Category: Local Guides

Rhode Island travel guide · Reviewed November 2026

Does Taylor Swift have a house in Newport, RI? No — her widely reported Rhode Island home is in Watch Hill, a village in the town of Westerly, not in Newport. Watch Hill sits at the state’s far southwestern corner, roughly 40 miles from Newport. The good news for travelers is that the village itself is a lovely day trip, and the house is not the reason to go.

Taylor Swift and Rhode Island at a glance

So where is Taylor Swift’s Rhode Island house?

The home is in Watch Hill, a small, old-fashioned seaside village that is part of Westerly. Westerly is the Rhode Island town that borders Connecticut, which puts Watch Hill about as far from Newport as you can get without leaving the state. Many travelers assume it must be in Newport because Newport is the state’s famous mansion town, but the two places are separate worlds: Newport is a busy harbor city, while Watch Hill is a quiet village of summer homes, a beach and a single main shopping street.

Local news at the time reported the sale in April 2013. Providence TV station WJAR (NBC 10) reported a price of $17.75 million, and the Boston Globe noted that the buyer was not publicly named in the deed at that time, so the details have long been described as “reported” rather than announced. We are giving only the general village, nothing more.

The general area: where in Watch Hill the house sits

The home sits on top of the hill that gives Watch Hill its name, a bluff inside the Watch Hill historic district of Westerly, in the far southwestern corner of Rhode Island near the Connecticut line. The estate covers roughly five acres of oceanfront land, with more than 700 feet of shoreline and its own private beach, and it looks out over the Atlantic. The house itself dates to 1929–1930.

Don’t expect a clear view of it. Residents describe the neighborhood as heavily screened by trees and hedges, so most visitors catch only brief glimpses of the big shingle-style homes, and the private beach is off-limits. When Swift is in town, security is tight.

What you can enjoy from public spots

• Watch Hill Beach and the Flying Horse Carousel at the foot of the village, the easiest public waterfront in Watch Hill.
• Bay Street, the village’s small main street of shops and cafés along the harbor.
• Napatree Point, the sandy spit at the western tip of Watch Hill, a public conservation area that is popular for walks and ocean views (stay on marked paths; parts are closed for nesting birds).

From these spots you get the same ocean views that made the hilltop famous, without bothering anyone at home.

The history behind the house: Rebekah Harkness

Locals still often call the property the Harkness House. It was built around 1930 on a hilltop overlooking the water and is closely tied to Rebekah Harkness, a Standard Oil heiress who became a major patron of dance and founded the Harkness Ballet. She was known for a lavish lifestyle that, by most accounts, did not always sit well with her neighbors. The encyclopedia entry on the estate traces the house through several owners over the decades.

That history is also the connection to Swift’s music. Her 2020 song “The Last Great American Dynasty” tells the story of Harkness and the house, comparing the way the press treated each woman. (We never reproduce lyrics here, but it is easy to find the song and its story online.)

How far is Watch Hill from Newport?

Expect roughly 42 miles and about an hour behind the wheel in normal traffic, based on a mapping estimate (Wanderlog). Summer weekends and beach-day traffic can add time, so leave early. Because you are crossing most of the state, it works best as a full-day trip rather than a quick detour. If you are starting from Providence instead, see our guide to getting between Providence and Newport.

A Watch Hill day trip from Newport

If you are curious about the village, here are the public places that make the drive worthwhile.

Watch Hill Beach and the Flying Horse Carousel

The village beach sits right behind the carousel and is popular with families. Discover Rhode Island lists a bathhouse, changing rooms, lifeguards, restrooms and showers, with day-use fees listed at $9 for adults, $5 for teens and $3 for children at last check. Confirm current fees before you go.

The Flying Horse Carousel is a local landmark at the southern end of Bay Street. It is believed to date from 1867. It is commonly described as the oldest continuously operating carousel in the country. Check the carousel’s website for operating days and prices, which we could not confirm.

Bay Street shops

Most of Watch Hill’s shopping is along Bay Street, where you will find everything from small souvenir stores to upscale boutiques, according to Boston magazine. It is an easy stroll before or after the beach.

Napatree Point

Nearby, the Napatree Point Conservation Area is described by Boston magazine as an 86-acre spot for birding and surfcasting.

Plan the rest of your Rhode Island coast

For more beach ideas, see our guide to the best beaches in Rhode Island, our list of fun things to do in Rhode Island and, for Newport-area sand, Newport beaches.

What celebrities are linked to Newport, RI?

Newport has a long record of famous names, but the best-documented ones are historical and public. We leave out the private homes of living people.

• The Vanderbilts: Cornelius Vanderbilt II had The Breakers built as a summer home, completed in 1895. It is now run as a museum by the Preservation Society of Newport County. See The Breakers and Newport’s Gilded Age mansions.
• John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier: The couple married on September 12, 1953, at St. Mary’s Church in Newport, with the reception at Hammersmith Farm, according to the JFK Presidential Library.
• Doris Duke: The heiress and philanthropist lived at Rough Point on Bellevue Avenue, which is now a museum run by the Newport Restoration Foundation. It has been open late March through November, with a listed general admission of $20 on the page we checked. Hours and prices change, so confirm before visiting.

For more on these places, see our guides to hotels near the Newport mansions, the best things to do in Newport and the things Newport is known for.

