Newport’s best tours bring Rhode Island’s most elegant city to life. Three types of excursions stand out: historic schooner sails around the harbor (perfect for experiencing Newport’s sailing heritage), mansion-focused trolley tours (which efficiently connect the city’s famous Gilded Age landmarks), and food tours combining local history with memorable meals.
We especially love the sailing tours – they’re relaxing, authentic, and give you the same million-dollar views that attracted America’s wealthiest families here generations ago. The narrated trolley tours earn high marks for their expert guides and the freedom to hop on and off at multiple mansions. For food lovers, the three-course progressive tours with wine pairings offer excellent value and local flavor.
Let’s explore Newport’s most worthwhile tours…
Key Points
- A 1.5-hour sailing tour on the Schooner Adirondack offers a relaxing and informative exploration of Newport’s harbor, including views of key landmarks like the Newport Harbor Bridge and Fort Adams.
- A 1.5-hour schooner sailing tour provides scenic views of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay and is highly rated by visitors for its memorable maritime experience.
- A 1.5-hour scenic trolley tour offers an efficient and narrated exploration of Newport’s key landmarks, including the Breakers mansion and the city’s colonial history.
- A 3-hour local foodies walking tour showcases Newport’s culinary scene, featuring a three-course meal with wine pairings in a cozy and intimate setting.
- Newport offers a variety of tour options, including sailing, trolley, and walking tours, catering to different interests and budgets, with generally high ratings from visitors.
Newport: Day Sailing and Sightseeing Boat Tour on a Schooner
Although Newport, Rhode Island is renowned for its opulent Gilded Age mansions, the city’s maritime heritage and scenic harbor also offer visitors an opportunity to experience its rich nautical tradition.
The “Newport: Day Sailing and Sightseeing Boat Tour on Schooner Adirondack” provides a 1.5-hour sail showcasing the harbor’s iconic sights, including the Newport Harbor Bridge, Newport Harbor Lighthouse, and Fort Adams.
Guests can relax on the classic sailboat, enjoy a gentle breeze, and listen to knowledgeable crew members share stories about the area’s vibrant maritime past.
Priced at $45 per person, this tour offers a memorable and relaxing way to discover Newport’s waterfront.
Read our full review: Newport: Day Sailing and Sightseeing Boat Tour on a Schooner Review
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Newport: Schooner Sailing Tour
The Newport: Schooner Sailing Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city’s maritime heritage while cruising aboard a classic 72-foot, two-masted schooner.
Priced from £36.96 per person, the 1.5-hour tour provides scenic views of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay, including notable sights like Fort Adams State Park and Rose Island.
Guests can engage with the knowledgeable crew and purchase beverages onboard.
While the boats aren’t wheelchair accessible, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 16 reviews, the Newport: Schooner Sailing Tour is a must-try for those seeking a memorable maritime experience in Rhode Island.
Read our full review: Newport: Schooner Sailing Tour Review
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Newport: Scenic Trolley Tour
While offering an efficient way to explore Newport’s renowned landmarks, the Newport: Scenic Trolley Tour provides visitors with a rundown of the city’s rich history and picturesque scenery.
Lasting 1.5 hours, the tour earns a 4.7 rating from 382 reviews and costs Kč 970 per person. Passengers can expect to see iconic sights like the Breakers mansion, as well as learn about Newport’s maritime heritage and colonial past.
The tour’s narrated experience allows guests to sit back and enjoy the scenic Narragansett Bay views without the hassle of navigating the city on their own.
For those seeking a streamlined introduction to Newport’s top attractions, the Scenic Trolley Tour is a convenient and highly-rated option.
Read our full review: Newport: Scenic Trolley Tour Review
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Newport: Local Foodies Walking Tour
Offering an immersive culinary adventure, the Newport: Foodies Winter Walking Tour invites visitors to indulge in a three-course meal with wine pairings at three renowned local restaurants.
This approximately 3-hour, 0.75-mile walking tour provides a cozy and intimate atmosphere for exploring Newport’s charming streets and learning about its culture and history.
Guests start with a welcome drink before embarking on a small-group experience featuring exceptional food, carefully selected wines, and an insightful guide.
With an overall 5/5 rating from 21 reviews, this tour offers excellent value for money and a highlight for foodies visiting Rhode Island.
Read our full review: Newport: Local Foodies Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Pet Policies for the Tours?
Pet policies for tours vary, so it’s best to check with each tour operator. Some may allow well-behaved pets, while others may prohibit them for safety or comfort reasons. Customers should inquire about pet policies when booking their tours.
Do the Tours Provide Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal Options?
Many Newport tour companies accommodate dietary needs by offering vegetarian and gluten-free meal options for guests. It’s best to inquire about specific menu choices when booking a tour to ensure your dietary requirements can be met.
Can the Tours Accommodate Large Groups or Private Events?
Many tour providers in the area can accommodate large groups and private events. They often offer customized options to meet the specific needs of larger parties, including vegetarian and gluten-free meal choices upon request.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible or Have Any Mobility Requirements?
Many of the tours in Newport, Rhode Island accommodate guests with mobility needs. They often provide wheelchair-accessible transportation and have staff to assist visitors. However, it’s best to inquire about specific accessibility requirements when booking a tour.
Do the Tours Offer Discounts for Seniors, Students, or Military Personnel?
Many Newport, Rhode Island tour operators offer discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel. The exact discounts vary, so it’s best to check with each tour company directly to inquire about their specific pricing and discount policies.
Recap
Newport, Rhode Island offers a variety of engaging tours to suit different interests. Whether you prefer sailing on a schooner, exploring the city by trolley, or discovering local culinary delights, there’s a tour to match your preferences. These well-reviewed options provide excellent opportunities to experience the charm and history of this picturesque coastal destination.