How to Plan a Weekend Getaway to Newport, RI (+Free Itinerary)

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New England is one of my favorite places to visit in the spring and summer! There’s just something about the rocky coastlines and nautical vibes that make it the perfect place to visit this time of year.

Last year, my mom and I drove down from NYC to Newport, Rhode Island for a weekend getaway and we still reminisce about that vacation all the time!

It’s the perfect New England weekend getaway that’s only about 4 hours from NYC. The drive itself is pretty easy with many cool stops along the way!

There is surprisingly so much to do in Newport. It’s packed with historic mansions, stunning ocean views, rocky cliffs, and iconic eats. There’s countless activities here for families, couples, kids, or even just on a solo trip!

If you’re planning to visit Newport, Rhode Island but only have a weekend to spare, don’t fret! My free, printable Newport weekend getaway itinerary will help you plan a memorable trip without feeling rushed.

It’s designed to work for families, couples, and solo travelers. As a bonus, many of the activities I mention are free or budget-friendly!

Plus, don’t forget to download the free printable PDF to keep yourself organized!

This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase or booking through these links, at no extra cost to you.

Download a Free PDF of the Newport, Rhode Island Weekend Getaway Itinerary

Get a free PDF version of the Newport, Rhode Island Weekend Getaway Itinerary for easy printing and use on mobile devices!

The PDF contains both a color copy as well as a black & white copy that is printer-friendly!

You can of course use the itinerary as-is or use it to get ideas to create your own itinerary!

Disclaimer: This itinerary is for informational purposes only. Sprinkle of Wanderlust cannot be held liable for any loss, injury, inconvenience, or expenses incurred as a result of the use of the information provided. Travelers are responsible for their own safety, health precautions, and decisions while traveling.

While I try my best to keep the itineraries updated and accurate, travel details including transportation, accommodations, attractions, prices, and availability are subject to change without notice.

I recommend that you verify the most up-to-date information before you travel especially regarding timings, availability, safety guidelines, entry requirements, and local regulations.

Map of Newport, Rhode Island

Here is an interactive map of Newport, Rhode Island that shows all of the sites mentioned in the post & itinerary. You can also see where Newport is located in comparison to Boston, NYC, & other major cities.

If you zoom out a little on the map, you can see that Newport is a coastal city that’s tucked between Boston and New York City. It makes a really good road trip destination if you live in New York City, Long Island, Westchester, Boston, or Connecticut.

The Best Time to Visit Newport, Rhode Island

Trinity Church in Newport along Thames Street

Hands down, I think the best time to visit Newport is in the late spring through summer. The weather is beautiful and there’s many activities to enjoy this time of year.

Spring (March – May) is a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and flowers galore, although some seasonal activities may not be available. We went in mid-April and had a fantastic time, but it was a little on the colder side and some seasonal attractions and shops weren’t open.

Summer (June-August) is the busiest season in Newport, Rhode Island. Visiting in June through August is peak travel time and ideal for beachgoers, sailing enthusiasts, and families looking to make the most of school summer vacation. Expect warm temperatures in the 70s and 80s, but also larger crowds and higher hotel prices—so book early!

Fall (September–October) is a great time to visit for fall colors, crisp weather, and thinner crowds. The fall foliage along Ocean Drive and the Cliff Walk is absolutely stunning! Plus, many attractions and outdoor dining spots stay open well into October.

Some tourists may prefer to visit in the winter (November–March) for cozy vibes, especially around the holidays. Just be aware that some attractions, restaurants, and shop may close during this time of the year. On the flip side, many hotels offer discounted packages during winter, making it a budget-friendly time to visit for couples or families looking for a quieter retreat.

Where to Stay in Newport, Rhode Island

Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina

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We stayed at The Newport Harbor Hotel and Marina during our trip. As you can see on the map above, it’s located right on Bowen’s Wharf!

Usually when we travel, we tend to get a hotel a bit away from the city center to save money, but this time we chose to get a hotel right on the wharf and I’m so glad we did. It was so nice waking up every morning to the beautiful harbor views and the sea breeze!

The hotel also has a really nice outdoor area with Adirondack chairs, a fire pit, and a boardwalk. It also has its own restaurant called Salt Water. We didn’t get to check it out, but it looked really nice!

The best part of the hotel is that it’s literally a 1-minute walk to the shops and restaurants along Bowen’s Wharf and Bannister’s Wharf!

