So, you’ve decided Newport is the place to find your dream home. Excellent choice! As you explore the housing market, you can also savor the city’s coastal charm, historic beauty, and vibrant dining scene. Your house-hunting trip can easily become a mini getaway, balancing property tours with moments to unwind and enjoy all that Newport has to offer.
Here’s how to make the most of your Newport house-hunting weekend, from exquisite stays and delectable brunches to charming hidden gems, all while searching for your dream home on the Classic Coast.
Setting the Stage: Luxury Stays
Newport offers a wonderful array of accommodations that can turn your house-hunting trip into a relaxing getaway. Here are a few of our favorites:
The Chanler at Cliff Walk: Perched majestically along the scenic Cliff Walk, The Chanler offers unparalleled ocean views and a truly bespoke experience. Each of its 20 guest rooms is uniquely themed and sumptuously appointed. Imagine starting your day with a gourmet breakfast overlooking the waves before heading out to tour homes, returning to unwind in lavish comfort.
Castle Hill Inn: For a more secluded, yet equally luxurious, experience, Castle Hill Inn is a Relais & Châteaux property set on 40 waterfront acres with a private beach. Each of its 33 elegant rooms and charming cottages offer a serene escape. Dining at The Lawn at Castle Hill, with its breathtaking sunset views, is an absolute must, providing a taste of the quintessential Newport experience.
Hotel Viking: Steeped in history and elegance, Hotel Viking offers a classic Newport stay right in the heart of the city. Its prime location provides easy access to Thames Street, Bellevue Avenue, and the harbor, making it a convenient hub for your property tours. Enjoy the rooftop bar for panoramic views or unwind at the on-site spa after a day of exploring.
Fueling Your Search: Dine with a View (or a Local Vibe)
Newport’s dining scene is lively, inviting, and full of character. Power up for your house tours or relax after a long day of house hunting with a memorable meal:
The Lawn Terrace at Castle Hill: You don’t have to be an overnight guest to experience this quintessential Newport spot. With its stunning waterfront setting and thoughtfully crafted menu, brunch here is the perfect way to unwind and savor a quiet moment.
The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar: Located right on the waterfront at Sayer’s Wharf, The Mooring offers fantastic harbor views and a lively atmosphere
The Hungry Monkey: For a hearty and no-frills breakfast or brunch, The Hungry Monkey on Broadway is a popular choice among locals. It’s perfect for fueling up before a busy day of house hunting.
Cru Cafe: Tucked away just off Bellevue Avenue, Cru Cafe is a local favorite known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and cozy ambiance. It’s a great spot for a more casual, yet still delicious, dining experience.
The Black Pearl: Famous for its delectable chowder and seafood, the Black Pearl is one of Newport’s most beloved restaurants.
Beyond the Open Houses: Discovering Newport’s Hidden Gems
While your primary goal is finding a new home, take time to truly experience the magic of Newport. Seek out some lesser-known spots to get a feel for the local rhythm:
- Go Lighthouse Hunting: Lighthouses are understated beauties, offering crucial reassurance to sailors venturing into treacherous waters. Their steady beams and resonant foghorns are a clear signal of approaching safety. The Classic Coast is home to several such beacons, each with a rich history. Some are still in operation, guiding ships to safe harbors.
- Fort Adams State Park and its Hidden Tunnels: Beyond being the site of the famous Jazz and Folk Festivals, Fort Adams offers incredible panoramic views of Narragansett Bay. Wander the historic grounds, stroll the scenic Bay Walk along the coast, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a guided tour through the fort’s lesser-known underground tunnels for a fascinating look at Newport’s military past.
- The Blue Garden: Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. (son of the landscape architect of Central Park), this stunning blue and purple-themed garden is a serene and beautiful hidden gem open for guided tours on Thursdays during the 2025 season (June – October).
- The Newport Mansions: No trip to Newport is complete without exploring these stunning Gilded Age estates. Visit filming locations from the popular series “The Gilded Age,” or opt for a special behind-the-scenes tour that gives you exclusive access to areas not open to the general public.
Timing is Everything: Avoiding the Crowds
Newport is a beloved destination, especially in the summer. If house hunting is your top priority, you may want to plan your visit around the city’s major events, when crowds are lighter and accommodations easier to secure. On the other hand, visiting during Newport’s busiest times can give you a true sense of the vibrant summer season.
Here are some key weekends to keep in mind:
- Fourth of July Weekend: Between harbor fireworks and peak summer tourism, expect Newport to be bustling.
- Newport Folk Festival (late July): This legendary music festival draws huge crowds to Fort Adams.
- Newport Jazz Festival (early August): Another iconic event that fills the city with visitors and energy.
- Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival (September): Draws food and wine enthusiasts to Newport’s storied mansions for a weekend of tastings and events.
- Newport International Boat Show (mid-September): One of the largest in-water boat shows in the country, drawing boating enthusiasts and luxury shoppers.
- Memorial Day & Labor Day Weekends: Popular bookends to summer that attract many vacationers.
By strategically planning your house-hunting trip, you’ll give yourself the best chance to not only find your ideal home but also to fall even more in love with the exceptional lifestyle Newport, Rhode Island, has to offer. Happy hunting!
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