See Newport mansion and city tours on Viator →

Where to stay near Watch Hill and in Newport

If a Watch Hill day trip turns into a longer coastal stay, two well-known properties are in the area. For a Newport base, one option is below. For more choices, see our guide to the best hotels in Rhode Island and best hotels in Newport.

• Ocean House (Watch Hill): Opened in 2010 on the site of an 1868 hotel, with 49 guest rooms. Check Ocean House rates and availability →
• Weekapaug Inn (Westerly): On the southwestern shoreline, a few minutes from the Westerly Amtrak station, according to the hotel. Check Weekapaug Inn rates and availability →
• Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina (Newport): A harbor-area base for exploring Newport. Check Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina rates and availability →

Frequently asked questions

Does Taylor Swift have a house in Newport, RI?

No. Taylor Swift’s widely reported Rhode Island home is in Watch Hill, a village in the town of Westerly on the state’s southwest coast, not in Newport. Watch Hill is roughly 40 miles from Newport.

What town is Taylor Swift’s house in Rhode Island?

It is in Watch Hill, a coastal village that is part of Westerly, Rhode Island. The property is a private home, so this guide does not give an address or directions.

Can you visit or tour Taylor Swift’s house in Watch Hill?

No. It is a private residence and it is not open to the public. Please do not go looking for it or gather outside it. Watch Hill has plenty of public places to enjoy, including the beach, the Flying Horse Carousel and the shops on Bay Street.

How far is Watch Hill from Newport, RI?

It is about 42 miles by road, or roughly an hour of driving in normal traffic according to a mapping estimate, though summer weekends can take longer. Plan on a full-day outing.

What celebrities live in Newport, RI?

Newport is better known for its history than for current celebrity residents, and this guide does not discuss the private homes of living people. Well-documented connections include the Vanderbilt family’s Gilded Age summer homes, the 1953 wedding of John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier, and heiress Doris Duke’s Rough Point, which is now a museum.

What is the Taylor Swift song about the Rhode Island house?

Her 2020 song “The Last Great American Dynasty” from the album Folklore tells the story of the home’s best-known former resident, Rebekah Harkness, and draws parallels between her public image and Swift’s own.

More Newport guides

• Things to do in Newport, RI
• Best beaches in Rhode Island
• Fun things to do in Rhode Island
• Best hotels in Rhode Island
• Is Newport, RI on an island?
• Is The Gilded Age filmed in Newport?
• Plan your Newport trip

Newport travel guide · Reviewed November 2026

What is Newport, RI known for? Mostly its Gilded Age mansions, its sailing heritage, and a remarkable amount of American history packed into one small seaside city. It is also the home of the Cliff Walk, two legendary music festivals, the International Tennis Hall of Fame and the oldest synagogue building in the country. Here is what each one means and how to see it for yourself.

What Newport is known for at a glance

Gilded Age mansions and summer “cottages”

This is the big one. In the Gilded Age, wealthy American families made Newport their summer playground and built enormous homes they modestly called cottages. The Preservation Society of Newport County cares for 11 properties, including The Breakers, The Elms, Marble House and Rosecliff, and describes Newport as a fashionable resort and summer home of Gilded Age families (as listed on newportmansions.org). Single-visit adult tickets were listed at $25 to $35 at last check, so confirm current prices before you go.

Start with our guide to the Newport Gilded Age mansions, then read about The Breakers and Marble House. If you like the idea of sleeping close to the action, see hotels near the Newport mansions. Curious how this era appears on screen? Read whether The Gilded Age is filmed in Newport.

See Newport mansion and city tours on Viator →

Sailing and the America’s Cup

Newport is often called a sailing capital, and the record backs that up. The America’s Cup was held off Newport 12 times from 1930 to 1983, according to a Scuttlebutt Sailing News report. The era ended in September 1983, when Australia II beat Dennis Conner’s Liberty four races to three, ending a New York Yacht Club hold on the trophy that had lasted 132 years.

You do not need your own boat to enjoy it. See our guide to Newport water activities and boat tours or book a sunset sail.

The Cliff Walk and Ocean Drive

The Cliff Walk is a 3.5-mile trail along Aquidneck Island’s southeastern shore, with the ocean on one side and the backs of the mansions on the other. It was designated a National Recreation Trail in 1975, the first in New England, according to the American Planning Association. Some sections have had structural closures and detours, so check conditions before you set out. Our guides cover how long the walk takes, the Forty Steps and where to park.

If you would rather drive, Ocean Drive is a 10-mile coastal road that starts just off Bellevue Avenue, per Discover Newport. It is a classic sunset loop.

Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals

Music history is a huge part of the answer to “why is Newport famous.” George Wein organized the first Newport Jazz Festival in July 1954, and critic Leonard Feather credited it with starting the “festival era” in American music, according to Encyclopedia.com. The Newport Folk Festival followed in 1959. On July 25, 1965, Bob Dylan played an electric set backed by the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, and the crowd reaction was divided, as Visit Rhode Island describes it. Today the Folk Festival is held at Fort Adams State Park, at the mouth of Newport Harbor.

See live music in Newport and the events and festivals calendar. Festival weekends fill hotels early, so read our best time to visit Newport guide.

Why is the Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport?

