Rhode Island is the smallest state in the union and the eighth least populated. But on the other side of the statistics, it is the second most densely populated given its small geographical area. Rhode Island has more than its fare share of early American history. It is one of the original Thirteen Colonies and has a long list of historical events. With all of that said, this smallest sibling of the lower 48 has some of the most beautiful shoreline I have seen in a long time.
Newport, Rhode Island’s picturesque beauty becomes evident as you crossover the Claiborne Pell Bridge. All I could do is gaze upon all the gorgeous scenery that crosses my sight. Its rugged shoreline gives way to the deep blue majestic Atlantic ocean waters. It is obvious why the rich and famous escape their industrial lives to enjoy time on this quiet and somewhat secluded island.
Our day’s personal guide just happened to grow up and careered himself in this enchanting city. He set our agenda and we were off on a day’s worth of exploring one of our country’s most interesting states. We started our about town tour with the historic Fort Adams.
Fort Adams was established July 4, 1799 as an Army Post and was conceived as the first costal fortification. The fort was named after our second President John Adams. The Fort is one of many state parks 
Rhode Island has adopted.
It also served as a vacation retreat for the 34 President – Dwight D. Eisenhower. The two story yellow Victorian style home looks out onto the bay where sailing vessels begin their venture to 
open waters. The two story vintage home now offers its historical setting for special events such as weddings 
and formal affairs. This costal base and port offers plenty of American history and is a great family attraction.
From here we drove by one of the many country clubs that inhabit this prestigious island. The Colonial styled clubhouse proudly flaunts its statuesque appearance. It stands tall amongst the lush green links that surround its perimeters. The windows capture the sunlight from every possible direction. The golf course is well manicured with velvet like fairways and accurately directed greens.
Following along with our guides agenda, we headed for an attraction that seems to be 
popular with tourist and residents alike. The 40 Steps that reside at the end Narragansett Avenue were used mostly by servants who catered to the wealthy in the 1800’s. They came here to relax, dance and visit with one another during their time off. In the early 1990’s a push to restore the site began with a $3000 donation per step. It gives prestige to display an engraved brick with the donor(s) name.
It is now a place where people can fish, swim or just simply enjoy the fabulous views. We stood there and looked left, right and all points in 
between from the concrete observation deck below to marvel at the majestic scenery. It was really hard to leave this spot just for the simple fact that its beauty was so captivating. 
However, if we were going to complete our days tour, we needed to tear ourselves away and move on.
Our next stop is more for the Event Planner of the family. The Ocean Cliff Hotel is a perfect destination for a wedding or family reunion. You can’t go wrong with the breath taking views and 
elegant ambience. When we drove through the breezeway and circled around to the main entrance, I felt like royalty. The main event room with its floor to ceiling windows offered a panoramic view of the bay and the passing vessels. A perfect backdrop for any occasion.
I will stop here and let you catch your breath for a moment. Newport has so many historical sites and attractions, not to mention downtown’s colonial flare that I have to break the article up into two parts. Stayed tuned for the second leg of this exciting adventures.
Author: Anthony Scopel
Photography: Anthony Scopel
Associate Editor: Maureen Scopel
Technical Mastering & Support: Matt Kemper
Publisher: YMATD
A special thanks to our guide – Colonel John Beebe
