The thought of a trip to Newport typically conjures visions of clam chowder, tan lines and the Atlantic drying on your skin. It's true, Newport has always had that whole summer thing down pat.

But believe it or not, winter is when the magic happens. Winter sunrises unobstructed and in full glory, snow-kissed seasides and a seat by the fire—it's a feeling unlike any other.

Not to mention, winter is when all things cozy get kicked up a notch. Heated igloos with a bay view? Got it. A gourmet hot chocolate bar in a former private mansion? Got that too. So sure, Newport has summer down pat, but you better believe it nails winter too. 

 

Top Winter Activities

Below are our favorite winter experiences in and around Newport. 

  1. Seal Tours
  2. ALTÆR Sauna at South Shore Beach
  3. All Apres, No Ski
  4. Surf Club Pizza Making Class
  5. Pop-Up Igloos at The Reef
  6. Newport Winter Foodies Stroll
  7. Afternoon Tea Experiences
  8. Hot Chocolate Bar at The Chanler

Seal Tours

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Where:
Departs Perrotti Park, Newport
When:
Multiple Dates
Cost:
$22 non-members, $17 members, seniors, children aged 3-12, $0 children under 3

Hop aboard Save the Bay's education vessel for 360-degree views of Narragansett Bay and the chance to catch harbor seals resting on Citing Rock off of Rose Island and the Newport Bridge. Tours are one-hour, or you can opt for a two-hour tour and hop off at Rose Island to tour the historic lighthouse and the grounds. 

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ALTÆR Sauna at South Shore Beach

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Where:
South Shore Beach, Little Comtpon
When:
Saturdays - Mondays

This is dreams are made of.  

ALTÆR Sauna brings the wellness journey of fire and ice to Little Compton on South Shore Beach. The vibes here are serene and transformational. ALTÆR Sauna was built infused with elements of nature, spot the morse code for ‘LOVE’ detailed on the wooden floor mat when you enter. 

Book a Private, Social Sauna, or Sauna Sanctum (quiet please), and immerse yourself in the traditional practice of sauna and ocean cold plunging. Available seasonally (winter currently) Saturdays - Mondays. 

Pro Tip: Space is limited, book ahead, pack a towel, sandals or water shoes, and dry clothes for after. This is meant to be a natural experience so there are no restrooms or changing rooms on site - you may have to get creative and plan to get out of your wet bathing suit in the car. But, trust us, it’s worth it! 

Altaer Sauna

 

All Apres, No Ski

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Where:
Hotel VIking
When:
Friday - Sunday, 3:00 to 9:00 PM

Ready to enjoy all the après, without the ski's? Head to the Courtyard at Hotel Viking for champagne, curated cocktails and a specialty food menu when you reserve a firepit. Grab up to 10 of your friends and warm up by the fire this season, in good company!

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All Apres, No Ski Hotel Viking

 

Surf Club Pizza Making Class

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Where:
Surf Club
When:
Multiple Dates

There's nothing like a hike through the great outdoors to ease your winter blues, even if the temperatures may be a little chilly. When nature calls (literally), head over to Simmons Farm in Middletown for a two-hour goat hike around the historic family-owned farm. Led by farmer Karla and her crew of adventurous, spirited goats, you'll get your own goat to walk on a leash along the designated trail. Stop along the way to feed your goat a treat and to take in stunning views of the preserved farmland, and conclude your journey with a cup of hot chocolate.

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Surf Club Pizza Class

 

Newport Winter Foodies Stroll

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Where:
Various Tasting Locations
When:
February 1st - March 29th, Friday & Saturday evenings
Cost:
$135* per person

Newport Winter Foodies Stroll offers a 1-mile guided walking food tour through Newport's historic Thames Street.

Tasting locations include:
  • Gardiner House: A welcoming cocktail 
  • Vieste: An appetizer
  • Hooked: A seafood dinner
  • The Reef: for dessert!

Tasting locations subject to change.

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Newport Foodies Stroll

 

Afternoon Tea Experiences

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Whether it’s a spot or a pot, tea time on The Classic Coast is the idyllic way to sip, savor or spill the tea with friends or family. 

Keep calm, the kettle is on.

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Afternoon Tea at Chinese Tea House

 

Hot Chocolate Bar at The Chanler

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Where:
THE CHANLER AT CLIFF WALK
When:
REOPENS IN MARCH
Cost:
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Spend an afternoon in front of the roaring fire pit or take a winter stroll along the Cliff Walk with a decadent cup of hot chocolate in hand. Artisanal hot chocolate is crafted with either milk or dark chocolate and has the option to upgrade to an adult version.

*Please note: The Chanler will be closed on Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and during their annual wellness break period starting January 1. 

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