The Best Museums in Newport, Rhode Island: A Year-Round Guide from Hammetts Hotel
The Best Museums in Newport, Rhode Island: A Year-Round Guide from Hammetts Hotel
01.15.2025
From world-class museums to charming cafés, there’s no shortage of things to do in Newport—even with not-so-great weather. Hammetts Hotel’s central location on Bowen’s Wharf makes it the ideal—and coziest—base for a cultural journey to the best museums in Newport. Best of all, in this guide we’ve also included recommendations for nearby spots to grab a drink or a bite to eat.
1. International Tennis Hall of Fame
Distance from Hammetts Hotel: 0.8 miles (a 15-minute walk or 5-minute drive)
For fans of the sport and those who just love history, the International Tennis Hall of Fame is a must-visit. Housed in the historic Newport Casino, this museum celebrates the sport’s rich history and legends. Highlights include memorabilia from icons like Billie Jean King and Roger Federer, exhibits on the evolution of tennis fashion, and even an interactive space where you can test your own serve speed! Ideal length of visit: 1-2 hours.
Nearby Break Spot: Corner Café on Broadway for hearty brunch or coffee.
2. The Sailing Museum
Distance from Hammetts Hotel: 0.2 miles (a 5-minute walk)
Located just steps from Hammetts Hotel, The Sailing Museum is a tribute to Newport’s maritime heritage, offering engaging exhibits on sailing’s history, technology, and famous regattas like the America’s Cup (the museum showcases the prestigious race’s history and features an impressive trophy collection). Interactive displays invite visitors to try their hand at knot tying or navigating a virtual sailing course. Ideal length of visit: 1-1.5 hours.
Nearby Break Spot: Head to Coffee Grinder on Bannister’s Wharf for freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries.
3. Newport Car Museum
Distance from Hammetts Hotel: 12 miles (a 20-minute drive)
Car enthusiasts marvel at the modern Newport Car Museum, located just outside Newport in Portsmouth, featuring an impressive collection of over 85 classic and contemporary cars. The collection includes vintage Corvettes, iconic Mustangs, sleek Lamborghinis, and a ’60s Muscle Car Gallery, which showcases the golden age of American automotive design. Ideal length of visit: 2-3 hours.
Nearby Break Spot: Stop by The Green Grocer in Portsmouth for a light lunch featuring organic, locally sourced ingredients.
4. Newport Art Museum
Distance from Hammetts Hotel: 0.7 miles (a 12-minute walk or 4-minute drive)
The Newport Art Museum is historic both in its collection as well as its location—in a beautiful, storied building. The cultural gem showcases works from regional and national artists with rotating exhibitions that span a variety of styles and mediums. “The Newport Annual” is a yearly exhibition featuring works by talented local artists. Ideal length of visit: 1-1.5 hours.
Nearby Break Spot: Stoneacre Brasserie, located close to the Newport Art Museum, offers farm-to-table dishes and a curated wine list.
5. Museum of Newport History
Distance from Hammetts Hotel: 0.3 miles (a 7-minute walk)
A celebration of Newport’s storied past, the Museum of Newport History, located in the historic Brick Market building, offers a comprehensive overview of the city’s colonial roots, Gilded Age splendor, and maritime traditions. Family-friendly and informative, it’s a great way to get a deeper understanding of Newport’s evolution. A highlight is the detailed scale model of 18th-century Newport, offering a glimpse into the city’s early days. Ideal length of visit: 1 hour.
Nearby Break Spot: Grab a cup of hot chocolate or a sandwich from the Cookie Jar on Bowen’s Wharf, just steps from Hammetts Hotel.
6. Audrain Automobile Museum
Distance from Hammetts Hotel: 1 mile (a 5-minute drive)
The boutique Audrain Automobile Museum features a rotating collection of rare and vintage automobiles in carefully curated exhibits that change every few months. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind each vehicle, and the fact that repeat visitors will consistently enjoy a fresh experience. The museum features a pristine 1930s Packard convertible, which acts as a testament to the elegance of pre-war automotive design. Ideal length of visit: 1 hour.
Nearby Break Spot: Chanterelle, known for its French-inspired cuisine and sophisticated ambiance, is ideal for indulging in a luxurious lunch.
Make the Most of Your Year-Round Visit to Newport
With its fascinating museums and inviting cafés, Newport offers a wealth of indoor activities perfect for couples or families. Hammetts Hotel’s prime location on Bowen’s Wharf puts visitors within easy reach of cultural treasures, whether you’re most interested in classic cars, maritime history, or local art. Book your stay at Hammetts Hotel and discover why Newport is the perfect getaway.