I am finally sitting down to write this post. The Ultimate Wellness Guide to Newport, Rhode Island. The city by the sea, a premium tourist destination, a seaside luxury stop and most importantly my hometown.
Why a Wellness Guide? As a self-proclaimed "wellness enthusiast" everywhere I travel turns into a wellness destination. I am always looking for the best workout classes, the perfect walking route, the juice bar, the farm-to-table brunch...I can go on and on. It only feels right to launch my first Wellness Guide with Newport, RI. I plan to have an entire series of Wellness Guides.
Newport is famous for preppy and idyllic summers, but the beauty is there year-round. The small city has undergone numerous changes since I was born at Newport Hospital in 1995 and with those changes have come a host of wellness-focus businesses and things to do.
Newport goes beyond Newport btw. Newport is on Aquidneck Island, home to three towns that make up the true "Newport" area...plus Jamestown! You'll be seeing recommendations from all four towns here...all are extremely close together!
Where to Stay
Newport:
A gorgeous hotel right in downtown Newport but on a peaceful side street that will bring you right back to the Gilded Age.
You could spend hours taking in the rich decor, laying out on their pool deck and dining in their fabulous restaurants.
They always have different in-hotel events happening. My favorite is Enchanted Hour. You can sign up for a personal tarot reading from their expert practitioner. Fun fact; I actually hosted this reader in-home for my 27th birthday and she had us completely obsessed and locked in. If you're traveling to Newport or are a local, book this as soon as you know your plans...spots go extremely fast. She is amazing.
KELLY K TIP: Grab a pre-dinner beverage on their rooftop for unmatched views of Newport from above.
New to the scene and something locals were initially unsure of, this has become a landmark and gorgeous staple in downtown Newport.
Let's be honest, you're here for location. It is right in the middle of downtown Newport and boasts gorgeous water views from many of its rooms.
KELLY K TIP: Early riser? Grab a coffee or tea and your favorite book to take to their expansive deck. During the day this is full of guests and tourists looking for the perfect sunset pic, but early in the morning, it is a peaceful seating area. The sun hits the outdoor furniture just right.
Quite possibly one of my favorite new Newport spots. Staying here allows you to be in perfect walking distance of the entire downtown Newport area. Inside feels like a large, ocean-front summer home through its decor and bright environment. Did you know it is also pet friendly?
The Living Room is their central gathering area where you can have drinks and bites. I absolutely think this is one of Newport's secret spots. It feels like you're hanging out in your (coastal grandmother-esque) friend's home.
KELLY K TIP: Have someone with you that loves being a kid again? Head up to the roof where you'll find turf and some "mini golf" or just soak in the harbor view with a drink in hand.
Want to stay in Newport but not directly in the action? Oceancliff is the perfect happy medium. Located in the historic Ocean Drive area, you'll be surrounded by gorgeous private homes that you can (to the pain of locals) drive by extremely slowly on your drive in.
I would stay here in the off-season, especially fall! Water views completely with fall foliage...can you beat that?
KELLY K TIP: When I polled my IG audience on Newport spots that are UNDERrated, Oceancliffs's Safari Room was a top response. Have brunch, dinner or drinks here for a quieter Newport Experience. As much as I recommend heading into true downtown Newport as much as possible, planning time to hang out at the resort in the Safari Room is crucial!
There are a ton of inns and B&Bs around Newport. I would highly suggest checking out this webpage that lists many of them. Each brings with them its own history and charm.
Middletown:
Perfectly in the action of Newport County, but laid-back and beachy
Literal steps to the beach, this hotel is right in "downtown Middletown" - you have access to delish restaurants, and lots of beachy activities and it's right down the hill from downtown Newport.
KELLY K TIP: Don't leave here without a stop at neighboring Clementine's Homemade Ice Cream. The vegan options are a necessary to do for your trip.
A favorite of mine! This hotel sits atop a hill and has been newly redone just for you! The outdoor patio gives off resort vibes, especially when the bar is full, fire pits are on and live music is in the air.
