There’s plenty of things to do in Newport RI this fall. The city transforms into a canvas of burnt oranges, reds, and yellows each fall, setting the stage for an endless list of memorable experiences. With its New England charm and coastal beauty, Newport offers a variety of events that celebrate the rich cultural fabric and natural splendor of the city. From mouth-watering food festivals to invigorating outdoor activities, here’s our expanded list of the top 16 things to do in Newport RI this fall.
- 1. Restaurant Week – Nov 3-12. The top of our list of things to do in Newport RI this fall.
- 2. Festival in the Park, Festa Italiana – Sept 30
- 3. Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival – Oct 14,15
- 4. Broadway Street Fair – Oct 14
- 5. Chanler at Cliff Walk – Apple Cider Bar
- 6. Audrain Newport & Concours Motor Week – Sept 28 – Oct 1
- 7. Trinity Church Pumpkin Patch – Oct 13-31
- 8. Pell Bridge Run – Oct 15
- 9. Cabinet of Curiosities at the Vanderbilt – Oct 28
- 10. Breakfast at Atlantic Grill – Pumpkin Pancakes
- 11. Harbor Cruises – Available through mid-October
- 12. Ghost Tours
- 13. Hayrides
- 14. Rail Bike Tours
- 15. Corn Maze at Escobar’s Highland Farm
- 16. Pick-Your-Own Experiences
1. Restaurant Week – Nov 3-12. The top of our list of things to do in Newport RI this fall.
Discover the gastronomic wonders of Newport during Restaurant Week. This ten-day extravaganza provides the perfect opportunity to explore the city’s dining scene, from the coziest bistros to the most elegant fine-dining establishments. Enjoy prix fixe menus at discounted prices and discover your new favorite eatery.
2. Festival in the Park, Festa Italiana – Sept 30
Celebrate Italian heritage in style at the Festival in the Park. The festival includes more than just a meatball challenge and an Italian heritage parade; it’s a full-on extravaganza featuring live music, cooking demonstrations, and an array of Italian foods and wines that transport you straight to the streets of Rome or Venice.
3. Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival – Oct 14,15
Nestled against the backdrop of the Atlantic, the Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival is a tribute to Newport’s fishing heritage. Fresh oysters, clams, and other seafood treats are the stars of the show. Pair your seafood dishes with local craft beers or regional wines and enjoy live bands performing throughout the event.
4. Broadway Street Fair – Oct 14
Broadway Street Fair is not just another street fair; it’s a cultural festival that celebrates Newport’s rich and diverse community. As you wander from Equality Park through Farewell Street, you’ll encounter an array of local artists displaying their crafts, multiple stages featuring live music, and food stalls serving up local delicacies.
5. Chanler at Cliff Walk – Apple Cider Bar
What better way to welcome the fall than by sipping hot apple cider at Chanler at Cliff Walk? As you enjoy your drink, relish the panoramic views of the ocean, accented by the vivid colors of autumn leaves. The warm, spiced apple cider epitomizes the feeling of fall in a single cup. The Chanler is one of Newport’s top luxury hotels, click here to learn more about it. Even if you’re not an apple cider fan, the 5 spot on our things to do in Newport RI this fall list is a must as it has a full bar and great outdoor seating overlooking the Cliff Walk and ocean.
6. Audrain Newport & Concours Motor Week – Sept 28 – Oct 1
For lovers of classic cars and luxury automobiles, the Audrain Newport & Concours Motor Week is an unparalleled experience. Over four days, you can attend seminars from automotive industry experts, dine in fine-dining pop-ups, and of course, admire an exquisite collection of rare and vintage cars. It’s a must-see event for motor enthusiasts.
7. Trinity Church Pumpkin Patch – Oct 13-31
Set in the historic district, Trinity Church’s Pumpkin Patch offers a nostalgic experience. Beyond just pumpkin picking, there are hayrides and small games for the kids, making it a complete family outing. It’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon, especially if you’re looking to capture some great fall photos.
8. Pell Bridge Run – Oct 15
Experience the thrill of the Pell Bridge Run, a 4-mile race that takes you across the iconic Pell Bridge. The panoramic views of the Newport Harbor and the fall foliage make the run more than just a race; it’s an unforgettable experience that’s sure to be a highlight of your fall season.If you want a sense of accomplishment on your trip, the 8th spot on our things to do in Newport RI this fall is up your alley.
9. Cabinet of Curiosities at the Vanderbilt – Oct 28
This uniquely themed event at the Vanderbilt is like stepping into a world of wonders and oddities. Perfectly timed just days before Halloween, this cabinet of curiosities will intrigue you with rare artifacts, strange collections, and perhaps even a few spooky tales. This might very well be the most unique experience on our list of things to do in Newport RI this fall.
10. Breakfast at Atlantic Grill – Pumpkin Pancakes
Atlantic Grill transforms the humble pancake into a fall culinary masterpiece with their seasonal pumpkin pancakes. Topped with fresh whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon, these pancakes capture the essence of fall in every bite. This is our favorite breakfast spot on the island.
11. Harbor Cruises – Available through mid-October
Take advantage of the moderate fall weather to hop on a harbor cruise. Whether you opt for a sunset cruise with a loved one or a more educational tour that dives into the history of Newport, the harbor cruises offer a fresh perspective on this charming city.
Newport Cruises
Here are some available cruises around Newport Harbor or Narragansett Bay:
- Evening Cocktail Cruise of Narragansett Bay – Check for availability
- Scenic Narragansett Bay Cruise – Check for availability
- Afternoon Cruise | Gansett Cruises – Check for availability
- Morning Mimosa Cruise – Check for availability
12. Ghost Tours
For those seeking a blend of history and the supernatural, Newport’s ghost tours offer the perfect mix. Lantern-led by experienced guides, these 90-minute tours will take you through haunted sites and share tales that range from mysterious to downright eerie. Perfect for thrill-seekers or history buffs. This is definitely the spookiest pick on our top things to do in Newport RI this fall.
13. Hayrides
Nothing screams “fall” like a classic hayride. Whether it’s a romantic ride for two at Pachet Brook Tree Farm or a family outing at Escobar’s Highland Farm, hayrides offer a wholesome, rustic experience that perfectly captures the spirit of the season. If you like “traditional” fall activities, the 13th spot on our list of top things to do in Newport RI is for you!
14. Rail Bike Tours
Enjoy the scenic beauty of Narragansett Bay like never before on a Rail Bike Tour. These pedal-powered adventures take you along disused railway tracks through lush landscapes and past panoramic vistas. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to see the sights.
15. Corn Maze at Escobar’s Highland Farm
Get lost, literally, in the Corn Maze at Escobar’s Highland Farm. The intricate design challenges both young and old, offering a memorable day of fun and problem-solving. And for those visiting closer to Halloween, the maze becomes a haunted spectacle you won’t want to miss.
16. Pick-Your-Own Experiences
For hands-on fall fun, various farms like Sweet Berry Farm and Old Stone Orchard offer pick-your-own experiences. Whether it’s apples or pumpkins you’re after, spending a day at the farm is a quintessential fall activity that delights kids and adults alike. We round out our top things to do in Newport RI this fall list with another “traditional” autumn activity.
From culinary festivals to family-friendly pumpkin patches, there are many things to do in Newport RI this fall. So mark your calendar, grab your coziest sweater, and get ready to explore all that this charming New England town has to offer during the most colorful season of the year.
