T&C‘s guide to what to do, eat, and see in Newport, Rhode Island.​

There’s a reason some of America’s grandest houses were built in this city by the sea. Along with spectacular coastal scenery, Newport the a rare breed of summer destination where dressing up in the evenings is still encouraged. At the Sky Bar, the top floor dining room of the Clarke Cooke House on Bannister’s Wharf, men are strongly urged to wear a jacket (and even a tie!).

The town is entirely walkable and it’s nice to start your visit with a stroll along the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk, along which many of the gilded age “cottages,” built by rusticating families like the Vanderbilts and Astors, are perched. Many are still privately owned but others, like The Breakers and Marble House, are open to the public through the Preservation Society of Newport County. Below, a few of T&C’s favorite spots around town.

Best Cocktails

The Revolving Door

509 Thames Street

Why: New this season, The Revolving Door operates under a concept similar to the James Beard House in New York City. Guest chefs maintain a residency for a period of time—the restaurant has a list of upcoming toques here. The drinks don’t change, however, and that’s a good thing. Bartender Jason Kindness serves the best cocktails in Newport.