Newport, Rhode Island is known for it's harbor full of yachts and it's mansion studded shoreline. But don't let that deter you from visiting because this area is not just for the rich, it is a very family-friendly destination. Pristine beaches teeming with surfers, a walkable downtown filled with local shops and old fashion trolley tours make for an unforgettable and unique getaway.
Easton's Beach is one of the most popular beaches in all of Rhode Island, and for a very good reason. Stretching a quarter of a mile this very wide beach has plenty of space to spread out, build sandcastles and relax. Easton's small boardwalk is complete with bathrooms, showers, rental shop, and a small beach store. There is also a small restaurant that boasts the best lobster rolls in all of Rhode Island and I absolutely agree! Parking is first come, first serve and is 10$ a car on weekdays (during the season Memorial Day-Labor Day) and 20$ a car on weekends.
The boardwalk is also home to the
Exploration Center and Aquarium located in the bottom of the Rotunda. Just steps from the beautiful beach are all manner of sea creatures for your family to explore, close up! There is also a touch tank full of things that my daughter could spend hours touching and examining. They are open 10-4 daily Memorial Day through Labor Day and general admission is 8$ a person.
Lastly, the Easton's Beach boardwalk is also home to a vintage carousel from the 50's. Children and adults can ride for 2$ a ride, or 1$ if you buy a 10 ride punch card. It's a beautiful piece of Newport history that is not to be missed! Located on the second floor of the Rotunda.
After you have had your fill of salty air and crashing waves it's time to explore the rest of Newport! One of my most favorite things to do is right near Easton's Beach. The
Newport Cliffwalk is a 3.5, partly paved, hiking trail that offers amazing ocean views and passes by some of the most impressive mansions. The first half of the Cliffwalk is very easy to walk and is even stroller friendly. The second half is a bit more strenuous but if you make it all the way to the end you can take one of Newport's old fashion trolleys back to your car. The Cliffwalk is the perfect way to take in local plants, animals and history!
While walking along the Cliffwalk make sure to make a stop at
The Breakers Mansion. This may not sound like something that your children would enjoy, but to the contrary it's a really family-friendly tour. The mansion offers audio tours designed especially for the younger crew all about the children who lived in the mansion. It was so fun to hear all about toys and secret passageways of a time long ago! Admission to the mansion is 24$ for adults and 8$ for children 6-17.
Like every good beach town, Newport has an amazing downtown that is filled with local shops selling unique and one-of-a-kind items. Thames Street is a beautiful, cobblestone street and home to some of my favorite places.
Thames Glass is a super funky shop filled with colorful, handmade items. You can watch experts blow and shape glass or try your hand at making your own delicate creation, even kids can participate!
Newport Fudgery is another spot, not to be missed. An open kitchen allows you to watch the handmade chocolates and treats being made right on the premises. Take an enormous and absolutely delicious elephant ear to tide you over while you continue your downtown tour!
The last place on our adventure is a short drive away, to Portsmouth, Rhode Island.
The Green Animals Topiary Garden is a truly magical place. Located on the property of a small estate, the gardens are filled with giant plant statues, shaped to look like animals. Bears, cats and elephants overlook manicured lawns and colorful flower gardens. This topiary garden is the oldest and most northern in the whole United States, how awesome is that! The gardens are peaceful and relaxing with amazing views of Narragansett Bay, this is one of my most favorite places in all of Rhode Island!
Just a short 3 hour drive outside of the Hudson Valley, Newport is the perfect beach destination. Pristine sand, clear blue water, an adorable downtown and lots of activities within a short drive, it's a vacationer's paradise!
There are plenty of other activities to add to your vacation, here are some suggestions of things nearby:
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