Newport, Rhode Island
How far is it: 90 minutes from Boston
We can’t guarantee that the Cliff Walk will be free of snow, but we can promise you won’t be shuffling behind throngs of tourists. And the 10-mile drive (full of explorable favorites like The Breakers and Rough Point mansions) is a lot more pleasant when you’re not starting and stopping for two hours.
Where to stay: The party starts at Gurney’s, a glam hotel on its own little island with Newport’s only outdoor pool and primo sunset views (and two pet goats!). Or dip into your savings for a splurge at Castle Hill Inn -- even though the lawn doesn’t officially open until Memorial Day, you can still grab an Adirondack and watch the sailboats go by.
What to do: Hit up the jazz brunch at One Bellevue inside Hotel Viking, or take a schooner cruise of the harbor -- sails start at the end of April. Fulfill a bucket list item and take some surfing lessons in nearby Narragansett with Warm Wind -- thanks to the magic of wetsuits, you can hit the surf year-round. And prepare for festivals aplenty: the Newport Daffodil Days Festival April 13-21, the Craft Beer FestivalApril 26-27, and the Waterfront Oyster Festival May 17-19.
See full story by Meaghan Agnew on Thrillist.com.
