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Best Places to See Fall Colors in Rhode Island and New England

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Although autumn is still a few months away, it’s time to think about travel plans for that fall foliage road trip. Those who are considering the best places to see gorgeous fall colors throughout Rhode Island and the rest of New England can start with these peak picks.

Roger Williams Park

Big tree with red, yellow and orange leaves on it

Located in Providence, RI, this expansive site was created by a bequest from Roger Williams in the 1870s. The 102-acre grounds feature a zoo, botanical gardens, and even a natural history museum. Stroll the shaded pathways at this park in October for a glimpse of Rhode Island’s most vibrant fall foliage, thanks to more than 5,000 trees.

Camden Hills State Park

This Maine park is known for its beautiful color changes during the second week of October. Visitors climb Mount Battie for panoramic views of Camden and beyond, including foliage clear to Cadillac Mountain at nearby Acadia National Park. Those who prefer a leisurely view can go on a harbor cruise.

Newport and Ocean Drive

This 14-mile drive is perfect for visitors who want to enjoy fall colors on a relaxing scenic byway. On one side, travelers enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. On the other side, Fort Adams State Park provides the ideal autumnal backdrop, popping with fall colors. Drivers can stop for sightseeing and sustenance along the way at landmarks like Cliff Walk and Bannister’s Wharf.

Goddard Memorial State Park

Thousands of visitors flock here in the fall every year to take in the spectacular colors. This Rhode Island park, located in Warwick, spans 490 acres with more than 80 species of trees, horseback riding trails, sports fields, picnicking facilities, an event venue, and a nine-hole golf course.

When planning a fall foliage getaway in the Rhode Island area, enjoy the hospitality at Ivy Lodge in Newport. Our historic bed-and-breakfastfeatures modern rooms and amenities with period-inspired Victorian furnishings. Call 401-849-6865 to explore our available dates or make your room reservationsonline.

Explore the Best Vineyards in the Newport Area

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a male holding up a cluster of red grapesNewport sits in the heart of New England’s wine country, so no Ivy Lodge guest should miss the opportunity to sample some of the country’s finest vino. These nearby wineries offer the perfect place for sommeliers and casual drinkers alike to raise a glass to the good life.

Newport Vineyards

Less than five miles from Ivy Lodge and overlooking the Rhode Island Sound, Newport Vineyards offers the quintessential New England winery experience. Established to preserve land from rapid development, the winery is now also home to its vineyard, tasting room, cafe, and restaurant. But that’s not all—Taproot Brewing Company is located below the restaurant, offering small-batch beers brewed in the seven-barrel brewhouse.

Greenvale Vineyards

Only five miles north of Newport, this picturesque winery is dedicated to conservation and historic preservation. In fact, it’s listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. In addition to tours, tastings, and incredible views, visitors can enjoy live jazz music and food trucks during the summer.

Westport Rivers

Those willing to trek a little farther from Ivy Lodge will find that Westport Rivers Winery is worth the trip. Westport Rivers was opened to honor the winemaking heritage of Carol Russell’s father and grandfather and is now run by the fourth generation of this winemaking family. Among the largest vineyards in New England, its wines have won fans–and awards!–around the world. The family farm regularly hosts special events and is open for tours and tastings throughout the summer.

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard

Those looking for a coastal vibe might consider the 45-minute drive to Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, formerly Sakonnet Vineyards. The vineyard has been producing wine using locally grown grapes for over 40 years and now makes 19 varieties. Both the wine and winery itself have won dozens of awards. Guests can grab a bite at the seasonal cafe or lounge in the Adirondack chairs while sipping their vino.