This is a question many visitors ask, and the answer is history. The Newport Casino, designed by McKim, Mead and White, opened in July 1880. The first U.S. National Championships were played on its grass courts in 1881, a tournament that is a precursor of the U.S. Open. The championships stayed until 1914, then moved to Forest Hills, New York. In the early 1950s, Casino president Jimmy Van Alen lobbied for a national tennis hall of fame at Newport, which was founded in 1954, with the first inductees honored in 1955 (details from the International Tennis Hall of Fame). The club still has 13 grass courts and offers court time to the public, with predominantly white attire required on grass. Browse more in our things to do in Newport guide.

Colonial history and Touro Synagogue

Long before the mansions, Newport was a colonial port. Touro Synagogue was dedicated in 1763, is the oldest synagogue building in the United States, and became a National Historic Site in 1946, per the National Park Service. In 1790, George Washington wrote to the “Hebrew congregation at Newport” that the new nation would give “to bigotry no sanction and to persecution no assistance.” The Newport Restoration Foundation, meanwhile, describes its holdings as one of the largest collections of colonial houses in the country, so a stroll through the old streets rewards you. For a taste of the neighborhood, see downtown Newport hotels.

The Navy and the Naval War College

Newport has a long naval connection. The Naval War College was established on October 6, 1884, on Coasters Harbor Island, and its second president, Alfred Thayer Mahan, shaped maritime strategic thought, according to the Navy installation history page. Naval Station Newport is an active base, so access is restricted; the Naval War College Museum is the place to learn more, so check access rules first.

JFK and Jackie’s Newport wedding

On September 12, 1953, John F. Kennedy married Jacqueline Bouvier at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Newport. More than 800 people attended the ceremony and more than 1,200 the reception, held on the terrace of the Auchincloss oceanfront estate, Hammersmith Farm, per the JFK Library.

Seafood, beaches and the waterfront

Because Newport is surrounded by water, seafood is a natural highlight. Start with our food and drink guide and the post on what food Newport is famous for. For sand and surf, see Newport beaches. Planning how much it all costs? Read why Newport is so expensive and whether Newport is on an island.

Where to stay to experience classic Newport

• Hotel Viking is a classic Newport hotel. Check Hotel Viking rates and availability →
• The Chanler is a luxury stay known for its oceanfront setting. Check The Chanler rates and availability →
• Castle Hill Inn is a classic coastal inn. Check Castle Hill Inn rates and availability →

Compare more in our best hotels in Newport guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is Newport, RI most famous for?

Newport is most famous for its Gilded Age mansions, which were built as summer “cottages” for wealthy American families. It is also known for sailing and the America’s Cup, the Cliff Walk, the Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals, the International Tennis Hall of Fame, and a very well-preserved colonial downtown.

Why is the Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport?

The Newport Casino, where the hall of fame sits, hosted the first U.S. National Championships in 1881, a tournament that later became the U.S. Open. In the early 1950s, Newport Casino president Jimmy Van Alen pushed to create a tennis hall of fame there, and it was founded in 1954.

Why is Newport, RI famous for sailing?

Newport sits on Narragansett Bay and has a long yachting tradition. It hosted the America’s Cup 12 times between 1930 and 1983, ending when the Australian yacht Australia II beat Liberty in 1983 and the Cup left the United States for the first time in 132 years.

What is the oldest synagogue in America?

Touro Synagogue in Newport, dedicated in 1763, is the oldest synagogue building in the United States. It became a National Historic Site in 1946.

Did JFK get married in Newport?

Yes. John F. Kennedy married Jacqueline Bouvier at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Newport on September 12, 1953. The reception was held at Hammersmith Farm, the Auchincloss family’s oceanfront estate.

Is Newport worth visiting?

For most travelers, yes. Newport packs mansions, ocean views, history, live music and seafood into a small, walkable area, and many of the best things to see are free or low cost, including the Cliff Walk and Ocean Drive.

More Newport guides

• Plan your Newport trip
• Newport beaches
• Does Taylor Swift have a house in Newport?
• Best restaurants in Newport

Newport sights guide · Reviewed November 2026

Yes, The Gilded Age is filmed in Newport, Rhode Island, but only in part. HBO’s series uses real Newport mansions such as The Elms, The Breakers, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer and Rosecliff for key scenes. Much of the rest of the show’s 1880s New York was filmed in upstate New York, the Hudson Valley and Long Island, or built on sets.

The Gilded Age filming locations in Newport (HBO) at a glance

This table covers the Newport buildings the Preservation Society’s own “Gilded Age” pages link to the show, plus one campus building confirmed by its university. Scene details come from those pages.

Which Newport mansions appear in each season?

The Preservation Society’s deep dive on the series lists these Newport properties by season:

• Season 1: The Elms, The Breakers, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer, Rosecliff and Hunter House.
• Season 2: The Elms, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer and Kingscote.
• Season 3: The Elms, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer and The Breakers. Salve Regina University also says Ochre Court appeared in Season 3.
• Season 4: The Society’s page lists The Elms, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer and The Breakers.

Outside the mansions, one of Peggy and Dr. Kirkland’s conversations was filmed on the Newport Cliff Walk, and the International Tennis Hall of Fame grounds have appeared too. Some locals will also recognize a few rooms and views from Marble House and Rosecliff, though the Society does not tie them to specific scenes.

