A Tasting of Newport’s Vineyards

Let us fill your glass this spring with the refreshing taste of Newport County’s finest homegrown wines. Three locally-owned vineyards sit just a few short miles from our inn in downtown Newport, each offering unique blends of your favorite reds and whites and picturesque views of Newport County’s lesser-known landscapes. Bring your camera, tour  the sunny vineyards this spring, and savor Newport in a glass.

Greenvale Vineyards, Portsmouth, RI
A rustic and beautifully renovated stable is the tasting room to this winery featuring 24 acres of historic farmland owned by the same family since 1863. Just like the Admiral Fitzroy, Greenvale is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This shared historic pleasure, and the live jazz music on Saturday afternoons make Greenvale our preferred weekend vineyard escape. Tours and tastings are offered from 10 to 5 Monday through Saturday and 12 to 5 on Sunday.

Newport Vineyards, Middletown, RI
Boasting themselves as the “largest growers of wine grapes in New England,” this family-owned winery is an iconic landmark for visitors of the area. Check out their website for special events throughout the spring and summer like comedy nights, “Shakespeare in the Vineyard,” and a special Mother’s Day wine tasting this month. Regular tours are offered Sunday through Friday at 1 and 3 pm and Saturday hourly from 11am-4pm.

Sakonnet Vineyards, Little Compton, RI
A true wine connoisseur’s paradise, Sakonnet Vineyards is located just past the historic village of Tiverton Four Corners claiming that their rural southeastern location’s favorable growing conditions mirror some of the most famous wine regions in the world. Sakonnet has been on the block since 1975 and last year was purchased by Alex and Ani, giving it a new claim to fame. But its’ most treasured novelty might just be the chardonnay. Tastings are offered at 12 and 3pm with Thursday music nights throughout the summer.

We are pleased to announce we are now offering a Vineyard Escape Package at the inn, complete with a tour for two of one of the three vineyards this spring. Take advantage of the savings and our convienient location for your next getaway. We look forward to your visit!

Cheers!

Spring into Newport Restaurant Week

A highlight of springtime in Newport is Newport Restaurant Week where participating restaurants offer special menus at extra special prices. From April 5th through the 14th over 40 local pubs and bistros are offering a three-course pre fixe menu that will make your day or weekend trip to Newport well worth the trip.

Choosing where to eat can be a toss up, but with lunch at just $16 per person, and dinner at $30 you can enjoy waterfront wharf dining by day and Broadway’s best hot spots after dark.

Starting on Thames street just steps from our front door you’ll find more than a healthy serving of lunch and dinner options. Some of our lesser mentioned favorites include Busker’s Irish Pub located on upper Thames Street. Go there for the authentic pub atmosphere (including freshly tapped selection of beers) and the food, a leap and bound above usual pub fare. If you crave fresh fish Scales and Shells will make your day. A pleasant and casual dining room with an open kitchen, it’s a great place to enjoy seafood in Newport. Further down Thames Street duck into Thames Street Kitchen where a small menu and farm-fresh ingredients make for an exquisite and unforgettable dining experience.

Broadway is just a five minute drive from our parking lot and offers an array of eclectic and flavorful dining options, not to mention it’s the perfect alternative to Thames Street for an evening or afternoon stroll. During Restaurant Week we recommend stopping in The Fifth Element where “bar meets grille” and a clean atmosphere and menu will leave you satisfied every time. Across the street find the entirely unique and funky Salvation Cafe for vegetarian lovers and art enthusiasts. Another Broadway favorite is Norey’s Bar and Grille a modern-American local favorite with a great wine list and live music.

Also worth mentioning is the Spiced Pear, a cliff side dining experience located inside the beautiful Chanler along the Cliff Walk. Take full advantage of this fine dining experience complete with gorgeous New England fare and a grand fireplace. During restaurant week, the prices can’t be beat!

During this upcoming Restaurant Week we are offering a special two night package including accommodations at the Admiral Fitzroy, a bottle of wine, chocolates, and dinner for two at any participating restaurant. Visit our website for rates and a full list of specials.

