6 Fun Things to Do in Newport, RI in 2025

Newport, Rhode Island, is a treasure trove of history, nature, and culture. Whether you’re drawn to Gilded Age mansions, scenic coastlines, or vibrant festivals, there’s no shortage of things to do in Newport, RI.

At Viking Tours of Newport, we’ve been sharing the city’s magic with visitors since 1962 through our narrated trolley tours. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, here’s your guide to the best things to do in Newport, RI, with tips to make your trip unforgettable.

1. Tour Newport’s Historic Mansions

One of the top things to do in Newport, RI, is stepping into the opulent world of its Gilded Age mansions. These architectural marvels, once summer homes for America’s elite, tell stories of wealth and artistry. The Breakers, a Vanderbilt masterpiece, boasts 70 rooms with lavish interiors, while Marble House dazzles with its gold ballroom. Rosecliff, known for its grand staircase, hosts special 2025 exhibits on Newport’s social history.

Join Viking Tours’ Grand Mansion Tour (~3 hours, $45/adult) to explore The Breakers or another mansion of your choice, paired with a narrated trolley ride through Bellevue Avenue. Can’t decide? Our Deluxe Newport Tour (~4.5 hours) lets you visit two mansions for a deeper dive into Newport’s past.

2. Stroll the Scenic Cliff Walk

For a free, breathtaking experience, the Cliff Walk is among the best things to do in Newport, RI. This 3.5-mile public path hugs the coastline, offering stunning ocean views on one side and historic mansions on the other. You can expect milder spring weather, perfect for a morning stroll. Start at Memorial Boulevard and walk to Easton’s Beach, pausing at spots like Forty Steps for Instagram-worthy photos.

The trail is mostly paved but has rugged sections, so wear sturdy shoes. Viking Tours’ Scenic Overview Tour ($25/adult) drives along nearby Ocean Drive, giving you a broader view of the cliffs if walking isn’t your pace. Either way, the crashing waves and sea breeze will leave you refreshed.

3. Relax at Newport’s Beautiful Beaches

Newport’s beaches are a treat for sun-seekers and nature lovers, making them a must for things to do in Newport, RI. Easton’s Beach (First Beach) is family-friendly with a carousel and snack bar, while Gooseberry Beach offers calmer waters for swimming. For a quieter vibe, try Sachuest Beach (Second Beach), known for its soft sand and surf-friendly waves.

4. Cruise Along Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive, a 10-mile coastal loop, is a scenic gem among things to do in Newport, RI. Whether you bike, drive, or join a trolley, you’ll pass Hammersmith Farm (Jackie Kennedy’s childhood home), Brenton Point State Park, and rugged shores. The golden hour promises spectacular sunsets, perfect for photographers.

Our Scenic Overview Tour covers Ocean Drive, with guides sharing tales of Newport’s maritime past. At $25, it’s an easy way to see the coast without navigating winding roads yourself.

5. Explore Bowen’s Wharf and Thames Street

For shopping and dining, Bowen’s Wharf and Thames Street are top things to do in Newport, RI. These waterfront areas buzz with boutique shops, art galleries, and eateries. Look out for seafood spots, like The Mooring’s expanded patio, serving local lobster rolls. Stroll Thames Street for souvenirs or grab gelato at Newport Creamery.

6. Visit Fort Adams State Park

Fort Adams, a 19th-century fortress, is a history buff’s pick for things to do in Newport, RI. Spanning 80 acres, it offers tours of its tunnels and ramparts. The park’s bay views are perfect for picnics, and sailing lessons are available nearby.

Pair a visit with our Scenic Overview Tour, which swings by Fort Adams, giving context to its role in Newport’s defense. Entry is ~$8, but check for group rates if touring with Viking.

Why Choose Viking Tours for Your Newport Adventure?

Planning a trip can be overwhelming, but Viking Tours makes it seamless. Since 1962, we’ve crafted narrated trolley tours to showcase the best things to do in Newport, RI. Here’s what we offer:

Variety: Choose from Scenic Overview ($25), Grand Mansion ($45), or Deluxe Tours (~4.5 hours) for a custom experience.
Expert Guides: Our team shares local stories, from Vanderbilt legacies to pirate tales.
Comfort: Climate-controlled trolleys keep you cozy, rain or shine.
Accessibility: ADA-compliant options available with 48-hour notice (foldable wheelchairs only).

Whether you’re here for a day or a week, we tailor tours to your schedule. Groups of 20+ can book private charters, perfect for weddings or reunions. Our wedding trolley adds vintage charm, with 2025 bookings filling fast.

Plan Your 2025 Newport Trip Today

Newport, RI, blends history, nature, and culture like nowhere else, and 2025 is the year to experience it. From mansion tours to cliffside walks, these things to do in Newport, RI, promise memories to last a lifetime. Let Viking Tours elevate your visit with expert-guided trolley adventures, ensuring every moment counts.

Ready to explore? Book your tour online at vikingtoursnewport.com or call (401) 847-6921. Departures run daily from Newport Transportation Center (23 America’s Cup Ave). Don’t miss out—reserve your spot for a Newport journey you’ll never forget!