Newport, famous for its rich boating heritage and grand residences, has always been a preferred summer destination for affluent East Coasters. However, this charming town is also home to family-owned fish farms, delectable dog bars, and serene beaches, making it an ideal getaway for anyone seeking relaxation by the river. Here, we present the finest hotels Newport has to offer, ranging from majestic, iconic structures to luxurious boutique establishments. Discover the best accommodations in Newport, Rhode Island from the list below:
The Viking Hotel
Step into a world of old-world charm at the Hotel Viking, once exclusively reserved for VIPs on Belleview Avenue during the Golden Age. Indulge in freshly sliced champagne and succulent oysters on the garden terrace, or enjoy dark and stormy cocktails with breathtaking views from the Top of Newport bar. Immerse yourself in Bali and Thailand-inspired therapies at the hotel’s spa, a sanctuary of tranquility.
While the lobby has been recently renovated and the guest rooms and suites exude a more contemporary luxury, featuring marble showers and exquisite Egyptian cotton sheets, much of the period-inspired decor pays homage to the hotel’s 90-year history. Undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Newport, Rhode Island.
Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina
A five-minute boat ride across Narragansett Bay from downtown Newport will transport you to the secluded Goat Island, where the Newport Harbor Lights once illuminated the night in 1842. It is here that Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina stands proudly, offering 257 spacious rooms with modern amenities often absent in the city’s historic inns.
Similar to its sister property in Montauk, New York, this hotel boasts Newport’s only outdoor saltwater swimming pool, surrounded by a sun deck where stylish relaxation is encouraged. The affable director can arrange tasting and blending classes, pampering sessions at the on-site Seawater Spa, or reservations at the renowned Italian restaurant Scarpetta. Truly one of the top-notch hotels in Newport, Rhode Island.
The Chanler at Cliff Walk
For a glimpse into Gilded Age opulence during the Vanderbilts’ reign, look no further than The Chanler at Cliff Walk. This historic great dame, built in 1873 and once owned by the great granddaughter of John Jacob Astor, sits prominently on the stunning National Recreation Trail, overlooking Easton Bay.
Each of the hotel’s 20 rooms showcases a unique style, from Greek Renaissance to Imperial Dynasty and Louis XVI. Adorned with elegant antiques like crystal chandeliers, stone fireplaces, and mahogany furniture, the rooms also offer heated floors in the bathrooms. Downstairs, Cara’s tasting menu tantalizes with New England flavors complemented by a touch of French refinement. Indulge in pure sophistication at one of the finest hotels in Newport, Rhode Island.
The Attwater
The Attwater, a sister property to the trendy Gilded Hotel, stands out with its distinctive aesthetic, featuring zebra stripes, boho ikat patterns, mod hexes, and bold color choices. This 12-room boutique guesthouse, situated in a centrally located villa built in 1910 and formerly a pub, offers modern style blended with artistic palettes, boasting layers of spongy textures, coral accents, and olive green hues.
Before embarking on a day of exploring Newport’s diverse beachfront activities or indulging in an intimate spa treatment at the hotel’s treatment room, start your morning with a homemade ginger lime toast in the courtyard and coffee shop. The Attwater is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Newport, Rhode Island.
Gilded
If the lavishness of the Gilded Age appeals to you more than the intricate floral motifs and antiquities of that era, then Gilded Hotel is your perfect choice. This boutique hotel, comprising 17 rooms housed in two Victorian houses on a charming residential street, is just a short 10-minute walk from Thames Street, the city’s main thoroughfare. Gilded effortlessly combines vibrant colors with modern flourishes, showcasing graphic patterned fabrics, yellow side tables, and multimedia artwork that give a contemporary twist to the dominant Rococo and Beaux Arts styles of that time.
The joyful ambiance carries over to the breakfast dining area, where a purple wall sets the stage for delicious culinary creations. Treat yourself to grilled Portobello mushrooms stuffed with clams, honey-grilled pineapples, and freshly baked pastries, all served on flower-patterned stands, while psychedelic butterflies dance across the wallpaper. Gilded truly stands among the best hotels in Newport, Rhode Island.
Castle Hill Inn
Perched on a 40-acre peninsula overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Narragansett Bay, Castle Hill Inn is undeniably one of Newport’s most romantic hotels. Just a short five-minute drive from the city center, this 1874 mansion was originally built by mining magnate Alexander Agassiz as his summer retreat, rivaling the grandeur of other prominent estates.
The charming countryside cottages feature quintessential seaside hues of greens and blues, complete with cozy fireplaces for chilly evenings and built-in cast iron baths for two. For an unforgettable experience, opt for the two-story, mahogany Turret Suite on the third floor of the main house, featuring a spiral staircase that leads to a telescope for stargazing late into the night. Castle Hill Inn is the epitome of luxury among Newport’s best hotels.
Immerse yourself in the allure of Newport, Rhode Island by choosing one of these exceptional accommodations. Each hotel offers a unique experience, blending history, luxury, and modern comforts to create the perfect retreat for travelers seeking a memorable stay in this picturesque coastal town.