where to stay in newport ri
Your Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Spot on the Shore
Newport, Rhode Island, is the jewel of the New England coast. From its famous Gilded‑Age mansions—The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms—to sunset beaches, cliff‑side trails, and a buzzing waterfront, Newport offers a scene that’s part history museum, part seaside playground. If you’re planning a trip, the first question you’ll likely ask is: Where do I stay?
Below is a complete, up‑to‑date rundown of the best places to lodge in Newport, ranging from pristine luxury hotels to cozy bed & breakfasts and budget‑friendly hostels. We’ll also cover practical tips—best times to book, how to get around, and what makes each option stand out.
Quick Take‑Away Tips
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Book Early for the Summer Season is packed from late June through August. Reserving 2–3 months in advance can save you up to 30% on rates. | |
| Stay Near the Harbor or Cliff‑Roads if You’re a History Buff | Proximity to the Cliff Walk gives you walking access to mansions, tide pools, and sweeping ocean views. |
| Consider a Vacation Rental for Longer Stays | Rentals typically offer a full kitchen, living room, and larger space—often cheaper per night if you’re staying 5+ nights. |
| Pick a Property with Free Parking if You’re Driving | Many downtown hotels charge $15–$25 nightly for parking. A vacation rental or a hotel with a parking pass can shave $50+ from your travel bill. |
| Check Family‑Friendly Amenities Early | Look for spacious rooms, kitchenette, laundry facilities, and tide‑pool access for kids. |
1. Luxury Hotels – “Stay Like Royalty”
The Commodore Hotel
Location: 1001 Newbury Ferry Road (Harborfront)
Highlights: Classic colonial architecture, indoor pool, upscale spa, panoramic harbor views, and a Michelin‑starred restaurant.
Ideal For: Couples, honeymooners, and guests looking for a blend of 19th‑century charm and modern conveniences.
The Newport Hotel & Spa (The Old Harbor)
Location: 1 Shore Road (Old Harbor)
Highlights: 6,000 sq ft of indoor water‑jet jacuzzi, rooms with ocean or city views, a 24‑hour fitness center, and an on‑site restaurant focusing on fresh catch.
Ideal For: Weekend get‑aways, business travelers who want relaxation, and families wanting a single location for all activities.
Gilded Age Boutique – The Newport House Hotel
Location: 4-5 Guildhall Street (Historic District)
Highlights: Rooftop terrace with sweeping city views, a boutique spa, free wine beverage program, and 24‑hour concierge.
Ideal For: Cultural travelers who want to be a stone’s throw from The Breakers and Old Harbor’s wine shops.
2. Mid‑Range Hotels – Comfort Without Breaking the Bank
The Revere Hotel & Spa (Historic Style)
Location: 25 Golden Lane (Cliff Walk)
Highlights: 200 sq ft rooms, free Wi‑Fi, well‑rated on turning out the “cliff effect” view.
Ideal For: Couples and small families seeking historic appeal at a moderate price.
Harbor View Apartments (Vacation‑Style)
Location: 16 Connolly Corners (Near Ocean Drive)
Highlights: Studio + one‑bedroom units, full kitchen, rooftop deck, and floor‑to‑ceiling windows overlooking the harbor.
Ideal For: Short‑term rentals for groups or couples who want to cook and save on dining.
The Calf Pasture (The Real Old Harbor)
Location: 55 Beechwood Terrace (Cliff Walk)
Highlights: Spacious guests rooms+family suites, known for artisanal southern‑style breakfast, and free bike rentals.
Ideal For: Travelers who enjoy brunch, easy access to waterfront trails, and a community vibe.
3. Boutique & Bed & Breakfasts – Intimate & Local
The Hotel Diana, 1 Sullivan Street – a boutique hotel with an 1890s art deco vibe. Free breakfast, a garden terrace, and close proximity to local cafés.
B&B on the Cliffs – “The Key”, 91 Cliff Walk – offers bedroom‑style accommodations, classic stone walls, and a table of fresh seafood every evening.
Evergreen House B&B, 7 East Ferry – a charming family‑run bed & breakfast with a garden terrace, ideal for those “back to nature” travelers.
Ruggles House, 22 Irish Hill – known for its Victorian décor, a famed house‑made dessert, and an in‑house first‑aid kit specially curated for the elderly.
4. Vacation Rentals & Airbnb – Feel Like a Local
OceanView Loft, 86 Riverside Drive
Highlights: 2‑bedroom condo, full kitchen, large balcony with panoramic harbor views, quiet neighborhood.
Ideal For: 4‑person groups or a couple who wants space and privacy.
Rental Cost: $190/night
Riverside House, 31 Quebec Street
Highlights: Classic New England farmhouse feel with modern amenities, a large kitchen, and an expansive backyard.
Ideal For: Extended stays or travelers who plan to cook most meals.
Rental Cost: $140/night
Tip: When booking a rental, verify the cancellation policy and popularity among guests—ratings above 4.5/5 and a minimum of 30 reviews can guarantee a smoother stay.
5. Hostels & Budget Lodging – Keep It Simple
New England Backpackers, 6 Mansion Lane (center of Old Harbor)
Highlights: Dormitory beds, kitchen/dining area, free Wi‑Fi, a gaming lounge, and free guided walking tours.
Ideal For: College crews, backpackers, or travelers looking to immerse in a community atmosphere.
Rate: $35/night for shared dorms, $75 for a ensuite.
Bus Stop Hotel, 93.5 Main Street (Historic District)
Highlights: Basic room, free parking, close proximity to downtown shops.
Ideal For: Overnight “stop‑over” during day trips or combined train and car travel.
Rate: $95/night
6. Family‑Friendly Accommodations
The Newport Hotel & Spa (Whole House Suites) – Family suites include separate kids’ beds, mini‑fridge, and a kitchenette. Ongoing beachside activities are organized weekly.
Holiday Inn Newport (New England) – Offers a kids’ pool, free kiddie meals, and a playroom. The on‑site beach is open to all guests.
The Cliffside Lodge, 38 Cape Shore Road – Spacious rooms, a 24‑hour game zone, and an onsite recreation centre with a fully equipped gym – great for parents who love to stay fit while children enjoy the games.
7. Accessibility & Transportation
Getting There
- By Air: Newport is 30 min by car from T.F. Green Airport (Providence) and 90 min from New York’s JFK or LaGuardia.
- By Train: Amtrak’s “Northeast Regional” runs daily from Boston & New York City to Newport.
- By Bus: Greyhound, Peter Pan, and local Rhode Island Express all stop at the Newport Main Street Bus Station.
Getting Around Newport
- Vacation Rentals+Hotels: The city is walkable; major attractions can be reached on foot or by bike.
- Bike Rentals: Available at Age of Sail Bicycles and The Newport Bike Co. – perfect for the 3.5‑mile Cliff Walk.
- Shuttle & Taxis: The Newport Public Transportation Authority offers a downtown circulator bus.
- Private Car: If you’re splurging on a luxury hotel, they often offer a valet service.
8. When to Stay – Seasons & Events
| Season | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Low crowds, blooming waterfront, early rentals cheaper. | Cooler ocean breezes, occasional rain. | History tours, scenic walks. |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | All events, weekend holidays, beach ready. | Peak crowds, higher rates, long lines at mansions. | Music festivals, family beach‑days. |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Gemstone foliage, fewer tourists, harvest festivals. | Shorter days, some early cancellations. | Candlelight tours of mansions. |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Quiet city, lower prices, Christmas celebrations. | Cold Atlantic weather, limited boat trips. | Cozy stays, local holiday markets. |
Holiday Bonus: Booking during New Year’s in early December can score significant discounts across many hotel chains.
9. Budget‑Saving Strategies
- Off‑Season Booking: Travel in March–May or September–October to save up to 30% on rooms.
- Membership Programs: Join American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) loyalty or local department store club clubs for extra perks.
- Local Packages: Some hotels offer exclusive “Experience Newport” packages which include attraction tickets, dining vouchers, and discounted transportation.
- Free Kitchen: Stay in a rental or a hotel with a kitchenette, cook your own meals.
- Mixed Stays: Split your party into smaller rooms or groups—paying separately often ends up cheaper.
10. Final Recommendation Checklist
- Define Your Priorities: History, nightlife, beach, or family leisure?
- Set Your Budget: Luxury can be affordable in shoulder season; consider vacation rentals for extended stays.
- Reserve Early: Summer is the peak; book by May if you’re traveling in July or August.
- Read Recent Reviews: Focus on the last 50 ratings for the cleanest snapshot of current service levels.
- Verify Parking & Accessibility: Newport’s downtown can be walk‑only for visitors; free parking can be a game‑changer.
Where To Stay? A Quick Summary
| Type | Best Choice | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury | The Commodore Hotel | Sunsets, spa indulgence, scenic harbor view |
| Mid‑range | The Revere Hotel & Spa | Historical spot, comfortable, moderate price |
| Boutique | The Hotel Diana | Artistic vibe, centrally located |
| Vacation Rental | OceanView Loft | Space, chef-friendly, budget‑efficient for families |
| Budget | New England Backpackers | Low-cost, community atmosphere |
| Family | The Newport Hotel & Spa (Suite edition) | Spacious rooms, children’s amenities |
Quick FAQ
Q: Is Newport easy to navigate with a car?
A: Yes, but downtown parking can be scarce and pricey. If you plan to stay near Old Harbor or the waterfront, a rental or a hotel with parking included may be the best bet.
Q: Does the city have a local public transportation hub?
A: Newport’s main street bus station connects you to regional hubs, and the downtown circulator bus can take you anywhere within the historic district.
Q: Are there any off‑site beaches?
A: The most famous beach—Easton’s Beach—is actually a state recreation area near Ledge Point. Families often choose properties close to Ocean Drive for easy beach access.
Q: When are the largest local festivals?
A: The Newport Folk Festival (mid‑August), Harbor Days (late summer), and Sail Newport 2024 (late September) draw the most crowds.
Takeaway
Where you stay in Newport has a big impact on how you’ll experience the city’s storied past and maritime charm. Whether you opt for a luxury oceanfront suite or a cozy bed & breakfast tucked away behind a historic arch, Newport’s inviting waterfront and friendly neighborhoods provide a backdrop that’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, or groups of friends.
Plan ahead, prioritize your must‑have amenities, and you’ll be sailing—see what I did there—into an unforgettable Rhode Island adventure.
Happy travels! 🌊✨