🏠 Click here to check out rates & availability for The Newport Hotel & Harbor →

Hotel Viking

We didn’t stay at Hotel Viking, but I highly recommend considering this one for your stay! It is a little on the pricier side, but it’s in the heart of Bellevue Avenue and beautiful both on the outside and inside.

Even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth checking out or even getting coffee here. It’s part of my itinerary below so don’t forget to check it out!

🏠 Click here to check out rates & availability for Hotel Viking →
You can also use the booking widget below if that’s more convenient for you!

What to Eat & Drink in Newport, Rhode Island

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Lobster rolls, clam chowder, oysters, and other seafood delicacies

You can’t come to New England without eating seafood! Unfortunately, I have a bit of a seafood allergy so I can’t eat any of these yummy things but my mom had a bowl of clam chowder and a fish sandwich from a few different places and she loved them all!

I’ve mentioned a few places in the itinerary below, but cool beachfront places like Flo’s Clam Shack are not to be missed!

Waterfront dining around Bowen’s Wharf

This is one of the most visited areas in Newport! There’s so many great dining options here from The Black Pearl to The Lobster Bar. Many of the places have outdoor patio seating so you can watch the harbor ships and catch the sea breeze on a nice afternoon.

What to See & Do in Newport, Rhode Island

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I have a full itinerary below that goes in full day-by-day detail of what to do, but here are some of the highlights!

Cliff Walk

Just next to the historic mansions, you’ll find the beautiful Cliff Walk. It’s a gorgeous 3.5 mile walk along the coastal edge of Newport, Rhode Island. Learn more about it in the itinerary below!

Check out the historic mansions

Newport is known for its historic mansions built in the Gilded Age, which were the summer estates for many rich families in the 19th century. Make sure to check out at least 1 mansion while you’re here.

🎟️ Click here to book your mansion tour → one of the top-rated tours in Newport starting at just $32 per person! You have the option of picking 1, 2, or 3 mansion tours. The best part is that your ticket is good for 7 days, so you can see the mansion at your own pace!

Drive the scenic loop along Ocean Drive

This was one of my favorite parts of my Newport trip! The views are beautiful and you can stop at multiple scenic spots to take all the photos your heart desires.

🚋 Short on time or coming without a car? Check out the Newport scenic trolley tour → it’s a 90-minute narrated ride that will take you through historic downtown, The Newport Waterfront, Ocean Drive, and the Bellevue Avenue Mansion Area.

Sail on the Newport Harbor

We didn’t get a chance to do this, but I highly recommend doing it if you have the time! From Bowen’s Wharf, you can take a boat that will sail you through Newport Harbor. I think it’s a great way to see the Newport coastline and you’ll also get to see the mansions along the way!

🎟️ In the mood for sailing?
Book a 75-minute cruise along Newport Harbor! → starting at just $40 per person! The cruise takes off at Bowen’s Wharf and sails around the Newport Harbor. Along the way, you’ll see New England style lighthouses, mansions, and forts. Plus, you’ll get a free glass of mimosa to enjoy on the ride!

How to Get to Newport, Rhode Island

Getting to Newport by Car

The easiest way to get to Newport is by car. The drive here is beautiful, especially as you cross the bridges onto Aquidneck Island. From NYC, it’s only about 4 hours.

Here are the approximate driving times from other major nearby cities. Of course, driving times may change based on seasonality and time of day.

• Providence, RI – 45 minutes
• Boston – 1.5 hours
• New Haven, CT – 2 hours
• New York City – 4 hours

Getting to Newport by Air

The nearest airport is T.F. Green Airport (PVD) in Warwick, Rhode Island, which is about 40 minutes from Newport. It’s a convenient option with flights from major U.S. hubs.

You can also fly into Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) however it’s about 1.5 hours away from Newport. It does offer more flight options, especially if you’re coming internationally.

I recommend getting a rental car from either one of these airports to get to Newport. You could also take a taxi, ride share, or public bus if renting a car isn’t feasible.

Getting to Newport by Train/Bus

Unfortunately, Newport does not have its own Amtrak station. If you prefer traveling by rail, you can take an Amtrak train from Boston, NYC, or Philadelphia to Providence Station in Rhode Island.

Once you’re in Providence Station, you can get a rental car, ride-share, or a bus to get to Newport. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Providence Station to Newport. The public bus you’ll want to take is the Route 60 on the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, or RIPTA.

Getting to Newport by Ferry

This is a fun, seasonal way of getting to Newport during the summer while exploring the beautiful Rhode Island coastline! The Seastreak ferry goes from Providence, RI to Newport and operates seasonally from June through October.

