While you're in town, consider touring some of Claudia & Tim's favorite local spots, working from east to west:
"Mystic Seaport is the largest maritime museum in the United States and is notable for its collection of sailing ships and boats and for the re-creation of the crafts and fabric of an entire 19th-century seafaring village." Tim's favorite exhibits are boarding the whaling ship and listening to a sea shanty. If you get hungry, enjoy some pub food from the historical Daniel Packer Inne (built in the 1700s), or grab a slice at the famous Mystic Pizza (yes, that one from Claudia's favorite movie starring Julia Roberts!).
Clyde's Cider Mill is the oldest steam powered cider mill in the US. You can watch apples get pressed for fresh cider, sample hard cider, and snack on cider donuts. A trip to Mystic Seaport in the morning and then grabbing a refreshment at Clyde's is Claudia and Tim's favorite autumn activity when visiting!
Make your way to Watch Hill to see the oldest operated carousel in the US! A childhood favorite of Claudia's. You can also walk the public beach to get a glimpse of Taylor Swift's place and visit the light house. We suggest Olympia Tea room for lunch, or St Clair Annex for chowder and ice cream after a stroll on the beach and window shopping.
While you're in Watch Hill, stop into Ocean House, a renovated Victorian-style resort originally constructed in 1868. Order a champagne cocktail on one of their decks (our favorite is the Secret Garden), stroll through their manicured lawns, and watch (or play!) a game of croquet or shuffle board. Ocean front with stunning views.
If you love lighthouses and nature, visit Beaver Tail State Park that looks out into the Narragansett Bay. It's a beautiful hiking and fishing spot with trails and a rocky coastline. There's even a lighthouse museum where you can climb the tower, or visit their mini aquarium!
The Cliff Walk is a stunning 3.5 mile walk around Newport's Atlantic coast line, with sneak peaks of the Newport Mansions. It's the perfect activity to soak up the beauty of New England while simultaneously walking off the weekend's indulgences.
Book a walking audio tour of the Gilded Age's Newport Mansions while you're here! The Rosecliff and the Vanderbilt's Breakers are two favorites. We suggest visiting The Black Pearl for a casual and fun spot to eat by the water after sightseeing.
If you're looking for a novel experience, reserve a public charter out of Bowen's Wharf! They have multiple tours daily on gorgeous sailboats, even a mimosa cruise to keep the party going.