Newport, USA: Beauty on the Sea
Newport, Rhode Island is a charming New England city, known for its mansions and beaches. The area was historically a summer retreat for the nation’s elite and is known as the sailing capital of the world. Visitors to this city will never run out of things to do because there is so much historical and natural wonder to explore. Also, since the city is within a few hours’ drive of centres like Boston and Providence, it is easy to make the city a stopover during a much larger holiday in the area.
Events and Festivals
Summertime in Newport brings about countless events and festivals that are sure to fill the city’s hotels. These events include the Newport Jazz Festival, a world-renowned event that takes place in late July or early August at Fort Adams State Park, and the Newport Music Festival, which is held in July and features some of the country’s top classical musicians. Other summer events include Taste of Rhode Island and the International Great Chowder Cook-Off, each of which allow guests to sample local cuisine and learn about the city. Of course, these events aren’t confined to the summer months, as the Newport Winter Festival, a 10-day event in February that is known as New England’s largest winter extravaganza, always attracts large crowds. Any visitors heading to RI for these events are encouraged to book a hotel room in advance.
Explore the Many Beaches
Due to its seafront location, Newport, RI is home to many beaches. Most visitors to the city will spend time on the public beaches, such as Easton’s, Fort Adams, and King’s. These beaches are quite scenic and have barbecue areas so that visitors can eat lunch without having to find a restaurant. Easton’s Beach is rather large and also has a playground and an aquarium on-site. Keep in mind that while Easton’s Beach is within walking distance of the downtown hotels, the other two are a bit further away. The other option is to visit a private beach. Gooseberry Beach, while private, is open for public use. It also has chair rentals and showers on the premises. Hazard Beach and Bailey’s Beach require a membership to visit and use the facilities and, therefore, usually aren’t used by visitors to the city.
Plenty of Outdoor Activities
Newport is a great place for those seeking to spend time outdoors in Rhode Island, particularly those who enjoy water sports. Sailing, fishing, and yacht charters are readily available throughout the summer months, and it is also possible to take sailing and boating courses. Dinner cruises head out into the harbour daily, as well, while those who want to do something a little livelier can try surfing or scuba diving. It is sometimes possible to receive a pickup from hotels in the city when doing an excursion. As with other areas that cater to the wealthy, Newport is home to some exclusive golf courses. Newport National Golf Club is a public course that is scenic and accessible. When golfing the course, players often feel like they are on their own island, due to its secluded nature. Newport Country Club has hosted numerous PGA events, although guests aren’t able to golf there unless they have a member to accompany them.
History and Museums
The historic mansions found throughout Newport are something to behold, as they offer a glimpse into the past of this area. The Breakers is perhaps the most famous, as it was the summer home of Cornelius Vanderbilt II, a well-known socialite and businessman from New York. Other mansions that might be worth exploring include Belcourt Castle, Astor’s Beechwood Mansion, Chepstow, Hunter House, Marble House, and Rough Point. It is possible to take a tour of these mansions and often times events are held there, as well. More information is available on these tours at the city’s hotels. A number of museums are located within Newport city limits, starting with the International Tennis Hall of Fame. This venue has plenty of displays that showcase the sport’s past, along with a tennis court. The Museum of Yachting is also popular, as it provides information on one of the area’s top pastimes, while the Newport Art Museum features exhibits from both local and national artists.
The Cliff Walk
The Cliff Walk is one of the more notable sites in Newport, RI. This 5.6-kilometre long walkway is right along the side of a cliff and has some of the best views in New England. Wildlife is highly visible along this walk, as well, and many of the area’s mansions can be seen on the other side of the wall. Transportation might be necessary when heading to this area from the hotels since it is a fair distance from the downtown core. Forty Steps is part of the Cliff Walk and is a renowned RI attraction. This venue is a set of staircases that lead to the ocean that sits below them. Long ago, these steps were the meeting place of the servants who worked in the mansions. They would take the steps to the ocean, where they would cook, hold dances, and escape their lives in Newport for a few hours. Today, the bottom of these steps is an excellent place to enjoy views of the ocean and provides a wonderful day away from the hotel.