About two weeks ago, we decided we would try to take a last-minute trip to Newport, Rhode Island. Back in November when I started bedrest, I joked to Ben that I was going to book a month rental in Newport for the summer. We never did, and I am regretting that decision! Next year we will definitely be getting back to a weekly house rental situation. Both Ben and I have been visiting Newport since childhood, and it has become our favorite spot to visit together. Summers in Newport can be crazy busy and finding lodging and dinner reservations can be challenging. Add a baby and a dog into the mix, and we knew it would be a challenge to find a place that would accommodate all of our needs. Visiting during the third week in June definitely had its perks. Most schools were still in session, so things weren’t overly crowded. We even scored a street parking spot one day at the beach!
Where To Stay
During this trip, we stayed at East Isle Reserve. It checked all of our boxes with the only challenge being location. The property is located directly behind Newport Winery, which is a 10-minute drive from Thames Street and a 6-minute drive to the beach in Middletown. The unit we stayed in had a cute front porch, kitchen, two bathrooms, laundry, and a large bedroom upstairs. They provided us with a Pack n’ Play for Benny to sleep in, leaving us one less thing to pack.
Last year, we stayed at Paws on Pelham during one trip and Gurney’s on another. Paws on Pelham is in the perfect dog-friendly place. The only downside is that they do not allow children under the age of 10 to stay. If you’re looking for a place to bring your pup, I highly recommend it. We also love Hotel Viking, my parent’s favorite place to stay while in Newport.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants
- Diego’s– The food is delicious, and the drink menu is incredible! They even have a vegan menu including vegan nachos. In addition to tons of craft cocktails, they offer mocktails with Seedlip and other alcohol-removed liquors. This is a great spot to dine at with kiddos!
- White Horse Tavern – The patio is only open on the weekend. If you’re visiting during the week, leave your pup at home!
- O’Briens – Casual pub food during the day and a casual bar vibe at night.
Other Restaurants& Bars We Love
- The Mooring– If you’ve never been to Newport, eating here is a must! Family-friendly with a nice view.
- Pasta Beach– If this restaurant had a fan-club, Ben would be the president. It’s set up on Bellevue Ave, and they have an awesome outdoor patio.
- Midtown Oyster Bar- If you’re visiting without kiddos, the rooftop is a great place to dine!
- 22 Bowen’s– Delicious menu! Outdoor seating with a great harbor view.
- The Landing– The menu isn’t anything to write home about, but there is a great view! If you’re visiting without kiddos, it is a great spot to grab drinks at night. That being said, children are not allowed in the bar area. We learned that on this trip when we attempted to grab drinks after dinner, and Benny got carded at the door. 😂
- Root– for juices, smoothies, and bowls
- Drift Cafe– for coffee, breakfast, or lunch
- FoodLove Market– gourmet grab and go meals near the beach in Middletown
- Ma’s Coffee and Donuts- I don’t know how to put it other than- it’s a divy coffee shop with the most amazing coffee and donuts. (I am also totally biased since there are Portuguese items on the menu like malassadas and sweet bread).
Fun Things To Do
- Easton’s Beach
- The Cliffwalk
- Mansion Tours
- Lunch at Newport Vineyards– I should also note that there is a brewery on site. Ben doesn’t drink wine, so it was great for him to be able to do a beer-tasting instead. The menu is completely farm-to-table and absolutely incredible.
- Walk on Thames Street
- Newport Gulls Baseball Game
- Visit the Tennis Hall of Fame
- The Aquarium at Easton’s Beach
If you’ve ever been to Newport, please be sure to leave your favorite restaurants and places in the comments <3
