Downtown

The name pretty much explains why this is an ideal daytrip for kids. Take a picnic (stop by Le Petit Gourmet enroute) and head 20 minutes out of town to Portsmouth. There’s a mansion on the property with an antique toy collection, but the real attraction is the multitude of topiary animals, geometric shapes, and manicured flower gardens outdoors.

Regardless of whether you actually possess a cottage or garden, you’ll most likely walk away with a little (or big) something from this inspiring indoor and outdoor decor store—or, at the very least, a few ideas for decorating your own place. The selection of bric-a-brac, new and vintage furniture, and garden decor is constantly replenished, all reflected in their great displays.

This classic neighborhood diner serves up gargantuan portions and bottomless cups of coffee for breakfast, brunch, and lunch every day starting at 6am. It’s nothing fancy, and the décor is expectedly kitschy with red vinyl booths, stools, and a long formica counter, but it’s worth making a stop for breakfast. You will likely brave a line of tourists and locals waiting for Blueberry stuffed French Toast or Eggs Benedict with lobster.

The tavern dates back to 1673, when it was a colonial watering hole, and it looks it with patriotic flag curtains, deep fireplaces, and woodsy interiors. The food is of the delicious New England variety: Chef Rich Silvia sources local Rhode Island fish, meat, and vegetables to make traditional dishes like clam chowder, fish cakes, lobster macaroni & cheese, and clam boils. There’s a formal dining room upstairs, or stay downstairs and grab a snack and drink at the bar. There’s also a brunch menu on Sundays with local specialties like lobster stuffed omelettes and eggs benedict.

If you’re driving in on a Friday night, make this husband-and-wife helmed restaurant your first stop. Located in the northern part of town, where most restaurants are pretty tired/run-of-the-mill, this casual Mexican restaurant is the exception. Andi makes the cocktails (her cilantro-jalapeno martini is insane) while Dan heads up the kitchen, bringing his own brand of upscale Mexican to Newport. Expect perfectly battered fish tacos, a Mexican-infused kale salad, and avocado fries, which probably shouldn’t be missed.

If you need a break from all the chowder, fried clams and lobster rolls, Tallulah is a welcome respite from its neighbors on touristy Thames Street. With its whitewashed walls and beautifully plated food, they’re single-handedly elevating the town’s food scene. Chef Jake Rojas updates his four and six course prix-fixe menu often, and works with local vendors and producers to source all ingredients, which makes for a meal that’s as fresh as they come. During summer months, head to Jamestown to check out Chef Rojas’ taco truck.