5+ Winter Experiences In Newport You Cannot Miss

The thought of a trip to Newport typically conjures visions of clam chowder, tan lines and the Atlantic drying on your skin. It's true, Newport has always had that whole summer thing down pat. But believe it or not, winter is when the magic happens. Winter sunrises unobstructed and in full glory, snow-kissed seasides and a seat by the fire—it's a feeling unlike any other. Not to mention, winter is when all things cozy get kicked up a notch. Heated igloos with a bay view? Got it. A gourmet hot chocolate bar in a former private mansion? Got that too. So sure, Newport has summer down pat, but you better believe it nails winter too.

Below are our favorite winter experiences in and around Newport.

1 GOAT HIKES AT SIMMONS FARM

Where:: SIMMONS FARM, 1942 WEST MAIN ROAD, MIDDLETOWN
When:: Multiple Dates
Cost:: BETWEEN $10 - $40

There's nothing like a hike through the great outdoors to ease your winter blues, even if the temperatures may be a little chilly. When nature calls (literally), head over to Simmons Farm in Middletown for a two-hour goat hike around the historic family-owned farm. Led by farmer Karla and her crew of adventurous, spirited goats, you'll get your own goat to walk on a leash along the designated trail. Stop along the way to feed your goat a treat and to take in stunning views of the preserved farmland, and conclude your journey with a cup of hot chocolate.

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2 Hot Chocolate Bar at The Chanler

Where:: THE CHANLER AT CLIFF WALK
When:: SATURDAY & SUNDAY'S FROM 2/3 - 3/24
Cost:: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Spend an afternoon in front of the roaring fire pit or take a winter stroll along the Cliff Walk with a decadent cup of hot chocolate in hand. Artisanal hot chocolate is crafted with either milk or dark chocolate and has the option to upgrade to an adult version.

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3 Newport Winter Foodies Stroll

Where:: Various Tasting Locations
When:: Select Dates this Winter
Cost:: $135 per person

Newport Winter Foodies Stroll offers a 1-mile guided walking food tour through Newport's historic Thames Street.

Tasting locations include:

Gardiner House: A welcoming cocktail
Vieste: A choice of their arancini or eggplant rollatini and a glass of wine
Midtown Oyster Bar: A seafood dinner, salad, and wine
The Vanderbilt: for their sticky toffee pudding and a wine pairing.

Tasting locations subject to change.

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4 SEAL TOURS

Where:: Departs Perrotti Park, Newport
When:: Multiple Dates
Cost:: $22 non-members, $17 members, seniors, children aged 3-12, $0 children under 3

Hop aboard Save the Bay's education vessel for 360-degree views of Narragansett Bay and the chance to catch harbor seals resting on Citing Rock off of Rose Island and the Newport Bridge. Tours are one-hour, or you can opt for a two-hour tour and hop off at Rose Island to tour the historic lighthouse and the grounds.

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5 HEATED POP-UP IGLOOS

Just when we thought al fresco dining was closed up for the season in comes igloo dining—welcomed with open arms.

When it is a cold winter night—instead of staying indoors—enjoy a cozy, decorated, and heated igloo overlooking the bay with a prime view of sunset, paired with seasonal cocktails and creative menu. These cold-weather dining experience will keep you warm, and somewhat outside, until Spring.