Newport / Block Island itinerary - Aug 2008
May 12th, 2008, 10:53 AM
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Newport / Block Island itinerary - Aug 2008
Hello! I'm looking for feedback on our itinerary to Newport & Block Island this August. We have about 4 days (Sun-Thurs). We are 3 couples, ages 39-51, looking for a nice getaway from our homes in Cincinnati. I narrowed down our hotel choices from reading your threads (hoping to stay in the ~$300 range, give or take a few $$). We like some luxury, some adventure, good meals, and great wine!
Note: One of the husbands had leg surgery in December. He's getting around pretty well, but I'm trying to present options for him if the walking gets to be too much.
Here goes:
Sunday: Arrive in Newport. Check in at either Viking or Francis Malbone. Sunset dinner at Castle Hill.
Monday: Cliff walk in the morning, ending at The Chanler. Lunch/martinis at The Spiced Pear at Chanler. Relax in afternoon. Sunset sail on Adirondack II, Rum Runner II, or Madeleine.
Tuesday: Tour mansions in the morning. Lunch TBD. 3:00 tour/tasting at Newport Vineyards. Dinner TBD.
Wednesday: High-speed ferry from Pt Judith to Block Island in a.m. Hang out on island (beaches, bikes, food). Dinner somewhere on BI, then last ferry back in p.m.
Thursday: Morning agenda flexible (I have Touro Synagogue, 10-mile drive, shopping, watching kite-flying at Brenton Point, etc, on the list of possible activities). Depart for home in afternoon.
In addition to the restaurants listed, I have compiled a list of various restaurants recommended on this forum to take with us, depending on what we're in the mood for once we're there.
Also, what about transportation? One couple will definitely have a rental car b/c they'll be driving down from visiting relatives in Mass (this is the couple whose husband had leg surgery). Don't know about the other couple's car plans. But I think my husband and I will just fly into Providence, then take a shuttle/taxi to Newport. We like to do a lot of walking (once there), and it sounds like taxis & shuttles are fairly plentiful in case we need them. Is this realistic to skip the car?
One other note... Although we're all interested in going to BI, I think one of the other couples would also like to go to Martha's Vineyard. I've done some research on this forum, but I wonder if that's too much to fit in? Would anyone choose MV over BI? Or do you think we should arrive on Sat instead of Sun to fit that in? Or just save it for another trip?
Sorry this got to be so long, but I truly appreciate any help in fine-tuning this itinerary.
Thanks!
Kim in Cincinnati
Note: One of the husbands had leg surgery in December. He's getting around pretty well, but I'm trying to present options for him if the walking gets to be too much.
Here goes:
Sunday: Arrive in Newport. Check in at either Viking or Francis Malbone. Sunset dinner at Castle Hill.
Monday: Cliff walk in the morning, ending at The Chanler. Lunch/martinis at The Spiced Pear at Chanler. Relax in afternoon. Sunset sail on Adirondack II, Rum Runner II, or Madeleine.
Tuesday: Tour mansions in the morning. Lunch TBD. 3:00 tour/tasting at Newport Vineyards. Dinner TBD.
Wednesday: High-speed ferry from Pt Judith to Block Island in a.m. Hang out on island (beaches, bikes, food). Dinner somewhere on BI, then last ferry back in p.m.
Thursday: Morning agenda flexible (I have Touro Synagogue, 10-mile drive, shopping, watching kite-flying at Brenton Point, etc, on the list of possible activities). Depart for home in afternoon.
In addition to the restaurants listed, I have compiled a list of various restaurants recommended on this forum to take with us, depending on what we're in the mood for once we're there.
Also, what about transportation? One couple will definitely have a rental car b/c they'll be driving down from visiting relatives in Mass (this is the couple whose husband had leg surgery). Don't know about the other couple's car plans. But I think my husband and I will just fly into Providence, then take a shuttle/taxi to Newport. We like to do a lot of walking (once there), and it sounds like taxis & shuttles are fairly plentiful in case we need them. Is this realistic to skip the car?
