I posted a few days ago asking for a weekend getaway from NYC in October. Lots of good suggestions and have tentatively decided on driving to Newport, RI. Should we spend the 3 nights there and take day trips or should I book 2 nights there and one night on the way from NYC or elsewhere in Conn. or RI? Thanks!!!!

Depends on what you like to do - I could easily spend three full days in Newport : but one night in Mystic or Providence would also work -

I'd decide first what you 'd want to see/do in Newport and how "fast" you see things -

I'd consider these things:
the ten mile ocean drive - www.oceandrivenewport.com

At least two of the mansions
www.newportmansions.org
and read about which ones might appeal to you historically or architecturally

Would you want to walk part of the Cliff Walk -
Have an afternoon to stroll the wharfs and shops
Take a ride on the Adirondack around the harbor for either an hour or so during the day or a cocktail cruise

Have a meal/drinks at Castle Hill

Visit Touro Synagogue, oldest one in America
www.tourosynagogue.org

Newport Art Museum

There is also a small winery that does tours and tasting

Is it Oct 10 or 11? That is the Oktoberfest at the Yachting Centet...

There are some great restaurants, music, etc -
www.gonewport.com

plus some of the threads on this site will give you some good ideas too -

So I'd try and decide just how much you want to see, and then maybe choose to stop off on your way down or home for a night in Mystic -

My favorite place to stay is the Francis Malbone House, a fabulous B & B and you can walk the entire downtown wharf area for shopping, dinner, music, etc -
I think it should run around 250 , but they might have a three night minimum, I'm not sure when the cut off for that is -

Great ideas! Could Providence be a day trip if we book three nights in Newport?

Yes, Providence is only about a 40-45 minute easy drive from Newport and it's a pretty ride over the brideges.
Another great place to eat in Newport is Puerinis (and Italian restaurant) on Memorial Blvd.
I'd stay in Newport for the 3 nights.

Great! I'll make reservations.