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Maybe it was the chance to sail John F. Kennedys beloved route along Narragansett Bay.

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Photo: Getty Images

Maybe it wasGrace KellysHigh Societydigs.

Or maybe it was the grass courts of the Tennis Hall of Fame seen on HBOsThe Gilded Age.

Newport is unique for its blend of Gilded Age architecture and low-frills lobster shacks on the wharf.

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Photo: Courtesy of Gardiner House

(Curious about whats in the Castle Hill Inns turret?

As for the activities on offer?

(Gardiner House also offers a beach picnic experienceparasols and alland provides bicycles for roving the town.)

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Photo: Courtesy of Gardiner House

The overall design aesthetic conveys a cinematic feel, says Swoon founder Samantha Sano.

The best way to experience it?

To spend the night in one of the historic manses positioned directly on the scenic walk.

Newport Rhode Island Travel Guide The Best Places to Stay Eat and Shop

Courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection

Rooms like the Moroccan, Greek Revival, and English Tudor are each outfitted in honor of their name.

On the dining font, there are three options, all stand-outs: The more casual Living Room.

The Cafe, and Cara the fine dining experience with a view from executive chef Jacob Jasinski.

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Seats inside and out offer views of Newport Harbor.

Order a dozen oysters with a bottle of bubbly and watch the sailboats and mega-yachts pass by all afternoon.

Enjoy wines, fresh craft beer, and farm-to-table dining experiences at the scenic spotwhich is absolutely kid-friendly.

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Photo: Courtesy of Nick Mele

Sweetgreen, eat your heart out.

Now boasting two locations in Newport, The Nitro Bar is the perfect spot for an afternoon pick-me-up.

If youre in town as a lucky house guest, get your hostess present here!

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The wares on offer at the Newport Lampshade Company

Spring Street Bookstore

Its a literary treasure chest with enough charm to put Kindles to shame.

Spring Street Bookstore offers new and used titles inside its quaint shop.

Check out Monelle’s for chic yachting-themed accessories and the perfect cashmere sweater to stay warm on chillier nights.

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The historic Rosecliff Mansion.

For men’s and women’s outerwear, Royal Male pulls from the best local and European designers.

The spa also offers hot stone massages and custom facials to keep your muscles and pores happy too.

If you do one thing in Newport, its to visit all these.

Newport cant be fully experienced until youve done it by water.

to scenic tours or Newport or picnic lunches.

Once youve cruised Ocean Drive in Elizabeth, it’s hard to do it any other way.