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Getting Around Newport

Getting Around Newport

Newport Rhode Island, USA Travel Guide

Tour Buses & Water Shuttles

Tour Buses and Hop-on-Hop-off Services: Viking Tours of Newport offers popular trolley journeys that cover popular attractions including Ocean Drive, the mansions, and downtown. Some tours are hop-on-hop-off, allowing you to disembark at various points and reboard later, while others are continuous narrated tours offering an excellent overview of the city's highlights. These tours are a convenient way to get an introduction to Newport.

Boat Taxis and Water Transportation: The Newport Water Shuttle operates seasonally, connecting various points around Newport Harbor, like Perrotti Park, Goat Island, and Fort Adams. This option offers a unique perspective of the harbor and easy access to attractions across the water without dealing with land traffic or parking.

Harbor Tour Options

  • Numerous companies offer scenic harbor cruises.
  • Sailing tours on historic schooners like the Adirondack II or Madeleine are available.
  • Sunset cruises depart from various wharves, including Bowen's Wharf and Bannister's Wharf.
  • These tours offer lovely views of the city skyline, mansions, and the Pell Bridge from the water.

Trolley Tours

A practical method to gain an introduction to the city''s key features.

Water Shuttles

Offers unique harbor views and access to attractions across the water.

Accessibility

RIPTA buses are wheelchair accessible. Check mansion websites for specific details.

Unique Local Transport

Non-Existent Systems
  • Newport does not feature cable cars.
  • Funiculars are not present in Newport.
  • Other unique mountain or cliff-side transport systems are absent.
Terrain & Needs
  • Newport's terrain, while gently hilly, does not require such infrastructure.
  • The existing road and pedestrian networks generally meet transportation needs.
  • Traditional transport modes suffice for finding your way in the city's landscape.

Accessibility Services for Mobility Needs

RIPTA Buses

All are wheelchair accessible, with ramps or lifts.

Newport Mansions

Most have some amount of accessibility, with accessible first floors at major mansions.

Cliff Walk

Northern, paved sections are generally accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.

Historic Sidewalks

Can be uneven, with cobblestones, which may pose challenges.

Walking & Cycling

Newport is a walkable city, specifically downtown. The Cliff Walk provides a 3.5-mile scenic path along the coastline. It offers unparalleled views from the ocean on a single side and the magnificent Gilded Age mansions on the other. Portions of the northern end are paved and relatively easy to stroll, rendering them accessible to most. The southern sections, however, become rugged, rocky, and uneven, requiring sturdy footwear and careful footing.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Downtown Newport (Thames Street, Bowen's Wharf, Bannister's Wharf) is very pedestrian-friendly.
  • Bustling having stores, restaurants, bars, and historic buildings.
  • You can spend hours exploring on foot.
  • Ocean Drive, while scenic, also features sidewalks popular for walking, jogging, and cycling.

Walking Tour Options

  • Numerous companies offer guided walking tours focusing on Newport's history (colonial, Gilded Age, ghost stories).
  • These tours provide in-depth commentary and local knowledge.
  • Many online resources and guidebooks offer self-guided walking tours.
  • Newport Mansions provide excellent self-guided audio tours (often included in admission).

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

  • Ocean Drive is the premier cycling route, with wide shoulders or dedicated bike lanes.
  • Ten Mile Drive includes Ocean Drive and other scenic, generally bike-friendly roads.
  • Dedicated bike paths are limited outside specific areas; most cycling occurs on shared roads.
  • Always be aware of vehicle traffic, especially on narrower roads in historic areas.
  • Helmets are advisable for all cyclists.
  • Newport is generally safe; no specific "no-go" areas exist for safety reasons.

Specialized Transport & Accessibility

Tour Buses

Viking Tours of Newport offers popular trolley tours covering major attractions.

Water Shuttles

The Newport Water Shuttle operates seasonally, connecting various points around Newport Harbor.

Accessibility Resources

Newport's official tourism website or attraction websites are the best resources for detailed accessibility information.

Accessibility Services for Travelers with Mobility Needs

Newport, as a historic city, poses some difficulties for travelers with mobility issues, but efforts have been made to improve accessibility. It is always wise to contact attractions or tour operators directly in advance to ensure you have the most up-to-date information and so they can make any necessary arrangements for your visit.

