The ship excursions really didn't appeal, so we opted to walk around the town after we rode the tender in. The shops were varied and interesting and we had one of the best meals of the trip at The Moorings. ...
We had travelled to Newport before, so spend the time walking along the Cliff Walk and back through the nearby streets, admiring the architecture. Enjoyed an excellent lobster roll at Bowen's Wharf seafood festival. ...
We didn't use any of the packaged excursions. We just took the trolley to a couple of the mansions so we could stay at each one as long as we wanted to. This worked out great. ...
Newport was gorgeous, and very walkable if you are in good shape. Start early in the morning and walk to the head of the Cliff Walk, then take your time strolling along the water. The tender ride takes about a 1/2 hour, and the line to get back on the ship in the afternoon is very long - so plan accordingly. ...
Rhode Island is a beautiful state. We'd been there before so we walked around the town, and visited the places we did before that we liked. Try The Moorings. Great "Chowdah", and fun bar time! ...