One of Newport’s most underutilized and rarely seen attractions is Fort Adams State Park. Featuring some of the best harbor views around, ample parking, and the much overshadowed Coastal Walk, Fort Adams is something not to miss when visiting Newport.  Granted, the Cliff Walk is a much more spectacular walk, but the Fort Adams location offers lots of opportunities to view the many seagoing vessels tooling around the harbor.

Make history come alive for every member of your family. Just a short drive or a water taxi ride across Newport Harbor stands the largest coastal fortification in the United States. Visit this engineering and architectural masterpiece to see where the soldiers lived, enter the casemates, explore the tunnel system, and climb the bastions for breathtaking views.  The Fort Adams trust has done a wonderful job in procuring funds from the state and federal government to reclaim and restore many areas of the fort that were once too dangerous to see.  In addition, huge improvements were made to the dockage capacity and marina operations for the America’s Cup Races held here in 2012.

The Fort area is also home to many other great activities.  The Museum of Yachting is housed here as well as the most under the radar beach and snack bar.  If you are a sailor or want to learn how to sail consider visiting Sail Newport where you can rent sailboats or take lessons.

Consider renting the Fort with its 6-acre parade field or North lawn on the water for your special function. Watch for their upcoming special events including military reenactments, music festivals, and classic vehicle shows. From 1824 to 1950 Fort Adams housed generations of our soldiers, today it still stands ready for your enjoyment.