Newport is considered one of the most walkable cities in the U.S.
From some of the most historic sites in the country to panoramic ocean views and architecture that will absolutely take your breath away, you're going to want to get up close and personal with The Classic Coast.
Below are our favorite walking tours throughout the city to do just that.
For History Buffs
Back to Top of ListNEWPORT HISTORY TOURS
Historic walking tours throughout the city are offered through December 31st by the Newport Historical Society. All tours depart from the Museum of Newport History beginning at 11 AM, and last approximately 75 minutes. Arrive early and head inside the award-winning museum housed in the 1763 Brick Market for an engaging introduction to Newport's rich history.
Travel between streets and centuries on one of four different walking tours. Topics and time periods vary and include everything from stories of religious diversity during Newport’s colonial period, to Newport’s role in the American Revolution, to learning where scoundrels lived, pirates profited and criminals were punished.
Admission: $20 for adults, $10 for children 5-12 years old, $15 for Newport Historical Society Members, $15 for Active Duty or Retired Military, Free for children under 5 years old
Departs: Museum of Newport History
Duration: 75 minutes
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
With the purchase of a Newport Historical Society Walking Tour ticket, get complimentary admission to the Museum of Newport History and a 10% off discount at the Museum Shop on the day of your tour. Below is the list of tours currently being offered:
- Golden to Gilded: From Newport’s colonial Golden Age to Gilded Age summer colony, discover the transformation of the city and its people.
- Road to Independence: Riots and rebellions, enemies and allies! Learn about Newport’s role in the American Revolution.
- Rogues & Scoundrels: See where scoundrels lived, pirates profited and criminals were punished. Find out why this colony was known as “Rogue’s Island.”
- Discover Colonial Newport: Hear stories of entrepreneurship, African American heritage and religious diversity during Newport’s colonial period.
- Other tours offered: History Happy Hour, Revolutionary Women: Mary Williams and the Founding of Providence, Creative Survival: Newport's Black History, The Point Neighborhood, and more.
Visit newporthistorytours.org for more details and to purchase tickets.
NEWPORT BLACK HISTORY WALKING TOURS
Experience Newport’s little-known Black history on a tour of Colonial-era Historic Hill. This unique opportunity brings you to historic locations designated with Rhode Island Slave History Medallion (RISHM) markers and other local landmarks.
When: 2025 season will kick off on Saturday, May 24th at 10:00 AM
Admission: $20 for Adults, $15 for Student
Departs: near the Bowen’s Wharf Pilot House
Duration: 75 minutes
Visit rishm.org for more details and to reserve tickets.
For Foodies
Back to Top of ListNEWPORT NEIGHBORHOOD FOOD TOURS
Make your way through historic neighborhoods and culinary hot spots during the Newport Neighborhood Food Tour. This 1.3-mile walking tour offers tastings from local, award-winning restaurants including: The Nitro Bar, Perro Salad, Stoneacre Garden, Yagi Noodles, Leo's Market & Restaurant, Get The Scoop, Mother Pizzeria, and Stoneacre Brasserie.
When: Thursdays - Sundays; April - November, rain or shine
Admission: $78 per person, $95 with alcohol
Duration: 3 - 3.5 hours
Departs: The Northwest corner at the intersection of Marlborough & Dr. Marcus Wheatland Blvd.
*Vegetarian options and dietary restrictions considered
NEWPORT FOODIES STROLL
Newport Foodies Stroll offers a 1.75-mile guided walking food tour through Lower Thames Street. Learn about the city's rich history while savoring classic cuisine from five local restaurants. Tasting locations include Wally’s Wieners, O’Brien’s Pub, Beaucoup Cafe, Inpopnito, The Reef, and Vieste.
When: April 30 - October 18, rain or shine
Admission: $95 Adults, must be purchased in advance
Duration: 2.5 - 3 hours
Departs: From the wave statue at the intersection of America's Cup Avenue and Memorial Boulevard
WINTER FOODIES STROLL
Newport Winter Foodies Stroll offers a 1-mile guided walking food tour through Newport's historic Thames Street. Learn about the city's rich history while savoring classic cuisine from three local restaurants. You'll receive a three-course meal accompanied by selected wine pairings. Tasting locations include Vieste, Gardiner House, Hooked, and The Reef. Tasting locations subject to change.
When: December, February & March
Admission: $135
Duration: 2.5 - 3 hours
Departs: O'Brien's Pub, 501 Thames Street, Newport
For a Thrill
Back to Top of ListGHOST TOURS OF NEWPORT
Take a lantern-led evening stroll through historic, shadowy lanes and discover the ghosts, ghouls and legends of this haunted city. Tours depart nightly rain or shine.
When: April through November, dates vary
Admission: $20 adults; $18 seniors/ military; $12 children
Duration: 90 minutes
Departs: Next to Skiff Bar on the 2nd floor of the Newport Marriott
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