Spending a weekend in New England during the summer is as close to paradise as you can get— and Newport, Rhode Island is one of the region’s best destinations to soak up the warm weather. With charming cobblestone streets, expansive Gilded Age mansions, and a rich history that’s among America’s oldest, the coastal haven has long appealed to guests from around the world.
Those not local to Rhode Island will find that flights to Newport are few and far between. Commercial airlines fly into Providence, Rhode Island, but that requires a 45-minute drive (if you’re lucky and there’s no traffic) to reach downtown Newport. Tradewind Aviation provides an easier option with private service directly into Newport State Airport, only minutes from downtown, skipping all the traffic.
Though you could certainly spend an entire summer soaking up the delights of Newport’s rich culture, it’s the ideal destination for a long weekend trip. This three-day Newport itinerary will allow you to experience this storied town’s highlights and certainly have you planning your next trip in no time.
Day 1
After a quick Tradewind flight to Newport, head to your hotel to check in for the weekend.
Newport is home to dozens of charming boutique hotels, and The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection, is among the best, with its historic mansion conveniently located right downtown. The Vanderbilt, named because it was once owned by businessman Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, has been lovingly restored to include all the comforts today’s discerning guests expect— think sumptuous four-poster beds, luxurious and comfortable furnishings, and a secret bar. The mansion is the perfect accommodation to experience classic Newport, which features glamour within a historic setting. Other outstanding options as a home base are The Chanler at Cliff Walk and the waterfront Brenton Hotel. Tradewind has an exclusive partner experience with the Chanler, featuring a discount on your flight, chauffeur service to and from the airport, and more.
Once you check into your hotel, it’s time to spend the rest of the day exploring Newport. Make the short drive (or take a car service) to Newport Vineyards, which has been used as farmland since the early 20th century and has grown grapes for nearly 20 years. Now home to an expansive tasting room, restaurant, and craft brewery, its outdoor patio is the ideal place to spend a sunny summer afternoon.
Opt for dinner in town your first evening. You can’t go wrong with a meal at the legendary Clarke Cooke House, which offers both a casual bistro and an upscale, jacket-required dining experience. Locals also enjoy the casual, convivial atmosphere at Fifth Element.
Day 2
Start the morning with breakfast at your hotel, then make a visit to the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Filled with more than 1,900 tennis-related artifacts, this museum deftly tells the story of one of the world’s most popular sports. Access to the museum also grants guests the opportunity to explore its seven acres of historic grounds, including its famous pristine grass courts. Those visiting between July 16th and 23rd can attend the Infosys Hall of Fame Open, the first stop of the summer season for ATP World Tour pros in the United States (and also the only professional tournament outside of Europe to be played on grass.)
To continue a sports-themed day, experience one of the locals’ favorite pastimes by attending a polo match in the island’s Newport International Polo Series. Watch players and riders compete on the manicured grounds of Newport Polo; national and professional teams compete most Saturdays in the summer.
Feel free to bring a cooler with drinks and snacks, or opt for tableside seating in the center Pavilion or on the Pavilion Lawn to enjoy beverage service. A rotating cast of food trucks sets up at the polo grounds most weekends.
Day 3
On your final day in Newport, take in the stunning ocean vistas from The Cliff Walk, Newport’s famed walking trail that winds past grand oceanfront mansions along the Rhode Island coast. A visit to one of the Newport Mansions is a must-do on a trip to this area; The Breakers is the largest and most famous of the Gilded Age “cottages”-turned-museums, but The Preservation Society of Newport County has painstakingly preserved eight mansions and gardens for visitors to explore.
Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, architecture, art galleries, and more while exploring the timeless charm of Newport with Newport Jaguar Tours. This luxury sightseeing experience offers Tradewind guests an exclusive 10% discount on a private guided tour through Newport’s picturesque streets in classic Jaguar motorcars. Small or larger groups can be accommodated through multiple connected classic motorcars. Airport ground transportation is also available.
After seeing the sights, meander to Castle Hill Inn, the secluded four-star hotel at the southern tip of Aquidneck Island. Enjoy lunch on its waterfront lawn or patio before your Tradewind flight back home.
To learn more about private service to Newport please visit our website. To receive a private charter quote, submit an inquiry here or contact our specialists at sales@flytradewind.com or 1-203-267-3305 option 2. Newport Jaguar Tours can be booked by contacting info@newportjaguartours.com or calling 401-855-6435.