When the narrow cobblestone streets begin to empty, the usually omnipresent sailboats are tucked away in storage, and the Del’s Lemonade trucks are closed for the season, it’s clear that winter has arrived in Newport, Rhode Island.
I’m a Rhode Island local who spends time in this coastal city year-round. Tourists usually flock to Newport during summer, and I get it: The city’s Gilded Age buildings, sweeping coastal views, and quaint local businesses make it a great beachy getaway.
That said, I believe there’s something enchanting about The City by the Sea in the winter, when the mansions are decked out in holiday decor and the crowds have thinned.
Newport fully embraces the magic of the holiday season
One day, pumpkins and gourds line doorsteps, but seemingly as soon as October ends, white lights glisten on trees and Christmas ornaments sparkle along Bowen’s Wharf.
Early in December, there’s an annual tree lighting at the wharf, complete with carolers, hot chocolate, and warm cinnamon-sugar doughnuts.
There’s a lot to explore around Bowen’s Wharf, too. The Kiel James Patrick flagship store always decks the halls and becomes a picture-perfect backdrop for Christmas photos.
Nearby is Thames Street, where I love peeking in shop windows to find the best nautical gifts for the holidays.
A must-stop is the store A Christmas to Remember, where you can buy a hand-personalized ornament that looks like just about any object under the sun, from a macaron to a seashell.
For those interested in spending a snowy weekend on the coast, I’d recommend the Almondy Inn, a Victorian bed and breakfast with gorgeous harbor views, just steps away from downtown.
Drive along Bellevue Avenue to see some cheerful, historic glamour
Bellevue Avenue is nothing short of timeless in its beauty, lined with Gilded Age homes. Starting with Salve Regina University’s Ochre Court, you can admire rows of beech trees glowing with twinkling lights, and see the historic, châteauesque mansion adorned with wreaths.
Down the street, The Breakers — one of Newport’s famous Gilded Age mansions, and a former Vanderbilt residence — hosts its annual holiday light display, illuminating the lawn in festive shades of red and green.
Inside, every room dazzles with holiday charm. You’ll find a 15-foot poinsettia tree in the Great Hall, and gorgeous, decorated trees throughout the building.
Winter is the peak time to visit Newport’s best restaurants
Without the summer crowds, Newport’s best-known spots are even better.
I love seeing the long summer lines at the Nitro Bar, but I prefer being able to walk right in during the winter for pesto, tomato, and mozzarella toast with an iced chai.
For a romantic winter date night, the Clarke Cooke House is perfect for an espresso martini by the fireplace. The Black Pearl also makes an unforgettable cup of warm clam chowder.
Finally, there’s nothing better than sharing chicken nachos at Diego’s with friends while sipping on white peach sangria.
Although this spot is one I’d like to gatekeep, Mamma Luisa Ristorante Italiano feels like stepping back into my grandmother’s Italian home. White tablecloths drape the tables, photos and art line the walls, and the hospitality is impeccable.
I’d also be remiss if I didn’t mention the hot-chocolate bar at The Chanler at Cliff Walk, a historic hotel built in the 19th century. Open seasonally through the end of December, there’s no better place to grab a cozy cup of cocoa.
With Gilded Age charm, delicious food, and sparkly, holiday vibes, what would be a dark, cold day anywhere else is typically a festive one in Newport.
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