One other note... Although we're all interested in going to BI, I think one of the other couples would also like to go to Martha's Vineyard. I've done some research on this forum, but I wonder if that's too much to fit in? Would anyone choose MV over BI? Or do you think we should arrive on Sat instead of Sun to fit that in? Or just save it for another trip?
Sorry this got to be so long, but I truly appreciate any help in fine-tuning this itinerary.
Thanks!
Kim in Cincinnati
May 12th, 2008, 03:49 PM
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We were in Newport the middle of April and we loved it there. We stayed at the LaFarge Perry B&B-it was great. We flew into Providence and rented a car-it took about 40 minutes to drive to Newport. I would say you would enjoy having a car. The Cliff Walk, mansions, etc. are pretty far to walk to.
We did park our car at the Chanler(siser property to the LaFarge Perry)and did our walking on the Cliff Walk. We loved the Cliff walk and walked there every day.
We ate at the Mooring, Brick Alley Pub and Black Pearl. They were all good.
We did park our car at the Chanler(siser property to the LaFarge Perry)and did our walking on the Cliff Walk. We loved the Cliff walk and walked there every day.
We ate at the Mooring, Brick Alley Pub and Black Pearl. They were all good.
May 12th, 2008, 03:58 PM
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I'm getting married in Newport in August and I am from NH so I've stayed near these hotels. I stayed at Hotel Viking in March. I stayed in one of the cheapest rooms. For the price they are asking over the summer, I think the rooms should be a lot nicer. They are pretty basic. With that being said, you can walk to downtown from this hotel, but it may be a bit long for someone with a bad leg. I haven't stayed at the Francis Malbone, but for my wedding, I am staying directly next door at the Admiral Fitzroy Inn so I'll comment on the area. I think the area of the Malbone is so much more intersting and a lot closer to the waterfront and restaurants. If you stay there, I'd recommend walking to Pronto Restaurant for dinner. I'm not even a big Italian fan, but we ate here and fell in love with it. Amazing food and wine! We've decided to have our Friday night welcome dinner here. I hope this helps a bit.
The mansions are worth at least a drive by and the cliff walk are breathtaking!
As for the winery, we tasted Newport Vineyards and Greenvale Winery for our wedding, and Greenvale is much nicer - better wine and beautiful vineyard. They are only about 1-2 miles apart so you could also do both of them.
Boating - check out the Flyer catamaran too.
Have fun!
The mansions are worth at least a drive by and the cliff walk are breathtaking!
As for the winery, we tasted Newport Vineyards and Greenvale Winery for our wedding, and Greenvale is much nicer - better wine and beautiful vineyard. They are only about 1-2 miles apart so you could also do both of them.
Boating - check out the Flyer catamaran too.
Have fun!
May 12th, 2008, 06:43 PM
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I think your itinerary sounds lovely, you've planned well.
Doing MV in addition to Block Island is definitely too much. Stick to BI, it's a lot closer to Newport and much, much smaller than the Vineyard so you can get a better sense of it in one day. Next summer you can come back and spend a few days on the Vineyard.
Doing MV in addition to Block Island is definitely too much. Stick to BI, it's a lot closer to Newport and much, much smaller than the Vineyard so you can get a better sense of it in one day. Next summer you can come back and spend a few days on the Vineyard.
May 13th, 2008, 02:42 AM
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Thank you! It was great waking up this morning to read your replies. I think we'll stay at the Francis Malbone instead of the Viking, and plan to get a car after all. I appreciate those and the other suggestions!
May 13th, 2008, 03:53 AM
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Your itinerary sounds wonderful. You will love lunch and drinks outside at the Spiced pear- if nothing but for the amazing amazing view. It also helps that the food is good! (It is very pricey BTW, but worth it I think).