Learn more about Newport Restaurant Week at www.discovernewportrestaurantweek.org.

An Afternoon Artisan Package

Seen the mansions? Already walked the Cliff Walk a few times? When the beach and browsing the wharfs is no longer a novelty, discover another side of Newport with our Afternoon Artisan package. This package, exclusive to the Admiral Fitzroy, lets you stay in the heart of downtown for a little less while delightfully fulfilling your artistic side…

The package includes a private glass blowing lesson for two at one of the hottest and lesser known spots on Thames St. At Thames Glass you and your traveling companion will experience the ancient technique of glass blowing while making your very own glass ornament. Choose from dozens of cheerful colors to create a design unique to you. Your lesson includes shipping so you don’t have to worry about packing your creation in your suitcase. Thames Glass is located at the end of Lower Thames Street, so take a stroll and browse the other artisan shops on your way!

You may be hungry before or after a trip to the studio. Purchase the Afternoon Artisan Package and we will treat you to lunch at a local deli or pub of your choice, making an afternoon in Newport that’s suited just to your taste! Your package also includes a bottle of wine upon arrival and your choice of one of our 18 guest rooms (upon availability). The Inn offers complimentary wireless internet and a signature continental breakfast.

Cheers from us to you to making your stay in Newport artfully memorable!

For more information on the Afternoon Artisan Package, and the rest of our seasonal specials visit our website at www.admiralfitzroy.com

Newport is WinterFest Wonderful

Every February in Newport, locals get excited about winter. We’re not known here for our ski slopes or any kind of oasis from the cold, but we do have one of New England’s most acclaimed festivals of the season aptly described as “10 days of non-stop food, music, and fun.” This year the WinterFest celebrates its 25th anniversary and the week-long festivities are not to be missed.

Newport Winterfest will take place from February 15th to the 24th and has something for everyone, whether you enjoy the cold or not. From nightlife to family events, this year’s Silver Sparkle Celebration boasts over 150 events throughout President’s Day week with something to please every member of the family.

What you’ll find: historic tours, wine tastings, a Children’s Festival, Scavenger Hunt, fireworks display, street-side ice sculpting, beach polo, an Aerosmith tribute band, magic show, comedians, and other live performances for all ages, a spectacular bridal show, train rides, seal watches, Nacho Tasting at Brick Alley Pub, a Chicken Wing Cook-Off, and our personal favorite, the Chili Cook-Off.

Here’s how to work it… Book a room with us, you will receive a discount with the purchase of a Winterfest Button at our front desk (don’t forget to ask about our Fabulous February Package when booking). Your button will allow you other discounted admission to Newport retail shops and attractions like ice skating and mansion tours not to mention discounted or free admission to all Winterfest activities. Make sure to visit the Winterfest website for a full event listing.

The best part about the Winterfest, besides the belly-warming chili, is a portion of all the proceeds are donated to local charities such as the Leukemia Society of America, Literacy Volunteers of America, and the Top Shelf Foundation. Get away this winter and feel good inside and out.

For reservations with us call 1-866-848-8780 or visit us online at http://www.admiralfitzroy.com. There’s never been more to do in Newport than this winter. See you here!

Christmas in Newport

Wondering what’s it like in Newport around the Holidays? Picture strolling the cobblestone streets, boats and storefronts alight with christmas lights, shops with decked out windows and special shopping deals, and the same wonderful restaurants offering a warm meal and comforting place to unwind.

Besides its seaside charm, Newport will dazzle the town with the 42nd annual Christmas in Newport. The holiday celebration features special tours, performances, and festivities each day throughout the month of December beginning this weekend with the ever-popular tree lighting at Bowen’s Wharf. Family favorites include the Polar Express train ride, Santa at the mansions, and The Night Before Christmas reading at the Tennis Hall of Fame. Others might enjoy holiday Lantern Tours, gallery strolls, judging the door decorating contest, or an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Doris Duke estate.

