Memorial Day weekend on The Classic Coast marks the unofficial start of summer. Rooftop bars, al fresco patios, seaside lawns and outdoor attractions reawaken and reopen just as the warmer weather breathes new life into our stunning coastal enclave. But that's just the start. From harbor cruises and wine tastings to special deals and the perfect places to soak up the sun, MDW is on. Are you in?
A TASTE OF SUMMER
BRUNCH ON A BOAT
Rise and shine, you’re in Newport! Start your day with an invigorating Morning Mimosa Sail aboard Adirondack II, an elegant, 80-foot, turn-of-the-century-style pilot schooner. Feel free to bring brunch to compliment perfectly poured mimosas.
DINE & SAIL
Enjoy a two-hour harbor cruise with 12 Meter Charters followed by dinner at Newport's iconic Clarke Cooke House. For a true taste of summer, opt for oysters on the half shell while enjoying CCH's harbor view.
RIDE THE RAILS
Rail Explorers offers a unique scenic ride along historic Aquidneck Island and Narragansett Bay on custom built pedal-powered vehicles. This eco-friendly business offers a 6-mile waterfront journey along existing railroad tracks (not to worry, they're abandoned).
ROOFTOP BARS AND OUTDOOR PATIOS
This open-air, harbor-side bar located next to 22 Bowen's serves seasonal cocktails and culinary noshes overlooking the harbor on Bowen's Wharf. Snag a seat at the bar or a stool overlooking the water and enjoy the salt air.
Portside is open for the season weather permitting.
This seaside lawn spotted with Adirondack chairs overlooking the bay at Castle Hill Inn is a Newport icon. Offering panoramic seaside views, classic New England fare and warm-weather cocktails, you might find it hard to leave.
The lawn reopens for the season on Friday, May 24.
This dreamy outdoor patio at The Chanler overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and offers a robust menu of Mediterranean-inspired classic New England fare for lunch and dinner. Not to mention, a sunset-inspired palette, sculptural furniture, and soft flowing draped fabric panels commissioned from a local sail-maker set the stage for an ethereal experience.
The Cafe is open for the season weather permitting.
Located directly on the harbor, the Pavilion at Forty 1 North is a modern outdoor bar overlooking the iconic Newport Bridge and offering a scenic locale to savor classic fare or lounge on area sofas and arm chairs. Soak in the sights while sipping a signature cocktail.
The Pavilion reopens for the season on Friday, May 10.
Savor a glass of champagne or a specialty cocktail with a serene Newport sunset with the city view below and the harbor in the distance from atop Newport's Vanderbilt. Situated in the heart of downtown, you'll have gorgeous views of Newport's bustling neighborhoods and the iconic Newport bridge.
The roof deck reopens for the season on Friday, May 24.
Hotel Viking's rooftop kitchen and bar offers a full menu complete with local and traditional cuisine alongside a full bar. Dine at tables, lounge on couches or sit along the newly expanded bar, all with unparalleled views of the neighborhood's tree-lined streets.
Top of Newport reopens for the season on Saturday, May 25.
Situated on the harbor, Newport Marriott's Skiff Bar offers craft and local beers, specialty cocktails, savory appetizers, and signature wings and flatbreads. Enjoy seating at their outdoor bar terrace with a coastal inspired atmosphere to compliment your experience.
Click here for more rooftops and outdoor patios.
SPECIAL EVENTS
When: May 24 - 27
Where: Fort Adams State Park
The Boots on the Ground for Heroes Memorial presents almost 7,000 boots adorned with flags and name placards representing the lives of the of the U.S. service members killed in action post 9-11 in the Global War on Terror.
When: Saturday, May 25; 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Where: Gurney's Newport Resort + Marina
Rob Anthony starts the broadcast right at 6 with ticket giveaways every 15 minutes. Plan on arriving early for a VIP buffet for the first 60 people through the door. Plus, enjoy live music all evening with Ben O’Connor.
When: May 24 - 27
Where: Fish'n Tales Adventures
Get up close and personal with lobsters. See how lobster traps are hauled. Put on gloves, help bait the traps, and sort the catch. Learn how lobsters live and how lobstermen catch them, while enjoying beautiful Newport Harbor.
When: Sunday, May 26; 7:00 PM
Where: Gurney's Newport Resort + Marina
Join Gurney's Newport on Sunday, May 26 for a special performance by Jordan Davis at The Pineapple Club.
When: Sunday, May 26; 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Where: Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum
Admission: $20
Join Blithewold Mansion for a special brass performance by the Renaissance V Brass Quintet. Refreshments will be served during a short intermission. Arrive early to enjoy the gardens before they close for a private event.
When: Sunday, May 26; 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Where: Boom Boom Room
Enjoy cocktails and live music at Clarke Cooke House's Boom Boom Room.
When: Monday, May 27; 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where: Audubon Nature Center + Aquarium
Admission: Adults: $6; Children 4-12: $4; Children 3 and under: free
Bring the kids for up-close animal encounters, hikes, crafts and games. No registration required.
EXPERIENCES
From a relaxing massage for two at one of Newport's award-winning spas to the famed 3.5 mile cliff walk, these local, one-of-a-kind experiences are everything you need to get summer started on the right note.
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