The Cliff Walk
If you're looking to get some exercise while enjoying some of the finest views Newport has to offer, take a walk or run along the Cliff Walk (www.cliffwalk.com). You'll get spectacular view of the shoreline and ocean on one side, and on the other you should be able to see some of the "summer cottages" used by the rich and famous back in the days before air conditioning. The walk is roughly three miles, but the last mile (maybe even a little more) is only suitable for hikers, not running or leisurely walking around.
(Sean and I on the Cliff Walk last Christmas)
Beaches
Another few great places for a walk (depending on the weather) are Newport and nearby Middletown's three beaches -- First Beach (also called Easton's beach located in Newport), Second Beach (Sachuest Beach) and Third Beach (there maybe an official name for this but I can't recall what it is). The latter two are in the more rural Middletown, but they're only about a 5-10 minute drive from Newport. Third Beach is your best bet for shelling, Second Beach has the best surf, and First Beach has several bars nearby in case anyone gets thirsty. Any hotel should be able to give you directions to these beaches.
(Enjoying a rainy summer day on Second Beach)
Brenton's Point and the Ten Mile Drive
This is Colleen's favorite spot on the Island. Gorgeous blue waves crashing along the rocky coast with a green park on the other side where kite flyers gather (in the summertime, at least). If the weather and tide are amenable you can take a walk out along some of the rocks and explore the tidal pools. It's most likely going to be windy so be sure to bundle up if you go but it is more than worth the trouble. Getting out there requires you to drive the "ten mile drive" on Bellevue Avenue and then onto the Ocean Drive. The houses themselves are enough reason to take this trip which can easily be done in the rain as well. http://www.riparks.com/BRENTON.htm
Fort Adams
At the end of the ten mile drive you just drive a little farther to explore the historic Fort Adams and the Eisenhower House. Check out more information at www.fortadams.org
The Inn at Castle Hill
While the outside bar isn't likely to be open, I would consider a visit to Castle Hill an absolute must for those who are interested in gorgeous views. Located at the end of the ten mile drive it's a wonderful place to relax with a cocktail.
Mansion Tours for a Rainy Day
Several of the "summer cottages" used by the Astors and the Vanderbilts of the world are now available to tour. More information at www.newportmansions.org. It's a great way to spend some time on a rainy day.
Newport Storm Brewery/Newport Vineyards
Located in Middletown, the Newport Storm Brewery is a local brew house started up by several URI grads not too long ago. Tastings of their beers are available at the Brewery and tours are also available. Newport Vineyards, also located in Middletown, produces some great wines and they have tastings available as well. More information available at www.newportstorm.com, and www.newportvineyards.com.
When all else fails on a rainy day in Newport, the one thing folks can always do is head downtown for a little shopping, eating, and drinking. There are so many places to visit downtown that it's hard to name them all...a few that come to mind are the Black Pearl, Brick Alley Pub, Pier 49, Yesterday's Cafe, O'Brien's Pub, and countless more if none of these tickle your fancy. Sean and I got caught in the rain while up there recently but certainly made the most of it.
We hope that you will enjoy Newport as much as we do!