Also open for the season is the Newport Yachting Center Skating rink were you can enjoy a day or evening skate on the waterfront and a warm cup of hot cocoa.

But it wouldn’t be Christmas in Newport without a visit to the Newport Mansions dressed from head to toe in sparkling lights. Three are open through the holidays with tickets available through the Newport Preservation Society.

For a full listing of Christmas in Newport events visit www.christmasinnewport.org.

If you’re planning a trip to town, stop by the Admiral Fitzroy on Thames where there are always fresh cookies and a friendly face to greet you. Check out our special packages here to save on your stay! We look forward to seeing you this season!

Planning a Wedding?

Chances are you know someone who’s been married here in Newport Rhode Island. That’s because it’s one of the most beautiful and accommodating wedding ceremony locations. We can give most of the credit to impeccable ocean views….

Newport has a landscape fit to host a ceremony of any scale or style, but whether you plan your wedding beach-side, mansion-front, in the park, or on top of a lighthouse, there’s much more to your special day than the simply choosing a location. Accommodating a large group of friends and relatives can easily be the most challenging part of wedding planning. Thank goodness we like that part.

Wedding parties that stay at the Admiral Fitzroy take full advantage of staying within walking distance to all downtown Newport has to offer. Our 18 rooms, some with extra beds, provide the opportunity for a large family or even whole wedding party, plus some, to stay tucked away together in Newport’s most conveniently placed bed and breakfast. For the Bride and Groom our romantic rooftop bedrooms allow for privacy and water views on their semi-private deck. Guests enjoy free parking, breakfast each morning, plenty of open meeting space for getting ready, and access to the shared rooftop deck for hanging out between wedding festivities.

Just getting started? Our staff can make recommendations for locations, photographers, caterers, and more.

Give us a call at 401-848-8000 to learn about affordable rates for booking the house and visit our website to learn more about our all-inclusive Eloping package. We love happy couples, and love to see them at the Admiral Fitzroy!

Newport’s a Dream in September

So, you’re coming to Newport and need some suggestions for what to do while you’re here? We’ve got you covered. Our guests have had a blast this summer, whether they stayed with us for a romantic getaway, family vacation, or friends’ reunion. Newport is a dream in the summertime, and stays sizzling long into the fall season. Here are some suggestions for…

A Couples Retreat:
After breakfast here at the inn, start your day off right with a leisurely walk along the majestic Cliffwalk. This 3 1/2-mile paved walk offers up-close and personal views of some of Newport’s most glamorous and historic properties, not to mention miles of sparkling blue ocean.

You can tour the mansions afterwards, if you choose; self-guided headsets make each tour an informative and personal experience. After a full morning out, indulge in a couples massage at The SpaTerre at the Viking Hotel where you can choose from treatments like a Seaside Salt Glow or Balinese Massage. Nothing beats a late afternoon glass of wine on our roof deck. Freshen up and set sail on The Madeleine for a truly unforgettable sunset sail around the Newport harbor. And finally, end the day with a romantic dinner for two at Tallulah on Thames, a lovely and intimate place to unwind.

A Family Getaway
Rent a few scooters from Scooter World, grab some sandwiches from Peaceable Market and head down to Brenton Point State Park for a picnic.

Roam free in this open field hugged by a glimmering rocky shoreline. Here the whole family can watch a colorful medley of kites decorate the sky, and behind the park are walking trails, trees for climbing, and a “hidden” look-out tower worth a stop for a family photo. After your picnic, take the family out for a ride on the friendly Amazing Grace yacht where amenities like a snack bar and bathroom make for a tour of the harbor everyone will enjoy. Spend the afternoon at the beach (it’s free after 4pm!), head to dinner at the Red Parrot and end the night with games at Ryan’s Family Amusement. Kids under 9 stay free at the Fitzroy!