You could do MV from Newport for a day either flying out of New Bedford or i believe there is a high speed ferry out of north kingston, RI. However, i would never try to do both BI and MV in one 4 day or even a 5 day trip. Block Island is really quaint and easily manageble in a day. MV is much much bigger. For a day trip from Newport, I'd stick with BI.
I think the fact that you are going Sunday -Thursday will give you flexibility with prices and places in Newport. On the weekend it would have been much tougher. many inns offer midweek specials that you can take advantage of. Even francis malbone i believe. Although i haven't stayed at FB, I would choose it over The viking. I like the viking well enough, but FB is right in the thick of things and has a wonderful reputation - i believe the rooms are pretty nice there.
It's nice to have a car in newport to do the drive around the island-- Ocean drive is wonderful to drive though - the homes are incredible. If your friends can fit you all in their car, then you'd be ok. Otherwise, i think it does help to have a car at your disposal if you plan to get around and drive to the ferries, etc. Not sure how plentiful shuttles from the airport are.
Have a wonderful trip!
You could do MV from Newport for a day either flying out of New Bedford or i believe there is a high speed ferry out of north kingston, RI. However, i would never try to do both BI and MV in one 4 day or even a 5 day trip. Block Island is really quaint and easily manageble in a day. MV is much much bigger. For a day trip from Newport, I'd stick with BI.
I think the fact that you are going Sunday -Thursday will give you flexibility with prices and places in Newport. On the weekend it would have been much tougher. many inns offer midweek specials that you can take advantage of. Even francis malbone i believe. Although i haven't stayed at FB, I would choose it over The viking. I like the viking well enough, but FB is right in the thick of things and has a wonderful reputation - i believe the rooms are pretty nice there.
It's nice to have a car in newport to do the drive around the island-- Ocean drive is wonderful to drive though - the homes are incredible. If your friends can fit you all in their car, then you'd be ok. Otherwise, i think it does help to have a car at your disposal if you plan to get around and drive to the ferries, etc. Not sure how plentiful shuttles from the airport are.
Have a wonderful trip!
May 13th, 2008, 05:13 AM
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You can certainly get to Newport via shuttle from PVD (use Cozy Cab http://www.cozytrans.com/) but I don't know how you would get to Point Judith to catch the ferry without a car. I agree with others that the best one day trip would be Block Island.
I've been on the Rum Runner and the Madeleine. The sail boat is more relaxing than the Rum Runner speed boat. If you had kids, I'd suggest the Rum Runner.
I've been on the Rum Runner and the Madeleine. The sail boat is more relaxing than the Rum Runner speed boat. If you had kids, I'd suggest the Rum Runner.
May 13th, 2008, 08:37 AM
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Your itinerary sounds perfect...a little bit of structure, but plenty of time to just see what you feel like doing and eating.
Don't forget to get your .25 marrtinis at the Chanler if you order food! (2 per person)
You mention that you like great wine...don't be too dissappointed with the local vineyard...it's a nice little tour, but if you were enjoying something else that day, you won't miss much by skipping it....IMO.
Don't forget to get your .25 marrtinis at the Chanler if you order food! (2 per person)
You mention that you like great wine...don't be too dissappointed with the local vineyard...it's a nice little tour, but if you were enjoying something else that day, you won't miss much by skipping it....IMO.
May 13th, 2008, 09:53 AM
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I would recommend the Adirondack II for a boating afternoon. They also have a sunset cruise with champagne that is just lovely.
I've done Newport both with a car and without, and it's more enjoyable with, but be prepared for a few traffic snarls along the main streets.
The Viking Hotel, I have to agree with the previous poster. It's not worth it for the money. A B&B is much more personal and friendly. The Hydrangea House is just opposite Viking, the rooms are much nicer, and service is more personal and friendly. Also, the Viking is in the midst of a renovation, which could be a pain!
