Memorial Day Weekend in Rhode Island always feels like the unofficial start of summer.
The boats are back in the harbor, restaurant patios start filling up again, beach chairs reappear on the sand, and coastal towns like Newport, Jamestown, Narragansett, and Bristol come alive after winter. Whether you’re visiting Rhode Island for the long weekend, planning a local staycation, or spending your first summer here, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the best of coastal New England.
As someone who lives and works in Newport County, here are some of my favorite things to do around Rhode Island during Memorial Day Weekend.
Walk the Cliff Walk in Newport
If you do one thing this weekend, let it be this.
The Cliff Walk is one of the most iconic coastal walks in New England, offering views of the Atlantic Ocean alongside Newport’s historic Gilded Age mansions. Early mornings and golden hour are especially beautiful this time of year.
Nearby activities:
- Grab coffee downtown Newport afterward
- Visit Bellevue Avenue shops
- Tour nearby Newport Mansions
- Stop for brunch on Thames Street
Spend a Beach Day in Middletown or Narragansett
Memorial Day Weekend officially kicks off beach season in Rhode Island.
Some local favorites include:
- Second Beach
- Easton's Beach
- Narragansett Town Beach
Bring chairs, grab Del’s Lemonade, and spend the afternoon soaking up the beginning of summer along the Rhode Island coast.
Sunset Drinks at The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn
This is one of the best sunset spots in Rhode Island for Memorial Day Weekend.
Overlooking the water with Adirondack chairs, coastal cocktails, and sailboats passing by, it’s one of those quintessential Newport experiences visitors remember long after summer ends.
Pro tip:
Arrive early because holiday weekends fill quickly.
Explore Bowen’s Wharf & Downtown Newport
Downtown Newport during Memorial Day Weekend has such an energy to it. Shops reopen for the season, boats line the harbor, and outdoor dining takes over the waterfront.
Things to do nearby:
- Shop Bowen’s Wharf boutiques
- Grab lobster rolls by the water
- Take a harbor cruise
- Listen to live music downtown
- Stop for ice cream or Del’s
Visit the Newport Mansions
A rainy-day favorite or perfect midday activity between beach stops.
The Newport Mansions are one of Rhode Island’s biggest attractions and offer a glimpse into Newport’s historic coastal architecture and Gilded Age history.
Top choices:
- The Breakers
- Marble House
- Rosecliff
Take the Ferry to Block Island
If you have a full day available, Block Island makes an incredible Memorial Day Weekend day trip.
Spend the day:
- Riding bikes around the island
- Visiting the bluffs
- Relaxing on the beach
- Getting lunch by the marina
- Watching sunset before taking the ferry back
It’s one of the best Rhode Island summer traditions.
Drive Ocean Drive at Sunset
The Ocean Drive loop in Newport is especially beautiful during Memorial Day Weekend when hydrangeas begin blooming and boats return to the harbor.
Bring takeout, stop along the water, and watch sunset over the coastline.
This area is also a reminder of why so many people dream of owning real estate in Newport, Rhode Island.
Outdoor Dining in Jamestown & Bristol
Two of my favorite Rhode Island coastal towns that are worth exploring during the long weekend:
- Jamestown
- Bristol
Both offer:
- Waterfront dining
- Small-town coastal charm
- Beautiful harbor views
- Boutique shopping
- Great walking areas
Perfect for a slower-paced afternoon away from the Newport crowds.
Why People Fall in Love with Coastal Rhode Island
Memorial Day Weekend always reminds me why so many people end up relocating to Rhode Island or purchasing second homes here.
It’s the lifestyle.
The beach mornings. Harbor sunsets. Walkable coastal towns. Outdoor dining. Boating weekends. Farmers markets. Local coffee shops. The slower pace mixed with incredible charm.
Rhode Island summers truly feel unmatched.
Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or considering making coastal Rhode Island home someday, this is one of the best times of year to experience everything Newport County has to offer.
Thinking About Living in Newport, Rhode Island?
As a Newport-based REALTOR® with SERHANT., I help buyers, sellers, and relocation clients navigate the Newport County and coastal Rhode Island real estate market.
If you’re thinking about:
- Buying a second home in Rhode Island
- Relocating to Newport County
- Investing in coastal real estate
- Selling your Newport-area property
I’d love to connect.
Nicole Parente | SERHANT.
Unlocking homes. Unlocking lifestyle. Unlocking with Nicole.
📍 Newport, Rhode Island
📧 [email protected]
📱 401-595-7805
