I’m back with more highlights from my summer vacay in Newport, Rhode Island. In my last post, I recapped the sights and attractions my boyfriend E and I experienced during our first day in this beautiful coastal New England city. This time, I’m going to share Day Two, which was equally enjoyable thanks to the team at Discover Newport.*
Our sail on the Madeleine Schooner was a top highlight of our Newport vacay
It’s So Nice to Take a Summer Vacay in Newport, Rhode Island – Day Two
Scenic tour on Schooner Madeleine
If you’re a first-time visitor (like I was), one of the best ways to see all the Newport Harbor scenery is on the water. We were lucky to be treated to a ride on Schooner Madeleine, from Newport Classic Cruises. It was a picture-perfect day with bright blue skies and sunshine when we set sail. It’s always cooler on the water so we made sure to bring jackets.
“Welcome aboard,” said our crew Hunter and Kiera as we boarded the 72-foot two masted schooner for a 2 hour sail around Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay. While the schooner can hold up to 49 passengers, there were only a handful of guests joining us. There are sunset cruises offered as well. I bet evening sails are fun in the summertime and a gorgeous way to catch a Newport sunset.
Newport Classic Cruises offers day and sunset sails on Newport Harbor
Setting sail
We took off from the Wharf and then picked up speed as we headed out on the water. We passed Ft Adams State Park – where the popular Newport Folk and Newport Jazz festivals are held every year. Kiera was steering Madeleine as the young guests on board helped raise the huge sails.
We passed Hammersmith Farm, which was considered President John F. Kennedy’s summer White House in his day. “Hammersmith was where John and Jackie got married,” said Hunter. I’m a big fan of JFK and Jackie Bouvier Kennedy Onassis so I was excited to hear more.
Hammersmith Farm was where President John F. Kennedy married First Lady Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy
He pointed out the little lighthouse in front of the private compound where Jackie liked to stay when she was in Newport. He referred to the lighthouse as “Jackie’s doll house.” Also, he told us that The Great Gatsby was filmed here — another one of my fav books and movies.
Soon the afternoon winds took us back to shore. It had been a lovely way to spend a few hours in Newport.
Lunch at The Black Pearl
“Let’s do lunch at The Black Pearl,” I said to E since we exited at Banister Wharf. Several friends had recommended it. The Black Pearl is “an institution” in Newport and known for its clam chowder and seafood. We arrived around 1:30 pm without reservations and had a short wait for patio seating. I liked sitting by the waterfront and watching the boats go in and out as I ate my yummy cod wrap with crispy fries.
The Black Pearl is a landmark waterfront restaurant in Newport, RI
Shopping on Thames St
After lunch, we spent an hour or so window shopping on Thames St and its neighboring streets. There are an abundance of boutiques for high-end summer attire and beach-style accessories and homegoods. Antique shops are also plentiful. I especially liked the award-winning gift shop owned by artist Eileen Pollina. Her whimsical graphics of scenic Newport can be found at her downtown shop at 65 Touro Street.
Artist Eileen Pollina has a unique gift shop of her Newport artwork near Thames St
Saying goodbye to Newport
Before we knew it, Thursday was here and our Newport vacay was about to come to an end. “We can’t leave without seeing the mansions on Ocean Drive,” I said to E. Per Discover Newport: “This 10-mile drive along the southernmost tip of Newport includes views of the majestic coastline, grand mansions, Brenton Point State Park and more.”
The mansions on Ocean Drive were quite grand
It was a wonderful finale for my first-time visit. OMG, the views were amazing and each home was prettier than the next. Can’t wait to go back next year.
Judi
*Disclosure of Material Connection: Discover Newport provided me with a VIP card media pass. Regardless, I only recommend products, places or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
