Fall in LOVE with Newport, Rhode Island
Being a New England girl myself, there’s nothing more picturesque to me, than a quaint, little, ocean town. Newport, Rhode Island is all that on steroids, and if you ever find your way over in that corner of the world, do yourself a favor and stop by this amazing destination. We only had time to spend one day there, but what we did see and do, was priceless. Both the drive to and from Newport was jaw-dropping.
We started our day visiting Beavertail Lighthouse on our drive through Conanicut Island. We love visiting lighthouses when we get a chance and I love watching Jason create his magic.
Beavertail Lighthouse is located on the southernmost point of Conanicut Island in Jamestown, Rhode Island. It was first established in 1749 and was the third lighthouse built in the United States. The original wooden structure was replaced with a stone tower in 1856, which still stands today. The lighthouse stands 64 feet tall and is painted white with a black lantern room. It was automated in 1972 and is still in operation today, although it is no longer manned. The lighthouse and surrounding area are part of Beavertail State Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing, and picnicking opportunities. The area is also popular for bird watching and enjoying the scenic views of the bay. Over the years, the Beavertail Lighthouse has been the subject of many paintings and photographs, and is considered one of the iconic landmarks of Rhode Island.
After leaving Conanicut Island we took a short drive over to Newport which is another island at the southern most tip of Rhode Island. You don’t even have to get out of your car if you don’t want to, the drive is that amazing. Here are a few structures I was able to take pictures of from the car ride.
Newport, Rhode Island is a historic coastal city located in the southeastern part of the state. It is known for its beautiful mansions, scenic ocean views, and rich history. Newport was originally settled in the 17th century and became an important port for trade and commerce. During the Gilded Age of the late 19th century, many wealthy families built grand summer homes in Newport. These homes, known as the Newport Mansions, have become popular tourist attractions and a symbol of the city’s opulence and wealth. We didn’t have time to take a tour, but one day I hope to get back there and explore these mansions.
In addition to its historic landmarks, Newport is also home to several beaches, parks, and nature reserves. The Cliff Walk, a scenic trail that runs along the coastline and past many of the mansions, is a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing. Newport is also known for its maritime culture, hosting several sailing and boating events throughout the year, including the Newport Jazz Festival and the Newport Folk Festival. The city has a lively downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The highlight of our day-trip was visiting the oldest tavern in the USA for lunch. It’s called “The White Horse Tavern“, and it was absolutely perfect!
The White Horse Tavern is a historic restaurant and bar located in Newport, Rhode Island. It is the oldest operating tavern in the United States and has been in continuous operation since 1673. The building that houses the tavern was constructed in 1652 and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years. The tavern has a rich history and has served many notable patrons including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. It was also a popular spot for sailors and pirates during the 18th century. Today, The White Horse Tavern is known for its traditional New England cuisine and extensive wine list. The menu features dishes such as clam chowder, lobster bisque, and roasted duck breast. The tavern has a cozy atmosphere with exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, and a fireplace. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike and is considered a must-visit for anyone visiting Newport.
After lunch there were so many things we still wanted to do but had to leave because of time constraints. What we didn’t know was that on our way out we would stumble upon a sweet surprise. Here are a few photos from a stop we HAD to make because shooting this from the car window didn’t do this structure justice.
Boyde’s Windmill is a historic windmill located in the town of Middleton, Rhode Island. It was built in the late 19th century by William Coggeshall Boyde, a local farmer and businessman. The windmill was used to grind grain into flour, and it was an important part of the local economy for many years. Today, Boyde’s Windmill is a popular tourist attraction and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can tour the windmill and learn about its history and significance to the local community. The windmill is still in working condition and is operated by volunteers who grind corn and wheat into flour using the traditional methods of the 19th century. Overall, Boyde’s Windmill is a unique and fascinating piece of Rhode Island history that is well worth a visit for anyone interested in local history or the technology of the past. We were so fortunate to have stumbled upon it, and got some really great photos of it as well.