It is a 5-10 minute drive to downtown Newport depending on beach traffic (you'll get it when you go). It is a 5-minute drive from the beaches. It has an on-property restaurant that is truly amazing. Locals love it!
KELLY K TIP: At the on-property restaurant, no matter what entree you decide on...please get a side of rice pilaf...best paired with seafood I think...amazing!
Portsmouth:
A 10-30 minute drive to Downtown Newport depending on where you stay. More laid-back and farm lifestyle.
Jamestown:
Hop over to Newport via the Newport Bridge or by water taxi. Quiet but close to the action.
Air B and B and VRBO Options:
There are possibly hundreds of rentals available all over Newport County. Two of my favorites happen to be in Middletown!
Owned and run by a fabulous Newport local, this is such a charming spot to stay. Her decor is unmatched, along with the proximity to the beaches...a must!
This home is incredibly spacious, has a massive yard and is located in the more laid-back section of Middletown. You're steps from golf and the most-perfect farm stand, along with being 5 minutes from the Middletown beaches.
**my boyfriend's family owns a gorgeous home in Middletown and I am happy to answer any questions about it!
**There are plenty of amazing budget-friendly hotels all over Newport County. After all, if it is just a place to sleep...save you money for the two S's...shopping and seafood!
Where to Eat
Cafes
KELLY K'S ORDER: Next Level Avocado Toast sub over medium eggs.
KELLY K TIP: Wait. Don't let the line or crowd stop you...I promise you will get a seat!
KELLY K'S ORDER: A large iced decaf latte, half almond milk, half oat milk, light vanilla or caramel flavoring. Plus, if I am feeling hungry the Avocado Toast is delish, or a baked good. They typically have a gluten-free and/or vegan option.
KELLY K TIP: Order ahead on their app or website. I favor the Williams location for the people-watching. Bring your order to one of the outdoor tables and take in the people of Newport.
KELLY K'S ORDER: My classic! A large iced decaf latte with almond/oat milk and light caramel flavoring. For food, I love the Quiche of the Day.
KELLY K TIP: Purchase coffee beans to take home. These are some of the best beans in town and they'll grind them for exactly what you need. Last time I bought some they specifically ground them for cold brew.
KELLY K'S ORDER: Vegan Vanderbilt Burrito no beans sub regular egg or the Shakshuka no goat cheese (Portsmouth only) or the Roasted Corn and Cilantro Avocado Toast no goat cheese or cilantro (ironic).
QUINN'S ORDER (something with a little less "wellness"): The Hangover Cure or the Wicked Good Classic
KELLY K TIP: Need to try them but can't get into the Newport location? Head out to Portsmouth where they have a larger cafe! Take the opportunity to explore the historic homes and farms of Portsmouth.
KELLY K'S ORDER: Decaf iced latte with almond milk and one of their housemade syrups (light). For food I love the Hash It Out add avocado or the Berry Good smoothie with no banana add avocado and collagen.
KELLY K TIP: Order ahead if having takeout. Grab a snap in their hanging window seat.
KELLY K'S ORDER: Green Machine, no ginger
KELLY K TIP: If you are not a huge ginger person...get no ginger! They load you up if you do get it. It's because everything is SO fresh, so the ginger is LEGIT.
Dessert
Clark Cooke House
KELLY K'S ORDER: Snowball in Hell
KELLY K TIP: Sit in the Candy Store for vibes that are a bit more laid back. No reason to be getting the Snowball in Hell that comes with sparklers? Make up a reason to celebrate!
The Fifth Element
KELLY K'S ORDER: Sticky Toffee Pudding
KELLY K TIP: Want more than dessert? Go for an app and please get the Spinach Balls!
KELLY K'S ORDER: Pistachio-Ricotta-Cream Layer Cake
KELLY K TIP: No reservations here! Walk in only, but it is worth it. I would say this is definitely a place to go hen town is super busy because they DON'T take reservations and work off a wait list only.
