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. Cozy fires and s'mores kits at Blithewold? Got that too. So sure, Newport has summer down pat, but you better believe it nails winter too. 

Below are our favorite winter experiences in and around Newport. 

COVID-19 NOTE:

When you're ready, we can't wait to welcome you back to The Classic Coast. Rest assured, the safety and well-being of both visitors and locals remains our top priority. The mask mandate requiring face coverings in Rhode Island has been lifted, however local businesses may ask you to wear a mask when visiting their establishments. Please be prepared for individual business mask policies. Additionally, shops, attractions and tours are monitoring the number of guests at any given time and may ask you to socially distance to enter. 

All we ask when you land on these shores is that you play your part in keeping everyone safe. Please be kind, adhere to guidelines and maintain social distancing. 

   

1 GOAT HIKES AT SIMMONS FARM

Where:
SIMMONS FARM, 1942 WEST MAIN ROAD, MIDDLETOWN
When:
Multiple Dates
Cost:
BETWEEN $10 - $40

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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2 Cozy Fires and Tasty Treats at Blithewold

Where:
Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum
When:
Every other Saturday beginning January 29 until April 9
Cost:
Members (6 people): $35, Non-Members (6 people): $55

Cuddle up by the fire and roast marshmallows overlooking the Great Lawn at Blithewold every other Saturday beginning January 29. Hike the grounds and spend the afternoon enjoying cozy fires and tasty threats. S’mores kits, a well-stocked state-of-the-art low-smoke fire pit, and a grand view of Narragansett Bay included. Maximum of 6 people per hour, per fire pit. 

 

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3 THE COCKTAIL CLUB: MIXOLOGY CLASS

Where:
One Bellevue
When:
Thursdays until March 31st
Cost:
$55/person (taxes and gratuities additional) | Reservations Required

Learn to make the perfect cocktail(s) and "join" the cocktail club at Hotel Viking's Mixology Classes this winter. Learn some classic recipes like The Manhattan and Old Fashioned, or celebrate Women's History Month in March, when each week's recipe will feature women owners, distillers and blenders in the beverage industry. Each class will consist of 1 Cocktail Demonstration, 1 Chef Canapes and 3 Spirit Tastings.

Pro-tip: Stay for dinner at One Bellevue and receive a 15% discount on your meal.

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4 SEAL TOURS

Where:
Departs Bowen's Ferry Landing, Market Square, 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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5 HEATED POP-UP IGLOOS

Where:
Gurney's Newport Resort & Marina, 1 Goat Island, Newport
When:
Daily until March 31st
Cost:
See Gurney's website for full pricing details

Meander your way through the lobby at Gurney's Newport Resort & Marina on Goat Island and through the back doors onto the Lounge & Fire Pit Deck where you'll find pop-up igloos overlooking the Newport Bridge and Narragansett Bay. Each igloo is heated and disinfected between reservations with M.I.S.T. fogger and disinfection solution.

 
Eat & Drink Highlights:
  • Soft Pretzels with Beer Cheese Dip
  • Pear and Beets Salad 
  • Shrimp & Grits
  • Caribbean Hot Chocolate
  • Caramel Espresso Martini

 

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Returning in February

1 NEWPORT WINTER FOODIES STROLL

Where:
Departs 501 Thames Street, Newport
When:
Friday and Saturday's in February & March

Bundle up and arrive hungry. This winter rendition of the Newport Foodies Stroll leads you to three different Newport restaurants for a journey culminating to a three-course meal alongside meticulously chosen wine pairings. Your wintry stroll will last several hours and journey along Newport's historic Thames Street for a total of 1 mile. Tours starts back up on Friday and Saturday evenings in February  & March starting 6:00 PM. 

 

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2 HOT CHOCOLATE BAR

Where:
The Chanler at Cliff Walk
When:
Saturdays and Sundays, 12:00 - 5:00 PM, February 12, 2022 - March 27, 2022
Cost:
$13 per hot chocolate | $6 Cocoa Enhancement

Hot chocolate is mandatory when navigating through a winter in New England. When the cold air rolls in, make your way to The Chanler at Cliff Walk, a luxury hotel nestled in a 19th century private mansion-turned-hotel, for a sip of elaborate craft hot chocolate from their newly re-opened hot chocolate bar.

Offerings include two combinations: Valrhona Milk Chocolate Cocoa and Valrhona Dark Chocolate Cocoa, for $13. Indulging? Get the Cocoa Enhancement for an additional $6, Kahlúa Coffee Liquer or Baileys Irish Cream. 

This decadent experience returns February 12, 2022 and will be available on Saturdays & Sundays from 12:00 - 5:00 PM until March 27, 2022. To go only, unless dining

 

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