Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Newport, VT

  • Published 2023/02/08

Newport, Vermont’s Northeastern Kingdom, was founded in 1793 and is located on the shores of Lake Memphremagog.

The laid-back environment of Newport, Vermont, provides for a peaceful weekend trip or vacation and year-round leisure options and attractions.

Stroll around the historic center, stop by the farmers market in the summer, visit one of the museums, or wander along the waterfront promenade.

It is unquestionably one of the top tourist spots to visit for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Let’s discover the best things to do in Newport, Vermont, together!

Go Fishing at Lake Memphremagog

Aerial view of Lake Memphremagog

NEKVT / Shutterstock.com

Between Newport, Vermont, and Magog, Quebec, Canada, is Lake Memphremagog, a natural glacial lake.

Three-quarters of Lake Memphremagog is in Quebec, while one-quarter is in Vermont.

Sky reflecting on Lake Memphremagog

Raiden S. Brown / Shutterstock.com

Memphremagog derives its name from an Algonquian word that means “large expanse of water.”

Lake Memphremagog provides drinking water to over 175,000 Canadians and is utilized for a range of human activities like swimming, sailing, and catching fish, all of which draw a large number of tourists and residents.

If you wish to visit a picturesque getaway, the view of the lake is spectacular, and you should surely visit this well-known tourist destination.

Scenic sunset over Lake Memphremagog

Ben and Janice Luce / Shutterstock.com

Purchase Artwork at the MAC Center for the Arts

The Memphremagog Arts Collaborative (MAC) Center for the Arts is located at 158 Main Street, Newport, VT.

It is a humanitarian organization established by the Memphremagog Arts Collaborative Centre for the Arts to help local artists.

Artwork, textile art forms, woodcrafts, and creative handcrafts are all available for purchase at the Centre.

They provide a complete calendar of special events, concerts, visiting and original exhibits, lectures, and workshops that are available to the public and most of which are free to attend.

This is a great opportunity for people who want to give back to society.

Before you leave Newport, make sure to pick up a remembrance from the shops.

Sled through the Snow at Huskies Kingdom

If you believed it was impossible to sled through the snow like Santa, you were mistaken.

Huskies in the Kingdom, a family-owned sledding company, offers this exhilarating sport.

Several Huskies are harnessed to a sled and pulled through the snowy slopes.

The owners of this organization had been training dogs for 16 years before launching sledding tours at Stowe flake Mountain Resort in the winter of 2019.

They presently conduct tours in Stowe, Vermont, and will keep progressing and competing in New England distance races in addition to tours.

Enjoy this exciting and entertaining activity in Vermont with your children, family, and friends.

Explore Historical Artifacts in Goodrich Memorial Library

Exterior of Goodrich Memorial Library Newport Vermont

AlexiusHoratius, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Goodrich Memorial Library, which opened in 1868, offers more than simply a place to read.

For nearly 120 years, this library has helped the people of Newport.

It is located at 202 Main Street in downtown Newport and is the county’s biggest and only full-time library.

It also functions as a museum, with amazing historical artifacts on show.

The antique paintings on show in one area, as well as the lavish fireplaces, are works of art that are exclusive to the library.

Books, DVDs, audiobooks, journals, newspapers, and an enhanced printing section are all available to patrons of the Goodrich Memorial Library.

It’s no surprise that it’s listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

Support Local Farmers at Northeast Kingdom Tasting Center

In the heart of downtown Newport, Vermont, the Northeast Kingdom Tasting Center is a joint traditional cuisine business.

The Northeast Kingdom Tasting Center is committed to showcasing and supporting farmers and producers in the Northeast Kingdom.

This tasting center is a terrific place for learning more, trying, purchasing, and enjoying homemade food and beverages.

This unique indoor market gives a genuine taste of home, with items from the on-site tavern, pastry, café, wine, and bar to sample.

Come out and support our local farmers and producers while having a good time!

Order a Sushi Platter at Dusit Thai Cuisine

Dusit Thai, another hidden treasure on Main Street in Newport, offers a fantastic menu with a variety of delectable, genuine Thai dishes to pick from.

And if that wasn’t enough, they also provide full sushi platters with a variety of tasty options.

They place a premium on providing clients with the greatest quality meals available, such as their delectable noodles.

Takeouts, catering, vegetarian selections, wine, and superb meals for lunch and supper are just a few of the services offered by this restaurant.

Their menu is jam-packed with tempting offers that will make you want to return for more.

Go Sightseeing at the Eagle Point Wildlife Management Area

Eagle Point Wildlife Management Area, a 420-acre plot of property, is located at 2 Woodlawn Ave, Newport, VT.

This is the place to go if you think a vacation isn’t complete without a trip to the wild.

It is home to a variety of wild creatures and features marshes, hemlocks, and mixed woods.

Animals such as the fox, coyote, deer, raccoons, and occasionally moose may be seen on the large grasslands, as well as a great range of bird species such as hawks, eagles, and ducks.

