KATIE KENNEDY

Newport Date Night

Newport Date Night
đź“Ť Newport, Rhode Island

date night, Newport, Rhode Island, New England, Clark Cooke House

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Newport, Rhode Island, with its breathtaking coastal views, historic charm, and vibrant dining scene, sets the perfect stage for a memorable date night. Recently, we had a quick 24-hour adventure but made the most of every moment. From staying in a historic mansion to post-dinner cocktails, this itinerary guarantees a romantic and enchanting evening in Newport.

Getting Ready at the Vanderbilt Hotel

Start your date night in style by checking in at the iconic Vanderbilt Hotel. Located in the heart of Newport, this historic “downtown” mansion offers opulent rooms and suites that exude elegance from the Gilded Era. Indulge in luxurious amenities and pamper yourselves before embarking on your Newport adventure.

Happy Hour at the Clarke Cooke House

Kick off your evening with a visit to the iconic Clark Cooke House, a Newport institution since 1780. Head to the lively bar or choose a cozy spot on the outdoor patio overlooking Bannister’s Wharf and Newport Harbor. Enjoy their vibrant happy hour, offering a range of craft cocktails, local beers, and an enticing selection of small plates. Just don’t ruin your appetite before dinner. Toast to a delightful date night in Newport while creating memories in this historic waterfront setting.

Dinner at the White Horse Tavern

Step back in time and indulge in dinner at the historic White Horse Tavern, which holds the title of America’s Oldest Tavern. This charming establishment, dating back to 1673, offers an unforgettable dining experience. Delight in the cozy and candlelit atmosphere as you savor exquisite cuisine showcasing locally sourced ingredients and classic New England flavors. From succulent seafood dishes to mouthwatering steaks, the White Horse Tavern’s menu is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Nightcap at the Vanderbilt Grill

Conclude your evening with a nightcap at the sophisticated Vanderbilt Grill, nestled within the Vanderbilt Hotel. This elegant lounge offers an intimate setting, perfect for enjoying a handcrafted cocktail or a glass of fine wine. Relax by the fireplace or soak in the ambience of the courtyard as you unwind and savor the moments of your night.

History drips from nearly every corner of charming Newport, Rhode Island. Planning a date night that captures the colonial history, the gilded age, and sailing culture is a way to see all that the town has to offer. This is just the beginning of our New England escapes, and I’m already daydreaming about our next Newport date night.

Love from Rhode Island,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England. 

My New England Bucket List

My New England Bucket List
đź“Ť East Norwalk, Connecticut

New England, Summer, Bucket List, New Englander, Coastal Living, Nantucket

My New England Bucket List

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I can already tell that summer in New England will be a magical time of year. The region’s warm weather, lush landscapes, and coastal towns come alive with countless things to do. I already have an ever-growing bucket list to fill the season, but here are my top picks for a particularly eventful summer.

Memorial Day in Vermont

We’ll kick off the summer with a Memorial Day weekend in Vermont. Picturesque Stowe hosts a Memorial Day parade, bringing the charming small-town atmosphere to life. As we take a scenic drive through the Green Mountains, the memories of winter will seem like a world away. Having time to visit with David’s family is always a plus.

Antiquing in the Berkshires

The Berkshires region in western Massachusetts is known for its quaint antique shops and vintage finds. Since it’s a quick drive from our corner of Connecticut, it would be ideal for exploring the antique shops and markets scattered throughout the area. You never know what unique treasure I might find!

Visit Coastal Maine

Driving up the coast and visiting quaint towns like Kennebunkport has long been a daydream of mine. I can already taste the fresh seafood and lobster rolls at local eateries. From there, I can’t wait to explore Acadia National Park and stay at the Claremont Hotel in Southwest Harbor. Coastal Maine is the epitome of summer in New England and should not be missed.

Fourth of July in Boston

We’ve already booked our Independence Day trip to the birthplace of the American Revolution. My Dad is a huge history buff and especially loved revolutionary history, so I’m so happy my parents will join us. Boston’s Fourth of July celebration is one of the largest and most iconic in the country, with festivities including a concert on the Esplanade featuring renowned performers, a spectacular fireworks show over the Charles River, and annual sail on the USS Constitution.

Visit Litchfield Jazz Fest

Held annually in Litchfield, Connecticut, the Litchfield Jazz Fest is a must-visit destination for music lovers. The festival features world-renowned jazz musicians and up-and-coming artists performing in a beautiful outdoor setting. On the way there, I can almost guarantee a visit to the stunning Mayflower Inn for lunch, or maybe even an impromptu overnight trip.

