The Ultimate Family Guide To Visiting Newport, RI

Newport, Rhode Island, is a picturesque seaside town known for its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant waterfront and a favorite vacation spot of mine! It's the perfect destination for a family getaway, offering a wide range of activities and attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages making it a favorite for our family of five. Whether you're exploring historic mansions, enjoying outdoor adventures, or indulging in delicious seafood, Newport has something for everyone. In this guide, we'll highlight the top five things to do, family-friendly places to stay, and recommended dining spots for an unforgettable family vacation in Newport.

Top 5 Things To Do With Kids

1. Discover The Newport Cliff Walk:

• Lace up your walking shoes and embark on the Newport Cliff Walk, a scenic trail that winds along the coastline past stunning ocean views, rocky cliffs, and historic mansions. Kids will love exploring the tide pools and searching for shells along the way, making it a fun and educational outdoor adventure for the whole family.

2. Visit King Park Beach:

• Right around the corner from The Wellington Resort, King Park Beach is a great getaway from downtown for you and your kids. It was the landing site of General Rochambeau during the Revolutionary War, and the park currently features a statue honoring Rochambeau's landing as a well as a beach, beautiful and clean playground, dinghy dock, and little league baseball field. It's great to shake some energy out with your children after a long day inside.

3. Enjoy The Newport Children's Museum:

• Let your little ones unleash their imagination at the Newport Children's Museum, a hands-on interactive space where kids can explore, play, and learn. From interactive exhibits on science and nature to creative arts and crafts activities, there's plenty to keep children entertained and engaged for hours on end.
  

4. Explore The Newport Mansions:

• Step back in time with a visit to the Newport Mansions, a collection of historic homes that showcase the opulent lifestyle of America's Gilded Age. Kids will be fascinated by the grandeur of mansions like The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff, where they can wander through ornate rooms, lush gardens, and even a preserved 19th-century carousel.
  

5. Easton Beach:

• Known locally as First Beach, Easton Beach is a great, free activity to enjoy with your family. Easton Beach is the largest public beach in Newport, seasonal facilities include restrooms, indoor and outdoor showers, shade pavilion, and grill areas. Parking Prices range from $10-$20 depending on how close you get and what day of the week.

Family-Friendly Places To Stay When Visiting Newport

1. The Wellington Resort

• Located on Thames Street in the heart of downtown overlooking Newport Harbor, The Wellington Is an All-Suite, Vacation Rental Resort where every room is a room with waterfront views. Each room has two bedrooms and two bathroom and sleeps up to 6, making it perfect for families and groups. There is a movie library available for fun movie night in the kid's rooms and lots of space for them to roam the room. The indoor pool is open year round as well as an outdoor pool and hot tub that opens May 1st. We've stayed there several times and each time it does not disappoint!
  

2. Newport Marriott:

• Situated in the heart of downtown Newport, the Newport Marriott is a convenient and comfortable choice for families, with spacious rooms, a heated indoor pool, and easy access to popular attractions like the Newport Cliff Walk and Easton's Beach.

3. Hotel Viking:

• Experience old-world charm and modern luxury at Hotel Viking, a historic hotel located just steps from Newport's shops, restaurants, and attractions. Families will appreciate the elegant accommodations, kid-friendly amenities, and complimentary beach shuttle service to nearby beaches.
  

Recommended Places To Eat

1. Wally Wieners:

• Located on Thames Street, Wally’s Wieners started as a hot dog cart called Wally’s Hot Dog Cart in the spring of 2019. Wally’s serves Rhode Island's most famous hot dog Saugy’s! Affordably priced and delicious, this is a must have for families with picky eaters. Pro Tip, if the downstairs is full, ask to sit upstairs at the Copper Club. The Copper Club is a chic and classic speakeasy lounge tucked above Wally's Wieners that serves the entire Wally's menu during the day.

2. The Red Parrot Restaurant:

• Dive into comfort food classics and family-friendly fare at The Red Parrot Restaurant, a lively eatery known for its eclectic menu, vibrant atmosphere, and kid-friendly options like burgers, pasta, and chicken tenders.

3. The Nitro Bar

• This coffee shop, located at the heart of downtown on Thames Street, serves craft coffees + teas and locally sourced breakfast and lunch. Available for online ordering, you can easily order breakfast and take it back to your hotel, or eat it along the harbor. My favorite is the bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich which was one of the best I've ever had!
  

Conclusion

With its charming waterfront, historic landmarks, and family-friendly attractions, Newport, RI, offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for families seeking a memorable vacation destination. Whether you're exploring historic mansions, enjoying outdoor adventures, or indulging in delicious seafood, Newport has something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your next family getaway to Newport and create lasting memories together in this picturesque coastal town.