Eagle Point offers an abundance of activities, including swimming, kayaking, hunting, and fishing in the wetlands.

The wide meadows along Lake Memphremagog’s shoreline provide stunning views for photography.

Pick Up Healthy Ingredients at Newport Farmers Market

Sunny day at Newport Farmers Market

Erika J Mitchell / Shutterstock.com

The Newport VT Farmer’s Market, which has been serving Orleans County for almost 45 years, is located on the Strand near the old Waterfront Plaza.

A community of farmers and crafters sell products they have manufactured or cultivated to the community from May until mid-October, rain or shine.

Local farmers and artisans make or cultivate everything.

They produce veggies, herbs, fruits, livestock, poultry, syrup, baked products, wool products, fresh foods, spices, and much more that can be bought here.

The Newport Farmers Market is a must-visit if you’re searching for a true homestead experience.

Taste Best-Selling Italian Cuisines at Lago Trattoria

Lago Trattoria, located in Newport, delivers award-winning Italian food to Vermont.

This well-known restaurant, located at 95 Main St, Newport, VT, serves Dinner, Sit-Down, Fine Dining, Catering, and Italian food.

Lago Trattoria has continuously offered up some of the best innovative Italian eating in the country and Northeastern since launching in Newport, Vermont.

Executive Chef Frank Richardi uses his Italian heritage as motivation for his creations, presenting exquisite pasta, pizzeria, and seafood delicacies to all Lago Trattoria customers.

Book in advance to try Chef Richardi’s handmade specialties, as well as a large assortment of traditional pasta meals, local vegetables, and meat, along with superb brews, cider, and wine selection at Lago Trattoria.

Enjoy a Lakeside Dinner at the Eastside Restaurant & Pub

Locals and travelers alike enjoy the East Side restaurant, which serves old-school American comfort cuisine and has a full bar, and is situated at 47 Landing Street in Newport, VT.

The East Side provides superb dining on the beaches of gorgeous Lake Memphremagog and is known for its hearty comfort cuisine.

The East Side is the ideal location for any event, whether it’s a business conference, a birthday party, or a special occasion meal.

The magnificent lakeside dinner and terrace of the Dancing Sail Banquet Room open onto a botanical garden, creating the perfect location for a fairytale Vermont wedding.

While visiting Newport City in Vermont, don’t miss the chance to dine here with your friends, family, or partner.

Take in the Scenery at Prouty Beach Campground

Prouty Beach Campground is approximately a 14.6-hectare park with spectacular scenery of Lake Memphremagog and Newport.

Over 75 campgrounds are available, with facilities such as tennis and basketball courts, horseshoe pits, a playground, a frisbee course, and a deck shuffleboard.

Prouty Beach provides ample room for team-building events, workplace parties, and family time vacations.

The park is a local favorite for day use and overnight stays since it is located at 386 Prouty Beach Rd, Newport, VT, and conveniently less than one mile from Main Street Newport.

The lower beach structure holds the waterfront’s boating and bicycle rentals, as well as restrooms and locker rooms.

Prouty also has parking places for hiking and bicycling on the Newport-Beebe Bike Path, as well as local fishing sites.

Stop By and Pray at St. Mary Star of the Sea

Exterior of St Mary Star of the Sea

Mfwills, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Roman Catholic church of St. Mary Star of the Sea is built on the top of Prospect Street in Newport, Vermont, viewing Lake Memphremagog.

The church, which has twin spires, gilded crosses, and a monument of the Virgin Mary, was consecrated on August 1, 1909, and has since serviced a community of over 1000 households.

Lake Memphremagog, Romanesque in style, overlooks the “Beautiful Waters,” and its interior murals, images from the Old and New Testaments, were reproduced by N.O. Rochon, a local artist at the time, based his work on the originals of Tussaud, a prominent French artist who had granted permission to utilize his works.

The church is never closed during the day; it is always available to the public for visitation by anyone fascinated by the culture and architecture, including for worship.

Tourists and college students frequent St. Mary Star of the Sea in summertime and fall.

Ride a Bike in the Newport Bike Path

Biking is one of the greatest ways to appreciate the beauty and serenity of Vermont, which offers a range of paths for all levels of bikers.

We’ve got you covered whether you’re searching for the adrenaline rush of downward road cycling or a calm ride through town.

This 13.4-kilometer out-and-back path is located in Newport, Vermont, that takes approximately 2 hours and 59 minutes to accomplish this course.

This track is fantastic for birdwatching, skiing, and hiking, and you’re unlikely to see many other people while you’re there.

The trail is open throughout the year and is a stunning place to visit any time.

Arrange a Picnic at the Garden Memorial Park

Gardner Park is one of the city’s most well-known parks due to its central location.

Softball contests, neighborhood concerts, farmers markets, the Winter Solstice, the Springtime Festival, and much more take place on this 20-acre site.

The park, located at the entrance of the Clyde River, is a popular site for fishing, kayaking, and picnics in the area.