Where else is The Gilded Age filmed?

Newport is a showpiece, not the whole set. Reports on the production describe a patchwork of locations:

• Troy, New York: Washington Park stood in for Madison Square Park, and the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall plays the Academy of Music.
• Albany and the Capital Region: churches, the Palace Theatre and other period buildings.
• Hudson Valley and Westchester: Lyndhurst in Tarrytown and the Hudson River Museum in Yonkers.
• Long Island: Hempstead House at Sands Point Preserve serves as George Russell’s office, and Old Westbury Gardens appears for garden scenes.

Some interiors, including parts of the Russells’ New York mansion, were reportedly built on soundstages rather than filmed in a historic house. The show also takes its Newport settings and mixes them with other places, so a scene set in “Newport” may not have been shot there.

Are the houses in The Gilded Age real?

Mostly yes. The mansions in the table above are real, historic buildings you can still see. But the show often uses them as stand-ins. The Breakers’ billiard room plays a New York room, Chateau-sur-Mer’s exterior plays Mrs. Astor’s summer home, and Rosecliff’s front plays a Manhattan house. A few key sets, such as the Russells’ New York townhouse, are not real houses. The show also takes inspiration from Marble House, whose grand staircase and Alva Vanderbilt’s bedroom influenced the Russell mansion’s set design, according to the Society.

How many Gilded Age mansions are in Newport?

There is no single official count. The Preservation Society operates 11 historic properties and landscapes, and seven of them show up in its own season-by-season list of the show’s Newport locations: The Elms, The Breakers, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer, Rosecliff, Hunter House and Kingscote. Add Ochre Court, confirmed by Salve Regina University, and you reach eight Newport buildings. Other outlets list additional properties, but we kept this list to sources we could confirm. For the mansions’ full story, see our guide to Newport’s Gilded Age mansions.

The Gilded Age Season 4 on HBO: airing now

Season 3 aired in summer 2025, and HBO renewed the show for a fourth season on July 28, 2025. According to HBO-related coverage, Season 4 premiered Sunday, November 1, 2026 on HBO and HBO Max, so new episodes are airing as of this review. We are not going to guess about a Season 5.

Watching along? The Preservation Society’s list for Season 4 includes The Elms, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer and The Breakers, and all four are open to tour, so you can stand in rooms you just saw on screen.

Plan a Gilded Age day in Newport

• Morning: The Elms, the Russells’ Newport home on the show. Add the servant life tour if it’s running.
• Midday: Marble House, where Bertha’s dinner for the Duke of Buckingham was filmed, then lunch on Bellevue Avenue or downtown.
• Afternoon: The Breakers and its Music Room, the setting of the Season 1 finale ballroom scene.
• Golden hour: a stretch of the Cliff Walk, where one of Peggy and Dr. Kirkland’s conversations was filmed.

How to tour the Gilded Age filming locations

• Book through the Preservation Society. Tickets for The Breakers, The Elms, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer, Rosecliff and Kingscote are sold on newportmansions.org. Members get free general admission. Check the site for current prices and multi-house options.
• Look for themed tours. The Society ran a guide-led “Inside The Gilded Age” tour of Marble House, The Breakers, Chateau-sur-Mer and The Elms in 2025, with transportation from the Gateway Transportation Center. Its page showed the tour as closed at last check. The Elms also offers a Servant Life tour of the belowstairs areas, which is where the show’s kitchen scenes were filmed.
• Start with the big three. If you only have a day, pair The Breakers with Marble House. Then walk part of the Cliff Walk.
• Visit in December. See holidays at the Newport mansions for seasonal events.

See Newport mansion and city tours on Viator →

For more ideas, browse our list of tours and sightseeing in Newport and the main things to do in Newport.

Where to stay near The Gilded Age filming locations

Most of the mansions are on or near Bellevue Avenue, so a base on the south side of town saves time. See our full list of hotels near the Newport mansions, or consider these.

• Check The Chanler rates and availability →
• Check The Vanderbilt rates and availability →
• Check Hotel Viking rates and availability →

Frequently asked questions

Is The Gilded Age filmed in Newport, RI?

Yes, partly. Several Newport mansions, including The Elms, The Breakers, Marble House and Chateau-sur-Mer, appear in the show. Other scenes were filmed in New York State and on sets.

Where is The Gilded Age filmed?

The show is filmed in Newport, Rhode Island, and across New York State, including Troy, Albany, the Hudson Valley and Long Island, plus studio sets.

Can you visit the mansions from The Gilded Age?

Yes. The Elms, The Breakers, Marble House, Chateau-sur-Mer, Rosecliff and Kingscote are open to visitors through the Preservation Society of Newport County. Check the official site for hours and tickets.

What mansion is the Russell house in The Gilded Age?

The Elms plays the Russells’ Newport home, and its kitchen and a bedroom also appear. Marble House and The Breakers supply other Russell scenes.

Is there a Gilded Age tour in Newport?

The Preservation Society offered an “Inside The Gilded Age” tour in 2025, and its page showed it as closed at last check. The Elms Servant Life tour and regular house tours are other ways to see filming rooms.

When did The Gilded Age season 4 come out?

Yes. HBO renewed it for a fourth season, and Season 4 premiered on November 1, 2026, according to HBO-related coverage.

