Getting married in Newport? Congratulations! You can’t go wrong with the gorgeous scenery and romantic atmosphere of coastal Rhode Island. Make sure you plan extra time to spend with your family, friends, and out of town guests while fully experiencing the area with these Newport, RI wedding activities.

Wine tasting

Wineries offer a great place for bachelorette parties, private dinners, or just visiting with guests while tasting some of the local vintages. Some of our favorites are newly renovated Newport Vineyards, and Greenvale Vineyards. Set down a grassy dirt road that feels like it’s out of a romance movie, Greenvale has rows and row of vineyards to get lost in, some of which overlook the water.

Beach days

You can’t go wrong parking yourself in the sand on a lounge chair, or wandering along the water’s edge at one of Newport’s beaches. First Beach, also called Easton’s Beach, is just beyond the Cliff Walk. Stake a claim to some sand, pull out a good book and your picnic lunch, and even out your tan. Don’t forget to take a ride on the historic carousel! To venture slightly beyond where most tourists stop, continue on into Middletown and visit Second Beach, adjacent to the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge. Waves are a little bigger there (if you’re up for surfing), too. Third beach is your go-to spot if you have little ones in tow and want to avoid all but the gentlest waves.

Sailing!

Sure, we may be biased, but we think spending a few hours sailing in one of the most beautiful harbors in the world is a great way to spend a morning, afternoon, or evening. Choose from one of our public sails or charter a boat for a private event that your guests will never forget as you weave out of Newport Harbor and sail past historic lighthouses, mansions, and more around Narragansett Bay.

Drinks at Castle Hill

The iconic Castle Hill lighthouse, along famed Ocean Drive, shouts “summer in Newport.” Since stopping by is already a must-do item on any Newport visitor’s bucket list, why not stay a while and catch up with your guests over drinks? The Castle Hill Inn features west-facing outdoor seating overlooking the entrance to the bay, where you can take in a sunset with a fresh breeze, while watching boats float on by. Your wedding worries may just float away with them.

Jamestown Newport Ferry

A round-trip ticket on this seasonal ferry lets you hop on and hop off at numerous destinations around the bay. We recommend heading out to Jamestown for a delicious meal at J22, Fish (helmed by nationally recognized Executive Chef Matthew MacCartney), or Simpatico. Or just grab an ice cream cone at the shop steps from the docks. If you’re going with a group of 10 or more, you can get a bulk discount on tickets purchased online.

Relax at Bodhi Spa

Take a break from the hubbub of wedding planning to de-stress on lower Thames Street. Schedule a massage or facial at the Bodhi Spa, or relax with their signature Water Journey hydrotherapy experience. With its alternating hot and cold pools, sauna, and aromatherapy steam room, you’ll come away rejuvenated and at peace.

Eat!

No trip to Newport would be complete without dropping in on some of our great local joints and world-class restaurants. Stop by Jo’s American Bistro for a delicious take on traditional American fare, and pop into Fluke for wine, great cocktails and small plates to hit the spot between wedding events. Craving something different? Looking for a brunch spot? Check out Newport’s top restaurants by category.

Whether you’ve booked your nuptials for summer or winter, there’s always a bounty of fun and culture to be had, extending your quality time with guests and making the most of your wedding event. So sit back, relax, take in the sights, and enjoy your time in Newport!