With public grills, a pavilion, and a playground, the park is the perfect picnic spot for many families.

The park is turned into a completely operational ice skating rink in the winter, which draws both visitors and locals to the park.

Go for a Walk at the Newport Derby Bike Path

The Newport Beebe Spur Bike Route is a fantastic bike path that extends for about 3.8 miles along the lovely beaches of Lake Memphremagogg in Vermont.

Between Park Avenue and Prouty Beach, the trail becomes a paved path that extends through into the forests, mostly along Freeman Road, until it reaches Bluff Street.

Biking the old roads and railways in Vermont is a great way to get some exercise while taking in the beauty.

These walks are suitable for all ages of children, and they include a popular rail path that surrounds a lake and provides stunning views of the water.

The fields surrounding the route are filled with beautiful wildflowers, and it is also ideal for dog walks because it is never crowded.

Let’s take a look at the breathtaking Beebe Spur Rail Trail, which is certainly one of Vermont’s top walks.

Order a Delicious Taco at the Americas Taco shop

America Cortez, a Mexican native who moved to Vermont from San Diego, CA, in 2008, had always dreamed of having a location where she could share her cuisine with the wonderful people of Newport/Derby and everybody who sees her restaurant.

With the support and encouragement of relatives, friends, and her loving partner Mike, the taco store launched in 2014.

All they want is for their consumers to be satisfied with the food and service they provide.

Mexican cuisine is popular because it is flavorful and contains nutritious and fresh ingredients such as avocados, chiles, tomatoes, and other veggies.

They provide Mexicali-style tacos with a few California classics, as well as burritos, salad, nachos, and sides.

Enjoy the Scenery and Culture when You Drive along Northeast Kingdom Byway

One of the best ways to experience Newport is by driving along Northeast Kingdom Byway.

This 51-mile corridor offers picturesque views of the outdoor culture of Vermont, as well as its prominent classic architecture and villages.

Drive past quirky cafes, elegant restaurant fronts, and stunning historic edifices.

When it comes to nature, the byway also showcases some of the best farmland landscapes in the country.

Northeast Kingdom Byway spans various communities, including Newport itself, Saint Johnsbury, Westmore, and Charleston.

Its eye-catching attractions also include pasture lands and glistening lakes.

Savor the Lake Breeze on The Boardwalk

On Fyfe Drive, The Boardwalk offers you a passive way to take in the beauty of Newport.

Sitting at 5 feet wide, it’s a cool hangout spot with stunning lakefront vistas of Lake Memphremagog.

It runs along the shoreline of the lake, connecting the historic Newport Dock and Pomerleau Park.

There are picnic pavilions and benches you can rest on after a long day of exploring the city.

The Boardwalk also extends to Newport Bike Path, convenient for those who would like to shift from idle viewing to active sports.

Go Sledding during the Winter Festival at Gardner Park

Are you free in February?

Then, don’t forget to celebrate Newport’s Winter Festival with the community!

This annual event offers a variety of free skating and snow-based activities for everyone.

Many come by to play or spectate the Annual Guy Fortin Co-Ed Broomball Tournament.

For the little ones, there are scavenger hunts and Chuck-a-Pucks.

The Prouty Sledding Hill and Skate Shack are also open, so you can slide and sled to your heart’s content!

Though it’s wintertime, feel your hearts warm up to family-filled activities all through the day with the Winter Festival.

Be a part of the festivities at Gardner Park.

Cool Down by the Fountain at Pomerleau Park

Newport’s multitude of parks offers magnificent amenities and world-class views of the historic city.

And Pomerleau Park is one of them.

This park is a generous gift from Antonio Pomerleau and his family.

Though the park is naturally small in size, it doesn’t lack decorative public art installations, including a fountain and a mock lighthouse.

Its shade trees and canopies offer the perfect shelter from the heat or cold.

Sit by the lakefront and watch the sunset paint Lake Memphremagog yellow and orange.

If you’re ready to visit, Pomerleau Park is on Main Street.

Traverse the Woodland Trails at Bluffside Farm

For the recreational hiker, Newport has tons of scenic trails and routes.

One prime example is the trails circling Bluffside Farm.

Owned by Vermont Land Trust, this beautiful attraction sits near the Canadian border on Lake Memphremagog.

It shines a light on nature’s best creations with views of open fields, sand beaches, and native woodlands that are home to many animals.

Along its trails, you can also come across nesting birds and eagles.

Deer and osprey are also regular visitors to this farm property.

During winter, the farm property transforms into a snow oasis that’s ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Your nature expedition starts at Bluffside Farm on Scott Farm Road.

Final Thoughts

If you enjoy the outdoors and want to experience the small-town charm of Vermont, then Newport is the place for you!

It is an ideal tourist destination since it is one of the few places on this planet where the natural beauty is completely intact.

Boating, swimming, hiking, bicycling, fishing, skiing, and snowmobiling are among the year-round recreational activities available to tourists.

If you decide to spend your holiday in Newport, Vermont, you will have a range of possibilities.

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