🚋 If you’re traveling to Newport without a car, I highly recommend checking out the Newport scenic trolley tour → it’s a 90-minute narrated ride that will take you through historic downtown, The Newport Waterfront, Ocean Drive, and the Bellevue Avenue Mansion Area.

How to Get Around Newport, Rhode Island

Getting Around by Walking

The best way to explore Newport is on foot. The city is highly walkable, especially the downtown area, where most of the attractions are concentrated. Parking can be difficult in some areas, especially during busy travel seasons.

Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes since you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking! Also, keep in mind that some streets are cobblestone, and certain areas like the Cliff Walk have uneven terrain.

Getting Around by Bike

If you’re looking to cover more ground in a short time, biking is a great option especially since the city is relatively flat.

Bike rentals are available at several places around town. Some hotels may even offer complimentary bikes as part of their packages! For families with kids, consider renting bikes with child seats or tagalongs to make the experience safe and fun for everyone.

Getting Around by Car

Many people drive to get to Newport, but once you’re here it’s not all that important to have a car. I will say that it’s definitely convenient to have a car, especially if you’re traveling with kids or visiting nearby towns or attractions.

However, if you want to get around Newport without a car, you can definitely just use the free bus that goes through major attractions in Newport during certain months, which I talk more about below.

I did find that some places in Newport had a decent amount of traffic, even during a slower season! Street parking can also be hard especially when it gets busy here.

Make sure to book a hotel with free or valet parking so you’re not scrambling to look for parking. Many popular destinations like The Breakers, Marble House, and Fort Adams State Park have their own lots, but these can fill up quickly.

Getting Around by Bus

Newport has a reliable and budget-friendly public transportation system operated by RIPTA (Rhode Island Public Transit Authority).

The Route 67 trolley is particularly popular with tourists and runs through many popular attractions. It’s a hop-on/hop-off trolley that’s free from May through October! Click here for more information.

The RIPTA also has other low-cost bus routes throughout Newport and neighboring cities. In the summer months, buses can be crowded, so it’s wise to plan your day in advance and check current schedules on RIPTA’s website or app.

Travel Tips for Newport, Rhode Island

• Book early in summer and fall. Newport is a popular destination this time of year, and weekends fill up fast! I recommend booking hotels, restaurant reservations, and mansion tickets at least 2–4 weeks in advance.
  
  
• Wear comfy shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Newport, especially on cobblestone streets and cliffside trails, so bring comfortable walking shoes!
  
  
• Pack for the sea breeze. It can get be cool even on some summer days. Fall and spring will bring cooler mornings and evenings. Bring layers or a light jacket to avoid getting too chilly!
  
  
• Look for combo tickets. Planning to tour multiple mansions? Save money with a Newport Mansions combo pass, which gives access to The Breakers, Marble House, and other top mansion tours in Newport.
  
  
• Bring beach gear. Don’t forget to take advantage of the beaches in Newport, Rhode Island! Pack your swimsuit, beach towels, sunscreen, and beach toys to keep little ones happy. I have a FREE printable beach vacation packing list, so don’t forget to grab that before your vacation!
  
  
• Consider a winter visit for good deals. If you’re on a tight budget or looking for a quieter vibe, shoulder seasons offer great value. Many Rhode Island hotels offer weekend getaway packages with added perks like spa credits or dining vouchers during the slow winter season.
  
  
• Don’t skip the seafood! Newport is known for fresh seafood. Make sure to try clam chowder, lobster rolls, or fish tacos at local favorites.

Day 1 Itinerary: Saturday

Morning: Coffee & Stroll Down Bellevue Avenue

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Left: shops & restaurants along Bellevue Avenue
Right: Hotel Viking lobby

First up: food & coffee. Can’t start off a day of exploration without these two things!

There’s so many cute breakfast and brunch spots in Newport, but I highly recommend checking out Empire Tea & Coffee! I think they have several locations, but we went to the one on Bellevue Avenue (I flagged it on the map above). They have a pretty large seating area and a variety of drinks, pastries, and sandwiches to choose from.

Once you’re done enjoying your treats, walk down Bellevue Avenue towards the International Tennis Hall of Fame. This is a Smithsonian affiliate museum where you can learn about the history of tennis and famed tennis players. The grounds are free to visit, but museum entry requires a ticket.

Even if you skip the museum, it’s still worth walking down this stretch of Bellevue Avenue to admire the gorgeous German-Swiss architecture of the buildings. If you keep going down Bellevue Avenue, you’ll eventually run into some of the historic mansions!

