Newport Bay Club & Hotel

Housed in a stone building between the quaint cobblestone streets of Thames Street and stunning harbor views, the Newport Bay Club is ideally situated for families and couples looking for a reasonably priced starting point to exploring Newport. The simply lobby has a stone wall and cluster of brown leather armchairs. The lobby, business center, and fitness center are situated on the main retail level, while the suites are all located on the floors above. There are also clothing stores, coffee shops, and delis on the first floor. There are a few observation decks with chairs overlooking the harbor. 

Located on Thames Street in downtown Newport, the Newport Bay Club is within easy walking distance of popular shopping, quaint cobblestone streets, and picturesque wharfs. Expect a five- to 10-minute walk to Bowen’s Wharf and the surrounding area. The Historic District (a 15-minute walk or five-minute drive) includes the traditional old mansions Newport is famous for, as well as Top of Newport -- the highest point in Newport. The famous Cliff Walk -- a three-a-half-mile path bordering the ocean and tours many historic mansions -- is a 20-minute walk or five-minute drive away. Easton’s Beach is a mile-and-a-half away from the hotel at a six-minute drive and a 30-minute walk. The International Tennis Hall of Fame is a 10-minute walk or four-minute drive from the hotel, and there are plenty of grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants in the surrounding area. The Naval War College Museum on Coasters Harbor Island is a 10-minute drive, as is the Naval Station Newport PASS and ID. The Newport State Airport is a 15-minute drive away. With the hotel’s convenient downtown location, a car isn't necessary for getting around Newport though parking for one car is free at the hotel.

There are 36 suites at the Newport Bay Club, all of which range in size from one bedroom to two-level townhouses. Suites feature flat-screen TVs and DVD players -- ideal for families to unwind after wandering around downtown Newport -- as well as kitchenettes. Four of the two-bedroom suites come with full kitchens, though the kitchenettes are still fairly large and feature dishwashers, microwaves, and mini-fridges. There’s plenty of counter and storage space in the kitchenettes and a full set of dishware. The full kitchens are much larger and come with a full-size refrigerator as well as a stove and oven. All suites come with free coffee and coffeemakers.The one- and two-bedroom suites feature separate living and sitting areas, and are quite spacious. Townhouses are two floor suites with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and balconies. Bathrooms are moderately sized, and come with standing glass showers or shower/tub combos and modern teal tile. All bathrooms come with Gilchrist and Soames toiletries. Some of the bedrooms are a bit small with not much walking space. Some guests have mentioned that while rooms are clean, some of the decor is a bit dated and could use an update.

While the emphasis at the Newport Bay Club is on its prime downtown location, there are a few nice features for guests as well. The first floor of the hotel is the main, retail level and it has a few coffee shops, delis, and clothing stores. While not part of the hotel, the stores are a nice in-building convenience for guests. A small, but modern fitness center with a few machines and flat-screen TVs is located on the first floor. The fitness center is clean, private, and well air-conditioned. Adjacent to the fitness center is a tiny business center with a computer and printer for guests to use. Coin-operated laundry machines are on a few of the floors, but guests also have the option of sending their laundry out through the hotel (for an additional fee). Guests have access to a pool at the Newport Athletic Club, though it is a 10- to 15-minute drive away in Middletown, and there is a small fee to use the facilities. One parking spot is included in the room rate, a nice extra during high season in downtown Newport where parking can be expensive and tough to find. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, though some guests have noted it can be a bit slow and spotty at times.