Newport, RI: Jackie O, Winter Surfing & Portuguese Flavor

**Uncovering the Magic of Newport, Rhode Island: An Off-Season Adventure**

When most people think of Newport, Rhode Island, they picture grand mansions, sailing regattas, and summer crowds. But what happens when you visit this charming coastal town during the off-season? Join James and Denise from the Skip Town All Stars Travel Podcast as they discover the hidden gems and unique experiences that make Newport a year-round destination.

**Staying at the Heart of Newport**

James and Denise's Newport adventure began at the Gardiner House, a brand new hotel located just steps away from the bustling Thames Street. The hotel's prime location allowed them to easily explore the town on foot, taking in the historic architecture and soaking up the local atmosphere. The Gardiner House's stunning aesthetics, top-notch amenities, and exceptional service made it the perfect home base for their off-season getaway.

**Discovering Newport's Rich History**

One of the most fascinating aspects of Newport is its rich history, which is evident in every corner of the town. From the meticulously preserved colonial houses to the opulent Gilded Age mansions, Newport is a living museum that showcases America's past. James and Denise were particularly captivated by the Breakers, a 100,000-square-foot mansion once owned by the Vanderbilt family. They also visited the Hammersmith Farm, the childhood home of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and St. Mary's Church, where she married John F. Kennedy.

**Savoring the Flavors of Newport**

No visit to Newport would be complete without indulging in the town's renowned seafood. James and Denise were delighted to find that the off-season didn't diminish the quality or variety of dining options. They enjoyed fresh catch-of-the-day at local favorites like Midtown Oysters and The Mooring, where Denise raved about her whole branzino. The couple also discovered the strong Portuguese influence on Newport's cuisine, evident in the spicy and flavorful dishes they sampled throughout their stay.

**Embracing Newport's Sailing Heritage**

Newport is known as the Sailing Capital of the World, and for good reason. The town has a long and storied history of sailing, from hosting the America's Cup races to being home to the prestigious Newport Sailing Museum. James and Denise were fascinated to learn about the town's sailing heritage and the impact it has had on the local culture and economy. They even got a glimpse of the yacht-filled harbor and the iconic Newport Bridge during their scenic drives along Ocean Drive.

**Experiencing Newport's Off-Season Charm**

Visiting Newport during the off-season allowed James and Denise to experience the town in a more intimate and authentic way. While some shops and restaurants were closed for the winter, they found that the lack of crowds made it easier to appreciate the town's natural beauty and historic charm. They enjoyed strolling along the quiet streets, admiring the colonial architecture, and taking in the stunning ocean views from the Cliff Walk.

**Learning about Newport's Quirks and Traditions**

Throughout their stay, James and Denise discovered some of Newport's unique quirks and traditions. They were surprised to learn that the town has a thriving winter surfing scene, with hardcore locals braving the icy Atlantic waters in pursuit of the perfect wave. They also found out that during the off-season, it's not uncommon for small inns to lock up for the night, leaving guests as the sole occupants of the property.

**Planning Your Own Newport Adventure**

Inspired by James and Denise's off-season adventure, you might be wondering how to plan your own Newport getaway. The good news is that Newport has something to offer visitors year-round, whether you're interested in history, food, sailing, or simply soaking up the stunning coastal scenery. Start by choosing your accommodations, whether it's a charming bed and breakfast or a luxurious hotel like the Gardiner House. Then, create an itinerary that includes some of Newport's must-see attractions, like the Cliff Walk, the mansions, and the Newport Sailing Museum. Don't forget to leave plenty of time for leisurely strolls, scenic drives, and sampling the local cuisine.

**Final Thoughts**

Newport, Rhode Island may be best known as a summer destination, but as James and Denise discovered, the town has a special magic during the off-season as well. From the stunning architecture to the delicious seafood to the rich history and traditions, Newport offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience for visitors year-round. So why not take a page from the Skip Town All Stars Travel Podcast and plan your own off-season adventure to this charming New England gem? You might just discover a new favorite destination.

5. 10 Fun Facts about Newport, RI:

1. Newport is home to the oldest continuously operating library in the United States, the Redwood Library and Athenaeum, which was founded in 1747.

2. The International Tennis Hall of Fame is located in Newport and features grass courts where tournaments are still played today.

3. Newport hosted the America's Cup sailing regatta for over 50 years, from 1930 to 1983.

4. The Breakers, the grandest of Newport's famous Gilded Age mansions, was built by Cornelius Vanderbilt II in 1895 and features 70 rooms.

5. Newport is known for its "Newport Tower," a mysterious stone structure that some believe was built by the Vikings, although this theory has been largely debunked.

6. The White Horse Tavern in Newport, established in 1673, is the oldest continuously operating tavern in the United States.

7. Newport was a major center of the slave trade in the 18th century, with many of the town's wealthy merchants participating in the Triangle Trade.

8. The Newport Folk Festival and Newport Jazz Festival are two of the oldest and most prestigious music festivals in the United States, attracting top talent from around the world.

9. Newport is home to the Newport Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile public access walkway that winds along the coast and offers stunning views of the ocean and the famous Newport mansions.

10. John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier were married at St. Mary's Church in Newport in 1953, and the reception was held at Hammersmith Farm, Jackie's childhood summer home.

6. 10 Facts about real estate, median income, crime and lifestyle in Newport, RI:

1. The median home value in Newport is $654,500, which is significantly higher than the national median of $227,700.

2. The median household income in Newport is $67,102, which is slightly higher than the national median of $60,293.

3. The cost of living in Newport is 31% higher than the national average, largely due to the high cost of housing.

4. Newport has a relatively low crime rate, with a crime index of 23 (100 being the safest), making it safer than 23% of U.S. cities.

5. Newport is known for its vibrant sailing and yachting community, with numerous marinas and yacht clubs located throughout the town.

6. The town has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues showcasing local and international talent.

7. Newport is home to several prestigious private schools, including St. George's School and The Pennfield School.

8. The town's economy is largely driven by tourism, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops catering to the influx of visitors during the summer months.

9. Newport has a high concentration of second homes and vacation rentals, with many wealthy individuals and families maintaining summer residences in the town.

10. The town has a relatively small year-round population of around 25,000 residents, but this number swells significantly during the peak summer season.