Our Newport Tradition: A Weekend with Family

Newport has been part of my husband’s story since he was a kid. His dad worked on the Naval Base there, and it’s where he first fell in love with the ocean and sailing. Years later, before we were even married, he took me to Newport for the first time. I understood instantly why he loved it so much. Now it’s our tradition - every summer we find a way to return, sometimes more than once.

This year we went after Labor Day, which locals call “Locals' Summer.” It’s when the tourists thin out and the town feels like itself again. Lines are shorter, traffic eases, and even big parties (like our group of six, including the kids and Frankie) can get tables without the usual wait.

Chris and I drove down Friday morning and stopped in Jamestown for brunch at JB’s on the Water, a place new to us. We sat outside in the warm sun, I ordered coconut shrimp with rice, and he had a sandwich. Jamestown is just across the bridge from Newport - quiet, peaceful, and a nice way to start the trip before diving into the busier pace of Aquidneck Island.

Once in Newport, we settled into what we always do: soaking it in. We scored Adirondack chairs on The Lawn at Cliff House. It's always a treat because of the iconic views and chill vibe. Frankie ran around exploring while we took turns chasing him. It felt like vacation mode officially started.

Meals were easy to plan this time (one of the perks of being there post-Labor Day). We spread out with plenty of elbow room at Bar & Board Bistro, no wait at Belle’s Café, and quick seating at Mother Pizzeria. For anyone planning a trip, you would definitely need to make reservations in July or August. 

We stopped at the little Hope Chapel on base, where Chris and I were married, which is always special. Then we did some shopping at the Exchange (new sneakers for both of us) and downtown, where I finally picked up a new Newport hat. One highlight was the colorful Umbrella Sky Project installation at Brick Market, worth a stroll and a photo. And of course, we couldn’t skip a Del’s lemonade and a stop at Kilwin’s for ice cream.

Some of the best moments, though, weren’t on any official itinerary. Just hanging out on Hammetts Wharf or Bowen's Wharf, chatting, watching the boats, and enjoying the view reminded me that it’s the simplest parts of a trip that often end up being the most memorable.

And because Newport always calls us back to the water, we booked a ride on the Rum Runner again. We first did it five years ago, and this time we chose the Lighthouse & Coastal Tour. It was just as magical. We cruised past Newport Harbor Light, Castle Hill Lighthouse, Castle Hill Inn, Rose Island, and more. The views, the breeze, the history...there’s no better way to see Newport than from the water.

By the time we wrapped up the weekend, it felt like we’d hit all the essentials: family time, good food, a little shopping, ocean breezes, and those Newport-only treats that keep us coming back year after year. Newport is always worth the trip, but in September, it feels a little extra special, like the town is letting you in on a secret once the crowds head home.