I Love New England
📍 Newport, Rhode Island
Blouse || Jeans || Flats ($50 off with SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE) || Handbag || Earrings || Bracelet
Although I was born and raised in Florida, I feel like I must have lived in New England in another life. Every time I visit, I feel so connected with the history, cuisine, and culture that makes this region unique. Luckily for me, I happened to marry a New Englander, and visits to the northeast can be as frequent as we want to be. Earlier this month, we took a trip to Rhode Island for David’s college reunion. He ran track for the University of Rhode Island, and I learned that he was kind of a big deal on campus. After the alumni festivities, we spent a few days in Newport. Because it’s a quintessential nautical town, it’s a huge reason as to why I love New England!
The History
Founded in 1639, Newport is steeped in all of the colonial charms you can handle. As you stroll through the historic district, you’ll notice countless placards that boast the year a home was built, who lived there, and often what historical event happened there. On my next trip to Newport, which I will probably be sooner than I realize, I want to take a full historical walking tour to learn as much as I can about the town. With whatever New England town you opt to visit, you can find the same kind of history from the colonial era to the present.
The Architecture
Because architecture goes hand in hand with history, it simply has to be on the list. Obviously, I love the coastal feature and colonial design, but it’s so much more than that. No trip to Newport is complete without visiting one of the incredible mansions. These summer “cottages” once belonged to the titans of American industry. Now many of them have been revitalized as a museum by the local preservation society. It gives you an intimate look at the gilded age of American history.
The Food
My home state, Florida, has incredible seafood in its own right, but it’s an entirely different experience to have fresh seafood in New England. I’m almost embarrassed to admit how often I ordered clam chowder. The weather was cool and cloudy, making it perfect for sipping a warm bowl of chowder. Apart from the seafood (like the above, picture-perfect meal from Midtown Oyster), you can also find traditional comfort food that works perfectly with the colonial history. One of my all-time favorite restaurants, White Horse Tavern, can also be found in Newport. Established in 1673, it is considered the oldest restaurant in the country—a must-visit when in New England.
The Style
There is a certain je ne sais quoi to New England style. Because it changes from season to season, it always feels seasonal and festive. At the same time, most elements are classic and haven’t really changed much over time. Think Bean Boots, cable knit sweater, and nautical stripes. I’ve always gravitated towards that look, no matter my location. Being in New England, I was excited to lean into that aesthetic. I almost feel like embracing classic fashion is enough to get me to visit.
The Weather
When we got home from our New England visit, Florida days still began with heat and humidity. While I appreciate our temperate climate in January and February, it was so lovely to escape to some slightly cooler weather. The summers aren’t as intense, and the falls have such an incredible crispness in the air. Even the cold winters have their own sense of charm, especially around the holidays. While I may never be the first one to sign-up for a snow day, it’s always a fun treat every once in a while.
The Details
As you walk through coastal New England, keep a keen eye out for all of the little details. Anchors, whale tails, and other nautical motifs sometimes make unexpected appearances. Because they were custom built over 200 years ago, the homes themselves have so much attention to detail that gave them a personal touch from each builder. Finding homes older than 100 years is a rarity in St. Pete. I enjoyed drinking in some of the elements that you can’t find elsewhere.
New England, you are always such a treat to visit! While my experience is somewhat limited to Vermont and Rhode Island, I greatly look forward to visiting the other states in our country’s smallest region. New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, I hope to see you all soon!
Love from Newport,
Katie
As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.