Newport and The Classic Coast is a feast for the senses; a veritable banquet of salt air, dappled light, ocean breezes, and creaking floorboards. Honestly, just spending some quiet time staring out at our horizon can feel life changing. Of course, if you want to turn up the volume, our coast is here to paddle, surf, skate, hike, bike, walk, sail, and more. So whatever adventure floats your boat, go find it…and take your time. We’ll be here, opening our doors, cooking up classic meals, and preparing seats by the fire or the harbor’s edge when you’re ready to refuel.
Discover Newport, Rhode Island, a spectacular destination brimming with stories to be told!
1. ) What is your destination most known for?
Newport, Rhode Island, America’s First Resort is known for so many facets of travel. First, I would say our Colonial History, as we have the largest number of “stick homes” which translates into preserved wooden colonial homes in the country. All thanks to the preservation of these homes by the late Doris Duke, and her creation of the Newport Restoration Foundation. https://www.newportrestoration.org. Secondly, the Gilded Age Mansions, or as they were know in there day as “summer cottages”, preserved, maintained and providing educational opportunities thru their many tours and special events of the 11 properties by the Preservation Society of Newport County, https://www.newportmansions.org/ The rich and famous built these beautiful mansions as their summer “vacation” destination. Why? Because it was a location on the water will cool winds and a short distance(Ferry or yacht ) from New York City .
2.) During this time, how can we enjoy your destination?
Several decades ago, Newport, RI was considered strictly a “summer destination” but that is certainly not true anymore. With a bevy of year- round special events; mansions, museums, wineries, breweries, restaurants and lodging properties available, the destination turned what was considered the “Off season(January-April) to definitely now the “On Season.” Pre-COVID of course, but we still have been able to have so many attractions and events happening over the past year.
3.) What hidden gem should not be missed when visiting your destination?
We have a lot of “hidden gems,” like the famed Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile path along the beautiful Atlantic Ocean offering a sneak peek of the manicured mansions grounds. Like the Breakers, Marble house, Ochre Court and many more. Also, the many hiking, biking and birding tours we offer throughout many of our nine coastal communities. https://www.discovernewport.org/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/
4.) What’s one feature that can’t be missed when visiting your website?
We are in the process of revamping the design and content of our website, but my favorite feature on our site DiscoverNewport.org, would be are entertaining and informative Blog posts! https://www.discovernewport.org/blog/
5.) How did you hear about NATJA, why did you join?
We hosted the very first NATJA conference back in Newport- 2003 and the association (staff and members) has been and continues to be a valuable asset to my DMO. Now more than ever as I had to lay-off my Communications Manager and take over those responsibilities myself. North American Travel Journalist Association is a real family, members and staff are all about what I need in travel media.
6.) Is there anything else you feel travel media should know about your destination?
I hope one day soon we will all be back travelling again and that all of you will have a chance to visit and experience my beautiful destination.
