With nearly 400 years of history under our belts, you better believe we celebrate the Fourth of July in a big way here on The Classic Coast.

Each year, the city puts on an Independence Day celebration complete with a 21 gun salute, tours of the historic Old Colony House, a reading of the Declaration of Independence and more. This year will be significant as it also marks America's 250th celebration

Not to mention the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the country in Bristol, four different firework shows, and plus, get the best seat in the house for fireworks aboard a number of harbor cruises.

Our top picks for your seaside Fourth of July below. 

MAJOR CELEBRATIONS

Annual Bristol Fourth of July Parade

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Where:
Begins at the corner of Chestnut Street and Hope Street, Bristol
When:
July 4, 2026 at 10:30 AM
Cost:
Free

The oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the country, the Bristol Fourth of July Parade begins at the corner of Chestnut Street and Hope Street (Rt. 114) and ends on High Street, between State Street and Bradford Streets.

Bristol Fourth of July Parade

 
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Newport Independence Day Celebration

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Where:
Colony House, Newport
When:
July 4, 2026
Cost:
Free

A celebration of our country's independence, featuring:

9:00 AM: A Ceremony by the Aquidneck Island Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution at the grave site of Willam Ellery, Newport signer of the Declaration of Independence. Wreath laying and musket firing by the Artillery Company of Newport Common Burying Ground on Farewell Street.
 
9:00 AM: Opening of the Colony House for inspection hosted by the Newport Historical Society. Open from 9:00 - 11:00 AM. The Colony House will open the first and second floors to explore. 
 
10:00 AM: A Patriotic Band Concert by the Newport Community Band, Eisenhower Park in Washington Square. Bring a chair and enjoy the music.
 
11:00 AM: Recreation of the first Rhode Island reading of the Declaration of Independence from the steps of the Colony House by Roy Lauth, President of the Rhode Island Society Sons of the Revolution, steps of the Colony House, Wahington Square.
 
11:30 AM: Concert of traditional Colonial music by the Pawtuxet Rangers fife line in Eisenhower Park.
 
12:00 PM: Twenty-one gun salute to the Nation by the Artillery Company of Newport using cannons cast by Paul Revere. Bells will ring from the Colony House and churches throughout the City of Newport. Cannons will fire from Fort Adams and other locations throughout the city.

Continuing a years long tradition, The Colony House will be open from 9:00 AM for visitors to explore the first floor.

 

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Fourth of July Independence Day Reading Newport

Celebrate the Fourth at Fort Adams

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Where:
Fort Adams State Park, Newport
When:
July 4, 2026 from 6:00 - 10:00 PM
Cost:
Free

Celebrate America’s 250th at Fort Adams State Park with an unforgettable evening of live music, family fun, and the best view of Newport’s spectacular harbor fireworks.

Gates open at 6:00 PM on Saturday, July 4th, with live music from 6:30 – 9:00 PM (artist to be announced). As the sun sets, settle in for a fireworks display beginning around 9:15 PM—one of the most iconic views in Newport.

 

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Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence

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Where:
Bicentennial Green at Old Stone Bridge, Main Road, Tiverton
When:
July 4, 2026 from 9:00 - 9:30 AM

This public reading is not like any other; those present are encouraged to read a marked passage from the Declaration so “We the People” can all participate!

Prior to the reading, a brief history of events of past years, including those leading up to the creation of the Declaration are recounted. Held rain or shine.

 

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Jamestown Independence Day Celebration

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Where:
East Ferry, Jamestown
When:
July 6, 2026
Cost:
Free

Make your way to East Ferry in Jamestown for their annual Independence Day Celebration. Think: fireworks show, live music from The Next Stop and the Jamestown Community Band, patriotic fun, and so much more!

  • Music in Memorial Square kicks off at 7:00 PM
  • Fireworks Display begins at 9:00 PM

 

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FIREWORK EXPEREINCES

PATRIOTIC EVENTS

Bristol Fourth Concert Series

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Where:
Roger Williams University, Bristol
When:
June 21 - July 2, 2026

Bristol Fourth of July Concert Series is back in Independence Park in downtown Bristol from June 21 - July 2, 2026.