A Girls Weekend Out
Meeting the girlfriends for a long weekend? Where better to be than Thames street in Newport where you can shop, eat, drink, and relax together all in one place with one of the most stunning backdrops in New England. Our street is lined with spectacular shops, boutiques, and eateries making it easy to leave your cars and cares behind you. After exploring the streets of Newport, take advantage of the water with a sunset sail on The Privateer serving champagne and a smooth ride on the bay. Next make your way to dinner at Fluke Wine Bar and Kitchen where you can enjoy signature cocktails and bay views with a fresh, modern menu. After dinner hit the town where live music and vibrant nightlife are all in walking distance to your room!

***Check out our “Savoring September Package” which includes a boat ride, bottle of wine, mansion tickets and dinner to a local restaurant along with your stay!

It’s still summer here at the Admiral Fitzroy, come visit us and enjoy it!

All Festivals All the Time

Summer is in full swing in Newport! And besides for the beautiful weather and beach lines, one way to tell Newport’s got it going on is by looking at the festival line-up right here downtown. In addition to the America’s Cup races and the Tennis Hall of Fame Championships, Newport has played host to dozens of other festivities this summer! Where were you?

Earlier this Summer…

Kick-starting the summer festival series was the Tall Ships, which brought an astounding 100,000 visitors to the docks of Newport to awe and experience these enormous and majestic vessels. 13 different ships offered tours of the ships and rides around the harbor ending the weekend in a showy “Parade of Sails.” For more information about the 13 ships that were guests to Newport this summer visit www.oceanstatetallships.com

Hundreds gathered to see kites light up the sky at the annual Kite Festival at Brenton Point State Park. It’s been a tradition for kite flyers around south county to congregate at this ocean-lined state park, and recently turned into a free annual public festival a site for eyes of all ages. www.newportkitefestival.net

The Black Ships (similar name but not to be confused with the Tall Ships) was put on by the Japan-America Society and Black Ships Festival of RI. The weekend festival has been around for 29 years celebrating a rich Japanese culture and historic partnership with Rhode Island. Events happen over a 3-day span with activities for the whole family, like the sake-sail on the schooner Aurora, sushi making workshop, music performances, or hanging wishes from a tree in Touro park. www.newportevents.com/Blackships

The Newport Music Festival with all it’s elegant charm hosted it’s 44th year in the Newport mansions from July 13th-29th. In 2010 it was voted among the “Top Music Festivals,” and this year, a total of 61 concerts transformed the mansions into sensual classical masterpieces with 3 to five concerts per day, one in the morning, afternoon, and evening. For more information visit www.newportmusic.org

The Newport Folk Fest sold out early this year with an amazing line-up of musicians performing for the most popular music festival Newport has to offer. Patrons paredk their blankets on the lawn of Fort Adams for two days of music, craft tents, food and drink vendors, and a blissful ocean breeze. If you didn’t get your tickets this year, be sure to book early next time, or make a friend with someone in the harbor, they have the best seats in the house! Visit www.newportfolkfest.net

Still to come in 2012…

The Newport Jazz Festival was the first jazz fest in America, started over 56 years ago in 1954. It’s 3 days of pure jazz on the grass of Fort Adams State Park overlooking the Newport harbor starting August 3rd. “Historic moments since its inception include performances by Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane and Miles Davis. “ For ticket information and to see this year’s lineup visit newportjazzfest.net

And more music (or else it wouldn’t be summer, right?) The Newport Reggae Festival will be on August 11th featuring Barrington Levy, Junior Marvin of Bob Marley’s Wailers, Bushman, Taj Weekes & Adowa, and Mighty Mystic & The Thunder Band at the Newport Yachting Center. For more event details visit www.newportwaterfronevents.com

We hope your summer is festive and free. Stop by and visit us on Thames Street next time you’re in the neighborhood!

398 Thames Street
Newport, RI 02840
401-848-8000

Sailing into Newport

Summer of 2012 is shaping up to be an exciting one for residents, visitors, and especially sailors. A world-class sailing destination, this year Newport will host the America’s Cup World Series an invigorating regatta with 8 international teams and salient history here in Newport.

