Last Updated on August 4, 2023 by Katrina
History buffs and looky-loos all love Newport, Rhode Island. The coastal hub was a hotbed for mansions back in the Gilded Age, and today you can still explore many of those manses, located just outside downtown, while also enjoying the shops and restaurants along the waterfront. Staying in the downtown area offers you the best access to Newport’s charms with the bonus of lovely water views. Here are the best hotels in Newport, Rhode Island that channel the destination’s distinctive personality.
The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection (41 Mary St.; 833-242-8850) Downtown
“Gilded Age–worthy” is how Condé Nast Traveler describes this Auberge Resorts Collection hotel that has a serious Newport street cred. It was originally built in 1909 for the mistress of playboy Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt. Today, the brick-exterior hotel with contemporary décor balances “moody decadence and clean, classic modernism,” writes the magazine. There’s also a small pool and a speakeasy-style bar. “The place is simply gorgeous—it’s like stepping back in time,” writes a Tripadvisor user. “The staff are amazing, and the food is simply delicious—highly recommend.” >> Book this hotel for less
Newport Marriott (25 America’s Cup Ave; 401-849-1000) Downtown
USA Today characterizes the ambience at this 319-room Marriott as “casual contemporary” and likes that it “overlooks Newport Harbor and the marina—many rooms have views of the water.” A Tripadvisor user finds it “nautical” in a unique way. “The rooms are very modern, with balconies overlooking an internal area—it felt like a cruise ship. The hotel also has everything you need—restaurants, bar, small shop, gym, spa, swimming pool, and is walkable to the marina area.” >> Book this hotel for less
The Brenton Hotel (31 America’s Cup Ave.; 401-849-3100) Downtown
Enjoy harbor views at this 57-room boutique hotel decorated with light woods and white linens. Condé Nast Traveler commends it as a “contemporary newcomer on the waterfront, with nautical decor and harbor views, plus a happening rooftop bar.” Even with the chic ambience, a Google reviewer is impressed with the welcoming personality, writing “It felt like family the whole four days we stayed there. The valets and the front desk are amazing, and the best shopping is just outside your door.” >> Book this hotel for less
Newport Harbor Hotel (49 America’s Cup Ave.; 800-955-2558) Downtown
“Easy access to downtown and the waterfront,” writes USA Today of this hotel where the 133 rooms offer floor-to-ceiling views of either the harbor or city. Public spaces include a sundeck, an indoor swimming pool, and a locally sourced seafood restaurant. While one Tripadvisor reviewer notes that “the rooms were small and the bathroom lacked storage” another writes that “proximity to the marina and the restaurants and shops could not be beat. Lovely views and plenty of parking.” >> Book this hotel for less
Hotel Viking (1 Bellevue Ave.; 401-847-3300) Downtown
The 208-room member of the Historic Hotels of America embraces its 1926 origins by way of fun details—like brass skeleton keys hanging behind the front desk—but it also offers modern comforts like a spa, loaner bikes, and a rooftop bar. Some Google reviewers feel that the rooms were the only possible weak link. “Beautiful historic hotel—lobby was amazing, but the room itself needed TLC,” writes one. A Tripadvisor user adds that “the location is great. A few minutes’ walk to the mansions and to the downtown area by the water.” >> Book this hotel for less
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