Despite being the smallest state in the U,S., Rhode Island is packed with experiences, accommodations, and activities for the luxury-minded traveler. While Newport is the star of the state, there is much to see and explore in the surrounding areas, and driving throughout Rhode Island is easy given the state’s small size.
With 400 miles of coastline, there are many beaches and colonial coastal towns to visit. But there’s more to the Ocean State than seaside charm. During the Gilded Age, America’s wealthiest families gathered in Newport and many of their mansions have been preserved, making it an appealing architectural destination. Providence offers a vibrant metropolitan counterpoint to the state’s quaint towns. Rhode Island also has much to offer outdoor sporting enthusiasts with 59% of the state is covered in forest.
STAY
Providence, the state’s capital and most populous city, is an ideal place to start a Rhode Island vacation. Along with the international airport, a railroad station served by Amtrak is also located here. Make a booking at The Beatrice, a 47-room boutique luxury hotel that opened in 2021 in the restored Exchange Building, located in the center of downtown. Rooms come with Mascioni Linens and Dyson hair tools.
After one night in Providence, check into The Preserve Resort & Spa in Richmond, located less than an hour from both Providence and Newport. The Preserve is settled among 3,500 forested acres and offers accommodations including posh hotel suites in the Hilltop Lodge, fully furnished townhomes and lavishly appointed tiny houses. Booking a room at this four season sporting retreat gives guests access to activities including clay shooting, equestrian programs, fishing, golf, and a five-star rated spa.
The Preserve’s sister property, and the state’s only five-diamond resort, Ocean House, is located on a bluff in Watch Hill overlooking its private beach. In addition to traditional guest rooms, visitors can choose from eight cottages and 20 signature suites, including an expansive penthouse with three bedrooms and sea views.
End your trip at Hammet’s Hotel, located on the waterfront in the middle of downtown Newport. The location is ideal for exploring Newport and is walking distance to most of the area’s must-see sights. A highlight of this hotel is its expansive deck overlooking the Newport marina.
EAT & DRINK
Bellini is one of Providence’s premier Italian restaurants located in The Beatrice. This restaurant takes a modern approach to traditional Italian dishes with a focus on local and fresh ingredients. The bar and lounge is not to be missed, with expertly crafted cocktails and a well-curated wine list.
Whisky enthusiasts can book a private Maker’s Mark tasting at The Preserve Sporting Club & Residences. Sample new and rare bottles from the portfolio, including a special recipe created for The Preserve. A dining menu that focuses on seasonal ingredients that pair well with whisky accompanies the experience. What makes this tasting even more unique is where it takes place: a charming “Hobbit House” (as in Lord of the Rings) licensed by New Line Cinema in North America. The Hobbit Houses are built into the property with all stones and materials sourced from the grounds and landscaped to match each season.
In Newport, Bar ‘Cino is a local favorite for lunch or dinner in the center of downtown. The Italian bistro is known for its grilled pizza. For a meal overlooking the ocean, book a table at Cara, an intimate restaurant at The Chanler at Cliff Walk, a boutique hotel located in a restored Gilded Age mansion. Cara offers blind tasting menus inspired by European cuisine using locally sourced New England ingredients. This is the premier dining experience in Newport.
The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn, once a Gilded Age summer house built in 1875 and now a boutique hotel, is the best location for sunset cocktails in Newport. Adirondack chairs dotting the property’s lawn overlook Narragansett Bay and are the ideal spot to end a day in Newport. Visit another former mansion-turned-hotel, The Vanderbilt, for cocktails and views on their rooftop deck.
EXPERIENCE
From beaches to art to golf, there’s something for every type of traveler to enjoy in Rhode Island.
In Providence don’t miss WaterFire, an award-winning fire sculpture installation set on rivers in downtown Providence. The event was created by a local artist and attracts nearly 1 million visitors annually.
Get a lay of the land in Newport in a classic Jaguar with Newport Jaguar Tours. Choose your vehicle (options include a convertible) and tour itinerary that can be customized to suit your interests. In addition to seeing the town’s scenic beauty and architecture, your tour guide offers insider’s knowledge of Newport history and its famous residents.
Touring Newport’s Gilded Age mansions is a highlight of a visit to Rhode Island. The mansions are meticulously preserved and both private and group tours are offered. The most famous Newport mansion is The Breakers, the summer home of the Vanderbilt family. Fans of HBO’s The Gilded Age may recognize rooms that were used as sets in the show.
Known as the Sailing Capital of the World, the watersport is an important part of Newport’s history. One of the best ways to experience the essence of the town is by getting out on the water. Book a private sail with America’s Cup Charters, where guests can sail with the largest fleet of America’s Cup winners in the world. After visit Newport’s new Sailing Museum to learn more about the town’s nautical past.
Source: PENTA