I've done Newport both with a car and without, and it's more enjoyable with, but be prepared for a few traffic snarls along the main streets.
The Viking Hotel, I have to agree with the previous poster. It's not worth it for the money. A B&B is much more personal and friendly. The Hydrangea House is just opposite Viking, the rooms are much nicer, and service is more personal and friendly. Also, the Viking is in the midst of a renovation, which could be a pain!
May 13th, 2008, 11:18 AM
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When in August are you there? There are 2 big festivals then. The Folk Festival and the Jazz Festival. Both held Sat/Sun at Fort Adams. Aug 2/3 Folk Festival (Jimmy Buffet on Sunday); Aug 9/10 Folk Festival. This will drastically alter your plans if you are there then, simply because of the crowds,etc.
May 13th, 2008, 01:28 PM
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Thanks to everyone for the additional suggestions! I'll look into the Hydrangea House. Definitely looking forward to the $.25 margaritas at Spiced Pear! Now leaning toward the champagne sunset trip on the Adirondack (the Rum Runner looks beautiful, but maybe not as peaceful of a ride). And I appreciate the heads-up on the winery tours. I don't really expect Newport to be a mini-Napa Valley--I just thought we'd have fun visiting the vineyards anyway 
But I'm assuming that the wine list at some of the restaurants (Castle Hill, Spiced Pear, etc) will be extensive?
And as for our dates... we'll be there Aug 3-7, so it looks like we'll just miss the two festivals mentioned. Too bad, really, because I know my husband would have loved the folk festival!
But I'm assuming that the wine list at some of the restaurants (Castle Hill, Spiced Pear, etc) will be extensive?And as for our dates... we'll be there Aug 3-7, so it looks like we'll just miss the two festivals mentioned. Too bad, really, because I know my husband would have loved the folk festival!
May 14th, 2008, 08:53 AM
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You'll be getting into Newport as the Folk Festival ends. Since Fort Adams is so close to Castle Hill, I would think that you are going to have to fight a little traffic getting there. Yes, traffic will be going the opposite direction but the police will be delaying local traffic in order to let the festival traffic exit the State Park. Also, I would guess that it will be difficult to get a reservation at the Castle Hill inn that evening unless you book well in advance. In fact, unless you just have your heart set on Sunday because the date means something to you, maybe it would be better to move your Castle Hill dinner to another night.
I would get a car, unless you will all fit into the one couple's car. Waiting for taxis can be a real drag when you are only around for a few days. Also, regarding the shuttle from the airport to Newport, I have taken it many times, but it isn't always on time. I've had to wait up to 45 minutes later than the posted departure time. And it isn't cheap. For example, my wife and I are going to Newport this very weekend. The shuttle is 20 per person each way; sop that would be 80$ for both of us. So even though my parents keep a car at the house we are staying in, I am still going to rent a car (total, $105). Essentially, I would rather pay the extra $25 than be at the mercy of the shuttle.
I would get a car, unless you will all fit into the one couple's car. Waiting for taxis can be a real drag when you are only around for a few days. Also, regarding the shuttle from the airport to Newport, I have taken it many times, but it isn't always on time. I've had to wait up to 45 minutes later than the posted departure time. And it isn't cheap. For example, my wife and I are going to Newport this very weekend. The shuttle is 20 per person each way; sop that would be 80$ for both of us. So even though my parents keep a car at the house we are staying in, I am still going to rent a car (total, $105). Essentially, I would rather pay the extra $25 than be at the mercy of the shuttle.
Jun 5th, 2008, 03:05 PM
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Sounds great! I am from RI and always go home to visit family and play in Newport.Some suggestions-
1.Book your hotel NOW!
2.Book your meals NOW if you a set on certain places.If not,try to walk in BUT go early(after 6pm will be crowded)
3.Get a car if you can afford it, so you can be leisurely.
4.Black Pearl and The Mooring are nice spots on the water.Also Cook House.You should consider the White Horse Tavern.I would make a reservation at one of these now.
