10 Fun Summer Activities to Do in Newport, Rhode Island

My brother is starting to look into colleges, so today my family took a trip to Newport, Rhode Island to visit Salve Regina University. I came along for the tour because I love Newport and wanted to take some photos there for my blog. Salve is a beautiful campus located by the water, and it’s historical. It’s set in a residential neighborhood, and it’s excluded from the hustle and bustle of the coastal town. I previously visited Salve too when I was touring colleges a few years ago, but I ended up choosing Marist instead because I wanted more of a campus feel.

There are so many fun things to do in Newport, especially during the summer when the weather is nice. Newport’s busiest time of year is the summer because it’s a tourist hotspot thanks to the beautiful beaches, outdoor restaurants, and local seafood dishes. If you enjoy eating seafood, please try some while you’re in Newport! You won’t be disappointed. Here are 10 fun summer activities to do in Newport, Rhode Island.

Table of Contents

1.Tour Salve Regina

As I mentioned earlier in this post, Salve Regina is a beautiful campus. Even if you’re not interested in attending the school, it’s fun to look at other colleges and see what they’re like. The landscape is beautiful, and the mansions are close. There’s a mansion located on campus called the Ochre Court that serves as the main admissions building. The school is alongside the Cliff Walk, one of Newport’s most beautiful oceanside trails.

2. Visit the Newport Mansions

I haven’t seen all of the mansions yet, but it’s on my bucket list. I have a fond appreciation for historic architecture, and the Newport Mansions are nothing shy of exquisite. There are three different properties to visit, and you can purchase tickets from the Newport Mansions website to visit all three. The Breakers, the Elms, and the Green Animals Topiary Garden are all open for visits right now. Prices vary depending on how many places you visit.

3. Cliff Walk

The Cliff Walk is a must-see in Newport. The view of the ocean is breathtaking, and it winds through Salve Regina, mansions, and natural oceanside landscapes. The full trail takes about 3 hours and goes on for around 4 miles. The best part is that it’s free!

4. Have a Beach Day

Visiting the beach in Newport is a no-brainer! Newport has some of the most beautiful beaches in New England and summer is the ideal time to go. Easton’s Beach, which is referred to as First Beach is Newport’s go-to beach spot located at the beginning of the Cliff Walk. There’s a parking fee, but otherwise, beach use is free to visitors. Newport is also home to Gooseberry Beach, Fort Adams State Beach, and King Park Beach.

5. Visit The International Tennis Hall of Fame

Newport is home to several museums, but the Tennis Hall of Fame is arguably one of the best. The museum is home to more than 25,000 historical pieces and thousands of digital items for viewing. Visitors will learn about the history of tennis, the art of the sport, and tennis’ key leaders. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and kids are free.

6. Visit The Audrain Automobile Museum

Where else will you find a museum dedicated to some of the most lavish cars throughout the decades? The Automobile Museum has 160 different cars on display for viewing ranging from the 20th century to present-day models. Tickets cost $12 for adults and $8 for kids.

7. Go on a Boat Tour

It’s impossible to visit Newport without spending some time on the water. The Amazing Grace Harbor Tours are highly rated and recommended by the Discover Newport website. This company offers a one-hour narrated tour of Newport Harbor and goes by Newport Bridge, Rose Island Lighthouse, Fort Adams, and The Mansions. Tickets are $22 for adults, $10 for kids, and $18 for seniors.

8. Take the Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive is a 10-mile ride along Newport’s coast. During this drive, you’ll view Newport’s beautiful ocean, as well as gorgeous homes on the water, historic landmarks such as the mansions and Fort Adams, and so much more!

9. Visit Fort Adams State Park

Fort Adams used to be a U.S. Army and Navy base during the late 1700s. You can take an hour-long guided walking tour of the property and experience the restored base grounds, living quarters, and tunnels. Tickets cost $12 for adults and $6 for kids.

10. Eat and Drink

Newport is home to some of the best local seafood restaurants and wineries. My favorite restaurant to eat at is the Boat Yard. The lobster rolls are always so good! The Grill at Forty 1 North, Fluke Newport, and La Forge Casino Newport are also highly rated. If you’re interested in wine or beer, the Newport Vineyard, Newport Craft Brewing and Distilling Company, and Taproot Brewing Co. are some of the best.

If you have time, venture to Westerly to visit the Ocean House or Taylor Swift’s Watch Hill house.

Thanks so much for reading! I hope you enjoy your trip to Newport 🙂