I haven’t written a Take Me Back Tuesday post in quite a bit.  I’m not sure if it’s because I’ve run out of places to write about or that writing about places I’ve been makes me miss traveling….yup I think it’s the latter.

This week I decided to tell you about Newport, Rhode Island, one of my favorite weekend getaways in both the summer and winter.  Newport is the perfect little nautical town that has something for everyone.  Fantastic restaurants with beautiful ocean backdrops, fun outdoor bars, gorgeous sightseeing, a bit of history, and even some fun adventurous activities!

My Newport Favorites

Place to Stay

Rheas Inn: My family has been staying here for years.  The owners are super accommodating and friendly.  Rhea’s is set right across from the beach and is a 5 minute cab ride from downtown.  It’s a cozy place with about a dozen rooms and a common area that is stocked for a full continental breakfast (or late night snack).

Newport Beach Hotel & Suites:  If you are willing to spend a little more money, this place is really nice.  I stayed here for my sister’s wedding and had the suite.  It was definitely a 4-5 star experience.

Beach

Easton’s Beach:  Often referred to as “First Beach” this area is right across from the above two hotels.  It gets pretty crowded in the summer, but that’s to be expected.  If you plop your chair in front of the Atlantic Beach Club you can expect some music and college kids enjoying being college kids.

Restaurants

Midtown Oyster Bar: This restaurant was new this past summer.  Me and Andy loved it.  It had great food and a roof deck!

Red Parrot:  I think my family goes here every single time they visit Newport (and that’s at least a couple of times a year).  It’s kind of a Newport staple right in the middle of Lower and Upper Thames.

Brick Alley Pub:  Another staple restaurant on Thames street.  They have a great salad bar!

The Landing:  If you want a water view, this is a great option.  We weren’t blown away by the food or service but the view is worth it!

Things To Do

Thames Street:  You can go to Newport and spend the entire day walking up and down Lower and Upper Thames Streets.  They are the cutest cobblestone streets with a ton of great small boutiques, souvenir shops, and of course great restaurants.

Concerts at The Newport Yachting Center:  This is a great small and intimate venue to go see a band.  It’s right downtown and has some great shows.  A fun way to start or end your night.

Cliff Walk:  I absolutely love going for a run or walk on Cliff Walk….I can’t believe I don’t have pictures from it!  Just take my word and go.

Ocean Avenue:  Take a drive on Ocean Avenue if you want to play the game “How much do you think that house is worth?” or “Which one would you buy?”.  The houses on Ocean Avenue are unreal.  A bit different from the old money mansions down the street, these are modern-day million/billionaire’s summer homes set right on the ocean.

Mansions:  I actually haven’t toured the mansions since I was younger but it’s definitely a must – do!  There is so much history and of course a lot to see!  If you want to go when the crowds aren’t there, go during Christmas.  They decorate a few of them for the holidays and they aren’t too busy!

Skydive Newport:  Andy and I went to Newport this past summer just for the skydiving.  It was absolutely awesome!

Have you ever been to Newport? What’s your favorite thing to do there?  If not, where is you favorite getaway from home?