Julie & Rawls
Things To Do in RI
Cliff Walk
A beautiful, free, scenic 3.5 mile walk along Newport's cliff side and many of the famous mansions in the area! Highly recommend strolling along this path to take in the stunning view. One note, you do NOT need to walk the whole path, and the first 2 miles are very easy on a paved or sandy pathway. This walk can get a little crowded in the summer, so we recommend checking it out during the weekday if your stay allows. Parking can be a challenge. One suggestion is to take a ride share car to the entrance off Ocean Ave, walk the path to the end at Memorial ave, and have a wonderful (but pricy) lunch at the Cliff Walk Terrace at The Chanler right on Memorial Ave and the Cliff Walk.
Salvation Cafe
This place is a MUST! A super chich, rustic and quirky spot, it features a variety of cuisine with a unique twist. "It's basically Julie's aura in restaurant form." - says the groom. Check out the Tiki Bar outside when you go!
Ocean Drive
This drive loops around Newport and gives you a scenic view of the "Newport Elite." Many of the mansions on the drive were build in the late 1800s, and you can visit and tour a few famous ones, including Chateau-sur-Mer, The Elms, Marble House, Rosecliff, and Rough Point (Tobacco heiress Doris Duke’s mansion.), with the standout being the Breakers. One way to experience the drive is by renting a scooter in Newport! We recommend starting on Thames Street- check out the website and map for reference and more info!
The Breakers
The "grandest" of the Newport "summer cottages"! If you're not someone who's normally into historical home tours, make an exception for this one. You can't get more fancy than the Vanderbilt's circa turn-of-the-century.
Sachuest Point
The beautiful spot where Julie & Rawls had their engagement shoot! A stunning national wildlife refuge along the coastline with a very easy 2.4 mile loop trail.
Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum
"A 33-acre summer estate with grand views of Narragansett Bay, featuring 45-room mansion and a series of lovely gardens that range in character from mysterious to exotic and from poetic to practical. An exceptional collection of rare and unusual plants, specimen trees, an accessible greenhouse, and whimsical stonework project a character that is romantic, fresh, and inspiring – and unique to Blithewold." Can't take credit for this one, right off the website, but it's pretty gorgeous!
Newport Vineyards
"A beverage and culinary destination that blends together award-winning wine, fresh craft beer, farm to table dining experiences and unique events situated on over 100-acres of preserved farmland."
Jamestown
The island in between mainland Rhode Island and Newport. Known for its beautiful state parks and hiking. Be sure to check out the Beavertail Lighthouse, which was originally built in 1749 and is the premier lighthouse in RI and one of the oldest on the East Coast. Various lighthouse artifacts are on display but the view from Beavertail Point State Park, one of the best in the state, is worth the trip. There’s also great hiking and graffiti at Fort Whetherill State Park nearby!
Ella's Fine Food & Drink
A Bowman family favorite spot, this hidden gem features a fusion of French/Asian cuisine. Dennis & Carla are regulars of Chef Jeanie, who became famous after going toe-to-toe against Bobby Flay on "Beat Bobby Flay" (Food Network), where she won! Be sure to order a side of lobster mac n' cheese- it's incredible.
Champlin's Seafood
The Palms (Julie's mother's maiden name) and all who extend from them have been frequenting this establishment for as long as we can remember. Champlin's is home of the most magnificent lobster roll the world has ever seen since its opening in 1944! Complete your meal by visiting the ice cream shop right underneath it, Sweetspot!
Matunuck Oyster Bar
Another local favorite of the Bowman's Matunuck Oyster Bar is the perfect spot for those who, well, love oysters! The oysters are grown in Potter Pond, right off the waterfront patio, and many of the herbs and vegetables are grown on the organic vegetable farm on the north end of Potter Pond. Great drinks, beautiful views, and a spot that will make you feel like "New England chic."
Watch Hill
A swanky, upscale beach town with lots cute shops and restaurants, Watch Hill is now home to Taylor Swift's summer abode! Have brunch at the famous Ocean House, visit the Watch Hill Lighthouse, see the oldest operating carousel in the United States, the Flying Horse Carousel, built in 1876.
Flo's Clam Shack
Winner of multiple awards for best clam cakes, best fried clams, best fish and chips- all Rhode Island essentials! Be warned, it gets very busy in season and there’s little seating BUT not to fear; most people take order across the street to the seawall overlooking the Sakonnet River. Clams and a view!
Slice of Heaven
Have breakfast at a favorite local bakery. Freshly made bakery treats as well as omelets, waffles, and Bennys. Slice also serves lunch and can package sandwiches for picnics at nearby Beavertail or elsewhere.
12 Meter Charters
Sail on an America’s Cut 12 Meter yacht. Take a 2 or 3 hour sailing tour of Narragansett Bay aboard the Columbia, the first 12 meter yacht to win the America’s cup. Breathtaking views and you can participate in sailing or just sit back and enjoy!
Castle Hill Inn
Treat yourself to a luxurious Newport dining experience! The view from the dining room or lawn is simply stunning. Always one of the best and most expensive places to dine in Newport, but well worth a splurge.
Second Beach
Sachuest Beach (Second Beach) is the most popular beach in the area, with a long expanse of dunes and sand. A smaller but less crowded beach is Third Beach off Third Beach Road in Middletown. This beach has little surf and warmer waters from the mouth of the Sakonnet River.
Block Island
Take a ferry to Block Island for a day trip! Rent bikes and bike along the island’s beautiful scenic cliffs and beaches. Enjoy some seafood and ice cream before heading back to the mainland! Note: this is DEFINITELY an all day trip!