Newport, RI - Fall 2025

Newport in the fall is the kind of beauty that sneaks up on you. The trees were at their peak - scattered hues of orange, yellow, and deep crimson reds dancing in the breeze as I walked beneath them, the whole town feeling like it had been dipped in autumn. I stayed in Middletown at an affordable luxury hotel in Middletown, just a 5 minute drive from all the sites. It was refreshed, clean, charming in all the right ways, and run by a staff who clearly took pride in making you feel at home.

My first night set the tone. I made a beeline to Clarke Cooke, where I had what might honestly be the best oysters of my life, paired with a sunset view that didn’t even try to be subtle about showing off. The next day was all about coastline and history- wandering quiet beaches, visiting the iconic Newport Mansions, and weaving my way through some of the most recognizable streets in town. Newport feels lived-in but elegant, like everyone knows they’re sitting on a little slice of magic.

That evening, I went to The Gardiner House, and it was… dreamy. Warm lighting, an atmosphere that felt intentionally cinematic, and food that absolutely delivered. If I could bottle the mood of that dinner, I would.

By the third day, I made my way through the Tennis Hall of Fame and did a final loop around town, popping into shops near Bannister’s Wharf before heading to the airport. It was one of those trips that didn’t try too hard — and because of that, it was perfect. Quiet, colorful, coastal, and exactly the kind of work trip reset I didn’t know I needed. Now I dream of returning again…