Newport, Ri: Airport Accessibility And Travel Options

Yes, Newport, Rhode Island has an airport. Known officially as Colonel Robert F. Wood Air Park, or Newport State Airport, it is a state-owned public-use airport located 2.3 miles from Newport's central business district. The airport covers 221 acres of land and, as of 2021, had 20,885 aircraft operations, averaging 57 per day. There is no scheduled airline service available, but it is one of six active airports operated by the Rhode Island Airport Corporation.

Newport State Airport's history

Newport State Airport, officially known as the Colonel Robert F. Wood Air Park, is a state-owned public-use airport in Newport County, Rhode Island. The airport is located 2.3 miles from Newport's central business district and covers an area of 221 acres at an elevation of 172 feet above mean sea level.

The site that the airport occupies was known as Southwick's Grove in the mid-to-late 1800s. In the early 1900s, the site was home to Aquidneck Park, a horse racing track frequented by wealthy summer residents such as Willie K. Vanderbilt, John Jacob Astor, and I. Townsend Burden, who would occasionally race automobiles there. Mrs. Theodore K. Gibbs later purchased the property and renamed it Bethshan-in-the-Woods, intending to preserve it as a picnic ground for children.

In 1946, Army Air Force Captain Robert F. Wood established the Newport Air Park on the site. By 1953, the airport had received an Air Force contract to maintain planes for keeping local Air Force pilots current, and by 1958, it appeared on topographical maps of the area with two airstrips, which were paved. The airport was acquired by the state in July 1960, and new construction of the runways and taxiways was completed by September 1967.

The first aircraft accident at the Newport airport was documented by the National Transportation Safety Board in July 1964, and the first fatal accident occurred on April 23, 1969, when two general aviation aircraft collided in mid-air. Today, the airport is one of six active airports operated by the Rhode Island Airport Corporation. It serves the corporate community and visitors to nearby Newport, providing quick access for boat owners who harbour vessels in the nearby marinas.

Airport location

Newport, Rhode Island does indeed have an airport, known as Newport State Airport (IATA: NPT, ICAO: KUUU, FAA LID: UUU). The airport is located 2.3 miles (3.7 km) northeast of Newport's central business district. Covering 221 acres (89 hectares) at an elevation of 172 feet (52 metres) above sea level, it is one of six active airports operated by the Rhode Island Airport Corporation. Newport State Airport is a state-owned public-use airport with no scheduled airline services. However, it was previously served by Air New England.

The airport site has a rich history, dating back to the mid-to-late 1800s when it was known as Southwick's Grove. In the early 1900s, the area was transformed into Aquidneck Park, a horse racing track frequented by wealthy summer residents like Willie K Vanderbilt, John Jacob Astor, and I. Townsend Burden, who occasionally raced automobiles there. The property changed hands and names over the years, becoming Bethshan-in-the-Woods under Mrs Theodore K. Gibbs, who preserved it as a picnic ground for children.

The establishment of an airport at the site came in 1946 when Army Air Force Captain Robert F. Wood founded the Newport Air Park. By 1953, the airport had received an Air Force contract to maintain planes, and by 1958, topographical maps showed two paved airstrips. The state acquired the airport in July 1960, and new construction of runways and taxiways was completed by September 1967.

For those travelling to Newport, Rhode Island, another airport option is Boston Airport, which is approximately 62.8 miles away. From there, it is possible to take a bus to Newport, with the journey taking around 3 hours and 17 minutes.

Airport operations

Newport State Airport, officially known as the Colonel Robert F. Wood Air Park, is a public-use airport in Newport County, Rhode Island. It is located 2.3 miles (3.7 km) northeast of Newport's central business district and covers an area of 221 acres (89 hectares) at an elevation of 172 feet (52 metres) above sea level. The airport has two runways: Runway 4/22, which is 2,999 feet (914 metres) long and 75 feet (23 metres) wide, and Runway 16/34, which is 2,623 feet (799 metres) long and also 75 feet (23 metres) wide.

In the 12-month period ending March 31, 2021, Newport State Airport recorded 20,885 aircraft operations, averaging 57 flights per day. The majority of these flights were general aviation (96%), followed by air taxi (3%), and a small percentage of military flights (<1%).

