
Newport Harbour © Newport CCVB
Billed as America's 'First Resort', the fabled city of Newport
lies just 30 miles (48km) south of Providence, Rhode Island's
capital, accessed by two bridges that cross the blue Narragansett
Bay.
Newport is famed for being America's yacht racing Mecca, and for
boasting dozens of magnificent mansions built during the so-called
'gilded age' at the turn of the 20th century when one needed a
distinctive pedigree and hefty bank account to holiday here with
America's elite. Nearly a dozen of these extravagant 'summer homes'
of America's wealthiest families are now open to the public, and
Newport itself today welcomes all and sundry to enjoy a leisurely
visit to this lively city with its beautiful beaches and varied
attractions.
Newport is no longer just a summer fun destination, but it is
hip and happening all year round thanks to a full programme of
festivals and events that encompass classical, folk and jazz music
festivals in the summer; the 'Harvest-by-the-Sea' fest in October;
a renowned Christmas celebration in December; and the Newport
Winter Festival in February. In between events the lively
waterfront, shops and cultural attractions are enough to keep
visitors entertained even when the weather makes beach going or
sailing not too desirable.
For more information contact the Newport County Convention and
Visitors Bureau on (800) 976 5122, or at
www.GoNewport.com