Famed for its wonderfully eclectic architecture and superb seaside setting, Newport is Rhode Island’s most popular destination. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a couple or a group of friends, you’ll find a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy, as well as lively eateries, sophisticated galleries and chic boutiques to explore. There is a tremendous range of accommodation on offer, including simple B&Bs and indulgent luxury hotels. Most of the best places to stay in Newport are clustered around the harbour, on the southern end of Aquidneck Island — book a room here for easy access to the town’s main sights.

Newport is a fascinating fantasy-land of striking private mansions and public buildings, some of which now offer guided tours for architecture buffs and art lovers. Expect everything from colonial-era structures to Tudor Revival residences, French-inspired châteaux and Italian-style palazzos, built as summer houses by the rich and famous. Highlights include The Breakers, constructed by the Vanderbilt family in 1893, Doris Duke’s Rough Point, known for its extensive art collection, and The Elms, based on the Château d'Asnières near Paris.

Visit Fort Adams, the largest coastal fortress in the USA, follow the Cliff Walk trail along the clifftops to admire spectacular ocean vistas and extravagant homes, and hit one of Newport’s many beautiful beaches for lazy days in the sunshine. There are also ample opportunities for boat tours, sailing, kayaking and fishing trips. Back in town, the little streets surrounding the harbour are best discovered on foot or by bicycle: come here for independent shops and galleries, as well as buzzing cafés and hip restaurants.

Newport hosts some brilliant summer festivals, including Newport Folk and the Newport Jazz Festival. Book your trip well in advance if travelling during festival season — the best places to stay fill up fast!

The Best Places to Stay in Newport

For Sailors

• Hammetts Hotel is the perfect waterfront pick for sailors, who can easily access Newport Marina. Set within a historic industrial building, stylish rooms and suites offer plenty of space for couples or families. There's a great fitness centre, eatery and outdoor terrace for soaking up the sunshine.
• Gurney's Newport is a cool, contemporary resort on Goat Island, just minutes from downtown Newport. Perfect for romantic couples or fun-loving families, the property boasts sea views in all directions and striking rooms and suites. Kick back in the indoor or outdoor swimming pool, hit the spa or the gym, and feast on delicious fresh fare. The marina is a great perk for sailors.
• Castle Hill Inn boasts unrivalled Atlantic views from its 40-acre perch at Newport's western point. Book a bright and airy beach cottage or a sumptuous, traditional room in the Agassiz Mansion and spend your days sailing, unwinding on the property's two private beaches or at the boutique spa before savouring culinary delights aplenty. A luxurious seaside pick for guests of all ages.
• Forty 1° North offers waterfront rooms, suites, lofts and cottages with striking Atlantic views. Great for sailors, this modern boutique hotel also has two excellent eateries and some wonderful spots for a sundowner. The eco-friendly focus is particularly impressive.
• Town & Tide Inn offers 12 contemporary rooms and suites in a collection of restored buildings just half a mile from Easton's Beach. Think nautically-themed interiors and a laid-back feel, with helpful innkeepers on hand to make local recommendations. A relaxed base for those looking to arrange boat tours and sailing trips.

For Families or Groups

• Mill Street Inn offers 23 chic suites — some with sofa beds for little ones — in a characterful converted mill, set in Newport's lively historic district. Pick this place for the stylish design, great location and family-friendly options. The rooftop patio is ideal for breakfast overlooking the harbour or sundowners with a view.
• The Attwater is an airy, boutique B&B with 17 spacious guestrooms featuring contemporary, nautically-inspired interiors. The largest suites have small kitchenettes and pull-out sofas perfect for little ones. Plus, it's right in the heart of things — near the beaches, the restaurants and the harbour.
• Howland House Inn is a small B&B in a pre-Revolutionary home just one block from the harbour. Two of the four suites offer space for families, and come with lovely seating areas and kitchenettes stocked with fresh milk, orange juice, yogurt and granola from local suppliers. For a tranquil family stay.
• Pelham Court Hotel has a selection of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments complete with well-equipped kitchens in the heart of Newport. Ideal for families, groups or longer-term guests. Some units have private terraces and cosy fireplaces.
• Gilded is a fun boutique hotel with 17 rooms and suites adorned with colourful textiles. There's a billiards room, quirky breakfast spot and a bright, friendly feel. Guests of all ages are welcome and the larger suites have space for two children. A funky pick for groups of friends or families.
• The Wayfinder is a hip hotel for fabulous family, group or couples' trips. Brimming with creative energy, this is the place to stay if you're looking to socialise with fellow travellers, play games with the whole family on the deck, or splash around in the pool. There's some top-notch food and drink, too.