Public Transport Accessibility

  • All RIPTA buses are wheelchair accessible.
  • Buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and designated seating areas.
  • This makes public transport a viable option for travelers with accessibility needs.
  • RIPTA offers a reliable and affordable way to get around the city.

Mansion & Outdoor Access

  • Most Newport Mansions offer some accessibility.
  • The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms usually have accessible first floors, some with elevators.
  • Northern, paved sections of the Cliff Walk (Easton Beach to Narragansett Ave) are generally accessible.
  • Southern, rugged sections of the Cliff Walk are not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

Challenges & Resources

Historic Sidewalks

Newport's historic the walking surfaces can be uneven. Some areas have cobblestones, which may pose challenges for mobility.

Plan for varying ground conditions.

Advance Planning

Contact attractions or tour operators directly beforehand for particular accessibility details and to coordinate assistance.

Pre-trip communication is .

Official Resources

Newport's official tourism website provides detailed accessibility information for various sites and activities.

Consult official tourism sites.

Specialized Options Summary

Tour Experiences
  • Viking Tours offers narrated trolley tours covering major city highlights.
  • Some tours are hop-on-hop-off, allowing flexible exploration at various stops.
  • Newport Water Shuttle connects harbor points, providing unique water views.
Water Perspectives
  • Harbor cruises and sailing tours are available from city wharves.
  • These seasonal water tours capture the city's maritime beauty plus majestic homes.
  • No cable cars or funiculars; Newport's terrain suits existing transport.

Important Accessibility Notes

  • Newport's historic nature means some areas pose challenges for mobility.
  • Sidewalks that are not level and cobblestones in older sections might be difficult.
  • Contact specific attractions beforehand to check accessibility and arrange assistance.
  • Newport Hospital is the main medical facility for any immediate health needs.
  • Be mindful of weather conditions, notably heat and humidity in summer.
  • Take precautions against ticks, especially when exploring natural areas.
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended for unexpected medical emergencies or trip disruptions.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings and protect your valuables from petty theft.

Enhancing Your Trip with Expert Advice

Planning ahead for specialized transportation and accessibility needs will contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable visit to Newport. Whether on foot, by bus, or by boat, the city offers numerous ways to see its sights.

Maximizing Your Movement

  • Utilize RIPTA for cost-effective travel between downtown and major attractions.
  • Consider taxis or ride-sharing for direct trips or when public transport is less convenient.
  • Car rentals offer ultimate freedom for exploring beyond city limits.
  • Bicycle rentals are ideal for scenic rides along Ocean Drive.

Specialized Tour Options

  • Hop on a trolley tour for a narrated overview of Newport's history and sights.
  • Enjoy a harbor cruise or sailing tour for unique views from the water.
  • Use the water shuttle to traverse Newport Harbor conveniently.
  • Confirm specific accessibility information directly with operators for smooth visits.

Navigating Newport's Unique Landscape

Seamless Transit

Effective transit options allow easy movement from one sight to another.

  • RIPTA buses cover routes.
  • Taxis and ride-shares for direct trips.
  • Rental cars for broader exploration.
Exploring on Foot

Downtown is highly walkable, with many sites close by.

  • Cliff Walk offers scenic pedestrian paths.
  • Walking tours reveal historical narratives.
  • Foot travel is environmentally friendly.
Accessible Journeys

Newport is making efforts to accommodate all travelers.

  • Wheelchair-accessible public buses.
  • Many mansions have accessible areas.
  • Pre-booking specific assistance is advisable.

Travel Advice

Be Prepared
  • Always keep digital and physical copies of important documents separate.
  • Pack a basic first aid kit with relevant additions for the local environment.
  • A portable power bank for your devices is always a good idea.
Stay Informed
  • Check weather forecasts regularly, especially during peak seasons for storms.
  • Watch out for possible traffic plus parking difficulties, notably in summer.
  • Book tickets and rentals well in advance to secure availability and better rates.

Your Newport Journey

Newport awaits with its unique blend of history, coastal beauty, and culture. Thoughtful preparation will help you experience all it has to offer.

Enjoy your visit to this outstanding Rhode Island gem!

Getting Around Newport. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental