Newport is a city rich in cultural diversity, which comes from the early days of trade from the West Indies with settlers who brought unusual items with them, such as pineapples. The pineapple symbol was used then and is continued to be used now as a welcome symbol and is displayed in the districts of many Newport inns, restaurants, homes and shops. Pineapple doorknockers are also visible on the old colonial homes, which date back to the 1700s. 

The waterfront, called Bannister’s Wharf, offers shopping and dining as well as eclectic boutiques, clothiers, jewellers, specialty shops, galleries and waterfront cafés.

Fishing boats, sleek yachts, and luxury liners crowd in the harbour, with lobster traps bobbing at a distance out into the sea, paint the scenery of downtown Thames Street. The waterfront seems to glisten with condominiums and modern office buildings.

Newport is also a great city to visit the one-of-a-kind mansions, which adorn it. Belcourt Castle is a unique medieval-style mansion, which is still privately owned, unlike the majority of the other mansions in this city. Tour guides of the sixty-room mansion will provide you with information regarding the rich history of the armour collection and Renaissance treasures found in this amazing mansion. An air of mystery fills the house as Belcourt Castle also offers spooky candlelight tours, which are not for the faint of heart! 

The first “palace” included in the Newport mansions is called the “ Chateau-sur-Mer”, which is French for “ Palace on the Sea”. Many lavish ceremonies took place on the grounds, which marked the beginning of Newport high society functions. A visit to this palace includes High Victorian designs found in its furnishings, paintings, wallpaper and decorations. These were a fantastic backdrop for balls, high tea ceremonies and major Newport society events. This mansion is definitely beautiful and worth visiting! 

A trip to Newport would not be complete without strolling along the famed Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile walk along a rugged and beautiful scenic walkway, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Points of interest along the narrow pathway include the Salve Regina University, and the Breakers. 

Whether you are relaxing on Easton’s Beach, visiting the various concession stands in Middletown or attending a boating and yachting event, Newport, this city by the sea, will simply enthral you.