While we were in this area, we also stopped to check out Hotel Viking. It’s a beautiful hotel! We didn’t stay here, but it’s worth checking out the lobby if you have some extra time. They also have lots of great dining options here including a cute coffee shop, rooftop bar, and a restaurant which also serves afternoon tea.

Afternoon: The Cliff Walk & Mansion Tour

Top: Views from the Cliff Walk
Bottom: The Breakers mansion
(images courtesy of Canva – because I somehow lost my photos of these spots!)

The Cliff Walk

Hopefully you had a nice breakfast, because now it’s time to do a little walking!

One of the must-do activities in Newport is the Cliff Walk. It’s a great way to admire the gorgeous rocky coastline of Newport, and you can also see some of the iconic historical mansions along the way!

The Cliff Walk stretches for 3.5 miles, but there many entry/exit points so you don’t have to feel obliged to walk the entire length! Along the Cliff Walk, you’ll have beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and on the other side, you’ll find the backside of Newport’s historic mansions.

The path starts at Memorial Boulevard near Easton’s Beach and ends at Bellevue Avenue. Some parts of the walk are paved and easy, while others become more rugged and adventurous, especially toward the southern end.

Families with kids may prefer to stick to the northern portion, which is more stroller-friendly and still offers plenty of stunning views.

Unfortunately, there’s not many places to get food along the way so I would recommend packing a little picnic if you can.

Mansion Tour

When you’re visiting Newport, you have to check out at least one of the historic mansions here!

Built during the late 1800s and early 1900s, these homes were summer estates for some of America’s wealthiest families, including the Vanderbilts and Astors. Many of the mansions are maintained by the Preservation Society of Newport County, which offers self-guided audio tours.

There are many historical mansions you could visit during your time in Newport, but here’s a list of the top 4 mansion tours for a first-time visit to Newport.

🎟️ Skip the wait and book your tickets in advance!
Click here to book your mansion tour → one of the top-rated tours in Newport starting at just $32 per person! You have the option of picking 1, 2, or 3 mansion tours. Your ticket is also good for 7 days!

1. The Breakers –> get more information here

• The most popular of the mansion tours in Newport!
  
  
• Highlights: Grand 70-room estate built for Cornelius Vanderbilt II, featuring marble imported from Italy and mosaics assembled by European artisans
  
  
• Best For: First-time visitors, families, architecture lovers
  
  
• Fun Fact: It has a two-story dining room and its own plumbing and heating system from the 1890s!
  
  

2. Marble House –> get more information here

• Another Vanderbilt home inspired by a chateau in Versailles
  
  
• Highlights: Over 500,000 cubic feet of marble, a Chinese Tea House in the backyard, and opulent gold interiors
  
  
• Best For: First-time visitors, art lovers, and those interested in American social history
  
  

3. The Elms –> get more information here

• Modeled after an 18th century French chateau but featuring the latest technology of the Gilded Age. 🎟️ Click here to check out tour dates & times!
  
  
• Highlights: Lavish gardens, rare French furniture, and the optional Servant Life Tour that shows what it was like to live and work there
  
  
• Best For: Families, history buffs, behind-the-scenes fans
  
  
• Fun Fact: The home belonged to the Berwins, who built their fortune on the coal industry. This was also one of the first homes in America to have electricity built into the original design!
  
  

4. Rosecliff –> get more information here

• Inspired by the Grand Trianon of Versailles and featured in the 1974 filmThe Great Gatsby. 🎟️ Click here to check out tour dates & times!
  
  
• Highlights: Heart-shaped grand staircase, the largest ballroom in Newport, elegance, smooth stucco architecture, and rotating exhibitions.
  
  
• Best For: Romantics, photographers, movie lovers
  
  
• Fun Fact: The home belonged to Theresa Oelrichs, a silver heiress. The Rosecliff ballroom was one of the grandest in Newport and has hosted some of the city’s most famous parties!
  
  

🎟️ Ready to book? Check out the tour dates & times here! →

Evening: Dinner & Sunset at Easton Beach

After a long day of exploring, walking, and mansion touring, I’m sure you want to relax a little bit! Drive a short distance to Easton’s Beach, where you can catch the sunset and relax at the beach.

You’ll also find a historic 1950s carousel, a playground, and a seasonal snack bar serving up clam cakes and Del’s frozen lemonade—a Rhode Island classic!

For dinner, I recommend checking out the nearby Flo’s Clam Shack where you can get classic New England delicacies like lobster rolls, clam chowder, oysters, and more!