THE SCHEDULE

  • June 21: 7 Day Weekend
  • June 22: Two Across | Amber Rose & The Renegades
  • June 23: East Bay Summer Wind Ensemble | Heartland Band
  • June 24: Bristol County Chorus | Beat Salad | Colby James & The Ramblers
  • June 25: Jon Tyler Tro | Mr. Chubb
  • June 26: Mt. Hope High School Showcase | The Back Burners | Eratoxica
  • June 27: Navy Band Northeast Rhode Island Sound Popular Band | AK Cody & The Wicked Northmen
  • June 28: Karaoke Competition Finals | Los Burros | Andre & The Giants
  • June 29: Motion Avenue | Reload-Rock 'N' Roll Recharged
  • June 30: Back in the Day
  • July 1: 88th Army Band | David Tessier's All-Star Band
  • July 2: Michelle Saylors Band | Timeless

 

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Independence Weekend Kickoff Party at Newport Marriott

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Where:
Newport Marriott Hotel & Spa, Newport
When:
July 3, 2026 from 3:00 - 7:00 PM

Celebrate Independence Day weekend a day early at Newport Marriott’s Hideaway Terrace

Enjoy a specially curated prix-fixe BBQ menu featuring summer favorites, alongside refreshing seasonal cocktails. The party starts at 3:00 PM, but the terrace opens at noon if you'd like to arrive early and ease into the afternoon!

 

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Newport Classical Music Festival: Patriotic Pops with Fenway Brass and Percussion

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Where:
King Park, Newport
When:
July 4, 2026 at 8:00 PM
Cost:
Free

Make your way to King Park for a relaxed open-air concert to kick off your Fourth of July festivities (and the Newport Classical Music Festival!).

Fenway Quintet is one of the Boston Area’s most esteemed professional brass quintets. Come celebrate America’s birthday by listening to instruments that helped define this country’s sound.

Bring your whole family, get cozy, and stay for the fireworks right after. 

 

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The Vanderbilt Fourth of July Roof Deck Soirée

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Where:
The Vanderbilt, Newport
When:
July 4, 2026 from 7:00 - 10:00 PM
Cost:
$260 per ticket

Get into the Fourth of July spirit with a perfect summer night spent on the Roof Deck at The Vanderbilt.

Take in sweeping views of Newport Harbor and get a front row seat to the annual harbor fireworks show. Enjoy an open bar and light bites as you take in the sounds of live DJ entertainment at one of Newport's best 4th of July celebration.

 

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Fourth of July American Cookout & Fireworks at the Pavilion

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Where:
Newport Harbor Island Resort, Newport
When:
July 4, 2026 from 6:00 - 10:00 PM
Cost:
$55 per adult (inclusive of tax & gratuity), $25 per child under 10 (inclusive of tax & gratuity)

Kick off July 4th Weekend at Newport Harbor Island Resort's American Cookout at The Pavilion. Enjoy a delicious spread, live grilling, and live music, all set against the backdrop of the Newport Bridge.

 

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Guided tour of Patriots and Loyalists in the Common Burying Ground

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Where:
Island Cemetery, Newport
When:
July 4, 2026 at 9:00 AM
Cost:
Free to Attend

Newport was an important city during the American War of Independence. Everyone in the city was directly affected during the war years and the tour will feature selected people that reflect what many were experiencing. Meet loyalists, patriots, soldiers and politicians who lived and died in the fight for independence.

The tour will begin at the Warner Street entrance to the site. Parking is available in the neighborhood.

The July 4th tour will start at 9:00 AM at the grave of William Ellery.

 

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Independence Cup: Newport International Polo Series

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Where:
Newport International Polo Series, Portsmouth
When:
July 4, 2026 from 1:00 - 8:00 PM
Cost:
Lawn: $25, Tables: $70-280, Tailgate: $125, Chalet: $150, Children: Free

The Independence Cup brings America’s 250th anniversary to life at Newport Polo with a day of picnicking, patriotic style, live music, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence.

Enjoy a stirring national anthem performance, followed by the recognition of active military in uniform (who are invited to attend at no charge), and march in the Color Guard to honor the spirit of service and sacrifice.

Newport Polo

 

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Linden Place's Annual Picnic

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Where:
Linden Place, Bristol
When:
July 4, 2026
Cost:
SOLD OUT

Located at the center of the parade route, there is no place like Linden Place on the 4th of July!

On Saturday, July 4, 2026, Linden Place, a historic mansion in the heart of Bristol, will host its annual Fourth of July Parade Picnic, a tradition for over 30 years!

