Newport is nothing if not an oasis. Cobblestone paths lined with unique shops, life-altering eateries, buildings steeped in history, miles of coastline that'll leave you feeling brand new. This Classic Coast is infused with a little bit of everything, and all of it is unforgettable. Who says you can't see and do it all? Your next 48 hours says otherwise.
DAY 1
KICKSTART YOUR DAY
From rich buttermilk pancakes to savory omelettes and breakfast burritos stuffed with fresh ingredients, Newport is home to some of the most indulgent breakfast dishes around. Start your day with a harbor view at Belle's Cafe at Newport Shipyard. Their outdoor seating area overlooks the harbor alongside some seriously impressive super yachts within this working shipyard where the pancakes have been described as the best, ever. (Open seasonally)
ON THE SHORE
There's a reason people travel from all over to experience Newport's 3.5-mile Cliff Walk. It's where the serenity of salt air and crashing waves meets the marvel of Gilded Age architecture. It's also where invigoration meets total relaxation. Run, jog or stroll at your own pace, stopping along the way to marvel at scenic overlooks and some of Newport's most opulent, historic homes.
CLASSIC FLAVOR
If you're hungry for classic New England flavors, we've got you covered. Head to The Black Pearl for a cup of world-famous clam chowder. The building originally operated as a sail loft shop opened in the 1920s, and in 1974 transitioned to the restaurant we know today. If the weather is nice, opt to sit on their outdoor patio—a classic spot for sipping a dark n' stormy and watching the boats sail in and out of the harbor. Or walk a few steps next door to Clarke Cooke House, another Newport staple, and savor oysters on the half shell caught straight from local waters with complimentary harbor views.
EXPLORE DOWNTOWN
Walk it off along Bowen’s and Bannister’s Wharves where you'll find historic cobblestone paths lined with a mix of local boutiques, exquisite galleries, eclectic artisans, award-winning restaurants and more, all set on the waterfront in the heart of downtown.
ON THE WATER
You didn't think we'd let you visit the Sailing Capital of the World without earning your sea legs, did you? Climb aboard a legendary America's Cup 12 meter and help raise the sails as you head out through the harbor.
Please note: Harbor cruises operate seasonally. Please check the listings below for updated tour dates.
SIP WITH A VIEW
A quick ride to Goat Island (don't worry, you can drive or walk) will land you at Newport Harbor Island Resort. If you're lucky enough to visit when the weather is warm, head outside to their waterfront dining area for a specialty pre-dinner cocktail alongside breathtaking views of the Newport Bridge and sailboats dotting the harbor.
SAVOR
French influence meets American industrialism at Stoneacre Brasserie in Washington Square where a small, ever-changing menu boasts intense flavor and centers around local farmers, butchers and fishermen. Picky eater in tow and looking for something with a lengthier list of options? Head down the block to Brick Alley Pub, where their extensive menu offers a little bit of everything including burgers, pasta, sandwiches, salads and more.
Pro tip: Don’t skip the nachos, they’re award-winning.
DAY 2
DIVE INTO LOCAL FLAVOR
Make your way to historic Bellevue Avenue for a taste of history and local flavor. Before a day of exploring, grab a bite to eat at Cru Cafe. A favorite among both locals and visitors, this BYOB cafe serves breakfast all day and is known for their seasonal menu with local ingredients.
JOURNEY BACK IN TIME
A stroll down Bellevue Avenue is like a journey back in time to America's Gilded Age. Experience life of high society in turn of the century America inside the former summer "cottages" of America's wealthiest. Head to The Breakers, a 70-room (yes, 70) Italian Renaissance-style palazzo and the largest of the Newport Mansions. If time permits, continue your Gilded Age adventure down the street to The Elms, the former summer residence of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Julius Berwind who made his fortune in the coal industry.
RELAX AMONG THE VINES
Exhale. Your next stop is among the vines at Newport Vineyards, Newport’s local winery located in Middletown. More of a beer person? Head over to their onsite brewery, Taproot Brewing Co., where unfiltered hop-forward beers are made in small batches for a refreshing experience. When you’ve worked up an appetite, delight your taste buds in their farm-fresh menu of burgers, pizza, shareable bites and snacks.
REACH NEW HEIGHTS
Take your two-day escape to new heights when you revel in sweeping views of Newport at a rooftop bar. The Rooftop at The Vanderbilt or Top of Newport at Hotel Viking are among favorite spots to savor the best views in town with a specialty cocktail in hand. (Open seasonally)
DINNER WITH A TWIST
Settle into the oldest tavern in America for a taste of 350 years of history with a modern kick. At White Horse Tavern, you'll find a seasonal menu crafted with locally sourced ingredients, multiple roaring fireplaces and tales of a haunted past. For an eclectic offering, head to Cabana, a vibrant eatery with classic New England fare and a spicy Caribbean twist.
more to explore
GET SOCIAL
Tag your photos #TheClassicCoast for the chance to be featured on our accounts.