3-Day Itinerary in Newport, RI for Summer

Our complete guide for your perfect 3-day trip to Newport, RI in the summer.

Let us take the guesswork out of your stay. If you’re on the island for a few days or a long weekend, follow our recommended itinerary below for a fun-filled visit that shows you the best of Newport.

Included in this 3-day itinerary are a variety of activities that range from mansion tours to scenic walks along the ocean, seasonal activities like berry picking, along with some of my favorite places for shopping and of course the best restaurants.

Keep in mind summer is high season. Many restaurants require reservations so please check the website and be sure to call ahead or if available book a reservation online.

GETTING TO NEWPORT

Newport is conveniently located about 1.5 hours from Boston, 3 hours from New York City, and 45 minutes from Providence. Newport is located on an island (Aquidneck Island) and can be accessed by plane, car and train (Amtrak). The closest airport is Newport Airport, however it’s for small planes only. The most convenient airport with major airlines is T.F.Green located in Providence/Warwick.

Traveling by train there are connections to Newport via taxi and ride share service. The two closest train stops on Amtrak are in Kingston, RI or Providence, RI for the Acela.

WHAT TO PACK

Travel & Lodging

WHERE TO STAY

3-Day Itinerary in Newport, RI for Summer

day one

Morning, Breakfast and Activities

Explore

  • Great weather? Visit the Cliff Walk (the route starting at Memorial Blvd and ending at Narraganset Ave is stroller friendly). Cliff Walk is dog friendly (on leash).
  • Looking for something indoors?  Tour one of the area’s historic mansions. Choose Marble House, Rough Point, or The Breakers. All are family friendly and offer self-guided tours.
  • For a family friendly activity, head to Sweet Berry Farm to pick fresh berries (changes each month of the summer season).

Afternoon, lunch and activities

  • Grab a scenic lunch with a view at The Mooring
  • For a more casual option grab salads and sandwiches at Cru Cafe

Explore

Evening and dinner

  • If you’re looking for something upscale and scenic get dinner at Clarke Cooke House
  • For a casual/family friendly option try the Surf Club
  • After dinner catch a live show at Newport Blues
  • If you’re looking to get after dinner drinks head to Midtown Oyster Bar

day two

Morning, Breakfast and Activities

  • Outdoors: Enjoy a walk at Sachuest Point or Second Beach (Second Beach is dog friendly from 5am-7:45am).
  • Indoor: Take a class at Mend Yoga
  • Grab breakfast at Corner Cafe or Atlantic Grille (if you opted for a morning walk, AG is close to Sachuest Point and Second Beach)
  • Eating later? Enjoy brunch at Stoneacre Garden

Explore

  • Good weather: Head to one of the island’s beaches
    • Second Beach (can be small waves, they have a snack bar and bathrooms)
    • Third Beach (calmer water, great for little kids, snack bar)
  • If you’re looking to head indoors check out the Audrain Auto Museum or Newport Tennis Hall of Fame.

LUNCH

If it’s a beach day, get lunch to go at one of these spots:

  • Diego’s Bodega
  • Food Love Market
  • Anna Ds

Or head to downtown Newport and dine at

  • Stoneacre Brasserie
  • Another great option: Pasta Beach

Afternoon, dinner and evening

  • Take a walk down Thames Street or go for a drive around Ocean Drive 
  • For dinner try The Mooring or Diego’s
All Girls Weekend In New England

day three

Morning, breakfast and activities

  • Take a walk on Third Beach or at Fort Adams (beach parking is free and open until 8am, Fort Adams has free parking all day)
  • Enjoy breakfast outside with a view of the harbor and Newport Bridge at Belle’s Cafe
  • Or for a quick bite and delicious pastries try Le Bec Sucre
Fort-Adams-July-4th-weekend-Newport-RI-prosecco-and-plaid1
View of Newport Bridge from Fort Adams
HISTORIC POINT NEIGHBORHOOD
Third Elm Press in the Point neighborhood in Newport.

Explore

  • Walk around The Point neighborhood (start near Third & Elm Press)
  • If you’re looking for something indoors: Visit the Newport Art Museum and Redwood Library

Lunch

  • Sit on the patio deck and get lunch at Midtown Oyster Bar 

If you’re looking to relax and unwind

  • Head to Bodhi Spa or get a facial at Love Living Holistics

Evening

  • For your last night, opt for dinner on the deck at Giusto or TSK
  • For a family friendly option check out Brick Alley Pub

Here are some additional tips for planning your trip:

  • Book your accommodations in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak season (June-August).
  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking, as you’ll be doing a lot of it. Many streets are cobblestone and brick, leave the spiky heels at home!
Giusto Newport
Outdoor dining at Giusto

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