Must see-
1.The Mansions!Get a pass for a few.I would recommend The Breakers,The Marble house and The Elms.The never disappoint!Two of them are self guided tours-you wear a headset and go at your own pace.
2.Take photos on the back lawn of the Elms!!!It is one of my favorite places on earth!Walk under the giant trees and have fun!Sit and enjoy a snack on the lawn too!
3.Walk the Cliff walk.Start at Easton's beach-and start early!!I try to start between 9-10am.The crowds pick up later and so does the heat!If you park near Easton's you will probably have a ticket when you get back.The only have metered spots along the road and they have a max of a few hours.Try and take a trolley or park along a side street near the Salve Regina college for free.The walk is fabulous and easy for all levels(for the most part).The end of the walk gets tough and you should skip it.I would plan on only walking 3/4 of the walk, then you can either walk back or come out to a main road and catch a trolley.
4.Drive all the way along Ocean Dr. Stop at Breton Point and plan to spend some time there enjoying the view-and the kites.There are restrooms there too.Usually a frozen lemonade vendor from the RI famous Del's-be sure to have one!
5.Ride the ferry to Block Island.Bring your swimsuit and a towel and sunscreen in a backpack or tote(I would wear my suit under my clothes to always be ready to jump in!).Also DO NOT forget your camera!Arrive early for the ferry!!The minute you get off the ferry head to the info-rest area and store your bags in a locker.Then grab a frozen lemonade and start walking left along the ocean.It is a uphill walk, so take it slow.I did it at 6 months pregnant so it can be done by all!It is about a mile to the lighthouse.This is a must see!
6.Drive all the way along Ocean Dr. Stop at Breton Point and plan to spend some time there enjoying the view-and the kites.There are restrooms there too.Usually a frozen lemonade vendor from the RI famous Del's-be sure to have one!
7.Block Island con't-Continue up to the bluffs.There is a serious set of stairs to get to the ocean-but it is worth it! Take your time and stop along the way to rest your legs.
8.Have a 'awful-awful milkshake at Newport Creamery-across from the tennis hall of fame.
Sorry I was so long winded!!!Have fun!
1.Book your hotel NOW!
2.Book your meals NOW if you a set on certain places.If not,try to walk in BUT go early(after 6pm will be crowded)
3.Get a car if you can afford it, so you can be leisurely.
4.Black Pearl and The Mooring are nice spots on the water.Also Cook House.You should consider the White Horse Tavern.I would make a reservation at one of these now.
Must see-
1.The Mansions!Get a pass for a few.I would recommend The Breakers,The Marble house and The Elms.The never disappoint!Two of them are self guided tours-you wear a headset and go at your own pace.
2.Take photos on the back lawn of the Elms!!!It is one of my favorite places on earth!Walk under the giant trees and have fun!Sit and enjoy a snack on the lawn too!
3.Walk the Cliff walk.Start at Easton's beach-and start early!!I try to start between 9-10am.The crowds pick up later and so does the heat!If you park near Easton's you will probably have a ticket when you get back.The only have metered spots along the road and they have a max of a few hours.Try and take a trolley or park along a side street near the Salve Regina college for free.The walk is fabulous and easy for all levels(for the most part).The end of the walk gets tough and you should skip it.I would plan on only walking 3/4 of the walk, then you can either walk back or come out to a main road and catch a trolley.
4.Drive all the way along Ocean Dr. Stop at Breton Point and plan to spend some time there enjoying the view-and the kites.There are restrooms there too.Usually a frozen lemonade vendor from the RI famous Del's-be sure to have one!
5.Ride the ferry to Block Island.Bring your swimsuit and a towel and sunscreen in a backpack or tote(I would wear my suit under my clothes to always be ready to jump in!).Also DO NOT forget your camera!Arrive early for the ferry!!The minute you get off the ferry head to the info-rest area and store your bags in a locker.Then grab a frozen lemonade and start walking left along the ocean.It is a uphill walk, so take it slow.I did it at 6 months pregnant so it can be done by all!It is about a mile to the lighthouse.This is a must see!