Picnic-goers will enjoy bleacher-style seating, tables and chairs under the shade of the Linden trees, a continental breakfast and picnic lunch, restroom facilities and plenty of elbow room! Tour the mansion, stroll the gardens and enjoy every moment of Bristol’s festive atmosphere.

This picnic always sells out so don’t miss Bristol’s biggest event of the year.

 

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Crop of Linden Place Fourth of July

 

Herreshoff July 4th Parade Viewing

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Where:
Herreshoff Marine Museum, Bristol
When:
July 4, 2026 at 7:45 AM
Cost:
SOLD OUT

Get a front row seat for one of Bristol’s most beloved traditions—head to Herreshoff Marine Museum's annual 4th of July Parade viewing event!

Located along the historic parade route, the Museum offers a front-row seat to the oldest continuously celebrated Independence Day parade in the country.

 

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MORE PATRIOTIC EVENTS

All Things Americana

Learn more below about where to find Semiquincentennial swag and spirited specials.

Semiquincentennial Swag

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The time is now to deck out for 250th. Think: classic Americana wear, quality local products, and keepsakes to commemorate this historical year.

Find flags, signature souvenirs, baseball caps, books, soaps, and homeware in the following local shops. A little bit of everything that is tried and true. Classic.

CLOTHING

Frazzleberries 📍 475 Thames Street, Newport

  • Flag sweaters
  • Blue flag hats
  • Red lobster hats

Frazzleberries

 

Kiel James Patrick 📍 3 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport

  • New England Lobster Cardigan
  • American Sail Intarsia Sweater
  • Stars & Stripes Cardigan
  • American Stripes Rollneck Sweater

BUY NOW

 

Sunbent 📍 359 Thames Street, Newport

  • Summers in Newport Tees, Tanks & Hoodies
  • July Sweater
  • All American Crewneck
  • Low Rise USA Denim Pants
  • Stitched Lobster Sweater
  • Lobster Daiquiri Club Top

BUY NOW

 

Big Weather Gear 📍 154 Thames Street, Newport

Henri Lloyd launches July 1st exclusively at BWG!

This esteemed brand in marine technology offers some of the best selection of nautical options to wear on the water or through the seascape corridors of Newport.

 

Therapy Boutique 📍 18 State Street, Bristol

  • Star Spangled Blanket
  • Freedom 250 Travel Tin Candle
  • Americana Plant Stakes
  • Assortment of themed hair accessories
  • US of YAY Gummies
  • Liberty Bow Mini Tote
  • Americana Bead Wine Bag
  • Americana Bottle Openers
  • Star Stud Earrings

BUY NOW

 

Fenwick + Oliver 📍 474 Thames Street, Bristol

  • Bristol 250th hats and shirts
  • Bristol 250 tote
  • Patriotic Levi Star 4th of July Napkins
  • Book: “The Greatest Sentence Ever Written” by Walter Isaacson
  • America 250 stemless wine glass
  • Rhode Island Smallest State in the Union Magnet
  • Betsy Ross Sticker
  • USA Porch Flag Plate
  • U.S. Constitution Rocks Glass

BUY NOW

 

Other Shops to Find Spirited Swag

Palm & Sage

Palm and Sage is a sister boutique of Malibu Friday offering women's clothing, accessories, jewelry… Read More

Essentials

A refreshing mix of clothing, gifts, accessories, and more! Read More

Groove Newport

Fun, fashionable clothing for women and tweens from unique and whimsical collections. Read More

Beau Bleu Boutique & Gifts

Boutique gift store located in downtown Bristol, RI. Read More

Malibu Friday Boutique

Curated pretty clothing. Read More

Life is Good Newport

Women's, Men's, Children's clothing and accessories. Read More

Brandy Melville

Brandy Melville is a women's clothing and accessories store. Read More

Royal Male

Selling only quality British and European clothing and accessories to a discriminating customer. Read More

KEEPSAKES

Beehive Handmade 📍 332 Water Street, Warren

Find hand-wrought Revolutionary Pewter housewares with simplistic sayings inspired by the understated elegance of utilitarian objects in colonial America.

Teaspoons, tea infusers, matchboxes, and letter openers have been engraved with phrases ranging from revolutionary war battles to historical figures and pop history references. 

Available: Now - November 26, 2026
Shop Hours: Tuesdays - Saturdays, 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Beehive Handmade

 

Newport Historical Society 📍 Newport

Bring history into your home. Purchase your very own Newport Historical Society (NHS) Witness flag, custom made by Maritime Tribes. These flags are a symbol of Newport’s outsized role in the Revolution and a unique decor piece to commemorate the 250th!

