New England is the stage for the great American summer…and if darling beach towns were characters, Newport would be the star.
This quintessential coastal escape is brimming with rich both Gilded Age history and northeastern finesse. From the Kennedys (Jackie and Jack tied the knot in town) to the Vanderbilts (they built their “cottages” on the famous seaside cliffs), Newport is a coveted hideaway for the upper crust of east coast society for centuries.
With an abundance of treasures to be discovered and classic New England charm to be savored, Newport is the perfect balance of opulence and coastal charm. Here is your guide to exploring this Rhode Island gem:
WHERE TO STAY
The Chanler – An enchanting ode to both Europe and New England’s Gilded Age, The Chanler is a luxurious cliffside oasis which can’t quite be rivaled in views (Theodore Roosevelt once enjoyed it). While there, try the famed Spiced Pear restaurant and order the oysters.
Ocean House Rhode Island – Every Newport goer needs to stay at Ocean House; it transports you to the summit of Rhode Island hospitality.
Castle Hill Inn – Tucked away in one of Newport’s most breathtaking cliffy nooks, Castle Hill Inn offers an experience that will make you want to stay on the property your entire Newport stay.
EXPLORE
Shop on Thames Street & Bowen’s Wharf
Whether visiting in summer or doing a touch of coastal Christmas shopping (charming to the extreme), perusing Thames street and Bowens Wharf is a timeless affair and one of the best shopping hotspots in New England.
Explore Newport Cliff Walk
Stroll alongside the enchanting cliffside while simultaneously devouring Atlantic air and the summit of American architecture along the way – the mansions might inspire major real estate goals.
Charter a Sailboat
Because what better way is there to experience Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay? My favorite: an 80’ schooner called Adirondac II – don’t forget to pack a lobster roll picnic.
Admire The Mansions
Make a day of Gilded Age mansion hopping and don’t miss my two favorites: The Marble House and Rosecliff. The Marble House is a breathtaking showcase of Vanderbilt wealth…it was their summer beach “cottage” and the property hosted early fundraising events for the Woman Suffrage Movement. Rosecliff Mansion is perhaps the most buzzed about mansion and has been featured in numerous Tinseltown flicks, including a little picture called The Great Gatsby.
Stomp at Summer Polo
Make sure your summer plans include a Saturday to catch one of the town’s famous international polo matches (I’ll be catching the Italy vs. USA match this July).
FOOD & DRINK
The Coffee Grinder – Coffee certainly warrants its own category at Modern Jetsetter and of course it comes before food suggestions. The Coffee Grinder is one of my most beloved java spots in New England and offer prime sunset view over Newport Harbor. A wonderfully spent day finalized by a dreamy warm (or frozen) latte and stunning Bannister’s Wharf moments? It doesn’t get better.
The Mooring – Dear seafood lovers: gather. Snag a harbor table to watch the sunset and order the famed seafood pasta.
The Black Pearl – A Newport culinary staple in the center of the town’s action, The Black Pearl is a mandatory visit (if only for their famous New England style Clam Chowder).
The Lawn at Castle Hill – Best Poutine and Lobster Rolls of my life and that’s enough for me. Combine that with the views, and the experience couldn’t possibly be more delicious.
