The lovely maritime city of Newport is brimming over with fun and interesting things to do. Founded in 1639, Newport was a major 18th-century port city and is chock-full of historical sites –it boasts the highest number of surviving colonial buildings in the United States. It is also home to the oldest standing synagogue in the country and one of the oldest in the Western Hemisphere, Touro Synagogue. Newport is famous for its many grandiose mansions, which were built during The Gilded Age. Beginning in the mid-nineteenth century, wealthy southern planters seeking to escape the heat began to build summer “cottages” – in actuality, mansions – in Newport, and by the turn of the 20th century, many of the nation's wealthiest families were summering here, including the Astors, the Vanderbilts, and the Widener family, who constructed the largest "cottages", such as The Breakers.
Besides touring the famous mansions, visitors to Newport can explore the International Tennis Hall of Fame, where important players are commemorated. Known as “The Sailing Capital of the United States,” Newport has coastlines on its east, south, and west, and its harbors teem with boats and yachts of all types. The 3.5-mile-long Newport Cliff Walk is a great way to enjoy the spectacular view along the shoreline, and very popular with bicyclists also. It has been designated a National Recreation Trail. Both the famous Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival are held annually at Fort Adams State Park, which is an historical fort dating from 1812. Fort Adams also houses the Museum of Yachting. After a day of sightseeing and recreational activities, visitors can relax in one of the many taverns and restaurants that serve fresh, local seafood and microbrews. Newport is classic New England at its finest! When you have the chance, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the scenic town of Newport. Hotels in the area allow you to stay conveniently close by to where you want to be. When you stay at Choice Hotels, you can enjoy affordable rates, many amenities, and friendly service. Reserve your room today! We look forward to hosting you soon!