, Bowens Wharf, Newport, RI 02840, United States

28. Castle Hill Lighthouse

Lighthouses are always beautiful houses to come across, and Castle Hill Lighthouse is no exception.

Castle Hill Lighthouse is not one of those infamous gigantic lighthouses. Still, it is a sight to behold in Newport.

Till today, it is still in service as a navigational aid for seafarers and is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Rhode Island.

Although the interior of the lighthouse isn’t open to the public, the 15-30-minute stroll around the lighthouse will definitely be worth your time.

There are still many beautiful things about Castle Hill, like the amazing views and photo opportunities.

Address: 800-870 Ocean Ave, Newport, RI 02840, United States

29. Local Eateries, Newport

The hub of classic locally made food and delicacies. Though well known for its Gilded age mansions, cliff walks, etc.

The story you will tell about Newport will be incomplete if you don’t include its local eateries and restaurants.

Fresh seafood hauled from local waters are readily available. The clam shacks, lobster rolls, and oysters, not to talk about the catch of the day, presented alongside a smorgasbord of fresh, farm-to-table fare will want to leave your tongue rolling out of your mouth.

What’s more beautiful about the eateries are their specificities.

There are spots for calm shacks alone, lobster rolls alone, oysters alone, and there are even spots for where to brunch and munch on other kinds of seafood, ice-cream bars, and many more.

A visit to Newport restaurants and eateries is a visit your tongue will be forever grateful for.

30. Festivals

Newport is home to many cultural heritages. It is not surprising there are tons of festivals held in Newport, Rhode Island every year.

There are a lot of festivals that take place in this iconic city, but I will be sure to put you some that you will find most fun and fascinating.

The International Boat Show takes place every year, with 13 acres of sailboats dotting the bay like clockwork. It takes place every September 15 – 18.

The annual Newport Daffodil Days Festival attracts up to 1 million daffodils every April. It takes place between April 1 – 30.

The Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals, where legendary musicians come to perform. It is also always very emotional because, during this time, fine memories are created. It takes place between July 22 – 31 every year.

Other festivals include:

Newport Classical Music Festival (July 1 – 17);

Flower Show (June 17 -19);

International Polo (June 4);

Oyster Festival (May 21 – 22);

And the always beautiful Christmas at Blithewold (November 29 – January 9), among others.

 

Final Remarks

Planning Your Trip to Newport Just Got Better

The perfect place for whatever you want to do and whoever you want to visit with.

Is it your partner, friends, family, or you alone? Newport, Rhode Island, is definitely sure to meet your needs.

I know you already have a list of what you want to do.

Still, it won’t be a bad idea to add some of these best and most fun things I already discussed to your bucket list.

Have the best experience you can ever have!

Wishing you a safe and happy journey.