As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may have Amazon and/or other affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through the links I provide (at no extra cost to you). Please read my Disclosure Policy for more information. Thank you for supporting the work I put into this site!
Newport Rhode Island Two Day Itinerary First-Timers
It is difficult to determine how to best use your 48 hours in Newport Rhode Island, there are so many great things to see and do. Newport Rhode Island is famous for its Gilded Age mansions and America’s Cup competition. This 2-day itinerary is jam-packed with must-see sites and top attractions, including, Cliff Walk, Newport Harbor, Easton’s Beach, Bowen’s Wharf, Bannister Wharf, Thames Street, and more. Looking for more options? Check these additional things to do in Newport to supplement this itinerary. Have more time? Add a day trip from Newport. It is possible to travel the world with limited PTO, here’s how to visit Newport in two days. Enjoy your time out of the office!
READ Two Week New England Road Trip Itinerary: Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut
Day One: Cliffwalk, Mansions, and Bannister Wharf
9 am Take a walk on the Cliff Walk and take the 40 Steps down to the beach.
11 am Check out the Castle Hill Lighthouse and have lunch on the lawn at Castle Hill Inn.
1 pm Tour Chateau-sur-Mer, one of the first Bellevue Ave mansions.
2 pm Tour the Elms mansion, consider adding on the servant life tour.
3 pm Tour Marble House, a Vanderbilt summer cottage.
5 pm Shop the boutiques on Thames Street or relax in an Adirondack chair with a cocktail on Bannister Wharf. Have dinner at the Black Pearl before returning to the hotel.
Day Two: Ocean Drive, Mansions, and Bowen’s Wharf
9 am Take a drive along Ocean Drive before the road gets busy. Stop for photos along the way, and don’t miss the Ida Lewis Yacht Club.
10:30 am Go for a walk on Easton’s Beach and have lunch at Flo’s Clam Shack.
1 pm Tour Rosecliff Mansion, filming location of Great Gatsby.
3 pm Tour the Breakers, a Vanderbilt summer cottage.
5 pm Take a harbor cruise out to the Rose Island Lighthouse. Shop for souvenirs on Bowen’s Wharf and have dinner at The Landing before returning to the hotel.
Be sure to check the Rhode Island Office of Tourism website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.
Bookmark and Pin 48 Hours in Newport Rhode Island
Plan Your Trip to Newport Rhode Island
Rhode Island Travel Guide
Pick up a Rhode Island Travel Guide from Amazon.com to browse on the plane.
Book Your Accommodation in Newport Rhode Island Now
Spending the night? Search Booking.com and VRBO in one place to find the perfect property!
Newport Rhode Island Attractions and Day Tours
The best attractions sell out! Don’t chance it, get your tickets now and relax when you arrive.
Travel Essentials
Need a universal travel adaptor, power bank charger, or packing cubes? Save time at my Amazon shop and have travel essentials delivered to your home.
Have a great vacation!