Newport, Rhode Island—a city synonymous with sailing, summer, and the sophistication of bygone eras—offered the perfect backdrop for a special celebration: my husband’s birthday. Known for its stunning coastal scenery and rich history, Newport blends the old-world charm with modern luxury, making it an ideal escape for travelers seeking both relaxation and recreation. This trip was not just about unwinding but marking another year with an unforgettable adventure, combining opulent living at The Vanderbilt and thrilling clay shooting experiences at Peace Dale Preserve.
The Vanderbilt Experience: Historic Charm and Modern Luxury
Nestled in the heart of Newport at 41 Mary Street, The Vanderbilt stands as a beacon of America's Gilded Age. Originally constructed for the Vanderbilt family, this historic mansion has been meticulously reimagined as a boutique hotel that seamlessly integrates the grandeur of its past with the demands of modern luxury. Upon entering, guests are greeted by the breathtaking sight of dual staircases and the subtle elegance of its Georgian-style architecture—a first impression that transports you back to an era of exquisite taste and opulence.
Accommodations and Amenities
Each of the 33 uniquely designed rooms, including 29 suites, offers a sanctuary of comfort and luxury. Our stay in the Alfred King Suite was a highlight, featuring expansive windows with serene views of the local church, whose bells provided a melodious backdrop to an afternoon nap. Despite ongoing renovations, set to conclude in Spring 2024, the suite's charm was undeniable, boasting a modern bathroom with a rain shower and a kitchenette stocked with gourmet coffee and teas, which underscored The Vanderbilt's meticulous attention to detail.
The newly reimagined guest rooms and suites, completed in Spring 2022, blend handcrafted architectural details with modern Newport glamour. These accommodations offer unique furnishings and flirtatious eccentricities, ensuring a one-of-a-kind East Coast escape with sizes ranging from 400 to 2,000 sq. ft. Many rooms provide splendid views of the hotel’s private Garden Terrace or the historic downtown and Newport Harbor, and accessible rooms are available to accommodate all guests.
Dining Excellence
The Vanderbilt Dining Room, where we enjoyed our last dinner, is a testament to the culinary excellence that The Vanderbilt strives to offer. While specific details of our meals are blurred by the relaxed joy of the evening, the focus on fresh, local ingredients was evident, from a Mediterranean-inspired lamb dish to innovative ice cream flavors. The impeccable service further enhanced our dining experience, with staff members who remembered and addressed us by name throughout our stay, adding a personalized touch to every interaction.
Breakfasts in the Conservatory and our first dinner at the nearby Stoneacre Brasserie showcased the seasonal and fresh approach of The Vanderbilt's culinary offerings. Although specifics of the dishes are not currently listed, the creativity and quality remained memorable.
Engaging Activities and Personal Touches
Beyond the rooms and dining, The Vanderbilt offers a variety of engaging activities. Guests can enjoy intimate cocktail classes, tarot readings in the reimagined Parlour, or learn the time-honored tradition of Scrimshaw, adding layers of cultural and historical appreciation to their stay. For those planning a visit with pets, The Vanderbilt welcomes furry friends with open arms, providing special amenities including a dog bed, food, and water bowls for a nominal fee, ensuring that all family members have a luxurious stay.
The blend of historic ambiance with contemporary features and personalized services at The Vanderbilt makes it more than just a place to stay—it's a gateway to experiencing the timeless elegance and cultural richness of Newport.
If you’re drawn to the allure of old-world charm infused with contemporary flair, consider The Vanderbilt for your next Newport adventure. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer stay, the mansion offers a perfect base from which to explore the historic and scenic delights of Newport. For reservations and more information, visit The Vanderbilt's website or contact them directly at +1 401 846 6200.
Sporting Days at Peace Dale Preserve
Just a short drive from the sophisticated comfort of The Vanderbilt, Peace Dale Shooting Preserve presented an experience as grounding as it was thrilling. Set against the backdrop of Rhode Island’s tranquil landscapes, this 125-acre facility skillfully blends challenge with charm, catering to both novices and seasoned shooters with its thoughtfully designed courses.
The Shooting Experience
Peace Dale offered an array of shooting experiences that brilliantly mimicked the natural flight patterns of game birds. With its two sporting clays courses comprising 26 stands and a 5-stand, the variety was as impressive as the scenic environment. My time here was both a test of skill and a profound connection with nature, navigating through dense woods and sprawling fields. Opting for a cart, we traversed the preserve’s extensive grounds, which are well-maintained with well-signed and newly resurfaced paths, ensuring a smooth journey through the varied terrain.
The targets, changed twice weekly and set by the renowned William Summerly, offered an eclectic mix that challenged me while being accessible enough to engage shooters of all levels. Participating in clay shooting here wasn’t just about pulling the trigger; it was about embracing the sport in its purest form, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the outdoors.
Guest Insights and Preserve Facilities
Feedback from other guests has been overwhelmingly positive, echoing my own experience. Many praise the preserve for its welcoming atmosphere, especially towards newcomers. It’s not uncommon to see first-timers leave with broad smiles, their initial nervousness replaced by newfound confidence and excitement. The community here is vibrant, supportive, and eager to share the joy of shooting.