Available: All year round, contact 401-846-0813 x110 or email: membership@newporthistory.org to purchase.

 

The Sailing Museum & Hall of Fame 📍 365 Thames Street, Newport

  • Mugs 
  • Cutting Boards
  • “Give me Liberty, Give me a Drink” Cocktail Book
  • Legends of American Sailing Book
  • Ship themed match sets

 

Frazzleberries 📍 475 Thames Street, Newport

  • Mugs
  • Flag Coasters
  • Car Coasters - USA and Nautical Themes
  • Art Prints
  • Scented soaps (“American Coast” Shea Butter Soap)
  • Flag gimlet glasses

 

COMING SOON

Trinity300: Semper Eadem: The History of Trinity Church 📍 Newport

In honor of celebrating 300 years, Trinity Church will release copies of “Semper Eadem: The History of Trinity Church, 1698-2026” for purchase and distribution in September 2026. 

 

More Places to Find Merchandise

The White Horse Tavern

At The White Horse Tavern we strive to create a fresh, contemporary culinary experience in America’s… Read More

Rough Point

Rough Point is the oceanfront estate of Doris Duke—heiress, philanthropist, and art collector—still… Read More

Newport Mansions Store

Welcome to the Newport Mansions store. We are proud to present here a wonderful selection of… Read More

The Black Pearl

The Black Pearl is one of Newport's best-known and best-loved restaurants. From the warm ambience… Read More

The Shop at Blithewold

The Shop at Blithewold offers a shop with a wide collection of unique elegant items, such as ladies… Read More

Linden Place Gift Shop

Curated gift shop with unique items, one of a kind gifts, local and handmade items, books and home… Read More

Bowen Wharf Pilot House

The Pilot House offers quality gifts and souvenirs as well as commemorative merchandise. Read More

Herreshoff Marine Museum Store

Apparel, accessories, store homewares, gifts, games and books. Read More

Shop at Fort Adams

A fine gift shop with many souvenirs and apparel. Read More

Museum Store at Little Compton Historical Society

A fine collection of art, prints, books, puzzles, maps, and gifts. Read More

Revolutionary Fare & Drinks

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LIFE, LIBERTY, AND $1 MARTINIS EVERY FRIDAY

Where: 📍 Stoneacre Brasserie, 28 Washington Square, Newport
When:  Every Friday from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM

Call it revolutionary. Call it historic. Call it your new standing reservation.

Stoneacre Brasserie welcomes you to exercise your right to a very good time with $1 martinis every Friday for lunch. Choose from a classic Gin or Vodka Martini, Proper Gimlet, or Cosmopolitan.

$1 martini deal available with any purchase of sushi, appetizers, sandwiches, or main courses.

Toast to life, liberty, and the pursuit of a perfectly chilled cocktail.

Stoneacre

 

BRISTOL 250TH RUM

Where: 📍 O’Brien & Brough, 500 Wood Street, Bristol

Crafted inside O’Brien & Brough in Unity Park, a special 250th themed rum, including 100% organic fair trade whole cane panela sugar from Costa Rica, will be available for purchase this fall.

This family-owned distillery and blending house in historic Bristol is known for small-batch spirits thoughtfully crafted on a commitment to transparency, responsible sourcing, and community. 

Fast Facts:
  • Made from 100% organic, fair-trade, non-GMO, vegan, whole cane panela sugar from Costa Rica
  • Extended fermentation using a Rhum Agricole yeast strain from the Caribbean
  • Distilled once through a copper helmet pot still
  • The rum is maturing in ex-Bourbon American oak barrels in Bristol
  • 100% fermented, distilled, and aged at O’Brien & Brough distillery

The 250th commemorative rum will be bottled in 500 ml. infinity glass to preserve natural flavors, with decorative front labels of bonded book leather and gold foil pressed by DWRI Letterpress.

Official Release: November 30, 2026

 

JULY DRINK SPECIALS FOR AMERICA 250

Where: 📍 Wyndham Newport, 240 Aquidneck Ave, Middletown

Find these historically named cocktails throughout Independence month at Wyndham Newport! 

