Newport, RI
 

I'm planning a long weekend (Thu-Sun) for our anniversary in late April in Newport, RI. We would like to visit some mansions, walk around the town (never been there before), have nice meals, relax.
Does it sound like too long there? Can you recommend a B&B to stay? Maybe around $200/night? Thanks a lot.

Do walk the full Cliff walk if you're up for it! If you've had enough, explore RI either Providence or drive to Westerly/Watch Hill, or go to a Casino for the day! Visit Castle Hill for lunch if you can't stay there.

It might be a day too long, but you can relax and take a few drives while you are there and not be in a hurry to go through the mansions. Do the Cliff Walk, Ocean Drive, Castle Hill, go over to the Hyatt on Goat Island and have a drink overlooking the bay. Check out all the mansions. Shop on Avenue of the Americas. Enjoy your time!

Oh, check out the website:

www.castlehillinn.com

The castle is a little removed from downtown, about 5-7 miles away? Might be a great relaxing stay, though.

Try www.newportinns.com Lots to choose from there. Frances Malbone House also gets good reviews and it's right in town. I don't think the Inn at Castle Hill is in the $200 range.

I second the recommendation of Cliff Walk (www.cliffwalk.com). A drive along Ocean Drive is also beautiful. www.tenmiledrive.com.

My favorite mansion is the Breakers. We toured Marble House over Thanksgiving week and it was also very interesting. www.newportmansions.org will tell you what you need to know abouth the mansions owned by the Newport Preservation Society. However, there are others that are privately owned, such as Mrs. Astor's Beechwood and Belcourt Castle.

Restaurants: White Horse Tavern- a nice, historic restaurant. Black Pearl on Bannister's wharf- great clam chowder. Salas'- Italian, but try the New England clam boil. Good lunch Places: Brick Alley Pub and Yesterdays. Christy's - Harborfront seafood dining.

Enjoy!

While I am one of Newport's biggest boosters, I have to agree with Hugglyn that you might shave a day off, simply due to the time of year. Some things won't be operating in late April (harbor/bay boat tours), not all mansions are open (although the main big ones are open year round)and some of the outdoor overlooking the harbor or bay dining and drinking options are just not open yet (for example, the place on Goat Island that is mentioned above doesn't open until May). Also, keep in mind that average high temps in April are under 60 degrees, and April is a rainy month. If it is 54 degrees and raining you won't be spending much time on the Cliff Walk! I'm not trying to scare you away from your plan, merely pointing out that at this time of the year some of the things that make Newport such a great destination simply won't be happening. Maybe two days/two nights would be a little more cost effective during that time of year, and still allow time for you to see what Newport is all about. My guess is you'll have a good time and want to come back in the Summer or Fall!

Ditto lvk. Great advice! We go to Newport on the weekends every summer-was just there last Sat. night. The only other recommendation I'd throw in is Puerini's for Italian. It's a bit of an upgrade to Salas'-which is great for steamers, too. Also, the Malbone is the best place-just ask for a room in the back, not on Thames St. Much quieter in the rear.

Have fun!

The Francis Malbone

I'm not sure why I didn't edit my post before sending. Forgive the typo. My name isn't "The Francis Malbone".

Thank you all for all the suggestions. Larry1, you have a good point. We might push this to early May, when it gets warmer.
All, the Castle Hill Inn looks great, but waaay over our budget. We'll do luch or dinner there, if they offer it.
And after all I'm reading, I think we'll enjoy Newport. Thanks a lot.

Please allow me to just on this thread with additional RI questions. Your posts have been most helpful.

What do you know of Chanler at CLiff? Also, what can one expect of the weather in late Jan. early Feb.? When is the best time to visit RI? (I've never been to your great state, so when I do, I want to make sure it's perfectly timed)