U.S. Naval War College lawn with chairs overlooking the water.

Newport, Rhode Island

Scenic coastal views. Bustling seaports. Colonial-era architecture. Sprawling estates. Newport, Rhode Island, offers so much to see and do, from historic and cultural attractions to recreational activities, nature, and nightlife.

While you’re in town

When you’re visiting U.S. Naval War College (NWC), we’ll hope you’ll have time to explore Newport and our surrounding coastal communities, including Bristol and Jamestown. Whether you’re interested in setting sail, sampling local fare, or site-seeing, there’s something for you.

Beaches, Boating & Watersports

Relax on the beach, go for a refreshing swim, or enjoy the wind in your hair on a sailboat. Our areas has several beaches, many with hiking trails and picnic facilities. If you’re interested in boating, kayaking, or even diving, surfing or parasailing, you’ll find many tour and watersports rental outfits.

The Mansions

Dozens of wealthy families retreated to their summer “cottages” in Newport, many of which are now open for tours. One of the most notable is The Breakers, owned by the Vanderbilt family.

Farms and Orchards

Newport and the surrounding area is home to many farms and orchards. Find a pick-your-own place and fill up on fresh fruit, or experience early farm life at Coggeshall Farm Museum.

And so much more

You’ll also find art galleries, shops, wineries, breweries, restaurants, performance venues, historic meeting houses, and so much more. Consult the local tourism authority or other resources to learn more of what Newport has to offer and browse upcoming event calendar. You never know what might be happening while you’re in town.

Discover greater New England

If you’re coming to NWC from across the country or across the ocean and have not yet visited New England, you may also want to venture into some other cities in our little corner of the U.S. Here’s an idea of estimated driving time to other points of interest:

  • Providence, Rhode Island - just over an hour
  • Mystic, Connecticut - just over an hour
  • Boston - hour and 45 minutes
  • Cape Cod, Massachusetts - hour and 45 minutes

A bit further of a scenic drive can take you to places like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Green Mountains of Vermont, and the White Mountains of New Hampshire—with plenty of picturesque towns and unique attractions along the way. 

More Information on the College

News, Media, & Events

Issues in National Security: "Robots that Fly, Swim, & Crawl"

Mar. 19, 2024
4:30 p.m.
Spruance Auditorium, U.S. Naval War College, 686 Cushing Road, Newport, RI 02841

Executive Level Operational Level of Warfare Course

Mar. 18-22, 2024
Evans Hall, U.S. Naval War College, 686 Cushing Rd, Newport, RI 02841

The U.S. Merchant Marine: Back to the Future?

Jan. 01, 2016
Naval War College Review
Article Publication

Shaping the security environment

Feb. 15, 2019
The Newport Papers
Article Publication