New York City may be the city that never sleeps but sometimes a New Yorker needs just that. Newport, Rhode Island serves as a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of NYC streets. Also known as America’s First Resort, the charming New England enclave proudly celebrates its past while looking to the future.
Newport is close enough that the drive is enjoyable (and scenic). We highly recommend driving as everything in the area is about 20 minutes or less away from one another allowing you to set the pace for your visit and enjoy the sites at your own cadence.
Our friends at Lexus generously provided us with a redesigned 2018 LX 570, the largest luxury SUV they have in their fleet, for the journey. The LX 570 was the perfect vehicle for the road trip! With a 360-degree view panoramic camera system and 12.3-inch multimedia screen, parking and maneuvering the car was a breeze, plus the ability to lower the third row seats provided ample room for all of the purchases made over the weekend.
Photo Credit: Lexus
One may think of Newport as a summer destination but visiting in the off season offers visitors access (and parking) to some of the town’s greatest attractions without feeling overcrowded. From taking in historic sites to exploring the town by foot- Newport provides a relaxing and luxurious escape we all know we desperately need during the winter months.
So what do you need to add to your Newport itinerary?
Check out Gurney’s newest property and meet the goats of Goat Island
Photo Credit: Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina
Gurney’s, known for their famous Montauk resort, have taken their talents north to Newport, Rhode Island as of Summer 2017 providing the island with the only four-season resort. This was our home for the weekend so we could make time to experience their collaboration with Chillhouse, one of their many seasonal pop ups.
Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina spans across nearly 10 acres atop Goat Island (there are two actual goats living on the property named Cornelis and William) and features undisturbed waterfront views. The resort also proudly boasts an indoor and outdoor pool, the famous Scarpetta restaurant, a 22-foot marina, as well as their own personal mini lighthouse.
Sip on Newport’s finest at Newport Vineyards & Winery
Photo Credit: Newport Vineyards & Winery
Newport Vineyards & Winery is the largest grower of wine grapes in New England and a must see for any visitor. The indoor/outdoor property’s expansion also includes Brix Restaruant, Vineyard Cafe, a new marketplace, and expanded tasting room. Tastings are offered all day long while 30-minute daily tours are also an option. Pro tip: Newport’s Island White is their most popular bottle and with good reason.
Live the life of luxury on the Mansion Tours
Photo Credit: Preservation Society of Newport County
During the winter months four extravagant mansions are available to tour: The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms, and Rosecliff. Whether you’re exploring the grounds through an audio tour or taking part in a guided tour, you will gain a new and unique perspective on the lives of the people who lived and worked in the grand mansions of Newport. Based on diaries, letters, records and oral histories, these tours offer the personal stories of the men and women who lived in each house and the household staff who catered to them.
Take a stroll through Cliff Walk
Photo Credit: Discover Newport
The 3.5 mile path along the Atlantic Ocean offers a sneak peek of the exquisite mansion grounds as well as incredible shoreline views of Newport. Cliff Walk is visited by millions of people annually and serves as a National Recreation Trail in a National Historic District. If you are looking to take your exercise routine outdoors during your visit, this is the perfect place for an afternoon run or stroll.
Relax and unwind at The Bodhi Spa
Photo Credit: The Bodhi Spa Facebook
If you’re coming from NYC, you may be familiar with the hydrotherapy pools at The Ancient Aire Baths. The Bodhi Spa in Newport offers a similarly welcoming experience. Located right on Thames Street, the spa features hot mineral baths, infrared and electric saunas, aromatherapy steams, cold plunges, organic based skin care, and a range of massage options. Whether you are visiting with a friend, loved one, or by yourself- The Bodhi Spa is one of our favorite places to check out in Newport.
Take a drive along Ten Mile Drive
Photo Credit: Discover Newport
The southern-most tip of Newport is one of the most fabulous when it comes to sight seeing. Ten Mile Drive combines the wealthy history of Newport’s summer community with historic treasures of public parks and public access shorelines. There are four legs of Ten Mile Drive: Brenton Cove Shore, East Passage of Narragansett Bay, Ocean Drive, and Bellevue Avenue. Start the drive at Thames Street so you can drive alongside the water while heading north to end on Bellevue Avenue.
Shop til’ you drop on Thames Street
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
The only thing better than the views in Newport has got to be the shopping! We would suggest starting at the southern point of Thames Street and walking north so that you can end your adventure at The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar. Our favorite shops included personal styling boutique Rochelle’s, Frazzleberries Country Store (great for unique Newport memorabilia), and Newport Sea Foam Trading Co.
Take a photo at the Castle Hill Lighthouse
Photo Credit: @davidlong3653 Instagram
End your amazing trip with the perfect photo opportunity at Castle Hill Lighthouse located on Narragansett Bay at the end of Ocean Drive!
For more information on visiting Newport, Rhode Island be sure to check out Discover Newport.
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