Have you ever considered going to Newport, RI in the winter? Normally Newport conjures up images of sun, surf and sailing in Narragansett Bay. However, there is something to be said for visiting a major summer tourist destination in the off-season.
For the last two years we have visited Newport shortly after Christmas. The first time we weren’t sure what to expect, but after a wonderful day decided to make it an annual tradition.
- No bumper to bumper traffic! No throngs of people! From being able to easily cross the Claiborne Pell Bridge into Newport without getting stuck at the exit ramp to cruising down America’s Cup Avenue at the regular speed limit, it’s a treat to be in Newport without the thousands of other people that come in the summer.
Traditional holiday decor brings a festive air to this home. - Although clam chowder is delicious in the summer, I can assure you it’s even more so in the winter! Nothing like a cup or bowl of steaming clam chowder at The Black Pearl on Bannister’s Wharf. While the outdoor seating and bar are bustling in the summer, it’s nice and cozy inside in the winter.
The Clarke Cooke House always looks festive for the holidays. 3. There’s nothing quite like traditional colonial homes decked out for the holidays. Garlands and wreaths of fresh greenery highlighted by fruit, ribbons and other accents create a festive ambiance and are something special to see as you walk the narrow Newport streets.
Lights and greenery adorn the storefronts in Newport. 4. Lights, lights and more lights. Adorning storefronts, homes, trees and even the occasional boat in the harbor. As the sun goes down Newport starts to twinkle in the crisp, cold air. The entire city uses white lights instead of colored lights to create a uniform look throughout all of downtown.
A single light beckons from within Trinity Church. 5. The sea. It may sound strange to go see the sea (see what I did there?) in winter, but the New England coastline is different in every season. A favorite thing to do is cruise along Ocean Drive with its views of the beaches, surf and of course a number of large estates. Hop out along the way and listen to the crashing surf.
Stunning wrought iron craftsmanship for this home’s railing. 6. Everyone has heard of Newport’s gilded age mansions lining Bellevue Avenue. In recent years, visiting them in the warm summer months has become increasingly difficult. The crowds are massive, and the only tours available are of the headphone variety. Take advantage of the slow winter months for a guide-led tour which is a much more satisfying way to see these incredible homes.
Bare trees are like sculpture against the historic architecture of Newport. 7. Off-season hotel rates and other prices are cheaper. What better reason to spend a night or a weekend away in the winter? For those of us who don’t ski or snowboard, it’s still nice to have a change of scenery. Is there a traditional summer place near you that you like to visit in the winter? Would love to hear about your favorite spot.
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My name is Deb Cohen, and I am a lifelong resident of Connecticut, a lover of all things historic and New England, and a realtor who helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals and dreams. When I’m not working, I enjoy life with my husband, our two adult children, and our two rescue pups. Renovating and decorating our historic home, dating to 1800, is another favorite pastime.
I live in Newport in a brown house like that in the first photo. They are from the 80 colonial houses restored by Doris Duke who established the Newport Restoration Foundation. Enjoy Newport in all seasons.
Hi Charles – I love Newport so much! One of my favorite places is Rough Point. I have enjoyed learning about Doris Duke and what she has done to preserve the colonial architecture there. One of my favorite spots is The Point and I understand she had several homes moved there.
P.S. I’m jealous that you live in a colonial home in Newport!
Every season in Newport is special and features activities and events that are so special! Always go to http://www.discovernewport.org for updates on Everything!
So very true, Linda! Always something happening which is why I love Newport so much. Thanks for sharing this link with everyone!
I used to live in Providence, and one year I volunteered to count seals at a haul-out by Sakonnet Point. One Saturday in February after lying prone on the beach for an hour when temperatures were well below freezing, I realized why no one else had volunteered to watch that haul-out spot! I decided to treat myself to an extension of my day trip to Newport, where I had the best hot clam chowder imaginable. Hardly anyone had ventured out on such a frigid day, and I had The Breakers practically all to myself! It was great!
Well there you go! What a great story, Jenni – thanks for sharing. And how good of you to volunteer to count seals…in February!!
Newport was one of my favourite places when I visited the US two years ago. I immediately recognised the house in the first pic when I opened my reader – love it 🙂
I’m so glad to hear that Kiki! I’m glad you had the chance to visit Newport. I feel that travelers from other countries should really spend time on the East Coast, where so much of our country’s history lies. Many wonderful places to choose from!
Newport was one of my favorite places. Thanks for the memories.
You are welcome! Perhaps you will get back sometime 🙂
Can’t wait to go back to Newport now 🙂
Another wonderful place! But still second to the Vineyard 🙂 nothing tops that place! Just booked my ferry today for July!
Beautiful city (town?) It’s on my bucket list 🙂 (for summer haha)
I think technically (population size) it’s a city, but certainly not compared to “real” cities! If you are coming from far away then I would say come in summer for sure to enjoy all it has to offer, or perhaps even better come in June or September while the weather is nice but the kids are still in school!
I love the lack of tourists AND the lowered hotel rates. Newport is beautiful, as documented by your photos, all year round. 🙂
Thanks, Judy! It’s nice to meander about without bumping into people and get into a restaurant without a long wait 🙂 of course summer is amazing as well but Newport really has things happening all year!
Very pretty photos Deb. I’ve always enjoyed things off-season.
Thanks, Dan! You strike me as someone that would enjoy Newport 🙂