An Escape to Newport

This past weekend we were graciously hosted by the Grace Vanderbilt hotel in Newport, RI for a little (much  needed) get away.  Although a quick drive from Boston, we have not spent much time in this bustling coastal community but discovered it’s a great alternative to the Cape for a quick trip away. It was totally family-friendly and Henry had a BLAST.

The Grace Vanderbilt is a historic building built by Alfred Vanderbilt in 1909 for his mistress (quite the gift, eh?)  The historic bones of the property are complemented by modern amenities and an incredibly helpful and attentive staff.

The hotel is very kid-friendly- we felt totally at ease having a crazy almost 3 year old with us (except when he was screaming for Paw Patrol at breakfast in the lovely atrium. That was not relaxing).  There are a variety of room styles to choose from and having a separate bedroom made it easy for us to put Henry down for a nap while we got relax too.

When we arrived there was a tiny tent complete with cuddly teddy bear set up for Henry (he was THRILLED)… as well as cookies for him to decorate and nice cold bottle of wine for mom and dad!

They really thought of everything, including a rubber ducky for bath time and a travel set of baby bath products!

The architectural details are fascinating and reminder that they just don’t build ’em like they used to! Also, they told us in the winter they have s’mores in the evening by the fireplaces in the hotel- how charming is that?

Henry was super excited to use the indoor pool (a rarity at a small hotel) and I was lucky enough to get an AWESOME massage at the spa (ask for Dale if you go- she was so great!)  Henry’s other favorite thing was the Arcade down the street. We went approximately 37 times to ride Bob the Builder (insert eye roll).

The best activity was our morning sail aboard the Adirondack II (complete with MIMOSAS!)  Henry was really overcome with excitement and while we were attempting to not let him fling himself overboard, we enjoyed it too (thanks to said mimosas).

I mean, sailing and then ice cream in a captain’s hat? This boy had an epic weekend!

That night we ate at the new Bar & Board Bistro, owned by the founder of Alex & Ani, a local superstar business woman, and it was the best meal we had in town! Loved the indoor/outdoor patio and the food was excellent.

The Grace Vanderbilt has a great rooftop bar, this photo from a sunnier day– unfortunately it was very overcast this weekend so my pictures don’t do it justice! Locals apparently love this spot too, so you know it’s good. The views are awesome.

They also have a gorgeous patio (with another small pool).  Here’s Henry dancing his was through it after dinner ;)

The old homes and historic architecture make Newport a gorgeous place to walk around and explore.

This church and it’s windows gave me all the feels.

On our last morning we had a lovely cup of coffee down on the docks at the Coffee Grinder- a must if you visit. There are some great little shops down this way too- the selection of sweaters at Monelle is AMMMMMAZZZZINNNGG.

But the best part was getting to spend some quality time with this boy, who makes me so happy. :)

• This post was sponsored in part by Grace Hotels (who comped our stay).  All opinions are my own and activities and meals paid for by us. Thanks for supporting those businesses that keep EOS going!