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
NEWPORT 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. This tour is available on Sundays.
- Road to Independence: Riots and rebellions, enemies and allies! Learn about Newport’s role in the American Revolution. This tour is available on Mondays.
- Rogues & Scoundrels: See where scoundrels lived, pirates profited and criminals were punished. Find out why this colony was known as “Rogue’s Island.” This tour is available on Fridays.
- Discover Colonial Newport: Hear stories of entrepreneurship, African American heritage and religious diversity during Newport’s colonial period. This tour is available on Saturdays.
Visit newporthistorytours.org for more details and to purchase tickets.
FOR FOODIES
NEWPORT 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 Perro Salado, a local Mexican restaurant located in a historic house; Stoneacre Garden, focused on sustainable, farm to table offerings; Nitro Bar, known for killer coffee and unique savory bites; Hummingbird, serving up traditional Caribbean style Jamaican dishes; Scratch Kitchen, known for their classic comfort food, and more.
When: Thursdays - Sundays; April - December
Admission: $76 per person, $94 with alcohol
Duration: 3 - 3.5 hours
Departs: The Northwest corner at the intersection of Marlborough & Dr. Marcus Wheatland Blvd.
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, Twist on Thames, O’Brien’s Pub, Bar and Board Bistro, Lucy's Kitchen, and Vieste.
When: April/May - October; Wednesday - Sunday
Admission: $88
Duration: 2.5 - 3 hours
Departs: In front of the wave statue at the intersection of America’s Cup 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, Midtown Oyster Bar, and Bar and Board Bistro. Tasting locations subject to change.
When: TBD
Admission: TBD
Duration: 2.5 - 3 hours
Departs: O'Brien's Pub, 501 Thames Street, Newport
FOR A THRILL
GHOST 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: Nightly May through October, 8:00 PM, Saturdays in November, 5:00 PM
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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