Perhaps it was the allure of sailing John F. Kennedy’s favorite route along Narragansett Bay. Maybe Grace Kelly’s glamorous High Society backdrop caught your eye. Or perhaps you spotted the grass courts of the Tennis Hall of Fame in HBO’s The Gilded Age and wondered what draws billionaires to Bellevue Avenue’s historic mansions. Whatever first drew you to Newport, Rhode Island, one visit is all it takes to fall for this enchanting seaside town.
Newport effortlessly blends Gilded Age grandeur with unpretentious waterfront charm. Though refined (some spots still require jackets for men) and steeped in old-world elegance, the town avoids flashiness. Here, glamour means men in espadrilles and seersucker, or women in linen dresses with cashmere sweaters draped over their shoulders. The vibe is relaxed—social pretenses fade against the backdrop of the Atlantic’s deep blue waves, rugged coastline, and rolling seaside farmland.
Explore Newport’s best with Vogue’s guide to the perfect summer retreat, where history meets idyllic coastal charm.
### Things to Do
Bellevue Avenue
Thanks to the Preservation Society of Newport, the Gilded Age’s grand estates remain frozen in time. Think of Bellevue as the 5th Avenue of historic mansions—instead of luxury boutiques, you’ll find Marble House (the Vanderbilt family’s opulent masterpiece), Rosecliff (where The Great Gatsby was filmed), and The Breakers, The Elms, and Rough Point (Doris Duke’s former estate). A tour of these landmarks is a Newport must.
Whitehorne House Museum
For lovers of house museums (like The Frick or London’s Leighton House), the Whitehorne (414 Thames Street) is a hidden gem. Its collection showcases 18th-century Newport-made furniture, offering a glimpse into America’s early days. While Newport has grander homes, none highlight local craftsmanship quite like this one.
Newport Classic Cruises
Book a sunset sail on the 80-foot schooner Adirondack II—boarding at Bowen’s Wharf—to experience Newport from the water. The town isn’t fully appreciated until you’ve seen it by sea.
Redwood Library
Bookworms, take note: Founded in 1747, this Peter Harrison-designed landmark is America’s oldest lending library. Part museum, part library, it houses rare books, letters from Edith Wharton, and even gardening notes by Lancelot “Capability” Brown.
International Tennis Hall of Fame
Beyond sailing, Newport is a tennis haven. Visit the Hall of Fame on Bellevue Avenue for a tour, or book a match on their iconic grass courts (don’t forget your whites!).
Elizabeth in Newport
Cruise Ocean Drive in style aboard Elizabeth, a vintage 1961 Rolls-Royce available for scenic tours or picnics (driver included). Once you’ve seen Newport this way, there’s no going back.
Green Animals Topiary Garden
Just outside Newport in Portsmouth, this whimsical garden—the oldest topiary in the U.S.—feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Stroll among sculpted shrubs and vibrant blooms in this enchanting escape.Green Animals Topiary Garden
This seven-acre former 19th-century summer estate overlooks Narragansett Bay and features over 80 whimsically shaped shrubs—elephants, unicorns, giraffes, and bears—alongside formal flower beds, geometric paths, and heirloom vegetable gardens. Originally designed in 1912 by gardener Joseph Carreiro, the garden was opened to the public by Alice Brayton, the estate’s last resident. She even hosted a young Jacqueline Bouvier during her debutante season, followed by Caroline and John Jr. in later years. Today, the Preservation Society of Newport County maintains this enchanting garden, delighting visitors of all ages.
Newport Art Museum
Housed in the historic John N.A. Griswold House—a Richard Morris Hunt design and a National Historic Landmark—the Newport Art Museum seamlessly blends history with contemporary art. Rotating exhibitions showcase local and international artists, including works by early 20th-century Newport painters like Howard Gardiner Cushing. The museum also serves as a cultural hub, hosting concerts, talks, and artist residencies that keep the city’s creative spirit alive.
Cliff Walk
No visit to Newport is complete without walking the Cliff Walk, the city’s most iconic coastal trail. This 3.5-mile path winds between the Atlantic Ocean and the backyards of Gilded Age mansions, offering stunning views of both nature and historic grandeur. Parts of the trail are paved and easy, while others are rugged—so wear sturdy shoes if you plan to go the distance. Start at Easton’s Beach and head south toward The Breakers for the most breathtaking stretch. For the ultimate experience, stay at The Chanler, the only hotel with direct access to the Cliff Walk.
