Romantic Weekend Getaways in Rhode Island
I found that getaways in Rhode Island are full of coastal charm, historic character, and cozy hideaways perfect for couples. Within just a short drive, you can stroll along sandy beaches, wander through quaint seaside towns, or enjoy fresh seafood by the harbor.
What makes Rhode Island so special is its intimate feel. You’ll find everything from boutique inns in historic districts to waterfront hotels with sweeping ocean views. Whether you’re exploring Newport’s Gilded Age mansions, savoring sunsets along Narragansett Bay, or relaxing at a spa retreat, the state offers endless ways to slow down and reconnect. Here are some of the most unique stays I came across that I think you’ll love for your next romantic escape to Rhode Island.
1. The Chanler at Cliff Walk - 45 minutes from Providence, RI
We drove about 3.5 hours northeast from New York City to Newport (population around 25,000), home to the famous Cliff Walk , a 3.5-mile National Recreation Trail tracing the edge of the Atlantic.
I think that The Chanler at Cliff Walk is one of the best romantic getaways in New England.
I love how this Gilded Age mansion has been transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, offering stunning ocean views and timeless elegance.
My favorite part is its location right on the famous Cliff Walk, giving me the chance to enjoy breathtaking coastal scenery just steps from my room.
I thought the uniquely designed rooms were incredible—each one decorated in a different historical style, from Renaissance glamour to seaside chic.
For me, the private terraces and fireplaces made the rooms feel like the ultimate romantic retreat.
I also loved the fine dining experience at Cara, the on-site restaurant, where creative tasting menus and wine pairings made every meal unforgettable.
The gardens are another gem, offering peaceful spots to relax while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
I enjoyed how the hotel provided little luxuries at every turn, from personalized service to thoughtful amenities that made my stay feel special.
What stood out most for me was the balance of grandeur and intimacy—The Chanler feels opulent, yet welcoming and cozy at the same time.
I think it’s one of the most underrated luxury hotels in the U.S., perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or a dreamy weekend escape.
For me, The Chanler at Cliff Walk is more than a hotel—it’s an unforgettable experience filled with romance, history, and oceanfront beauty.
A downside? With limited dining options nearby, I felt more confined to the property than I expected.
Plan your romantic stay:
- Location: The Chanler, Newport, Rhode Island
- Cost: ~$600–$1,200/night depending on suite and season
2. The Margin Street Inn - 1 hour by car
I drove about 3.5 hours northeast from New York City to Westerly, a historic seaside town on Rhode Island’s southwestern tip.
I adore how Hotel Viking, an elegant Colonial-Revival landmark, dating back to 1926, seamlessly blends Gilded Age grandeur with modern comforts.
My favorite part is its iconic location atop Newport’s Historic Hill, offering proximity to Bellevue Avenue’s famed mansions, the waterfront, and charming local attractions.
I think the sense of history here is unparalleled—from original features like the brass letterbox in the lobby to subtle nods to the past in every corner.
I love waking up in rooms adorned with satin duvets, marble baths, and Egyptian cotton sheets—luxury that feels effortlessly classic.
I especially enjoy the rooftop bar offering sweeping views of Narragansett Bay—perfect for evening cocktails and romantic conversation.
The award-winning spa, Spa Fjör, is another gem—ideal for recharging with indulgent treatments amid soothing ambiance.
For me, the indoor pool and cozy courtyard with fire pits add an extra layer of comfort, making the hotel feel welcoming no matter the season.
I thought the blend of historic charm and modern amenities—from rain showers to flat-screen TVs—created an underrated boutique experience that’s both elegant and down-to-earth.
I enjoy how the hotel’s layers of story—its storied past, famous guests, and place in Newport’s culture—make every stay feel meaningful.
For me, the Hotel Viking isn’t just lodging—it’s an unforgettable escape where romance, history, and hospitality intertwine beautifully.
If you’re seeking the best of Newport’s classic elegance with contemporary comforts, this is absolutely my favorite retreat.
Good to know: The quiet location meant fewer dining and shopping options within walking distance.
Plan your romantic stay:
- Location: The Margin Street Inn, Westerly, Rhode Island
- Cost: ~$300–$450/night depending on room and season
3. Hotel Viking: Grand Halls & Rooftop Quiet
I love how Hotel Viking in Newport blends timeless elegance with modern comfort, making it one of the best places to stay in New England for either a romantic escape or a family trip.
The grand lobby immediately impressed me with its rich woodwork and welcoming atmosphere, and I knew I had discovered an underrated gem.
My room came with plush bedding, stylish décor, and a touch of old-world charm that made it feel like my favorite kind of boutique stay.
I especially loved the rooftop bar, which gave me sweeping views of Newport Harbor—perfect for sipping cocktails during a romantic evening.
