Newport, RI is a maritime city located on Aquidneck Island at the entrance of Narrangansett Bay. Considering its ideal location, the area was an obvious choice for settlement made by colonists William Coddington, John Clarke, and others in 1639. These pioneers saw the area’s magnificent harbors as key to prosperity in the sea trades.

Newport today still honors its maritime history. Its harbors are open to commercial fishing, and Newport is the home of Naval Station Newport, which houses the United States Naval War College, the Naval Undersea Warfare Center, and a United States Navy training center. The harbors of Newport are also open for recreational power and sail pleasure craft. The city is widely known as the sailing capital of the United States, having hosted America’s Cup and other boating events.

In the mid to late 19th century, Newport’s miles of coastline drew the attention of many of America’s elites, such as Cornelius Vanderbilt II and William Shepard Wetmore, who began building extravagant and illustrious waterfront vacation homes for themselves and their guests. These homes are referred to as the Gilded Age Mansions, and together serve as one of the biggest tourist attractions in Southern New England. A path between many of these mansions and the shoreline of the Atlantic, referred to as the Cliff Walk, stretches over 3.5 miles, and is open to the public. Newport’s Cliff Walk is perhaps one of the most unique features the city has to offer because it showcases the well-preserved history of the city on one side, while showcasing the natural beauty of the area on the other.

The real estate in Newport is perfect for those who want to live alongside these lavish mansions and be reminded everyday of the city’s rich and honored past. The market in Newport offers historic homes in several parts of the city. The area between Memorial Boulevard and Broadway is known for its large collection of 18th and 19th century villa architecture, designed by leading architects. The neighborhood referred to as The Point offers rows of pre-revolution era Colonial homes.

If living history isn’t your objective, Newport also offers more modern homes and atmospheres. Along Thames Street there are plenty of trendy shopping areas, restaurants and entertainment. Nearby is the neighborhood of Fifth Ward, which offers good starter homes in a location near to the Newport Harbor. The area of Upper Broadway features modest homes, many demonstrating Cape Cod style architecture.

Whether you are looking for a home that was built two centuries ago, or for a home that was built last year, the real estate market in Newport, RI has what you need. The city is nationally adored for its history, but when you buy a home in Newport, the best is yet to come.

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