For Couples

• The Cliffside Inn offers spectacular views over Cliff Walk and striking formal gardens. Set in a Victorian residence, the 16 sophisticated rooms feature bold colours and quirky prints. A chic and characterful choice for history-loving couples.
• The Bayberry is a gorgeous boutique inn with seven indulgent guestrooms. Interiors are fun and romantic, with coral and teal accents, big baths and pretty sitting areas. The central historic district location is perfect for couples looking to explore.
• The Vanderbilt fuses Gilded Age glamour with modern comforts in central Newport. Housed in what was once Vanderbilt Hall, the hotel offers 33 sleek, stylish rooms, two swimming pools, a fitness centre, billiards room and spa. Sip a cocktail at The Knot Bar, enjoy a late afternoon tea on the Garden Terrace, and feast at The Gwynne, the hotel's popular eatery. For well-heeled couples.
• Outlook Inn has 11 guestrooms decorated in pretty pastel tones. Pick this place for a quiet couples' holiday, complete with home-cooked breakfasts and sea views from the roof terrace, a wonderful spot for a glass of wine or two.
• Serenity Inn features plenty of period charm in 12 spacious rooms, perfect for a romantic couples' trip. A Victorian mansion built on the first gas-lit street in the USA, this property promises cracking fireplaces, big beds and elegant interiors — as well as excellent afternoon teas.

For Foodies

• Bouchard Inn & Restaurant is a brilliant choice for foodies and lovers of heritage design. Treat yourself to fabulous French cuisine by chef-owner Albert Bouchard in the award-winning restaurant, before retreating to one of 14 pretty rooms. Families are welcome and the location is ideal for local exploring.
• The Chanler at Cliff Walk offers a unique opportunity to stay in an elegant Gilded Age mansion, with 20 sumptuous guestrooms, gorgeous sea views and an acclaimed sea-facing restaurant — Cara — specialising in the finest New England produce. A romantic foodie delight.

For a Historic B&B

• Samuel Durfee House offers a charming retreat in the heart of downtown Newport. A Federal-style building from 1803, the mansion houses five lavish bedrooms and has very positive eco credentials. For history buffs.
• Marshall Slocum Inn is a gorgeous Victorian mansion: perfect for a sophisticated B&B escape. Expect period interiors in five guestrooms, chef-cooked gourmet breakfasts and easy access to the historic district and the harbour.
• Captain Simeon Potter House is a restored 18th-century Captain's home, with waterfront views, a pretty garden and four indulgent guestrooms. A relaxing holiday base — and you can book the whole place for a tranquil group trip.
• The Francis Malbone House promises a luxurious blend of old and new, with carved four-poster beds and rich textiles, as well as flat-screen TVs, Bose speakers and hot tubs for two. Just moments from the harbour, this charming spot also has verdant gardens and gourmet breakfasts. Very romantic.
• Almondy Inn is an elegant Victorian B&B in downtown Newport. Book one of six guestrooms for a tranquil, intimate stay, complete with big cosy beds and period decor. Home-made breakfasts are a highlight, as are wine and cheese evenings and the chance to cosy up by the fire.
• The Beech Tree Inn & Cottage is a lovely B&B with eight bright bedrooms, leafy gardens, gourmet breakfasts and a wonderful roof terrace. A great value stay for quiet holidaymakers in a Victorian home.

For a Pet-Friendly Stay

• Paws on Pelham is the top place to stay in Newport if travelling with pets! This contemporary inn has a friendly feel and is designed around creating a wonderful experience for guests and their dogs. Rooms are bright and spacious, with bold prints and custom-made dog beds. For dog lovers.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Providence's T.F Green Airport, just 40 minutes' drive away, or travel to Boston's Logan International Airport. Boston is a 1.5 hours' drive from Newport, and the airport caters to regular international flights from across the globe.
• Rhode Island is a great destination for a roadtrip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather, but do be aware that this is peak season. Temperatures average around 24°C during the summer. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds and great hotel deals. Expect very cold winters!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Providence.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Rhode Island.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

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