Day 2 Itinerary: Sunday

Morning: Scenic Loop on Ocean Drive

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Top: Photos along the Ocean Drive scenic loop
Bottom: Miantonomi Memorial Park

Grab a hearty breakfast at The Corner Cafe, a cozy breakfast spot with yummy food and delicious coffee. If you’re wanting something a little lighter, I really like The Nitro Bar which has a selection of pastry, light breakfast options, and amazing coffee!

On your way to Ocean Drive, stop by Miantonomi Memorial Park for a quiet and peaceful walk. It’s a hidden gem in the heart of Newport! There’s also a stone World War I memorial to admire here.

After the memorial park, drive down to the intersection of Ocean Avenue & Coggeshall Avenue. This is where the scenic loop starts along Ocean Avenue. This scenic road has many stops that you can’t miss!

I recommend taking your time as you drive this beautiful loop. Stop to take photos often! It took us about an hour total because we stopped so much, but otherwise it takes only 10-15 minutes if you drive straight through.

Here are some of my favorite scenic stops along the way:

• Bailey Beach
• Gooseberry Beach
• King’s Beach
• Brenton Point
• Castle Hill Lighthouse

Afternoon: Stroll Around Bowen’s Wharf & Bannister’s Wharf

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Photos along Bowen’s Wharf and Bannister’s Wharf

I think this may have been my favorite area in all of Newport! They’re both lively waterfront districts with tons of shops and restaurants. You’ll also find cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and that classic New England vibe here.

Bowen’s Wharf is the larger of the two and has lots of things to do year-round. We also found some cool art galleries here and outdoor dining patios with lots of great seafood options for lunch.

Just steps away, Bannister’s Wharf offers a slightly more intimate and upscale vibe, with classy dining options and luxury shops. Both wharves sit side by side, so be sure to check both of them out!

If you have some extra time, or if you want to explore on wheels, check out the Newport scenic trolley tour! It picks up near the Newport Visitor Center and is a 90-minute narrated ride that will take you through historic downtown, The Newport Waterfront, Ocean Drive, and the Bellevue Avenue Mansion Area.

In regards to lunch, we liked The Black Pearl which has lots of great options and a nice outdoor seating area. If you’re looking for something a little more casual, then check out The Lobster Bar which also has New England classics and an outdoor patio.

🎟️ In the mood for sailing?
Book a 75-minute cruise along Newport Harbor! → starting at just $40 per person! The cruise takes off at Bowen’s Wharf and sails around the Newport Harbor. Along the way, you’ll see New England style lighthouses, mansions, and forts. Plus, you’ll get a free glass of mimosa to enjoy on the ride!

Evening: Thames Street

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Views along Thames Street
Bottom Right: Dinner at Gaslamp Grill

After you’re done checking out Bowen’s Wharf and Bannister’s Wharf, make sure to check out the neighboring Thames Street. It’s a long street, but I recommend checking out the part that’s south of Marlborough Street.

Here, you’ll find a nice mix of boutique shops, galleries, cafes, and historic buildings. We found some cool surf shops and handmade jewelry shops here where we picked up some souvenirs!

The street is also pedestrian-friendly, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon of exploring, with scenic harbor views peeking out from side streets.

If you’re grabbing dinner before you drive back home, then you’ll find a great selection of restaurants here. We really enjoyed our dinner at The Gas Lamp Grille and the restaurant had such an old-time, colonial feel to it! There’s also candy shops and ice cream stores here if you’re in the mood for a sweet treat.

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And that’s a wrap! I hope you enjoyed this Newport, Rhode Island weekend getaway itinerary and found it useful in planning your trip. As always, please let me know if you checked out any of these spots in the comments below. Or send me a message to share any feedback!

Download a Free PDF of the Newport, Rhode Island Weekend Getaway Itinerary

Get a free PDF version of the Newport, Rhode Island Weekend Getaway Itinerary for easy printing and use on mobile devices!

The PDF contains both a color copy as well as a black & white copy that is printer-friendly!

You can of course use the itinerary as-is or use it to get ideas to create your own itinerary!

Disclaimer: This itinerary is for informational purposes only. Sprinkle of Wanderlust cannot be held liable for any loss, injury, inconvenience, or expenses incurred as a result of the use of the information provided. Travelers are responsible for their own safety, health precautions, and decisions while traveling.

While I try my best to keep the itineraries updated and accurate, travel details including transportation, accommodations, attractions, prices, and availability are subject to change without notice.

I recommend that you verify the most up-to-date information before you travel especially regarding timings, availability, safety guidelines, entry requirements, and local regulations.