12 Engagement Party Venues in Newport, RI for That Upscale, Beachy Vibe

From restaurants to historic venues, these Newport engagement party locations are top notch.
christin perry the knot
by
Christin Perry
christin perry the knot
Christin Perry
E-Commerce Contributor
  • Christin specializes in writing gift guides and shoppable articles for The Knot.
  • Christin is a freelance writer, also covering lifestyle, health, and parenting.
  • She has written for such publications as The Bump, Parents, VeryWell, Parade and LittleThings.
Updated Jan 20, 2025

If you live in Rhode Island, Southern Massachusetts or Connecticut and you're recently engaged, the upscale enclave of Newport makes a fantastic place to host your wedding and any events leading up to it. And that includes celebrating at an engagement party venue in Newport, RI! It's one of the first things to do after getting engaged, and the first thing you'll need to do as part of your engagement party planning is find the perfect engagement party venue for your party.

The beautiful town of Newport offers tons of options, including upscale hotels, beautiful mansions, chic dining hot spots and small wedding venues in Rhode Island that locals love. We've included 12 such locations on our list of the best engagement party venues in Newport, Rhode Island. If you can't find what you're looking for here, be sure to check out Newport engagement party venues on The Knot Vendor Marketplace for more options.

Coastal Queen Cruises in Jamestown

Take in the breathtaking views of Newport and Narragansett Bay when you host your engagement party aboard Coastal Queen Cruises out of Jamestown, Rhode Island. These beautifully appointed vessels can host up to 140 passengers and feature amenities like roll-down shades on the top deck and a handsome teak bar on the main deck. You'll bring along your favorite caterer, DJ and florist, and the dedicated cruise staff will work with your vendors to ensure your every desire is met and exceeded during your time onboard.

Giusto Newport in Downtown Newport

Events of all sizes, from intimate groups of 12 to large gatherings of 150 or more, can enjoy delectable Italian cuisine at Giusto, a Newport favorite. Classic Italian dishes like mussels, calamari and cavatelli are featured on the menu, along with a host of wines and spirits. This beautiful rooftop venue in Rhode Island offers enclosed or open-air seating.

The Sailing Museum in Newport

If you're dreaming of a nautical-inspired engagement party theme, there's no better place to host your engagement party in Newport than The Sailing Museum. Cheerful yellow, navy and white decor and adorable sailboat tealight holders are a nod to one of the most popular pastimes in the Newport area. Learn about sailing with your guests as you mingle and dine on delicious catered food and drinks.

Surf Cantina in Westerly

For an engagement party in a relaxed, fun atmosphere, head on over to Surf Cantina in Westerly, Rhode Island, just under an hour away from Newport. This casual restaurant is a hidden gem, serving mouthwatering Mexican-inspired dishes and margs all around. Funky decor like a wave wall and lime green sofas lend a fun vibe. With space for up to 250 people, this popular gathering spot has become a local favorite.

Find your kind of venue

From barns to ballrooms, discover reception venues that feel like you.

Sardella's Restaurant in Newport

Known for its delectable Tuscan-inspired cuisine, Sardella's Restaurant has become a Newport hotspot. Their upstairs event space is perfect for gatherings of up to 50 people, with its own bathroom, balcony and even a private bar. Guests rave about the fast, attentive service that's sure to make your event a success from start to finish.

Latitude 41 Catamaran Charters in Newport

If you're happiest on the water, there's no better way to celebrate your newly engaged status with family and friends than on a catamaran zipping around Newport waters. Rent a Latitude 41 catamaran for a day for yourself and up to 50 of your favorite guests, then work with staff to customize your experience to suit your vision. Whether you don bathing suits for a day of swimming or enjoy a champagne toast under the stars, it's all up to you when you reserve a catamaran for your Newport engagement party location.

Jo's American Bistro in Newport

Relax and party with family and friends in an atmosphere of casual elegance when you use Jo's American Bistro as your engagement party venue in Newport, Rhode Island. Conveniently located on Memorial Boulevard, Jo's offers prebook parking for guests' convenience. Enjoy local favorites like Point Judith calamari and New England clam chowder at this relaxed but classy Newport restaurant.

OceanCliff Hotel in Newport

If you're looking to splash out Newport style, you can't miss OceanCliff Hotel as you browse potential locations. This wildly popular wedding and bridal shower location in Rhode Island can host your engagement party for up to 150 guests on the Upper Deck, the open-air event space that's perfect for dining. Stunning views of Narragansett Bay are topped with an attractive white tent that protects from the elements. Upscale table linens, florals and chairs await your guests, who are sure to be enchanted by this beautiful setting.

Fort Adams in Newport

Historic Fort Adams is a popular engagement party place in Newport for a variety of events. This stone fort offers a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for groups ranging from just 10 to more than 350 people. Enjoy views of Newport Bridge as you dine, dance and visit with your guests. Leading up to your event, you'll plan your day with the dedicated on-site staff who can help you secure rentals like music, engagement party food and linens (or bring your own engagement party decorations) so that when you arrive at your party, you won't have to worry about anything.

The Black Pearl in Newport

One of the most upscale restaurants in all of Newport, The Black Pearl stands regally over Narragansett Bay. That means you and your guests will enjoy beautiful views as you celebrate your newly engaged status while dining on locally sourced menu selections. Opt for indoor or outdoor gathering space, with transparent pricing on their website, so you're not left guessing about your budget.

Cara Restaurant in Newport

The stunning Chanler hotel is one of the most iconic Newport hotels. Inside, you'll find a hidden gem tucked away: Cara. At this Forbes five-star restaurant, you can reserve a table for up to 20 people and enjoy either a five- or eight-course blind menu tasting. You'll experience the ultimate luxury here, with gorgeous decor, award-winning food and panoramic ocean views.

Tickets Restaurant and Patio in Middletown

Get the full Newport experience—beach, great food and fun atmosphere—when you book your engagement party at Tickets. Amazing beach views await you and your guests while you nosh on local favorites like lobster sandwiches. Another popular food option? Pizza! Tickets is known for its insanely delicious pizza, which you can enjoy in their upstairs private dining room, the perfect Newport engagement party location.

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