The Beaches
Newport’s beaches have a down-to-earth New England charm. Easton’s Beach (First Beach) is the largest and most accessible, with a carousel, snack bar, and gentle waves. Further along, Sachuest Beach (Second Beach) attracts a local crowd, including surfers and sunrise yogis. For a quieter spot, Gooseberry Beach—nestled along Ocean Drive—offers a rocky cove perfect for families and picnics. Bring cash, a good book, and a stylish straw hat for the full experience.
Where to Stay: Castle Hill Inn
If Ocean Drive has to end, it does so at one of Newport’s finest hotels: Castle Hill Inn. Built in 1875 as the summer home of marine biologist Alexander Agassiz, the property later became a naval officers’ base during WWII. Today, it’s a Relais & Châteaux retreat on a private peninsula with sweeping bay views and scenic walking trails.
Guests can choose between the historic main house—with seven rooms featuring Victorian-meets-maritime decor, wood paneling, and claw-foot tubs—or secluded beach cottages right on the shore. The Turret Suite, tucked in the mansion’s tower, even has a bathtub with panoramic views. Whether you dine at Aurelia or relax on the lawn, Castle Hill Inn captures the essence of a Gilded Age coastal escape.Relax under a fringed parasol while enjoying chilled grapes. The private grounds also offer easy access to the Castle Hill lighthouse, bike rentals for exploring Ocean Avenue, or even a boat ride from the property’s private dock to Ann Street or Perrotti Park in town. For wellness enthusiasts, there’s access to the historic Tennis Hall of Fame gym (off-site) or spa treatments at the on-site Retreat at Castle Hill by Farmaesthetics. Seasonal events like the annual Farm Fresh at Castle Hill showcase local farm-to-table dining while supporting area farmers.
Breakfast is served on the lawn dotted with white Adirondack chairs—perfect for sunset views.
Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, free parking, spa, two restaurants, bar, beach access
Address: 590 Ocean Drive, Newport, RI 02840
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### Gardiner House
Opened last year, this 21-room hotel sits on Lees Wharf near the International Yacht Restoration School. Owners Wirt Blaffer and Howard Cushing—whose family ties to Newport run deep—drew inspiration from Cushing’s 1860s ancestral home, The Ledges. The original Victorian house, built by Cushing’s great-grandfather (artist Howard Gardiner Cushing), still overlooks Bailey’s Beach after 150 years.
The elder Cushing’s unfinished mural of butterflies, peacocks, and willow trees—once adorning The Ledges’ entryway—now graces Gardiner House as digitally reproduced wallpaper. The design preserves the mural’s charming imperfections, honoring both the artist’s legacy and Newport’s history.
Guest rooms feature vibrant textiles, sisal rugs, and wicker accents, each with a sunny, unique charm. The cozy Studio Bar leads to Flora, the new rooftop restaurant serving Mediterranean-Spanish cuisine with waterfront views.
For activities, Cushing hopes to restore his family’s Lobster boat (once used by JFK) for guest tours. Meanwhile, the hotel arranges sunset cruises with local charters and offers beach picnics and bicycles for exploring.
Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, free parking, restaurant, bar
Address: 24 Lees Wharf, Newport, RI 02840
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### The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection
This 33-room mansion, built in 1908 by a Vanderbilt heir, blends Newport’s Gilded Age grandeur with modern luxury after a recent renovation. Grand staircases, Georgian columns, and a jewel-toned palette welcome guests into its opulent world.
Spend afternoons at the Garden Terrace for tea or… (text continues)Step into the sunlit Conservatory, sip a fine brandy (or lose yourself in a good book) in the elegant sitting rooms, then make your way to the mansion’s stately dining room for refined coastal cuisine by Pasquale Jones alum Tim Caspare. Cap off the evening at the hotel’s rooftop deck with a spritz and panoramic views of Newport Harbor. “The mansion is truly Newport’s luxurious social heart,” says Raphael Pazzini, the Vanderbilt’s general manager.
For the guest rooms, Dallas design firm Swoon took inspiration from the mansion’s namesake and Newport icon Doris Duke. The details are subtle yet sophisticated—think vintage rugs, carefully selected books, custom wallpaper, and stately canopy beds. “The design has a cinematic elegance,” says Swoon founder Samantha Sano.
The Vanderbilt also offers off-site experiences, from polo matches to classic car rentals, for those wanting to embrace Newport’s high-society lifestyle. The highlight? A private yacht tour aboard The Temma, a 1928 motor yacht, blending cocktails with harbor history.
