This Rhode Island City Is An Underrated Gem For Nature Lovers
Originally established as a refuge for religious dissenters seeking freedom, Newport, Rhode Island, has transformed into a haven for outdoor adventurers in search of exploration and escape. Not only do its sandy shores and seaside trails attract summer beach crowds, but its national wildlife refuges and bird sanctuaries make it an important habitat for migratory birds and raptors. Though it may not always receive the same attention as some of its New England neighbors, Newport is a must-visit in 2025 for anyone seeking an outdoor adventure.
Parks And Green Spaces
93% of Newport residents can reach a park within a 10-minute walk. Ballard Park, located in the southern portion of town, has been an established park in the community since 1990. Spanning 13 acres, it hosts many of the town鈥檚 events today, including concerts, movies, and a winter lights garden. Battery Park is another popular place for residents to spend the afternoon. This park was created from an old military battery that was used in the War of 1812. In addition to exploring its history, parkgoers will be able to appreciate scenic views of the harbor and Newport Bridge.
Another park with beautiful water views is King Park, which is situated along the southern edge of the Newport Harbor Walk. In addition to its prime harborside location, the park has a baseball field, boat ramp, gazebo, picnic area, grills, beach, and playground. If you enjoy 海角社区 War I history, make sure to stop by Miantonomi Memorial Park as well, which was established as a memorial for the war. The highest point in Newport, Miantonomi Hill, is situated in this park. This hill once served as an important seat for the Narragansett indigenous group and later housed colonial beacons, forts from the Revolutionary War, and a 1929 historic memorial tower. With a picnic and grilling area, the park is also a beloved spot for community barbecues.
Hiking, Biking, And Walking Trails
Many of the trails around Newport offer travelers the chance to explore its coastal and wooded ecosystems. If you are craving a relaxing stroll, the Newport Cliff Walk is the perfect starting point. This 3.5-mile trail winds along the rocky cliffs of Newport鈥檚 shores, featuring panoramic ocean views on one side of the trail and gilded age mansions on the other.
Travelers who prefer an afternoon on their bike will appreciate Rhode Island鈥檚 East Bay Bike Path. This trail, stretching approximately 14.5 miles, begins in Province and finishes on the shores of Narragansett Bay. Because the trail is mostly flat, it is an easy and leisure trail to bike. Sights along the way include marshes, coves, bridges, and parks.
The Sakonnet Greenway Trail, the longest continuous trail on the island, spans 10 miles. Along the path, hikers will encounter woodlands, meadows, farms, and other scenic agricultural landscapes. Travelers can make stops along the way, as this trail passes by landmarks like Newport Vineyards, the Newport National Golf Club, and Aquidneck Farms.
Water-Based Recreation And Beaches
Travelers will quickly find that they are always close to a beach in Newport. Local area residents often opt to visit Sachuest Beach, located in the neighboring town of Middletown. Home to the longest stretch of sand in the state, this beach has 1.5 miles of white and sandy shores to explore. If you enjoy surfing, make sure to head to this beach鈥檚 famous Surfer鈥檚 End. Here, large waves create the perfect environment for surfing and kayaking. The wind along this beach also makes it optimal for kite flying!
To stay a bit closer to town, consider spending the day at Easton鈥檚 Beach, also sometimes called First Beach. Situated on Memorial Boulevard, this is the largest beach in Newport, extending for about three-fourths of a mile. Visitors can either stroll along the sandy shores or the beach鈥檚 boardwalk. Cliff Walk also begins at Easton鈥檚 Beach, in case you are craving a longer stroll after exploring the beach.
Sailing is another popular activity along the shores of Newport. Several agencies offer sailing cruises and charters, allowing you to learn how to sail, even if you are a beginner. With Newport Classic Cruises, for example, travelers can sign up for a ticketed cruise to explore Narragansett Bay aboard a classic, old-海角社区-style yacht. For an even more stunning experience, you can sign up for a sunset cruise.
Wildlife And Birdwatching
With over 300 bird species found in Newport, birdwatchers should certainly add this town to their list of must-visit destinations. The Norman Bird Sanctuary, established in 1949, is one of the best places to spot birds, covering 300 acres of woodlands, ponds, streams, and fields. More than 230 bird species have been recorded at the sanctuary, with some of the most recent sightings including cedar waxwings, red-tailed hawks, downy woodpeckers, Carolina wrens, and red-eyed vireos.
Just a six-minute drive from the Norman Bird Sanctuary, travelers can also reach Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge. Sachuest Point is one of five national wildlife refuges in the state and protects a variety of important habitats that Rhode Island鈥檚 wildlife call home. Some of these vital ecosystems include shrublands, made up of native grasses and flowers; cobble beaches, which serve as key nesting areas for migratory birds; and salt marshes, characterized by marsh grasses mixed with peat and mud. Although visitors can spot numerous species while at the refuge, some of the most notable include salt marsh sparrows, Harlequin Ducks, and New England Cottontails. Other interesting species to keep your eye out for include northern saw-whet owls, grasshopper sparrows, red-winged blackbirds, and northern pintails.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking to truly connect with nature this year, escaping the city for a smaller town is essential. Fortunately, Newport, Rhode Island, offers just that. Home to just under 25,000 residents, it is large enough to have an extensive park and trail network while still maintaining a quiet atmosphere. Its seaside location also makes it the perfect place to explore the waves, whether by surfboard, kayak, or sailboat. So if you are seeking a memorable outdoor getaway, do not hesitate to consider Newport.
