Newport, Rhode Island
ABOUT
Newport is a city set on Aquidneck Island in the New England state of Rhode Island. Its yacht-filled harbour hosted the America’s Cup, a renowned annual sailing regatta, for many years.
The first English settlers arrived on Aquidneck Island in 1638 following a remarkable woman named Anne Hutchinson. What the English settlers found on their arrival was hardly an empty wilderness. Native people had been in the area for at least 5,000 years, and had established sophisticated land management and fishing practices.
Trade and the export of rum, candles, fish, furniture, silver, and other goods were the main engines of economic growth during the 18th century.
Its roots are firmly set around the sea with its sailing (notably the Americas Cup), fishing and Naval links. An impressive history which is fascinating and more information is available through the Newport Historical Society.
Population in 2022 was approximately 24,600.
Currency is the US Dollar.
THINGS TO DO
Newport is of course famed for its harbour that is filled with boats and yachts. For many years it hosted the America’s Cup. If you time it right you will find there are still many water based activities.
Newport is also known for the Gilded Age mansions lining Bellevue Avenue, some of which are now museums. The most famous is The Breakers, an 1895 mansion patterned after a Renaissance palace.
You will find there are tours that take in these beautiful properties, museums, beaches, wineries and local breweries. There is also a trolley bus that takes you on a trip around the town.
Visit in the winter and you will find that Newport takes on a whole new persona in the lead up to Christmas.
OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO
We have visited this beautiful little port on two occasions. The first was back in 2003 on the former P&O ship Oriana. On that occasion we took a trip to see some of the famous mansions and gardens. Quite spectacular and well worth seeing. Below are a few of those memories.
Our second visit came immediately after a hectic 3 days in New York. With beautiful weather to enjoy we took the opportunity to spend a little time in the town itself. Some of our memories are captured below.
To check out our experiences in Newport, Rhode Island, just click the video below – and if you enjoy the content simply ‘Like’ and ‘Subscribe’ to see more (subscription is free).