Amenities: Spa, indoor/outdoor pools, gym, multiple restaurants, valet
Address: 41 Mary Street, Newport, RI 02840
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### The Chanler
No visit to Newport is complete without walking the Cliffwalk—and staying at the only hotel along its path, The Chanler, makes it even better. Built in 1873 as a summer home for a New York congressman’s large family, the mansion sits at the walk’s end with stunning views of Easton’s Beach.
Over the years, it’s been a girls’ school, naval officers’ quarters, and even housed The Great Gatsby (1974) cast. After a careful restoration by the Shufelt family, it now blends Victorian craftsmanship with modern comfort under Lani Shufelt’s stewardship.
Rooms inside the main house feel like stepping into a well-traveled collector’s home, complete with antique keys and eclectic decor. Themed suites—Moroccan, Greek Revival, English Tudor—each reflect their namesake with charm. For more privacy, opt for a garden or ocean villa.
Dining options shine: The casual Living Room, The Café, and Cara, a fine-dining standout with ocean views from Chef Jacob Jasinski.
Amenities: Restaurants, off-site gym, free parking
Address: 117 Memorial Blvd, Newport, RI 02840
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### Where to Eat
Flora
Newport’s hottest restaurant sits atop Gardiner House, named after Flora Payne Whitney—whose portrait watches over the bar. Painted by Howard Gardiner (grandfather of the hotel’s co-owner), it captures her lounging in the family home. Chef Somoza’s menu whisks you to Mediterranean shores, from Saint-Tropez to Capri, with standout dishes like…Here’s your rewritten version in natural, fluent English:
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The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn
Enjoy sweeping harbor views and a fresh raw bar at Castle Hill’s beloved summer spot, The Lawn. Settle into classic white Adirondack chairs overlooking Newport Harbor and the Atlantic, where sailboats and yachts glide by. Pair oysters with champagne and linger all afternoon—or book a room and stay the weekend.
The Black Pearl
A Newport staple, The Black Pearl offers casual patio dining (think burgers and clams) and a cozy tavern bar inside. For dinner, the Commodore Room serves fresh seafood on white linen—don’t miss their famous clam chowder.
Newport Vineyards & Restaurant
Just past Middletown, Newport Vineyards sprawls across 100 acres of farmland. Sip local wines, try craft beers, and enjoy farm-to-table meals in this scenic, family-friendly setting.
Root
A haven for vegans and vegetarians (or anyone avoiding seafood), Root serves fresh-pressed juices, hearty salads, and grain bowls in a relaxed space.
Clarke Cooke House
For a summer Friday treat, snag a seat at their seasonal sushi bar with prime sunset views over Bannister’s Wharf. Order the Rainbow and Lobster Roll, then save room for the legendary “Snowball in Hell” dessert.
The Nitro Bar
This cult-favorite coffee shop, born in Providence, now has two Newport locations. Stop by for expertly crafted espresso drinks and afternoon caffeine fixes.
Thames Street Kitchen
Step away from classic seafood for inventive dishes made with local ingredients. For the best experience, book the chef’s counter to watch the kitchen in action.
Mother Pizzeria
Newport’s latest Italian spot, from local restaurateurs, serves Neapolitan pizza, cured meats, and creative cocktails. End with their olive oil gelato—it’s a must.
Sky Bar & the Boom Boom Room
When the sun sets, head to Clarke Cooke House’s lively upstairs Sky Bar or the basement Boom Boom Room. The night often ends with a spontaneous ocean dip.
### Shopping
The Newport Lampshade Company
This charming shop stocks Christopher Spitzmiller lamps, antique pottery, and unique gifts—perfect for hostess presents.
Spring Street Bookstore
A cozy gem with new and used books, from rare poetry to bestsellers. Far more charming than any e-reader.
Bannister’s & Bowen’s Wharves
Beyond dining, these wharves boast top boutiques and galleries. Browse Monelle’s for nautical accessories or the ideal cashmere sweater.
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Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!On cooler nights, it’s a cozy spot to warm up. For a style that blends French Riviera charm with Saint Barth’s flair, stop by Mandarine Boutique to pick up a fresh swimsuit or a breezy evening outfit. Royal Male offers top-notch men’s and women’s outerwear from both local and European designers. At the end of Bannister’s Wharf, Sheldon’s Fine Art Gallery draws attention with stunning oil paintings, while the nautical photography at the award-winning Onne Valderwal Gallery captures Newport’s essence.
Tucked away from the bustle of Thames Street, Bodhi Spa is Newport’s hidden summer retreat. Try The Water Journey—a relaxing hydrotherapy experience featuring a plunge pool and eucalyptus steam room to refresh sun-soaked skin and extend your tan. The spa also provides hot stone massages and personalized facials to soothe tired muscles and keep your skin glowing.