While summer is the most popular time to visit Newport, there is much to see and do year round. Hot summer days lead into crisp cool fall nights. In Spring, Newport is alive with the feeling of the old country as we celebrate our Irish Heritage culminating with St. Patrick's Day Parade. At must see kick off to summer is the famous Newport Secret Garden Tour which showcases gardens and homes in the historic Point section of Newport.

Known as the Festival capital of the world, there is always something going on in Newport year round. Cultural, art, music and food festivals abound. To kick off summer is the famous Chowder Cook-Off and at the end of the season is the Irish Festival which coincides with Labor Day Weekend. Other popular festivals include the Newport Music Festival; 2006 marks its 38th year. The JVC Jazz Festival and Folk Festival come to Newport the first two weekends of August (for these weekends, most lodging properties require a 3-night minimum stay during festival weekends).

Newport is a walking town with everything centrally located. Parking is very, very limited. There is a parking garage at the Visitor's Center on America's Cup Avenue and several lots scattered around town. In summer, RIPTA offers trolley services to major attractions and other companies offer guided bus, trolley and private tours. Hot-tip: Upon arrival, take a guided tour - gives you a good overview of Newport (locations, distances, etc.) and bring your maps with you from home.

The history of Newport is colorful indeed and well documented by the Historical Society. Newport is home to the highest concentration on colonial buildings in an area (Washington Square) and due to the generosity of Doris Duke and her Restoration Foundation and other wealthy benefactors, there are many colonial and Victorian homes and buildings restored to original splendor. A guided tour is great way to learn more about the history and structures of Newport and the Visitors Center on America's Cup Avenue sells tickets to all tours available in Newport.