The Allure of Newport

Newport, Rhode Island, is where history, elegance, and salty sea air meet in the most irresistible way. The harbor is alive with energy, sailboats gliding in and out like it’s second nature, a rhythm that perfectly matches the town’s relaxed sophistication. Wandering through its cobblestone streets, we found ourselves at the International Tennis Hall of Fame, a tribute to timeless tradition in a setting that feels frozen in its own graceful era.

The mansions along Bellevue Avenue stop you in your tracks. These Gilded Age palaces, once playgrounds for America’s wealthiest families, are as extravagant as they are fascinating. For me, having adored The Gilded Age series on Max, stepping into the rooms where scenes were filmed felt like stepping through the screen. And just beyond those gilded halls, the Cliff Walk steals the show, manicured estates on one side, rugged coastline crashing on the other. It’s pure New England drama at its finest.

Of course, no trip to Newport is complete without indulging in the sea’s bounty. Lobster rolls, raw oysters, creamy chowder……..you’ll find them on every corner. But my personal revelation came in the form of mussels. Tender, pristine, and swimming in a garlicky white wine sauce, they were so good I could have polished off bowl after bowl without regret.

Yet what made Newport unforgettable wasn’t just the views or the food, but the connections made along the way. One evening stretched into laughter, clinking glasses, and conversation with a new friend. The kind of spontaneous meeting that makes travel feel extra special, with promises to see each other again beyond this trip.

Newport is more than a destination; it’s a tapestry of history, beauty, flavors, and genuine hospitality. My husband and I already know that we will absolutely be back. And next time, we’ll stay longer!