Raw Bar
KELLY K'S ORDER: 2 shrimp, 2 oysters (preferably smaller oyster or PEI oysters). I am completely convinced that the perfect combo is raw shrimp and oysters. I like simple lemon juice on my shrimp, but my oyster need mignonette, lemon juice and tabasco.
KELLY K TIP: Sit at the bar or out back on their patio. Head there for Buck A' Shuck on Wednesdays.
The Lobster Bar/The Landing
KELLY K TIP: Sit at the Raw Bar for your raw bar, but make sure to stay for a drink on the deck AKA the most on-the-water location you'll get in Newport.
KELLY K TIP: Feeling adventurous? Make your raw bar experience into an Oyster Shooter...they have multiple to choose from. depending on your liquid of choice.
KELLY K TIP: Go on Tuesday when they do their Raw Bar Tuesdays and have happy hour priced raw bar. Also, if you can and it is open, head up to the Crow's Nest on their top level for a drink. Also great for a group dinner!
KELLY K TIP: Have a seat at their outdoor portion of the bar. It is a great way to experience the setting, without committing to an entire dinner.
Drinks
KELLY K'S ORDER: Spicy Cucumber Margarita, no rim
KELLY K TIP: Sneak into the back bar, even if it is full you can sit along the sides. Tuesday nights for live music too!
KELLY K'S ORDER: A skinny margarita, with casamigos blanco...no rim!
KELLY K TIP: The larger bar is one of my favorite bars in Newport. People-watching is prime and the bartenders are some of the best in the business. Feeling peckish? Split the A Bag of Doughnuts or the Native Scallop Chowder.
KELLY K'S ORDER: A glass of Sancerre over ice.
KELLY K TIP: Sit upstairs at the second-floor bar...which has a name I am completely forgetting even though I worked here for a summer...someone will remind me.
KELLY K'S ORDER: The Sage Paloma...no sage. Am I annoying or what?
KELLY K TIP: Take a long drive around Ocean Drive and end it here for a drink with a view. Do everything in your power to get here to Golden Hour, during a sailing race or when The Madeline or Rum Runner is sailing by! The views are truly incredible. Bring cash to tip your valet!
KELLY K'S ORDER: While they have tons of cocktails, sometimes Kelly K wants a mocktail! Go for a Lemonade over Fiji Water Ice Cubes. Now THAT is wellness!
KELLY K TIP: Consider staying at the Oceancliff so that you're on-property bar is this amazing spot.
KELLY K'S ORDER: Celebrating? Have a drink to match. The Patron Gran Platinum Margarita is perfect.
KELLY K TIP: I won't lie, it might be difficult getting a seat at this sought-after bar, but if you do...count your blessings and enjoy. If you're having dinner at 22 Bowen's make time for a pre-dinner drink here.
Mocktail Spots:
Perro Salado
Diegos
Bar 'Cino
Caleb and Broad
Many bartenders are happy to make you one if you ask nicely!
Juice/Smoothies
Cold-pressed and organic!
KELLY K'S ORDER: The Green Giant or Celery Juice Straight Up
KELLY K TIP: Stock up before Sunday when they close for a bit of rest.
Inside of A Market, a health-food store and quite possibly one of my favorite places on Earth, is a cafe that serves up healthy eats. I love grabbing fresh juice from here.
KELLY K'S ORDER: The Harvest Juice (when available)
KELLY K'S ORDER: Decaf iced latte with almond milk and one of their housemade syrups (light). For food I love the Hash It Out add avocado or the Berry Good smoothie no banana add avocado and collagen.
KELLY K TIP: Order ahead if having takeout. Grab a snap in their hanging window seat.
KELLY K'S ORDER: Green Machine, no ginger
KELLY K TIP: If you are not a huge ginger person...get no ginger! They load you up if you do get it. It's because everything is SO fresh, so the ginger is LEGIT.