More Newport guides

• Newport Gilded Age mansions
• The Breakers
• Marble House
• Newport Cliff Walk
• Hotels near the Newport mansions
• What Newport is known for
• Plan your Newport trip
• Best time to visit Newport

Newport trip planning guide · Reviewed November 2026

Why is Newport RI so expensive? It comes down to simple math: a small island city, a limited number of hotel rooms, and a short, intense summer season when everyone wants to be here at once. Add a Gilded Age reputation, pricey waterfront real estate and a visitor economy built around luxury, and you get a destination where a summer weekend can sting. The good news is that Newport can be done for far less if you plan around the peaks.

Newport costs at a glance

Prices change, so treat these as a snapshot. Mansion pricing comes from newportmansions.org, and the parking figures come from the City of Newport.

Why is Newport RI so expensive? The real reasons

1. Limited rooms, huge summer demand

Newport sits on Aquidneck Island, and there is only so much room to build. When a sailing weekend, a music festival or a sunny July Saturday arrives, the same finite pool of rooms is competing with a flood of visitors. Hotels raise rates because they can. See our guide to whether Newport is on an island for the geography behind this.

2. A luxury reputation that goes back to the Gilded Age

Newport became a summer playground for America’s wealthiest families, who built the oceanfront mansions you can still tour today. That legacy shaped the town’s brand, and many hotels, restaurants and shops still price for that upscale image. Learn more in what Newport is known for and our Gilded Age mansions guide.

3. Waterfront real estate and a high cost of living

Harbor and ocean views are expensive land. Businesses pay high rents and often need to earn most of their income in a few busy months, which shows up on menus and room rates. Seasonal staffing and housing costs add pressure too.

4. A short peak season

Many places do the bulk of their business between late spring and early fall. Charging more during that window is how they cover quieter months.

5. Taxes and parking add up

Lodging taxes are added to your room rate. The RI Division of Taxation notes that the local hotel tax went from 1% to 2% on January 1, 2026, and state-level hotel and sales taxes apply as well, so check the final total at checkout. Downtown parking is metered in the paid season, and some lots charge by the hour or day. In winter the meters are free.

6. Paid attractions

Touring several mansions can add up quickly, since each major house has its own admission. Planning which ones you really want makes a difference.

How to do Newport for less

Go off-season

The single best tactic. Shoulder and winter months bring easier availability and lighter crowds, and downtown meters are free from November through April. Start with the best time to visit Newport RI and our ideas for things to do in Newport in winter. Our guide to free parking in Newport in winter explains what is and is not covered, and restaurants open in winter keeps dinner covered.

Stay outside the downtown core

Staying in nearby Middletown or Portsmouth, or choosing a value-minded property, often costs less than the harbor-view hotels. Browse budget-friendly hotels in Newport and compare against the best hotels in Newport before you decide.

Lean on the free stuff

• Walk the Cliff Walk, one of the best free experiences in town; see how long it is first.
• Take a scenic drive or bike ride along Ocean Drive; our biking guide has ideas.
• Visit the beaches in the off-season, when paid beach parking is less of an issue. See Newport beaches.
• Stroll the harbor and downtown streets at no cost.

Use booking hacks

Midweek stays, flexible dates and free-cancellation rates all help. Our smart booking hacks guide walks through them, and the reader deals page collects current offers.

Eat well for less

Prix-fixe menus during Newport Restaurant Week are a classic way to try top restaurants without paying full price. Coffee shops and casual spots also stretch a budget; see best restaurants in Newport for ideas across price levels.

What is actually worth the splurge

• One great mansion. If you pick just one, The Breakers is the headliner. You can also compare options in our hotels near the mansions guide.
• A sunset sail. Time on the water is hard to replicate; see sunset sails.
• One standout dinner. Choose one special meal rather than several mid-range ones; browse romantic restaurants.
• A guided tour. A tour can save planning effort. See Newport mansion and city tours on Viator →

Where to stay in Newport

Rates move with the season, so compare dates before you book.

• Check Firehouse Inn rates and availability →
• Check Brenton Hotel rates and availability →
• Check Newport Bay Club rates and availability →

Frequently asked questions

Why is Newport RI so expensive in summer?

Because demand is highest when supply is fixed. Newport is a small waterfront city with a limited number of hotel rooms, and summer weekends bring beach-goers, sailors, festival crowds and mansion visitors all at once. Hotels price accordingly, and restaurants and parking follow.

Is Newport RI expensive to visit?

It can be, especially for lodging on summer weekends. Costs drop a lot in the off-season, when the paid-parking season is over and rooms are easier to find. Many of the best things to do, like the Cliff Walk and Ocean Drive, are free.

What is the cheapest time to visit Newport RI?

Generally late fall through early spring, outside the summer peak and holiday weekends. Downtown metered parking is free from November 1 through April 30 (with a three-hour limit until 6 p.m.), which is one easy saving. Check current rates before booking, since prices vary by date and event.

Is Newport RI worth it on a budget?

Yes, if you plan around the expensive parts. Stay outside the downtown core, visit off-season, build your days around free walks and beaches, and pick one paid attraction instead of several.

How much does it cost to tour a Newport mansion?

As of November 2026, Newport Mansions lists The Breakers at $32 for adults and $14 for ages 6 to 12, and a one-property ticket (such as Marble House) at $25 for adults and $10 for ages 6 to 12. Children under 6 are free. Always confirm on newportmansions.org.

