Weekend Retreat: Newport, RI

Where to Stay

You’ll be treated like royalty at Newport’s famed Cliffside Inn. During daily high tea, patrons are invited to nibble on tea sandwiches and scones with Devonshire cream. With cozy rooms, ocean views, and sumptuous cuisine, you can be certain that you’re staying with the crème de la crème of the bed and breakfast set.

At the Hotel Viking, guests walk the same halls that John F. Kennedy, Jackie Onassis, and the Vanderbilts once roamed. The glamorously renovated 1920’s-era gem offers lavish accommodations, and unique spa treatments that combine Ayurvedic and Indonesian rituals. With a great location atop Newport’s Historic Hill, the hotel is also within walking distance of the town’s many shops and restaurants.

For a beachside location that’s perched at the entrance to Newport’s famous Cliff Walk, there’s The Chanler. The moment you step into this restored Newport mansion, you will be offered a glass of champagne. At the end of the night, there’s even a butler on hand to draw you a warm candlelit bubble bath.

Where to Eat

The Spiced Pear at The Chanler, is situated on the hotel’s elegant veranda, where you can hear the waves crashing in the background. Guests dine on the classic fare of executive chef Kyle Ketchum, who specializes in contemporary New England cuisine like venison and seared diver scallops.

Another quintessential New England oceanfront eatery is The Black Pearl on Bannister’s Wharf. Situated among the bobbing sailboats and monstrous yachts of Newport Harbor, the 30-year-old restaurant is as famous for its signature clam chowder as it is for its packed tables during summer months, so be wary of long lines.

And if you’re looking for something sweet after dinner, stop for a refreshing cup of Del’s Lemonade. The frozen treat is unique to Rhode Island. Don’t head home without at least tasting one.

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If you live to be on the water, check out America’s Cup Charters, where you can join seasoned skippers on one of six veteran vessels. They have the largest fleet of 12-meter yachts in the world. And whether you’re into a thrilling 20-knot ride or a relaxed sail around Narragansett Harbor, they’ll cater to your every desire.

For the landlubbers, there’s picnicking and kite-flying at Brenton Point Park. The park is easily accessible from most area hotels, so visitors can park along Ocean Drive and take in the stunning views of Narragansett Harbor.