Experience Newport’s Wineries for Yourself

No trip to Newport is complete without a winery visit, but why not dedicate a whole weekend to experiencing the Coastal Wine Trail? Collect stamps in the Coastal Wine Trail Passport for each winery visited along the trail, which meanders through the charming towns of Southeastern New England. While you’re in town, make a reservation at historic Ivy Lodge for modern accommodations in a timeless Victorian setting. Our elegant rooms are perfect for honeymoons, weekend getaways, and vacations away from it all. Check out our getaway packages then contact Ivy Lodge at (401) 849-6865 for available dates.

Secret Garden Tour of Newport

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fountain

The Secret Garden Tours of Newport Rhode Island should be on every gardening enthusiast’s bucket list. Spring (June 14,15 & 16) and Fall (September 6,7, & 8) Tours of the private gardens of some of historic Newport’s most prestigious properties.  In past years, as many as ten gardens have been open. Each year it varies as new gardens are added. 100% of all the proceeds benefit the public schools of Rhode Island, funding their art, music, dance and theater programs.

While in Newport stay at the historic Ivy Lodge www.ivylodge.com. We are located in the heart of the mansion district. Enjoy our garden views while you relax on the porch.

How a Bed and Breakfast Differs From a Hotel

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Photo of a room at the bed and breakfast Ivy Lodge in Newport, RIWhen people are looking for a place to stay while on vacation or a business trip, they may think of any place that rents out rooms as a hotel. There’s even a common misconception that a bed and breakfast is a subcategory of hotels, when in fact they are distinct types of accommodations. Here are three of the main differences between a hotel and a bed and breakfast.

Size

While not every hotel is a 7,000-room behemoth like the Venetian in Las Vegas, hotels generally tend to be larger than the average bed and breakfast. Even small hotels have upwards of 20 rooms while most bed and breakfasts have a dozen rooms or fewer.

Management and Ownership

Hotels, especially those that are part of a chain, are usually staffed and run by people who live off the property. In contrast, most bed and breakfasts are owned and managed by people who live on the premises or in a nearby home. Unlike a hotel, a bed and breakfast offers the feel of staying as a guest in the welcoming home of an old friend.

Meals

As one might expect, breakfast is a key component of any bed and breakfast. Unlike most hotels, which offer a paltry spread, a bed and breakfast usually offers a bountiful meal to start the day. Some establishments offer private tables for morning diners while others have a family-style setting that adds to the overall friendly ambiance that endears the bed and breakfast to so many travelers.

If you’re looking for the homey, friendly atmosphere of a bed and breakfast, look no further than Ivy Lodge. Ivy Lodge is a bed and breakfast owned and operated by a caring and attentive couple dedicated to preserving the beauty of the centuries-old Victorian mansion and idyllic grounds. Ivy Lodge’s unique rooms offer the perfect setting for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. Keep an eye on the getaway packages for great deals on your next trip. Contact us at 401-849-6865 for available dates or make your reservation online now.

2019 Newport Oyster Festival

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You know about Newport ‘s many festivals such as the Classical, Folk and Jazz music festivals.  Another reason to visit are the Food festivals!  Kicking off this season Moet & Chandon together with Bowen’s Wharf Company present the 4th Annual Bowen’s Wharf Newport Oyster Festival. The event will be held Saturday and Sunday, May 18 and 19.

Bowen’s Wharf has long supported and promoted local, RI maritime businesses.  Folks will have the opportunity to meet individual oyster growers and learn more about this increasing segment of the economy.  Oyster Aquaculture is joining other fishermen, shell-fishermen, and lobstermen as an expanding contributor. 

All varieties of delicious oysters (and there are many!) that come from RI waters will be featured.  It is a family friendly event with a shucking contest, live music and of course, plenty of food and drink from several outstanding local restaurants.  It all happens on the historic Bowen’s Wharf waterfront, rain or shine.  Check IvyLodge.com availability and plan a visit. Food lovers are already booking for the next great food event

Newport is full of terrific restaurants that will provide an unforgettable dining experience any time of the year.  Ivy Lodge is the perfect place to stay while you enjoy exploring  all of the gastronomic delights that The City by the Sea has to offer.