Is parking free in Newport RI?

Not in summer. The city’s downtown meters run May 1 through October 31 at about $1.50 to $2 per hour depending on the area, with some lots priced higher. From November 1 through April 30, downtown metered parking is free with a three-hour limit until 6 p.m.

More Newport guides

• Plan your trip to Newport RI
• Things to do in Newport RI
• Newport RI beaches
• Holidays at the Newport Mansions 2026
• Newport travel guides

Newport sights guide · Reviewed November 2026

How long is the Cliff Walk in Newport? The full Cliff Walk is about 3.5 miles one way, from Memorial Boulevard at Easton’s Beach to Bellevue Avenue at Bailey’s Beach, and the official trail map puts the one-way walk at roughly 2.5 hours. Very few visitors do the whole thing. Because there are street entrances every so often along the route, you can choose a 30-minute ocean stroll, a 90-minute loop past Forty Steps and The Breakers, or a half-day walk that ends on the rugged rocks near Rough Point.

Newport Cliff Walk length at a glance

How long is the Newport Cliff Walk, section by section?

Official sources give the total distance rather than a mileage for each stretch, so the most useful way to plan is by effort. The northern half is paved and quick; the southern end turns into uneven rock that slows almost everyone down. For a full description of every entrance, see our Newport Cliff Walk guide.

Memorial Boulevard to Forty Steps: easy and paved

This is the fastest part of the walk. The path is paved with no steps between Memorial Boulevard and Narragansett Avenue, although its width and grade vary and it does not meet ADA standards everywhere. You pass below The Chanler and reach the stone stairway down to the water at Forty Steps. Seasonal restrooms sit at both ends of this stretch.

Forty Steps to Webster Street: currently detoured

The coastal path here was damaged in a 2022 collapse and is still fenced. Signs send walkers around the closed section and through the Salve Regina University area, which adds a little time. Rhode Island’s Coastal Resources Management Council approved the repair plans in October 2026; the city expects construction to begin in 2027 and take about two years, with completion targeted for 2029.

Webster Street to Ruggles Avenue: mansion views

This is one of the most rewarding stretches for a first visit. You pass Ochre Court on the Salve Regina campus and come out near The Breakers close to Ruggles Avenue. Discover Newport suggests Narragansett Avenue to Ruggles as the stretch to pick if your time is limited.

Ruggles Avenue to Bellevue Avenue: rough and slow

South of Ruggles, pavement gives way to irregular surfaces. Beyond Belmont Beach and around Rough Point, the official map rates the terrain as difficult, with rocks, boulders and spots that call for mild scrambling. You will see the Chinese Tea House above the path at Marble House before the walk ends near Bailey’s Beach. Skip this part in rain, ice, strong wind or fading light.

How long does it take to walk the Cliff Walk?

The official map’s estimate of about 2.5 hours covers the full 3.5 miles one way. In practice, how long you spend depends on which stretch you choose and whether you walk back:

• 30–45 minutes: Start at Memorial Boulevard, walk toward Forty Steps and turn around halfway through your time. Easy footing, simple parking.
• 60–90 minutes: Start at Narragansett Avenue, follow the detour through the Salve Regina area and continue toward Ruggles Avenue for views near The Breakers, then return or get picked up.
• 2–3 hours: Walk from Easton’s Beach to Ruggles Avenue or Belmont Beach and exit before the roughest terrain.
• Half day: The complete one-way walk to Bellevue Avenue, for steady walkers with good shoes, water and a ride or plan for getting back.

Rather see the mansions without the rocks? A narrated trolley tour covers Bellevue Avenue at an easier pace: Book the Gilded Age trolley tour with The Breakers on Viator → Our Gilded Age mansions guide explains which houses to tour.

Where to start, park and finish

Memorial Boulevard and Narragansett Avenue are the two main starting points, and both have metered spaces and seasonal restrooms. According to Discover Newport, parking at those meters is free from November 1 through April 30, though time limits may still apply. In season, Memorial Boulevard is $2 an hour with a three-hour limit and Narragansett Avenue is $2 an hour with a four-hour limit. Our Cliff Walk parking guide covers every lot and side street, and the winter free-parking guide lists off-season options.

If you plan a one-way walk, decide your exit before you start. Ruggles Avenue and Marine Avenue are common places to leave the path and walk back up to Bellevue Avenue. You can view the route on the official Cliff Walk map (PDF).

Tips for timing your walk

• Go early or late in the day for fewer people on the narrow paved stretch; the path closes at sunset.
• Wear real shoes if you plan to go past Ruggles Avenue.
• Bring water. There are no food stops on the southern half of the route.
• Dogs are welcome on a leash, and owners must pick up after them.
• Winter walks are quieter and parking is easier, but watch for ice on the rocks. See more ideas in things to do in Newport in winter, or check the best time to visit Newport.

Where to stay near the Cliff Walk

These hotels put you within an easy walk of a Cliff Walk entrance. Compare more options in our hotels near Cliff Walk guide.

