Offering something for everyone, the walkway encompasses several small parks tucked into unusual spots, including one nestled between a shipyard and some shops. Benches or a bit of grass provide a chance to sit back, enjoy the sea breezes, and watch the boats. Some green spaces are larger, with plenty of room to spread out a blanket for a picnic, let the kids play, or relax and rest from a shopping trip. There is a gorgeous view of the Pell Bridge from nearly every vantage point, and an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, making the harbor a pleasant place to spend a few hours or an entire day.

The Harbor Walk was originally developed by the non-profit Friends of the Waterfront to prevent the disappearance of public access to the waterfront during a period of heavy development in the area. The concern was that private residences, hotels and restaurants would eventually block nearly all public access to the waterfront.

Building upon the accomplishments of the Friends of the Waterfront, the University of Rhode Island Coastal Resources Center/Rhode Island Sea Grant College Program (CRC/SG) is assisting the City of Newport and other stakeholders in the identification of opportunities to improve the walk to create a seamless public access system along Newport Harbor, connecting points from King Park, the wharves along Lower Thames Street and America’s Cup Avenue, Goat Island, to the Pell Bridge. Visitors and local residents of Newport are encouraged to go out and explore the Harbor Walk. Look for the Friends of the Waterfront signs to guide your stroll.

For more information on the Harbor Walk, visit: newportharborwalk.com