Plan a Weekend in Nantucket

I’ve long wanted to experience the charm and beauty of Nantucket, one of the most picturesque and iconic islands on the East Coast. Indulging in the freshest seafood at local restaurants seems like the perfect summer to-do list, including a visit to Cisco Brewers. With its timeless charm and natural beauty, Nantucket may be the ultimate New England destination for a quiet weekend.

Is it too early to call myself a New Englander yet? If I can scratch off a few things off opf

Love from Connecticut,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England. 

New York City Classics

New York City Classics
đź“Ť Upper East Side, NYC

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Now that I’m a stone’s throw from the city again, I have some of my favorite restaurants and bars within reach. While New York is filled with many new and trendy spots to visit, I find myself drawn to certain spots that evoke the timeless charm and sophistication of the city’s past. It’s true I’m a history buff, so the thought, “if these walls could talk” often pops into my head. The only problem is mixing the old with the new so I can experience all the great bars and restaurants that call New York home. If you find yourself visiting Manhattan, here are my favorite (and must-visit) classics throughout the city.

Bemelmans Bar

Located in the Carlyle Hotel on the Upper East Side, Bemelmans Bar been a favorite haunt of celebrities and socialites since it opened in 1947. The bar is named after Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the beloved “Madeline” children’s books, who painted the whimsical murals that line the walls. The bar serves classic cocktails and live jazz, and it feels like stepping back in time to a more glamorous era. My favorite time to visit is a Sunday afternoon, when its not as busy, to nestle up to the bar with a JFK Daiquiri.

Grand Central Oyster Bar

Grand Central Oyster Bar has been serving fresh seafood since 1913. The restaurant’s stunning tiled ceilings and archways make it feel like an underground cathedral, and it’s easy to imagine commuters and travelers from decades past stopping in for a bite. The oyster bar is a must-visit for seafood lovers, with an extensive menu of fresh catches and classic dishes. This is the perfect spot for a last-minute drink and bite before taking the train home to Connecticut.

J.G. Melon

J.G. Melon is one of the most beloved spots in the city and has been serving up delicious burgers since 1972. The cozy, wood-paneled interior feels like a throwback to a simpler time, and the menu is refreshingly straightforward. The burgers are the star of the show here, with juicy patties and crispy fries that are the perfect accompaniment. A few words of advice: sit at the counter, order a Bloody Bull, but absolutely bring cash!

Katz’s Delicatessen

Katz’s Deli is famous for its pastrami sandwiches, which are piled high with tender meat and served on rye bread with a side of pickles. The bustling, crowded atmosphere is part of the charm, and it’s easy to see why Katz’s has been a favorite of locals and tourists alike for over a century. If you’re a lover of 90’s rom-coms, you may recognize the location from a very memorable scene in When Harry Met Sally. I’ll have what she’s having!

King Cole Bar

The King Cole Bar is known for its classic cocktails, including inventing the Bloody Mary, and elegant decor. The bar’s centerpiece is a stunning mural by Maxfield Parrish, which depicts the mythical King Cole surrounded by his court. The bar has a sophisticated, old-world feel, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a martini or two. Located in the heart of Midtown, it makes for a great oasis after shopping along 5th Avenue.

Monkey Bar

I had the pleasure of dining here on one of our most recent trips to the city. Monkey Bar been a low-key celebrity favorite since it opened in 1936. The art deco decor and dim lighting create a seductive atmosphere, and the menu is a mix of classic American and French dishes. The bar has a storied history, with everyone from Truman Capote to Madonna making appearances over the years.

P.J. Clarke’s

P.J. Clarke’s, a classic Irish pub in Midtown, has been serving up burgers and beer since 1884. The bar’s wood-paneled walls and cozy booths make it feel like a neighborhood haunt, and the menu is a mix of pub classics and upscale dishes. The sandwiches, crispy fries, and maybe an order of oysters served here are the perfect comfort food. Jackie Kennedy is rumored to have been a frequent visitor when she lived in the Upper East Side.

For lovers of classic New York, these spots are a must-visit. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail, fresh seafood, or a juicy burger, these iconic locations offer a taste of the city’s timeless charm and sophistication. Which of these New York Classics do you know and love? Which ones didn’t make my list and are a must visit?

Love from NYC,
Katie