Breakfast/Brunch
KELLY K'S ORDER: Next Level Avocado Toast sub over medium eggs. Loaded tots with a group!
KELLY K TIP: Wait. Don't let the line or crowd stop you...I promise you will get a seat!
KELLY K'S ORDER: Oatmeal with berries OR Two eggs poached, dry multigrain bread or a grilled english muffin, add avocado...and something sweet from the specials, Sweet Bread French Toast, to split.
KELLY K TIP: Call ahead to get your name on the waitlist. I worked here for over a decade!
KELLY K'S ORDER: Boring! I usually go the eggs and toast...
QUINN'S ORDER: Pulled Pork Benny
KELLY K TIP: With a group? They do an awesome breakfast beverage sampler with fun drinks to try.
Lunch
KELLY K'S ORDER: The Classic Chopped Cesar, extra extra extra cornbread croutons lol. Add chicken! I also love the Zucchini Fries.
KELLY K TIP: Have a seat at the bar, it is easy to get in and the atmosphere is great.
KELLY K'S ORDER: Sweet Potato French Fries with sweet and salty dips and a Cesar Salad add grilled chicken. Or, The Alehouse Burger sub a turkey patty.
KELLY K TIP: This is one of the most popular restaurants on the Island and absolutely the most popular in Portsmouth, lunch is a great time to sneak yourself in. I also worked here!
KELLY K'S ORDER: A few ideas for sharing; Romana Salad add the Chicken Milanese, Tagliatelle Bolognese, Bucatini Cacio e Pepe, Pesto e Gamberi Pizza and bread for the table.
KELLY K TIP: Go with a group so that you can do family-style and try tons of menu items.
KELLY K'S ORDER: Roasted Rhode Island Mushrooms
KELLY K TIP: Walk the Cliff Walk after your meal to take in what may be the most gorgeous coast to exist, plus you can peek into the backyards of the famous Newport Mansions.
Dinner
KELLY K'S ORDER: Mushroom Toast, Warm Bread and Brussel Sprouts. A Mission Cut to share...omg the shallots!
KELLY K TIP: People may disagree, but you don't need to order the whole menu here. Go heavy on the apps and sides then split a cut. You'll absolutely need a reservation for standard seating...but if you're lucky you can grab their sidewalk window bar chairs for the same delish food and great people-watching. Lastly, take home the cut's bone and make done broth with it if you're local...or give it to your pup!
KELLY K'S ORDER: Split these three! The Caesar add Chicken Milanese, a Margherita pizza and the Tagliatelli.
KELLY K TIP: No reservations here! Walk in only, but it is worth it. I would say this is definitely a place to go when town is super busy because they DON'T take reservations and work off a waitlist only.
KELLY K'S ORDER: Summer Sushi or the Hamburger.
KELLY K TIP: I know, I know...this is a fine dining spot, but I adore the Candy Store's casual atmosphere and love Summer Sushi during the months it is available.
What to Do
Spas/Salons
KELLY K'S PREFERED SERVICE: The Water Journey
KELLY K TIP: Book far ahead... especially if you even have the thought it will rain...this place books so FAST!
KELLY K'S PREFERED SERVICE: The Express Journey
KELLY K TIP: Enjoy brunch or tea in The Hotel Viking before your spa day.
KELLY K'S PREFERED SERVICE: Hydrafacial
KELLY K TIP: Join their perks program even if you're just visiting...you never know when you'll come back and the points/discounts are amazing!
KELLY K'S PREFERED SERVICE: Blowout
KELLY K TIP: Pair your trip here with a stop inside A Market for a juice to sip on while you get your hair done!
KELLY K'S PREFERED SERVICE: 30-minute feet plus 30-minute back
KELLY K TIP: I can't believe I am sharing this place...I feel like it is still a secret. Just call! They can almost always take you.
KELLY K'S PREFERED SERVICE: The Allstar
KELLY K TIP: Make it a party! Grab your crew to refresh for another day in Newport. Grab post-drip brunch at Stonacre Garden right next door.
KELLY K'S PREFERED SERVICE: Float Therapy and Infrared Sauna
KELLY K TIP: Since you're already out in Middletown, take the opportunity to grab smoothies at Plant City.
Star Nails
KELLY K'S PREFERED SERVICE: Green Tea Spa Pedicure
KELLY K TIP: Have breakfast before or after at the nearby Cru Cafe. If you can't get an appointment at the Newport location, they have one in Middletown too.
KELLY K'S PREFERED SERVICE: Anything! The owner is amazing and will do exactly what she thinks your skin needs.
The Woo Woo
Lymphatic Flush at Zen Den
Workouts
KELLY K TIP: Book ASAP! This place fills up. There is tons of parking, so you can drive over and do a post-Pilates drive down Ocean Drive.
KELLY K TIP: Book the minute you know you're coming and prepare to be sweaty!
KELLY K TIP: Empire is right below...you must have a coffee or breakfast after class...if you aren't TOO sweaty!
KELLY K TIP: Drift Cafe is their neighbor, click here to see my favorite Drift order.
KELLY K TIP: Grab a post-yoga juice or snack from Root!
KELLY K TIP: Take a class with my gorgeous Aunt Kara! They're all fabulous though. Since you're out in Middletown, take this opportunity to grab an organic juice (I love the Green Machine)at nearby The Power of Juice and take a drive through the Middletown backroads by the beaches.
KELLY K TIP: After your workout head to Cru Cafe and get the Straight from PULSE Salad. Or, do some shopping at the hidden Newport Wine Celler and Gourmet where you'll get the lowdown on the best wine and pairings. They even do tastings!
Walks
Parking all around Newport, some free and some paid
Multiple entry points and points to hop off the route
Free trail
KELLY K TIP: Start at the Memorial Blvd entrance and bring your camera! This is a MUST-do in Newport. You can grab a coffee at Empire before your walk too! OR be a rebel and start the Ruggles Ave entrance and finish your walk with a fabulous lunch at The Chanler.
Parking lot - free
Multiple trail options
Free trail
KELLY K TIP: Once you're out on the point, it does get windy so have a layer you can pop on and off. You'll have stunning views of the beaches and ocean from all angles and the drive back down the hill from the trail is one of the best views in Middletown. If you have the time, pair it with a trip to their visitor's center to learn about the wildlife.
Parking lot - paid
Free to walk on
KELLY K TIP: After your evening walk stop for ice cream (vegan too!) at Clementine's Homemade Ice Cream
Parking lots available at different points - most are free
Multiple trail length options
Free trail
KELLY K TIP: If you stay at this VRBO/Air BnB you have this trail in your backyard
Parking lot - free
Free trail
KELLY K TIP: Rest your legs and switch to driving for a post-walk drive along Ocean Drive, or get yourself a drink at Safari Room or on The Lawn at Castle Hill since you're already out in this part of Newport
Parking lot - free
Free trail
KELLY K TIP: Enjoy a coffee after before at Custom House Coffee
Parking lot - free
Free trail
KELLY K TIP: Enjoy lunch afterward at Fieldstones
Parking lot - free
Free trail
KELLY K TIP: Grab some local goodies or prepared food at Foodlove Market where there is both a grocery store and a cafe.
Parking lot - free
Multiple trail options
Trial fees vary but are generally under $10 - bring cash just in case
KELLY K TIP: Grab a post-hike breakfast at The Atlantic Grille
Anywhere in Newport
KELLY K TIP: Park your car in some free parking and just stroll the streets to see the historic homes and gardens of Newport. I love walking these neighborhoods:
The Point
Bellevue Avenue
Spring Street
Kay Street
Catherine Street
The Fifth Ward
Coggeshall Avenue
Activities
Aside from eating, walking and trying new workouts...there is actually MORE to do...believe it or not.
There are multiple mansions to tour and each one has a different vibe depending on the time of year. Luckily, you can tour all of them or just one if that is your preference. The website has a ton of info about what is open and when. I wouldn't miss touring I you're in Newport around Christmas time, the decor is amazing. In the warmer months, the gardens are breathtaking and can't be missed.
KELLY K TIP: Start your day at Cru Cafe to fuel up for mansions touring. Tour the Elms and Marble House if you only have one afternoon to do so.
Beach Day
This page on the Discover Newport Website has a ton of info about all of the beaches. I prefer Second Beach, which you'll have to pay to park or Uber to, but it is worth it. The beaches of Middletown are top tier...you can't convince me otherwise! I am totally biased growing up on this beach. If you can only make it to Newport beach, take a rideshare or get dropped off at Rejects Beach. The same doesn't fit the land, it is a gorgeous cove off of Ocean Drive. The Newport beaches are amazing, do not get me wrong...they just tend to be a bit busier or are private/secret ;)
KELLY K TIP: Second Beach only! Get to the beach early if you're driving...you want to miss the traffic and get a spot both in the lot and on the beach. If you don't care about being directly in front of the concession stand, head near tower 2 or tower 8...it will be a bit less packed. The clearest water is always between towers 1 and 3.
Where to grab food pre-beach:
- Le Bec Sucre for sandwiches
- Foodlove Market for snacks and prepared food
- Sweet Berry Farm for snacks and prepared food
**There are also food trucks and a concession stand
Want my real secret beach tip...you'll need to reach out to me!
An Afternoon at the Farm Stand
Sweet Berry Farm is the ultimate farm stand to spend an afternoon at.
- Berry picking
- Deliciously prepared food
- Local shopping
- Outdoor play space
-Outdoor and indoor seating
KELLY K TIP: Go on an afternoon to pick fresh berries to take back home and make a delish berries and cream dessert...or drop them in your champagne to toast at night.
This is a must if you'd like my opinion! I absolutely love making visits here year-round, but the summer is a special time here. Tennis Week is the big event, but it is always enjoyable to visit.
KELLY K TIP: Take a tour of the grounds and finish with lunch at La Forge. I personally love the Baked Cod and the burgers.
Take Newport In On the Water
If you can, you must take in this city via the water...I mean it is surrounded by it! There are numerous ways to do this...
KELLY K TIP: Utilize the hop-on-hop-off water taxi. It is extremely low cost and you can jump all around downtown Newport on it. I always love doing this during the summer to see the coastline from the bay.
Shopping
Vintage/Consignment/Thrift:
Clothing:
Home:
Kids:
KELLY K TIP:
My perfect shopping day...
- Start on Broadway with a coffee in hand from uptown with a coffee in hand from Empire's Broadway location. You need fuel! fuel
- You are right by Closet Revival so get your vintage on
- Walk down to Wish which is over on Thames Street
- You're in the Washington Square area, so stop by Little Chateau and that block of stores
- Walk down Thames Street until you hit Malibu Friday and stop inside
- Detour to the wharf where you'll find stores like Monelle and tucked away Mandarine
- Hungry? I would be! Time for a quick snack at Clark Cooke House.
- Back to shopping and you are now heading down America's Cup towards Lower Thames where you'll find tons of shops like Pink Pineapple and Groove. Once you've hit Zelda's shopping has ended. Grab a beverage and snack if needed then head up the hill towards Spring Street.
- Kristina Richards is on Williams Street, don't miss it. Cross the road to Bellvue and check out Michael Hayes and Bellvue Kids. Now walk down Bellvue towards Harper and Tucker
- End with Bohemian Bias and then run back up to Bellvue for a much-deserved meal at Pasta Beach
Newport scenes...
What to Pack
Anything goes, but Newport is a seaside, classic town. Who doesn't love to dress the part when traveling?
My Newport Vision Boards for Every Season:
(click the image to shop these exact finds)
**Or, save these to your Pinterest boards (Pin below each image)
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