Facilities at Peace Dale are top-notch. While it does not offer skeet or trap shooting, its comprehensive sporting clays and FITASC setups, along with bird hunting opportunities, make it a haven for clay enthusiasts. The lodge and the Elite indoor shooting facility are particularly praised for their excellence. These spaces provide a comfortable retreat where camaraderie and shared experiences form the cornerstone of every visit.
Navigating to Peace Dale
Getting to the preserve is straightforward. Traveling south on I-95, take Exit 9 onto Rt.4 south, continue for 13 miles to Rt. 138 west, and follow the signs. For those coming from the north, take Exit 3 on I-95 to Rt.138 east, and it’s a similar easy drive into the heart of the shooting grounds.
Reflections on a Day Well Spent
Spending a day at Peace Dale Shooting Preserve was a reminder of the simple pleasures that come from stepping back from the daily rush and immersing oneself in a sport that demands focus and precision yet offers immense fun and relaxation. The expertly set clays, the blend of technical challenge and natural beauty, and the exceptional facilities make Peace Dale a must-visit for anyone interested in the sport of shooting.
As we returned to the luxury of The Vanderbilt, the contrasts between the opulence of our accommodations and the rustic charm of the shooting preserve were striking yet harmoniously intertwined, each enhancing the appreciation of the other. Whether you’re an experienced shooter or looking to try something new, a day at Peace Dale Shooting Preserve promises not just shots and targets but memories that resonate well beyond the echoes of the last clay shattered.
Peace Dale Shooting Preserve stands as a testament to the sport of shooting—respectful of tradition yet fully equipped for the modern shooter. It’s more than just a place to shoot; it’s a community, a retreat, and an essential part of the Newport experience, reflecting the area’s dedication to preserving and celebrating the outdoors in all its forms.
Exploring Newport: A Tapestry of History, Nature, and Culinary Delights
Scenic Drives and Historic Walks
Newport's charm extends far beyond its well-appointed accommodations. The city, steeped in a rich tapestry of American history, offers some of the most picturesque drives and walks on the East Coast. A leisurely drive down Bellevue Avenue reveals a lineup of opulent Gilded Age mansions, each telling stories of a bygone era of extravagant parties and grand summer "cottages." The historical architecture here is a stark reminder of Newport's past as a playground for America's wealthiest families.
Equally compelling is the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile public access walkway bordering the shoreline with a natural rocky setting that provides a stark contrast to the manicured lawns of the mansions above. This path not only offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic crashing against rugged cliffs but also a peek into the backyards of some of the most famous mansions, including The Breakers and Marble House. Walking this trail, especially in the gentle warmth of a Newport summer, is like stepping through pages of architectural and social history, with the ocean breeze as your constant companion.
Local Shopping and Dining
The exploration continued into Newport’s vibrant streets, where history blends seamlessly with modern day. A visit to the Royal Male on a quaint corner of the historic district allowed us to indulge in fine British country clothing. The shop, set in a cheerily painted pre-Revolutionary building, provides not just apparel but a slice of Newport’s colonial past, adapted stylishly to today’s tastes.
Dining in Newport is an adventure in itself. Stoneacre Brasserie, a short walk from the heart of the city, offered a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The menu, rich with inventive takes on classic dishes, such as truffle fries and mussels, spoke to the locale's emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The French onion soup, a personal favorite, was a delightful prelude to a series of well-crafted main courses that showcased the culinary creativity Newport is known for.
Another memorable dining experience was at the Vanderbilt’s own dining room, where the ambience matched the elegance of the meals served. From seasonal dishes to the finest local seafood, each meal was a celebration of Rhode Island’s abundant offerings. The highlight, however, was a special birthday dessert for Luke— a beautifully crafted Pavlova served at a piecrust table by the fireplace, adding a personal touch to our sumptuous culinary journey.
Reflecting on Newport’s Allure
Each moment spent in Newport, from the scenic drives along its storied boulevards to the quiet enjoyment of its sophisticated culinary offerings, reinforced why this city remains a cherished destination. It’s a place where history is not just preserved but is a living part of the landscape, inviting visitors to create their own memories along its beautiful shores and within its grand old mansions.
For those drawn to a city that offers both natural beauty and a window into America’s architectural past, Newport promises an enriching and delightful experience. Whether you come for the views, the history, or the food, Newport leaves an indelible mark, encouraging all who visit to return and explore its treasures again.
Our journey to Newport was a splendid celebration of life's finer things—luxury, leisure, and sporting adventures. The Vanderbilt served as a luxurious base, its rich history and modern comforts providing the perfect backdrop for our daily excursions. Meanwhile, the clay paths of Peace Dale Preserve offered both challenge and rejuvenation, making each shot a testament to the area's vibrant sporting culture. Together, these experiences showcased the true essence of Newport: a city that reveres its storied past while dynamically engaging with the present.
Newport is not merely a destination; it is a gateway to an era of refined elegance and a vibrant showcase of Rhode Island's coastal allure. Whether you are captivated by the call of the outdoors or the charm of antique-luxe living, Newport invites you to delve into its unique blend of scenic beauty, historical depth, and contemporary luxury.
