Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Newport, RI
Year Listed: 2004
A fabled summer enclave and colonial port city known for its millionaires' "cottages" by the sea, Newport calls itself "America's First Resort." Founded in 1639 by seekers of religious freedom, the city is home to some of America's most historic houses of worship - most notably Touro Synagogue (1763), Quaker Meeting House (1699) and Trinity Church (1726). While its early history is reflected in a treasure trove of colonial architecture, the city has long been associated with the opulent excess of the late 19th century, when its natural beauty and cooling breezes lured Gilded Age socialites and plutocrats to claim Newport as their summer playground and to erect elaborate mansions and villas.
Newport Harbor in Newport, Rhode Island.
Credit: Keith W. Stokes
Today, visitors can experience Newport's African American heritage on walking tours and view some of the grandest houses from the 3 ½-mile Cliff Walk, which hugs the rugged shoreline. Besides being open for tours, many of the mansions host special events and culinary programs throughout the year. Newport also boasts two of the National Trust's Historic Hotels of America: the luxurious Hotel Viking and The Inn at Newport Beach, the city's only beachfront hotel. Families with young travelers will enjoy the museums of art, history, science, naval heritage, yachting and tennis that dot this compact, walkable city. During the days of the rum trade, local sea captains displayed pineapples to signal that they had returned from a trip to the West Indies; more than two centuries later, the pineapple is still Newport's symbol of hospitality, welcoming visitors to a seaside paradise.