  • The Burning Gaspee ($15): Mount Gay rum, Allspice Dram, Black tea, lemonade, splash of soda and a pinch of salt.
  • Boston Tea Party ($12): Deep Eddy Sweet Tea vodka, Peach Schnapps, and lemonade.
  • Nathanael Greene ($13): Sons of Liberty Honey Whiskey and apple cider.
  • Astro Bomb ($12): Three Olives Raspberry vodka, margarita mix, grenadine, and blue curaçao.
  • Beer of the Month ($8): Narragansett, 250th Anniversary limited edition Lager *while supplies last
     

 

INDEPENDENCE SPRITZ & THE ROYAL TOWER

Where: 📍 Forty 1 North, 351 Thames Street, Newport

INDEPENDENCE SPRITZ

Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary with our limited edition Independence Spritz. Layered with blue curaçao, lychee, and strawberry, this red white and blue cocktail is inspired by summer on Newport Harbor. 

Available: Exclusively from July 2-5, 2026. 

Royal Tower (Cost: $600)

Indulge and toast to America with The Royal Tower at Forty 1 North.

The $600 package includes:

  • 30G Royal Ossetra Caviar
  • 30G Royal Baika Caviar
  • Salmon Poke
  • Oysters on the half shell
  • Tuna Tartar and accompaniments
  • Bottle of Veuve Clicquot

Available: Exclusively from July 2-5, 2026. 

Forty 1 North

Patriotic Packages

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Celebrate milestone birthdays across The Classic Coast with these one-of-a-kind patriotic packages.

 

SPEND AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY AT SONESTA

Sonesta Select Newport Middletown 📍 9 Commerce Drive, Middletown

Book with Sonesta for your July 4th getaway and enjoy a 17.76% discount off any available room with a continental breakfast included for up to 4 people.

Redeemable: Now - July 6, 2026 (Book by July 3rd!)

Terms and Conditions: A minimum 2-night stay is required. Discount is good towards stays between July 2 until July 6.

Learn More

 

STARS, STRIPES, AND SAVE UP TO 20%

Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina 📍 49 America's Cup Avenue, Newport

Summer flash sale in Newport! Save up to 20% off your Newport stay now through June 30, 2027 when you book by July 6, 2026. Plan ahead and enjoy exclusive savings to celebrate America 250!

Redeemable: Now - June 30, 2027 (Book by July 6th!)

Terms and Conditions: Applicable to new reservations only. Cannot be combined with any other offers, packages, or group rates. Blackout dates and other restrictions may apply. Subject to availability at the time of booking. Discount applied to room rate only.

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NEWPORT POLO EXPERIENCE - 150TH ANNIVERSARY

Hammetts Hotel 📍 4 Commercial Wharf, Newport

Make it a Newport summer and celebrate 150 years of polo with two (2) complimentary tickets to a Saturday match. Thrilling matches, stunning horses, and the lively energy of this iconic tradition await.

Redeemable: Now - September 26, 2026

Terms and Conditions: Valid on weekend stays June 6 - September 26, 2026. Friday - Saturday or Saturday - Sunday. Call for more details, subject to availability, terms and conditions apply.

Learn More

 

HOTEL VIKING CENTENNIAL EXPERIENCE - 100TH ANNIVERSARY

Hotel Viking 📍 1 Bellevue Avenue, Newport

Be among the first to celebrate a century of timeless hospitality in the reimagined Hotel Viking alongside America 250. 

Book the Centennial Experience to enjoy:

  • Champagne welcome ‘cheers’ to the property
  • Two (2) nights in a renovated suite
  • A Chef’s tasting for two at Pescadou
  • $100 credit to Spa Fjör

Redeemable: Book by June 30, 2026. Valid on stays through December 31, 2026.

Terms and Conditions: Use promo code: 100YEARS. Valid for new reservations only. Blackout dates apply. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Subject to availability and not valid for group bookings. 

Learn More

 

HERO OFFERS

Find discounts for active duty, retired military, first responders, nurses, and more! A token of thanks for serving our country proud.

Newport Harbor Island Resort

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Island House Newport Hotel

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Hammetts Hotel

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Wayfinder Newport

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The Spa at Newport Marriott

Rejuvenate your mind-body-spirit balance in this luxurious oasis of serenity. Directly on the… Read More

The Attwater

This boldly original Newport hotel offers coastal-chic rooms and super-spacious suites. The Urban… Read More

The Cliffside Inn

The Cliffside Inn is a charming, historic boutique inn located in the heart of Newport. Our 16 rooms… Read More

Gilded

A clever twist on a golden age, this opulent new Newport hotel nods to the rococo styles of the… Read More

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