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Overview
Known as America's first resort, Newport was the playground of the rich during America's "Gilded Age," the time between the Civil War and World War I. Shipping magnates and railroad tycoons snapped up land along the waterfront to build what they dubbed their "summer cottages." These cottages were in fact palatial mansions patterned after European palaces. Bellevue Avenue and its surrounding environs house a number of these magnificent structures, many of which are open to the public. Three of the most extraordinary include The Breakers, home of the legendary William Vanderbilt; the Astor family's Beachwood mansion; and Marble House, mansion of Cornelius Vanderbilt. The city is located at the southern tip of Aquidneck Island on the lovely Narragansett Bay, linked to the mainland by three bridges and ferry service. The Newport Bridge, a suspension bridge that's the largest in New England, connects the city to Conanicut Island. Surrounded by the Bay on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, Newport has a rich yachting heritage and has also garnered a reputation for being the sailing capital of the country. From 1930-1983, it hosted the prestigious America's Cup before losing the hosting rights to Australia. Gorgeous views of the sea as well as the mansions and other historic buildings that dot the city can be seen by taking the popular Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile trail that wends its way along the rim of the city. Located about 30 miles south of state's capital of Providence, Newport offers a wealth of dining, shopping and nightlife diversions. Situated on Bannister's Wharf, the iconic Clarke Cooke House has three distinct dining options, including waterfront porch dining and a first class menu of American cuisine. The legendary clam chowder of Newport's own Black Pearl restaurant has been heralded as the best anywhere by countless critics, and the White Horse Tavern is the oldest continuously operating tavern in the country. Brick Alley Pub and Newport Blues Café, both located on Thames Street, feature live music. Shopping areas include both the Upper and Lower sections of Thames Street, with its diverse collections of antique shops, specialty boutiques and fine clothiers as well as multiple dining options. Bowen's and Bannister's Wharfs also make for popular Newport shopping spots. Located waterside, downtown, in historic mansions and in modern buildings, plenty of lodging facilities vie for the attention of Newport visitors as well. The Adele Turner Inn and the Abigail Stoneman Inn are two of the most luxurious inns in the city. The Chanler, a 19th-century mansion perched high atop Newport Harbor, also stands ready to welcome guests with first class style and endless pampering.
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