Situated on the shores of breathtaking Lake Memphremagog, the small city of Newport, Vermont offers both natural beauty and plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy. From scenic vistas to historical and cultural sites, Newport overflows with rewarding things to experience. Whether you love the outdoors, history, food, or just strolling a charming downtown, this Northeast Kingdom town has something for travelers of all interests. Read on for some of the top things to do in Newport, Vermont.
What to Do in Newport
Experience Lake Memphremagog
Newport sits on the eastern shores of the 30-mile long Lake Memphremagog, and enjoying the beauty and recreation of the lakeshore is a top attraction. Take in gorgeous views of the water and mountains from lakeside walking paths and parks. Rent a kayak, canoe, paddleboard or motorboat to explore the lake’s islands, coves, and mountains rising in the distance. Go fishing for bass, perch and trout. End the day watching the sunset over the lake with a picnic dinner and some local Vermont wine. Newport’s stunning setting makes appreciating Lake Memphremagog a must.
Hike Jay Peak
Just northeast of town lies Vermont’s Jay Peak, an excellent mountain for hiking during spring, summer and fall. Ascend the 3.5-mile roundtrip Airline Trail getting increasingly impressive views from the cliffs. For a more challenging full-day hike, tackle the 8-mile roundtrip trail up Jay Peak, rewarded by panoramic vistas from the wind-swept summit. Mountain bikers and snowshoers also traverse scenic trails crisscrossing the high-elevation Jay Peak Nordic Area just minutes from downtown Newport.
Bike or Drive Scenic Byways
Newport serves as the gateway to Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, and you can explore the region’s beauty and small towns along scenic byways. Drive or bike routes like the Lake Memphremagog Byway, following the lakeshore and countryside. Or wind along the Underground Railroad Vermont Byway through quaint villages significant stops along the Underground Railroad. Scenic highways like Route 105 and Route 100 also pass charming general stores, craft shops, farms, and mountain views begging to be photographed.
What to See in Newport
Newport City Renaissance Block
This downtown block contains some of Newport’s most iconic historic buildings. The 1881 Second Empire-style Goodrich Memorial Library hosts the Northeast Kingdom Civil War Museum. The 1885 Colonial Revival Orleans County Courthouse stands with imposing Greek columns. The Renaissance Block also contains the 1885 Wright’s Opera House where live performances still take place today. Strolling this downtown block transports you back in time.
Memphremagog Lighthouse
Adjacent to Newport Harbor stands the Memphremagog Lighthouse, which has marked the northern tip of the lake since 1896. The striking black lighthouse presents a classic nautical sight along Newport’s waterfront. Though not fully open to the public, visitors can get close-up views and photographs from outside. On summer Saturdays, brief tower tours are given allowing visitors to climb the winding wooden staircase to spectacular lake vistas.
Eastside Restaurant Murals
The exterior wall of the Eastside Restaurant in downtown Newport displays a series of vibrant murals depicting Newport’s railroad and logging history. These detailed historical murals make for a fun free photo opp and give visitors a feel for the region’s bygone timber days. Interpretive panels provide background on each scene. After, pop inside the Eastside for tasty diner food and bakery treats.
Where to Eat and Drink in Newport
Newport has a nice selection of restaurants, cafes and eateries to fuel up during your stay.
- Brown Cow Restaurant – Family diner serving breakfast, sandwiches and comfort food favorites since the 1940s. Don’t miss their fresh baked goods.
- Newport Natural Market & Café – Bustling natural food store with an organic cafe serving soups, sandwiches, pizzas and smoothies made in-house.
- Elmer’s Cabin – Sample award-winning craft beers, ciders and spirits from Northeast Kingdom producers in a cozy tasting room setting.
- The East Side Restaurant & Pub – Creative farm-to-table New American cuisine crafted with local ingredients at the Gateway Center.
- Hoagie’s Pizza & Pasta – Authentic Italian fare from hearty pasta plates to specialty pizzas, hero sandwiches, salads and more.
Where to Shop in Newport
Newport has an appealing collection of independent boutiques, antique stores and gift shops in its compact downtown.
- Bear Pond Books – Charming independent bookstore featuring new and used books, knowledgeable staff, author events and readings in a cozy setting.
- Mon Vert Cafe – Sip coffee and sample French pastries and savory crepes at this corner cafe with Bohemian flair.
- Calico Home – Find a nice selection of home goods, candles, jewelry, clothing and gifts inside a pretty Victorian house downtown.
- Pick & Shovel – Quirky gift shop with nostalgic candy, Vermont-made products, toys, puzzles, T-shirts and local crafts.
- Newport Antiques & Uniques – Two floors crammed with antiques, vintage items, and collectibles from over 100 dealers. A treasure hunter’s paradise.
Where to Stay in Newport
Newport has a nice range of cozy inns, hotels and motels for a rewarding stay.
- The INN – Quaint boutique inn downtown offering pampering amenities like a cooked breakfast, afternoon wine and cheese, and nightly turndown service.
- The Newport Inn – Historic hilltop inn providing a free breakfast and après ski specials in winter, just over a mile from downtown.
- Tiffany’s – Cozy suites and cottage rentals on a scenic property along Lake Memphremagog south of town.
- The East Side – Motel with clean, comfortable rooms and cottages located downtown close to restaurants and shops.
How to Get to Newport
By car: Newport is located in northeast Vermont about 1.5 hours northeast of Burlington. Take I-91 to Exit 27, then US-5 North into downtown Newport.
From Burlington: Take I-89 East to US-2 East, continuing onto US-5 North for 70 miles to reach Newport.
From Montreal: Take I-89 South crossing into Vermont. Continue on US-5 South for around 100 miles to enter Newport.
By air: The nearest major airport is Burlington International Airport (BTV), located about 85 miles southwest of Newport. Rent a car or take a shuttle service from Burlington.
By bus: Rural Community Transportation provides bus service between Newport and nearby towns St. Johnsbury and Derby Line.
So whether you love scenic vistas, small town culture, or exploring Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, Newport makes the perfect home base with charm and natural beauty in equal measure.
Conclusion
Set against the spectacular backdrop of Lake Memphremagog and Jay Peak, the Northeast Kingdom city of Newport, Vermont overflows with natural splendor and charms waiting to be uncovered. Enjoy the lake through boating, fishing, or watching breathtaking sunsets from its shores. Hit the trails to admire awe-inspiring vistas from Jay Peak and the lush Green Mountains. Learn about Newport’s heritage while exploring historic buildings downtown and local museums that transport you back through the centuries. With a lively arts and food scene, scenic drives through quintessential small towns, and wonderful recreational opportunities, Newport offers the best of Vermont’s scenery, culture, and spirit of adventure. Whether you seek outdoor challenges, historical insights, or just strolling lovely streets, Newport provides an unbeatable home base for embracing the very essence of Vermont.