The Chanler at Cliff Walk

A mansion hotel right above the northern entrance at Memorial Boulevard, so you can start walking from the front door. Check The Chanler rates and availability →

The Cliffside Inn

A boutique inn a short walk from the path, and our top romantic pick near the Cliff Walk. Check Cliffside Inn rates and availability →

Hotel Viking

A full-service hotel on Bellevue Avenue, between downtown and the mansions. Check Hotel Viking rates and availability →

Prefer to be near restaurants and the harbor? Look at downtown Newport hotels or our best hotels in Newport, RI, and check reader deals before you book.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Cliff Walk in Newport?

The Newport Cliff Walk is about 3.5 miles one way, running from Memorial Boulevard at Easton’s Beach to Bellevue Avenue at Bailey’s Beach. Walking out and back on the full route is roughly 7 miles.

How long does it take to walk the Newport Cliff Walk?

The official Cliff Walk map estimates about 2.5 hours to walk the full route one way. Most visitors take less time because they walk only part of it; plan longer for photos, the current detour and the rocky southern end.

How long is the Cliff Walk in Newport, RI if I only want the easy part?

The easiest stretch is the paved section from Memorial Boulevard to Forty Steps at Narragansett Avenue. Official sources do not publish a separate mileage for it, but a relaxed out-and-back walk on this section usually fits into 30 to 45 minutes.

Is the whole Newport Cliff Walk open?

Most of it is. A collapsed section between Narragansett Avenue and Webster Street is fenced off, and walkers follow a signed detour through the Salve Regina University area. Repairs are expected to start in 2027, with completion targeted for 2029.

Do I have to walk the Cliff Walk round trip?

No. There are several street entrances along the route, including Narragansett Avenue, Webster Street, Ruggles Avenue, Marine Avenue and Ledge Road, so you can exit early and return by street or arrange a pickup.

More Newport guides

• Newport Cliff Walk Guide
• Cliff Walk Parking
• Forty Steps on the Cliff Walk
• The Breakers Visitor Guide
• Newport Hotels Near the Beach
• Things to Do in Newport, RI
• All Newport Blog posts

Newport things to do guide · Reviewed October 2026

The best Newport RI golf courses for visitors are Newport National Golf Club in Middletown, Green Valley and Montaup country clubs in Portsmouth, and the 9-hole Jamestown Golf Course across the bridge. Newport itself is home to the famous (and private) Newport Country Club, and Aquidneck Island adds two more private clubs, a mini golf course and a year-round indoor golf center. This guide sorts out which courses you can actually book, what each one is like, and where to stay for a golf weekend.

Newport golf courses at a glance

Public golf courses near Newport, RI

There is no public 18-hole course inside Newport’s city limits, but the best public golf near Newport is only a short drive away in Middletown and Portsmouth. These are the courses where visitors can book a tee time.

Newport National Golf Club (Middletown)

Newport National is the headline public course on Aquidneck Island. Its Orchard Course is an 18-hole, par-72 layout that stretches to about 7,244 yards from the back tees, designed by Arthur Hills and Drew Rogers on land that was once a large landscape nursery. It plays like a links course, with rolling fairways, marshland and well-placed bunkers, and it looks out over the Sakonnet Passage toward the ocean. Wind off the water is part of the challenge, so pack an extra club. Golfweek named it one of the top new courses in America soon after it opened, and it is the course most visiting golfers ask about first.

Address: 324 Mitchell’s Lane, Middletown, RI 02842 · Phone: (401) 848-9690 · Newport National website

Green Valley Country Club (Portsmouth)

Green Valley is a semi-private 18-hole championship course that is open to public play. It is a good choice if Newport National is booked or you want a more relaxed round. The club has a full pro shop, two golf professionals who give private lessons, junior summer programs, and a banquet room for golf outings, receptions and dinners.

Address: 371 Union Street, Portsmouth, RI 02871 · Phone: (401) 847-9543 · Green Valley website

Montaup Country Club (Portsmouth)

Montaup sits at the north end of Aquidneck Island on Mount Hope Bay. It is a semi-private, par-71 course of about 6,321 yards that is fairly open and flat, so the wind does most of the work. Its signature hole is the par-5 16th, with views of Mount Hope Bay and the Mount Hope Bridge, and the opening holes are known locally as a tough start, with water guarding the first green. Montaup lists year-round play, which makes it worth a call in the shoulder season. Ask the pro shop about public tee times before you go.

Address: 500 Anthony Road, Portsmouth, RI 02871 · Phone: (401) 683-0955 · Montaup website

Jamestown Golf Course (Jamestown)

Just across the Newport Bridge, Jamestown Golf Course is a public 9-hole, par-36 course of about 3,058 yards on Narragansett Bay. It is one of the oldest public courses in the area, with roots in the 1890s, and it is an easy, scenic round if you only have a couple of hours. The windswept layout has wide fairways and greens that take some reading, and there is a driving range, putting green, clubhouse and a restaurant and lounge on site. The listed season runs from April through the end of November.

Address: 245 Conanicus Avenue, Jamestown, RI 02835 · Phone: (401) 423-9930

Private golf clubs in Newport and Aquidneck Island

Newport’s most famous golf is private. You will need to be a member, a member’s guest, or playing in a members’ event to get on these courses.