6.Drive all the way along Ocean Dr. Stop at Breton Point and plan to spend some time there enjoying the view-and the kites.There are restrooms there too.Usually a frozen lemonade vendor from the RI famous Del's-be sure to have one!
7.Block Island con't-Continue up to the bluffs.There is a serious set of stairs to get to the ocean-but it is worth it! Take your time and stop along the way to rest your legs.
8.Have a 'awful-awful milkshake at Newport Creamery-across from the tennis hall of fame.
Sorry I was so long winded!!!Have fun!
Jun 9th, 2008, 03:24 PM
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I wish I had seen this post before I booked in Newport. We are staying at the Victorian Lady. Has anyone heard of it? I checked alot of places and everything was either booked or too expensive. I thought this itinerary was great since I needed help on what to see and where to eat.
I plan on taking the ferry to Block Island and spending the day and maybe the nite.. Is it worth it and if so any suggestions on where to stay. Everything looks beautiful, but photos can be deceiving.
Do you have to book dinner reservations at Castle Inn in advance?? Sunset Sail or ferry?? (in either Newport or Block Island)
I plan on taking the ferry to Block Island and spending the day and maybe the nite.. Is it worth it and if so any suggestions on where to stay. Everything looks beautiful, but photos can be deceiving.
Do you have to book dinner reservations at Castle Inn in advance?? Sunset Sail or ferry?? (in either Newport or Block Island)
Jun 9th, 2008, 06:41 PM
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mommyt-I would make reservations now for any restaurant you really want.Also, why cruise for sunset? Sit on the beach and spend you cruise fare on a nice 'snack'-maybe a nice bottle of wine!The sunset will be great from shore(I promise!)As for staying over on BI there is the Hotel Manisses.
Jun 10th, 2008, 02:26 PM
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Lisa
Thanks so much for your info. I know nothing about Newport except to see the Mansions. We are only staying two nights there and hopefully one night on BI. I am thinking maybe I should have made Newport one more nite.
What shore do we sit at for the Sunset. ?
What restaurant is best to book now.? Do you also have to book the ferry in advance.?
One more thing, we are going August. Is it super hot?? I am hoping my husband will not complain about touring in the heat. lol
I found your suggestions so helpful
Thanks again
Thanks so much for your info. I know nothing about Newport except to see the Mansions. We are only staying two nights there and hopefully one night on BI. I am thinking maybe I should have made Newport one more nite.
What shore do we sit at for the Sunset. ?
What restaurant is best to book now.? Do you also have to book the ferry in advance.?
One more thing, we are going August. Is it super hot?? I am hoping my husband will not complain about touring in the heat. lol
I found your suggestions so helpful
Thanks again
Jun 11th, 2008, 07:14 AM
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You do not need reservations for the BI ferries. Unless you are taking the fast ferry from Point Judith.
A great place to see the sunset is over out near Fort Adams. Head over towards the Eisenhower House and there is a big open field where you can spread out some chairs or blankets and have a great view overlooking Jamestown and the rest of the Bay.
A great place to see the sunset is over out near Fort Adams. Head over towards the Eisenhower House and there is a big open field where you can spread out some chairs or blankets and have a great view overlooking Jamestown and the rest of the Bay.
Jun 11th, 2008, 10:18 AM
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Lisa asked "why cruise for sunset"? I would say, even though it will be beautiful sitting on shore watching all the sailboats on the bay while the sun goes down, I will bet you will at least have the thought, gee wouldn't this be even better if we were actually ON one of those sailboats? Further, since mommyt has never been to Newport, I would suggest a harbor tour is a "must-do" anyway, so why not combine it with a sunset cruise?
