United States Destinations

Newport is the gem of coastal New England

By Caroline and Steve Lake

1st Photo courtesy of John Hopf, Touro Synagogue Foundation

2nd Photo courtesy of Newport Restoration Foundation

Newport, Rhode Island, considered the shining gem of coastal New England, was founded in 1639 as a colony of religious freedom. Newport’s awe-inspiring architecture, thriving downtown and beautiful coastal scenery offer something for everyone. Home of the America’s Cup, Newport Harbor welcomes ships from around the world.

In the late 1800s, the wealthiest families in the United States chose Newport as their resort destination. As a result, Gilded Age mansions were built on Bellevue Avenue. Now opened as museums, the fully furnished mansions can be toured by visitors.

Gothic Revival "cottages," opulent French and Italian style palaces are situated on the tree-lined avenues. The Beaches, Marble House, Astor’s Beechwood, Belcourt Castle and Rough Point, the Newport home of Doris Duke are all open for tours. This is an opportunity to view priceless paintings and tapestries along with furniture that are also works of art.

The Cliff Walk, a three-and-a-half-mile walking path, circles in back of the mansions between the sprawling lawns and crashing surf of the Atlantic. This one-of-a-kind experience is a must. The sound of the pounding sea, glimpses of vast lawns of mansions and exquisite vistas combine to provide an incomparable experience.

No trip to Newport would be complete without a visit to Touro Sanctuary, the oldest synagogue in America. This typically Colonial building is revered by historians, architects and world leaders.

In 1759 a lot was purchased for a synagogue and renowned architect Peter Harrison was selected to draw up the plans. The result is a synagogue of simplicity and great beauty, now a national historic site. George Washington visited Touro Synagogue in 1781 and later sent a famous letter to the congregation that has become the expression of religious freedom in America. A copy of the letter, a historic document, can be viewed on the west wall of the temple.

Another Newport attraction is the International Tennis Hall of Fame and Museum. Housed in the old Newport Casino, it is the largest tennis museum in the world. It also boasts the only lawn courts available for public use in the nation.

Salve Regina University is set on 75 landscaped acres and comprised of seven estates. To tour the university is to "tour the great architectural works of the Gilded Age," an opportunity not to be missed.

There are many inns, hotels and bed and breakfasts in Newport. The Residence Inn Newport/Middletown stands out for offering the comforts of home. Suites combine full kitchens plus separate areas for sleeping and relaxing. A complimentary hot breakfast buffet is served daily. Conveniently located, the Residence Inn offers quick access to downtown Newport, the fabulous mansions and pristine beaches.

Halfway between Newport and Providence, in the town of Bristol on Narragansett Bay, lies Blithewold, one of the finest garden estates in New England. There are many gardens to explore on a mile of meandering paths, such as the Rose Garden, Enclosed Garden and Water Garden. Grassy slopes lead to the bay, providing a breathtaking setting. The lush grounds house an arboretum with rare plants from around the world.

Though small in size, Rhode Island offers miles of magnificent shore line, sandy beaches, historic sites and exquisite mansions. These are just a few of the reasons to visit the Ocean State.

For information:

Newport Visitor Information Center
401-845-9123 or 800-976-5122

Newport Historical Society
401-846-0813
www.newporthistorical.org

International Tennis Hall of Fame and Museum
401-849-3990 or 800-457-1144

The Residence Inn Newport/Middletown
401-845-2005
www.newportresidenceinn.com

Blithewold, Bristol, RI
401-253-2707
www.blithewold.org

Touro Synagogue
401-847-4794
www.tourosynagogue.org