Races start June 28- July 1st with tickets just $10 for front row seats at Fort Adams State Park. Before the races, visitors to Fort Adams can get a free and up-close view of the breathtakingly fast AC45 catamarans during practice races starting June 23rd. These brand-new boats are new to the America’s Cup this year, making their debut on the East Coast in Newport. After sailing in Italy, the spectacular boats have arrived in Newport and they are definitely spectator-worthy!
While you admire the catamarans, take advantage of Sail Newport’s family friendly Sail Festival all throughout the America’s Cup races every morning from 10am to 12pm at Fort Adams.
After all the festivities are done, there’s still plenty of sailing to do in Newport. If you want to experience a ride on a catamaran for yourself, Newport’s newest boat into the water, The Privateer, is an excellent choice. This 52-foot catamaran in perfect for those who prefer a smoother sail. The spacious boat offers a lovely luncheon sail, gorgeous sunset sail, and a place to stay cool on the sunniest of days, under their covered portion of the deck.

Other harbor cruises we recommend include a ride on The Madeleine, a beautiful 19th century style sail boat, or the Adirondack II a turn of the century style schooner. The Amazing Grace has an informative tour for those who want a little Newport history while on the water, and The Majestic yacht is our pick for a sleeker way to cruise the waters. Our summer Two Night Sailing Package is a great way to save on a Newport sail and a room at the Fitzroy!

We’ve always said the best place to experience Newport is right across the street from the Admiral Fitzroy, on Newport’s glimmering shoreline. Hope to see you on the water and at the races!

9 Things about Dining in Newport

If you do just one thing while you’re here in Newport, we hope it’s eat. Among the most desired culinary scenes in New England, Newport offers waterfront ambiance and plates from both land and sea to suit all tastes and occasions. With so many choices, the trouble is often deciding where to eat. We’ve discussed and decided on a few tried and true favorites: three restaurants, three dishes, and three drinks that you will be thinking and talking about long after you throw in the napkin…

Must try: Restaurant Bouchard
Perhaps our favorite for the unwavering delight in every single dish here. It’s beautifully authentic french cuisine (for a slightly higher price) that never disappoints. Whether you are seasoned in “cuisine classique,” or are simply looking for something remarkable, indulge in this highly favored frenchie-approved establishment. Great for a romantic Saturday night meal.
must taste: Saumon sur Champigons Sauvage
must sip: Les Setilles, Olivier Leflaive Chardonnay and cappuccino with dessert!

Must Try: Cafe Zelda
Local favorite for its elegant, comfortable and friendly bistro atmosphere. Varied menu offers everything from lobster rolls and chowder,  to pork chops and ravioli. Zelda is an all-around lovely spot to dine, for Sunday Brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Must taste: Café Zelda’s Burger
Must sip: One of the 9 local beers on tap!


Must try: Fluke Wine Bar and Kitchen
Known for their seasonal menu and hand-picked wine list, Fluke is a refreshing break from some of the more traditional Newport dinner scenes with unbeatably fresh seafood. The menu and wine list change frequently so plan to be surprised. One of the best spots to overlook the harbor at sunset.
Must taste: Lobster and Avocado Salad
Must sip: One of their delicious Signature cocktails, like the Fluke Rum Punch

Here are a few others that we couldn’t resist recommending:
For something more upscale find the charming White Horse Tavern, historic Clark Cooke House, or authentic Northern Italian at Mama Luisa’s. For a casual meal try homemade tacos at Diego’s, a cup of chowder on the patio of The Black Pearl, or split a few appetizers at Scales and Shells. For something off the beaten path try Perro Salado, Thames Street Kitchen, or The Fifth Element.

AND DON’T FORGET…many AFI packages include gift certificates to these and other Newport restaurants so book with us and save on your meal!

Wherever you eat, we hope you enjoy. And please tell them The Admiral sent you. Bon Appétit!