Myself (from Boston) and 4 other girlfriends (all from Kansas City) are reuniting together at the Hotel Viking for a 4 day weekend at the end of June (we all turned 40 this year and have known each other since we were 18). I was given the task of picking the location and hotel (girls didn't like the Playa del Carmen, Mexico idea...too much of a stretch) and have always enjoyed quick jaunts/nights out in Newport and thought the Viking would be perfect for location, their add'l amenities and price. I've got some good ideas for what we can do (Castle Hill, Cliff Walk, Bellevue Mansions, Second Beach, etc.) But I'm looking for anyone that may have had good/bad stays? I.e., what can we expect in way of service.....many thanks for your input.
Needed: Hotel Viking scoop
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You can see my feedback in the Rants and Rave section on this hotel. I thought it was a terrible value. Our room was *tiny*, loud and very expensive. There is no way more than 2 of you could stay in one room.
Location is good and you get parking, which is a plus.
I don't have much scoop about the Viking Hotel but another place to stay for you to consider is the guest rooms at Bannisters Wharf - it's nothing special - 2 doubles tv, mini frig and bath clean - but its the view from your deck that beats all - the yachts coming in - the water taxi's picking boaters up; the night life on each side... a quick walk to galleries, restaurants and thames street.
The Viking Hotel that I remember was completely overrun by Newport Navy OCS.
On weekends, it was like a scene from "An officer and a gentleman" with young women from Salve Regina College and locals flocking to the dances. If this is still going on I don't think 40 year-old women would feel comfortable here.
Gene...I had to laugh at what you said as that was the Viking Hotel my husband remembered too! We stayed there probably 15 years ago and it was no longer a thing like what he knew and loved from his OCS days in mid 60's.
We've been past it since, but never gone in again so I wouldn't want to critique it, but I recall it being nothing special even 15 years ago.
Our last stay was at the Hyatt on Goat Island but that was a disappointment. If I could stay anywhere I think I'd try for a couple of the cottages at Castle Hill. I have no idea what they'd cost, but they certainly would be fun for a small reunion of old friends.
Stayed there a few years ago and was very disappointed. They had messed up our reservation (very unlikely as I had a record of when I made it, who I spoke with, prices, dates, etc.)but "found" a room for us. It was so small you could barely turn around in it. Service was generally poor unless you were Joan Rivers who was checking in when we were. I wouldnt stay there again.
We were equally impressed with the Newport police who were issuing traffic tickets for parking in what they called a no parking area even though it wasnt posted as such. So much for welcoming the tourist trade.
A thousand thanks, greatlakestravel! I took your suggestion and booked rooms at the Bannister's Wharf. I can give the friends the option and since I'm in Newport frequently, I can see the rooms at the Viking and really check it out.
Kehsutton - glad you booked Bannisters Wharf, wish I were going with you.
If your group is into wine - go to Newport Vineyard, tour is good, as is the wine tasting part too! Another side trip which was very interesting was a polo match - bring your car and tailgate party while watching the game.
Ah yes, don't miss Scale & Shells for dinner, Red Brick Restaurant for chowder and a sunset sail on the bay.
Have fun.