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
- Read our travel and transportation guide.
WHAT TO PACK
- See our summer packing list.
Travel & Lodging
WHERE TO STAY
- Luxury: Castle Hill Inn
- Family Friendly: Newport Harbor Island Resort
- On A Budget: Newport Beach Hotel and Suites
3-Day Itinerary in Newport, RI for Summer
day one
Morning, Breakfast and Activities
- Take a walk at First Beach or explore Sakonnet Greenway Trails
- Coffee and a quick bite at Nitro Bar
- If you’re looking for a more diner style breakfast try the Atlantic Grill (casual and family friendly)
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
- Shopping and exploring in Bowen’s Wharf (and nearby Bannister’s Wharf)
- Summer: If you didn’t head to Sweet Berry Farm in the morning, make this your afternoon activity.
- With kids: Head to Morton Park for some outdoor fun.
- Book a private charter with Newport Charter or Antique Yachts.
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:
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
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
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!
