Newport, Rhode Island
This small city packs an amazing amount of history into a few square miles. Not only does it boast America’s first naval college and first synagogue, its White Horse Tavern has been pulling pints since 1673. In the late 1800s, the super-rich began building ornate mansions along the cliffs south of the city center to escape fetid summers in New York. The New York Yacht Club made Newport its summer headquarters, and the city’s harbor is home to many contenders for the America’s Cup, the most prestigious match race in sailing.
Newport Visitor Information Center • 23 America’s Cup Ave. • 401 845 9123 • open daily
1. The Breakers
Once you’ve toured the gilt- and marble-encrusted interior of this 70-room Italian Renaissance-style mansion completed in 1895, you’ll have an appreciation of the preeminence of the Vanderbilt family – who called it home – among America’s economic aristocracy.The Breakers • 44 Ochre Point Ave. • 401 847 1000 • open daily • adm
2. Cliff Walk
The exhilarating amble along Newport’s east-facing cliffs will have you looking two ways at once – up to the back lawns of the mansions on Bellevue Avenue and down to watch surfers catching waves at Easton’s Beach.
3. International Tennis Hall of Fame
Play tennis on the grass courts where American tournament tennis was born in 1881. The Hall still hosts the only US professional matches played on grass, and its museum chronicles 800 years of tennis history.International Tennis Hall of Fame • 194 Bellevue Ave. • 401 849 3990 • open daily • adm
4. America’s Cup Charters Cruises
Enjoy the beauty of Newport Harbor from the deck of a racing yacht that once competed for the America’s Cup. You may even get to take the wheel.America’s Cup Charters cruises • 401 846 9886 • open May–Oct • adm
5. Rose Island and Lighthouse
Volunteer keepers man this historic lighthouse a mile offshore from Newport. Experienced paddlers often kayak to the island for excellent birding.Rose Island Lighthouse • 401 847 4242 • open daily July–Labor Day
6. Museum of Yachting
Located at Fort Adams, this fascinating facility tells the story of yacht racing in Newport. Photographs, replica miniatures, and trophies fill the galleries. Classic yachts float outside.Museum of Yachting • Fort Adams State Park • 401 847 1018 • open Wed–Mon Jun–Oct • adm
7. Fort Adams State Park
The windy point between Newport Harbor and the Narragansett Bay East Passage is perfect for watching racing sailboats or flying kites. Newport’s famous jazz and folk festivals are held here.Fort Adams State Park • Harrison Ave. • 401 847 2400 • open daily • free
8. Touro Synagogue
The oldest synagogue in the country, spare and elegant Touro Synagogue was constructed in 1763 by religious refugees from Spain and Portugal. Its services still follow Sephardic rites.Touro Synagogue • 85 Touro St • 401 847 4794 • call for tour schedule • adm
9. Washington Square
Colonial-era Newport’s focal point was damaged but not destroyed by British occupiers during the American Revolution. The city’s oldest house (1697) stands nearby.
10. Bowen’s Wharf
You could develop a nautical swagger walking Bowen’s Wharf, the anchor of Newport’s waterfront activity since 1760. Head here for sail or powerboat tours, shopping at retail boutiques, or both casual and fine dining.
Newport Regatta
Usually held in mid-July, the Newport Regatta features racing in more than 20 “One-Design” classes, where boats from all over North America compete against others of like design. It’s quite a thrill seeing more than 250 sleek racing vessels straining before the wind, but sailing is only half the fun, as the regatta is the highlight of Newport’s summer social season that begins at the marinas and spills out to the restaurants and bars.
Tip: An inexpensive RIPTA trolley day pass is the best and most economical way to see Newport. Tip: Look for a truck selling Del’s Lemonade along Thames Street or at Fort Adams State Park.
