Today the Governor of Massachusetts, Charlie Baker, announced a new set of travel restrictions for people entering Massachusetts, whether they are residents or not. Essentially, if you are coming from anywhere outside of the the Northeast (or Hawaii), you will need to either provide a negative COVID-19 test result or quarantine for 14-days to comply with the new Massachusetts travel rules. If you are a Massachusetts resident traveling home from a trip to another part of the country, you must adhere to these policies as well. However, since all the states in the Northeast have successfully flattened the curve, just as Massachusetts has, we can all still travel freely in our region right here. Therefore, think about heading an hour south to Newport, RI to stay at the brand new Hammetts Hotel. Here are a few reasons why you will want to add this hot new hotel to your summer travel list.
Hammetts Hotel, Newport, RI
Located on Hammetts Wharf in the center of Downtown Newport, Hammetts Hotel opened just a few weeks ago. With eighty-four rooms, lots of spacious common areas and a large outdoor deck, the hotel has plenty to offer guests looking for a safe and socially distanced vacation spot this season. Many rooms also have amazing views of the harbor and guests can enjoy waking up to views of the ships each morning.
Waking up to the sights and sounds of a bustling marina is just what you want when you visit Newport, RI. I loved wearing my Wicked Dog gear for our morning coffee run down the wharf! The misty mornings in Newport are so magical, if you wake up early enough you can catch the ships in the fog before the sun burns it all off! Such a charming way to start the day.
What to Do in Newport, RI
There is so much to do in Newport. On our past visits we have toured the Newport Mansions, rode bikes down Bellevue Avenue and shopped till we dropped! On this visit we wanted to soak up the seaside atmosphere and spent some time at Easton Beach, which the locals call “First Beach”.
But we of course made time for a little stroll on the Cliff Walk and passed by a few beautiful mansions!
Where to Eat in Newport
Newport has so many amazing restaurants, but whenever we go we always try to enjoy as much fresh seafood as we can, so here are a few of our seafood focused favorites in Newport, RI.
Midtown Oyster
Midtown Oyster is a Newport classic. Located in the heart of the hustle and bustle, it is a restaurant you just won’t miss. Their rooftop and sidewalk patio are open in addition to their dining room. Their famous oysters and grilled fish dinners hit the spot after a day of exploring.
One Bellevue
One Bellevue is one of the grand dames of Newport. The Hotel Viking recently got a facelift and One Bellevue did as well. The dining room was redone in lots of light, bright tones, with a subtle nod to Newport’s nautical history. And the menu is as fresh as ever as well. The team is constantly rotating both food and drink to fit with the season.
Right now the scallops, mussels and the salmon are all must trys. Also, whiskey lovers should check out their selection of house made infused whiskeys.
Surf Club
Aptly named the Surf Club, this waterfront hotspot is located just around the corner from the Hammetts Hotel. A great place to grab lunch and do a bit of people watching, Surf Club should definitely be added to your list. Their tuna poke bowl is just fabulous!
Belles Café
Last but not least, Belles Café in the Newport Shipyard is the insider’s choice for Sunday Brunch. Located right on the water, Belle’s serves up brunch classics with a view. Be sure to call for a reservation, they are usually packed on the weekends.