Newport Country Club

Founded in 1893, Newport Country Club is one of the five founding clubs of the USGA and one of the most historic golf clubs in the country. It hosted the very first U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur in 1895, the 1995 U.S. Amateur won by Tiger Woods, the 2006 U.S. Women’s Open and the 2024 U.S. Senior Open. Its Beaux Arts clubhouse dates to 1895. You can’t book a tee time, but its history is a big part of why “Newport” and “golf” go together. Newport Country Club website

Wanumetonomy Golf & Country Club (Middletown)

Wanumetonomy is a private club with a classic 18-hole, par-70 links-style course on Browns Lane in Middletown, and it has more than a century of history. Guest play follows the club’s guest policies. Wanumetonomy website

The Aquidneck Club (Portsmouth)

Formerly the Carnegie Abbey Club, The Aquidneck Club is a private, member-owned club in Portsmouth with an 18-hole, Scottish links-style course on Narragansett Bay. Former members bought the club in 2019 and renamed it.

Mini golf in Newport, RI

For families, the closest option is Newport Mini Golf at 40 Valley Road in Middletown, which opened in September 2023. It is a few minutes’ drive from downtown Newport and Easton’s Beach, so it pairs well with a beach day. Outdoor mini golf is seasonal, so check its current hours before you head over. If you are traveling with kids, our family-friendly Newport hotels guide and fun things to do in Rhode Island list have more ideas for rainy and sunny days.

Indoor golf near Newport, RI

Newport Indoor Golf in Portsmouth keeps you swinging when the weather won’t cooperate. Its 6,000-square-foot space next to the Newport Car Museum has Trackman golf simulators with dozens of courses and driving range modes, five reservable bays, PGA lessons and clinics, custom club fitting, club sales, leagues and private events. It is open year-round, which makes it one of the few golf options on the island in winter.

Address: 1947 West Main Road, Portsmouth, RI 02871 · Phone: (401) 847-1947

Visiting in the colder months? See our things to do in Newport in winter guide for more ideas.

Best golf courses near Newport for a day trip

If you want to explore more of Rhode Island golf, popular public courses farther from Newport include North Kingstown Golf Course in North Kingstown, Triggs Memorial Golf Course in Providence and the courses around Westerly and Richmond in South County. Pair a round with a stop from our best hotels in Rhode Island guide if you are making a longer trip of it.

Tips for a Newport golf trip

• Book early in summer. July and August weekends fill up fast, especially at Newport National.
• Plan for wind. Almost every course here is on or near the water, and the breeze changes how holes play.
• Go in the shoulder season. Late spring and early fall bring cooler weather and easier tee times, and hotel rates drop. Our Newport hotel booking tips can help you save.
• Make a day of it. After a round in Middletown or Portsmouth, try one of the nice restaurants on Aquidneck Island, or head back into town for the Newport food and drink scene.
• Add something active. Non-golfers in your group can enjoy biking in Newport or the best hiking trails and parks near Newport.

Where to stay near Newport golf courses

Middletown hotels put you closest to Newport National, Wanumetonomy and the Portsmouth courses, while still being a short drive from downtown Newport and the beaches:

Residence Inn Newport Middletown

Suites with kitchens that work well for golf buddies or longer stays, on the Middletown side of the island. Check Residence Inn Newport Middletown rates and availability →

Hampton Inn & Suites Newport/Middletown

A dependable, value-minded base with easy road access to the Middletown and Portsmouth courses. Check Hampton Inn & Suites Newport/Middletown rates and availability →

Atlantic Beach Hotel

A waterfront stay near Easton’s Beach in Middletown, a good pick if your group wants ocean views after the round. Check Atlantic Beach Hotel rates and availability →

Newport Marriott

A full-service hotel on the downtown waterfront if you would rather be near restaurants and the harbor at night. Check Newport Marriott rates and availability →

Compare more options in our guides to the best hotels in Newport, RI, Newport hotels near the beach and budget-friendly Newport hotels, and check our Reader Deals page for current discounts.

Frequently asked questions

What are the public golf courses near Newport, RI?

The main public option is Newport National Golf Club in Middletown, an 18-hole, par-72 links-style course. Green Valley Country Club and Montaup Country Club in Portsmouth are semi-private clubs that also take public play, and Jamestown Golf Course is a public 9-hole course across the Newport Bridge.

Can you play Newport Country Club?

Newport Country Club is a private club, so play is generally limited to members and their guests. It is one of the founding clubs of the USGA and hosted the first U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur in 1895.

Is there mini golf in Newport, RI?

Yes. Newport Mini Golf opened in September 2023 at 40 Valley Road in Middletown, a short drive from downtown Newport. Check its current season and hours before you go.

Is there indoor golf near Newport, RI?

Newport Indoor Golf at 1947 West Main Road in Portsmouth, next to the Newport Car Museum, has Trackman golf simulators, lessons, club fitting and leagues, and is open year-round.

Where should golfers stay near Newport, RI?

Hotels in Middletown put you closest to Newport National, Wanumetonomy and the Portsmouth courses, while downtown Newport hotels are better if you want restaurants and the harbor after your round. Good picks include the Residence Inn Newport Middletown, Hampton Inn & Suites Newport/Middletown and the Atlantic Beach Hotel.

More Newport guides

• Things to Do in Newport, RI
• Best Hotels in Newport, RI
• Family-Friendly Hotels in Newport
• Wellness Retreats Near Newport
• Fun Things to Do in Rhode Island
• Reader Deals
• All Newport Blog posts