The on-site spa is another highlight, and it quickly became one of my favorite spots to relax and recharge after exploring the city.
For families, the hotel offers spacious suites and a warm atmosphere that makes everyone feel right at home.
I found the location unbeatable, as it sits right in the heart of downtown Newport, just steps away from the city’s best restaurants, shops, and historic mansions.
Dining at the hotel’s restaurant was also a treat, serving fresh seafood and locally inspired dishes that made every meal feel special.
For me, Hotel Viking is the best choice when I want a weekend filled with history, charm, and modern indulgence.
It’s easily one of my favorite destinations for a romantic getaway or a family adventure in Rhode Island.
Where it fell short: Weekend events made the lobby feel more like a wedding hall than a relaxing getaway.
Plan your romantic weekend stay:
- Location: Hotel Viking, Newport, Rhode Island
- Cost: ~$250–$450/night depending on room and season
4. Edgewood Manor - just 10 minutes by car from Downtown Providence
We drove about 3.5 hours northeast from New York City to Providence, the capital of Rhode Island.
Edgewood Manor in Rhode Island is one of my favorite hidden gems for a weekend getaway that feels both elegant and personal.
I love that this historic bed and breakfast is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, making it an underrated escape that still keeps you close to Providence.
The Victorian-style mansion is truly one of the best preserved in the area, with marble fireplaces, antique furnishings, and chandeliers that made me feel like I stepped back in time.
My favorite part was the warmth of the innkeepers, who made the experience feel more like staying at a friend’s estate than at a traditional hotel.
Each room is uniquely decorated, and I loved that my suite came with a cozy fireplace and vintage details that made the stay extra romantic.
For couples, Edgewood Manor is an absolute gem—it’s quiet, intimate, and filled with character, making it perfect for a romantic weekend getaway.
Families will also enjoy the spacious accommodations, and I found the atmosphere welcoming and relaxed for all types of travelers.
The gourmet breakfast each morning was my favorite way to start the day, with fresh coffee, baked goods, and hot entrées served in the elegant dining room.
Another highlight for me was its convenient location, just minutes from downtown Providence, where you can explore some of the best restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
Edgewood Manor is easily one of the best and most underrated places to stay in Rhode Island, blending history, comfort, and charm into one unforgettable getaway.
Plan your romantic stay:
- Location: Edgewood Manor, Providence, Rhode Island
- Cost: ~$200–$350/night depending on room and season
5. Castle Hill Inn: Clifftop Calm & Salt-Kissed Luxury
Castle Hill Inn in Newport, Rhode Island, is a romantic and hidden gem that quickly became one of my favorite escapes by the sea.
I feel like I’ve been swept into a gilded-age dream as soon as I arrive at this storied estate perched along the rugged coastline of Narragansett Bay.
I love that the inn was once the summer home of marine biologist Alexander Agassiz—it has a legacy that still enriches every corner of the property.
It’s one of the best places in New England to indulge in quiet luxury, with just-so rooms in the Agassiz Mansion, charming beach cottages, and even evocative Turret Suites with sweeping ocean views.
My favorite memory? Staying in the Harbor House, where Grace Kelly stayed during the filming of “High Society” in 1956—a secluded corner named “Grace Kelly Beach,” accessible by a private staircase built just for her.
I found the inn’s reputation for exceptional hospitality enchanting, as it’s known for blending timeless elegance with modern comforts.
I especially love how the land itself feels alive—the estate covers a sweeping 40-acre peninsula where ocean meets lawn, dotted with walking paths to craggy cliffs and tidal views that make every moment feel cinematic.
My romantic side adores dining at Aurelia or enjoying lobster rolls with rosé on the lawn as sailboats drift by—every meal is an ode to New England’s flavors and coastal elegance.
For me, Castle Hill Inn is more than a stay—it’s a sanctuary, where time softens, sea air refreshes, and each visit becomes a favorite chapter in a timeless story.
Plan your romantic stay:
- Location: Castle Hill Inn, Newport, Rhode Island
- Cost: ~$600–$1,000/night depending on season and suite
Where the Smallest State Makes Space for Two
Rhode Island doesn’t shout for your attention. It invites. In garden courtyards, at cliff’s edge, beneath high-beamed ceilings, and beside bay windows that open to wind and water, we found quiet places to hold each other close. Each inn gave us something different, grandeur, nostalgia, warmth, but what stayed the same was how these weekends made space for stillness. No itinerary, no rush. Just a few good meals, soft light, and time that belonged to no one else. That’s what romance looks like here.
My personal highlights:
What I love most is how Rhode Island combines the best of everything, Newport’s seaside elegance, Providence’s unique arts and dining scene, and the underrated tranquility of Block Island. Each feels special and has quickly become one of my favorite romantic getaway experiences.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
