Newport Winter Festival

Newport Winter Festival, Feb 14-23, is a great time to explore the area and attractions without the crowds. Hotel prices which are very high in season will be significantly cheaper in the winter months. It’s only about 1 1/2 hours from Boston. The beaches are still beautiful, so bundle up, take a brisk walk n the beach, and enjoy some fun activities during the Winter festival week. The week coincides with school vacation, so check out the Festival schedule, there’s lots of kid’s activities. Here’s a sampling of things to do:

• Chili Cook-off (28th Annual), Newport Marriott Hotel, America’s Cup Avenue
• Music – Newport Marriott is hosting shows with tribute bands on 2/14 weekend. Little Lies- Fleetwood Mac, Benny & the Jets/Elton John, and Jimmy Buffet
• Comedy Show; Friday evening at Hotel Viking
• Beer Dinner at the Mooring Restaurant. Visiting brewmaster will guide guests through a selection of beers paired with a distinct menu specially prepared by the Mooring chefs 
• Epoxy Board Workshop with Wine Sampling , Newport Harbor Island Resort

See our post on our favorite Newport Beach, Sachuset (2nd Beach) and for a list of fun areas to explore in Newport.

Easton’s Beach (First Beach) on Memorial Blvd is a great choice for a winter walk. It’s close to town, and situated at the beginning of Cliff Walk, which we highly recommend. It’s beautiful in winter, without the crowds of summer! Trail openings are also at Narragansett Avenue, and Ruggles Avenue.
The “Gilded Age” mansions are all open in winter, and a good indoor activity for a cold day.