Where to Stay:
For a quintessential Newport escape, check into Hotel Viking. The city’s grande dame has welcomed guests since 1926 and recently emerged from an extensive top-to-bottom renovation just in time for its centennial celebrations, blending its Jazz Age heritage with fresh, contemporary interiors, thoughtfully redesigned guest rooms, and reimagined public spaces. The location, meanwhile, is pretty tough to beat: The Cliff Walk, Newport Mansions, Thames Street, and the harbor are all within an easy stroll. Retreat to the rooftop bar for sweeping views over Newport’s rooftops and Narragansett Bay, unwind by the indoor pool, linger over cocktails in the Skoal Room, and brunch the next morning at the New England-tropical Pescadou. The result is a stay that feels unmistakably Newport.
A guest room at Hotel Viking
What to See:
Perhaps more important than the land in Newport is the sea. There is no better way to experience Newport Harbor than aboard a 65-foot America’s Cup 12-meter yacht, like the 1958 winner Columbia, at sunset. 12 Meter Yacht Charters offers two-hour sails, three-hour racing experiences and private charters, allowing guests to help trim the sails or simply sit back and enjoy the views of grand waterfront estates, bustling marinas and Newport’s legendary sailing scene. Of course, no visit is complete without touring the famed Newport Mansions. For a Downton Abbey-esque look behind the scenes, The Elms‘ popular “Servant Life” tour reveals the hidden corridors, coal tunnels and upstairs quarters that kept these lavish estates running, or Rough Point, the former home of Doris Duke. The International Tennis Hall of Fame remains one of the city’s must-see attractions, combining beautifully restored Gilded Age architecture with interactive exhibits celebrating the sport’s greatest champions.
The terrace at Giusto restaurant
Where to Shop:
Shopping in Newport rivals boating as a favorite pastime. Thames Street remains lined with independent boutiques selling everything from coastal-inspired fashion to locally made jewelry and home goods. Bellevue Avenue offers a mix of established retailers and stylish specialty shops, while Bannister’s Wharf is ideal for browsing nautical décor, art galleries and upscale resort wear overlooking the harbor (don’t miss the Kiel James Patrick flagship store and home decor spot Homeport. Monelle sells pretty beach- and dinner-ready dresses from brands that include Xirena and LoveShackFancy, gifts for hosts, and its own line of fine jewelry. Don’t miss Mandarine. Between shops, leave time to wander the side streets—you’ll find charming bookstores, gourmet food shops and local artisan boutiques tucked into historic buildings throughout downtown.
Hotel Viking’s rooftop bar Cap Club
Where to Eat:
Begin the morning with a matcha from The Nitro Bar before wandering Newport’s historic streets. For lunch, settle into the White Horse Tavern, established in 1673 and widely regarded as America’s oldest operating restaurant, where New England classics like Rhode Island clam chowder and fresh local seafood are served in a centuries-old dining room.
For dinner, reserve a table at Giusto, one of Newport’s most acclaimed restaurants. Located on Hammetts Wharf overlooking the harbor, the restaurant has quickly become a destination for its “freestyle Italian” menu that celebrates New England ingredients through handmade pastas, pristine local seafood and beautifully composed seasonal dishes. The all-Italian wine list and waterfront setting make it equally suited for a celebratory evening or a leisurely meal after a day exploring the city.
If there’s time for one final stop, head to the Castle Hill Inn, a 19th century Victorian mansion-turned-Relais & Chateaux property, just before sunset. Even if you’re not staying for dinner, its Adirondack chairs overlooking Narragansett Bay remain one of the best places in Newport to toast the end of the day with a cocktail as sailboats glide across the horizon.