The airport has a rich history, dating back to the mid-to-late 1800s when the site was known as Southwick's Grove. In the early 1900s, the site transitioned to Aquidneck Park, a horse racing track frequented by wealthy summer residents. It later became a venue for automobile racing, hosting the likes of Willie K. Vanderbilt, John Jacob Astor, and I. Townsend Burden.

In 1946, Army Air Force Captain Robert F. Wood established the Newport Air Park, which was later renamed after him. By 1953, the airport had paved runways and received a contract from the Air Force to maintain planes for local pilots. The state acquired the airport in July 1960 and completed new construction on the runways and taxiways by September 1967.

Today, Newport State Airport is one of six active airports operated by the Rhode Island Airport Corporation. While there is no scheduled airline service available, the airport once saw service from Air New England.

Travel options to Newport

Newport, Rhode Island, is a popular tourist destination, famed for its rich history, stunning Gilded Age mansions, and breathtaking scenery. Located centrally in southern New England, it is easily accessible by plane, train, bus, car, or ferry.

By Air

The closest airport to Newport is T.F. Green Airport in Providence, which is a 25-mile drive north of Newport. This airport offers a wide range of non-stop domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or use the bus to get to Newport. Smaller private or charter planes can also use Newport State Airport, which is just outside the city. Alternatively, Boston Logan Airport is about a 75-minute drive from Newport and offers commuter rail access to Wickford, a short 10-minute drive away.

By Train

Travellers can take the Amtrak NE Regional train to Providence or Kingston, Rhode Island, and then transfer to a RIPTA bus to Newport. The train station in Kingston is located at the University of Rhode Island's main campus.

By Bus

Bus services, including Peter Pan and RIPTA, connect Newport to other cities in the region, such as Providence and Boston. The bus ride from Boston to Newport takes approximately 3 hours and 17 minutes. During the warmer months, there is also a scenic ferry service from Providence to Newport.

By Car

Newport is easily accessible by car from various cities in the region. It is about an hour's drive from Boston and approximately three hours from New York City. Once in Newport, visitors should be aware that parking can be challenging, especially during peak times. The Breakers offers a parking lot, and there are metered parking options along Narragansett Avenue.

Hotels in Newport

Newport, Rhode Island, offers a wide range of accommodation options, from unique hotels and inns to motels, bed-and-breakfasts, and vacation home rentals. Whether you're seeking a seaside resort or a budget-friendly stay, Newport has something for everyone. Here is a curated list of some notable hotels in Newport:

Castle Hill Inn:

Castle Hill Inn is a sophisticated and luxurious Relais & Châteaux property perched on private beachfront property. It offers a range of accommodations, including cozy Beach Cottages with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and rooms in the historic Agassiz Mansion, such as the Rose Room and the Mary Walsh Room, which boast beautiful views of Narragansett Bay. Castle Hill Inn is known for its personalized service, attention to detail, and world-class cuisine, making it one of the most sought-after hotels in Newport.

Historic Inns and Bed-and-Breakfasts:

For those seeking a unique and historic experience, Newport offers a variety of charming inns and bed-and-breakfasts. One such option is a stay in a private 1700s home turned into a boutique inn, offering outdoor hot tubs, bay views, and a cozy ambiance. These types of accommodations provide a more intimate and personalized experience, often with the added charm of historical architecture and décor.

Boutique Hotels by the Sea:

If you're drawn to the ocean, Newport has several boutique hotels located right by the sea. These hotels offer a blend of modern amenities and breathtaking views, creating a relaxing and memorable experience. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves and enjoying your morning coffee with a view of the Atlantic—it's the perfect way to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Vacation Home Rentals:

For larger groups or those seeking a more private and home-like experience, Newport offers a variety of vacation home rentals. These range from chic urban lofts to serene private lighthouses, providing the comfort and space of home coupled with the excitement of exploring a new destination. Vacation rentals often cater to specific needs, such as pet-friendly accommodations or extended-stay options.

No matter your preference, Newport's diverse selection of hotels and accommodations will ensure you find the perfect place to rest and recharge during your visit. With its rich history, stunning coastline, and array of attractions, Newport is a captivating destination that promises an unforgettable stay.

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