Thames Street - a bridge over a river with boats on it
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Thames Street

4.6
·491k reviews·Newport, United States

Newport's historic Thames Street offers charming cobblestones, unique shops, and a vibrant culinary scene, blending old-world allure with modern delig...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Thames Street - a bridge over a river with boats on it

Thames Street

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Newport's historic Thames Street offers charming cobblestones, unique shops, and a vibrant culinary scene, blending old-world allure with modern delights.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Thames Street is a must-visit for its historic charm, unique shops, and delicious dining options."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛍️ Shop Local Treasures

Explore unique boutiques and vintage stores for one-of-a-kind finds.

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

From ramen to French cuisine, Thames Street offers diverse and delicious dining experiences.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Cobblestone Charm

Historic Cobblestone Charm

Thames Street

Stroll along the original cobblestone streets, soaking in the historic atmosphere of Newport.

TikTok
Boutique Shopping Delights

Boutique Shopping Delights

Thames Street

Discover unique finds in a variety of shops, from vintage clothing to artisanal soaps.

TikTok+1
Culinary Adventures

Culinary Adventures

Thames Street

Indulge in diverse dining options, from cozy pubs to upscale French cuisine and delicious ramen.

TikTok+2
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Thames Street Crowds

Thames Street in Newport, RI, is a bustling hub, especially during peak tourist season. Expect crowds, particularly on weekends and during summer months. Consider visiting on weekdays or during shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience. TikTok

Parking on Thames Street

Parking can be a challenge on Thames Street, with tourists often filling available spots during busy periods. Residents suggest exploring nearby streets or utilizing public parking options if you're not staying within walking distance. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Fall and Spring
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, dining al fresco
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Thames st. Newport, Rhode Island #NewporRhodeIsland #thamesstreet #travel #fypシ゚viral #viajar
@vannaaiub0
15 likes • 430 views

🛍️ Shop Local Treasures

Explore unique boutiques and vintage stores for one-of-a-kind finds. TikTok+2

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

From ramen to French cuisine, Thames Street offers diverse and delicious dining experiences. TikTok+1

Amazing Day visiting Thames Street in Historic Newport RI. Thames Street was one of Newport's original streets, officially laid out in 1654. It was named after the River Thames in London. Famous for its cobblestone paving, Thames Street is filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions that cater to tourists and locals alike! #newport #shopsmall #shop #shoplocal #thames #rhodeisland #ri #travel...
@sunrosephotographs
349 likes • 4.7K views
if you haven’t been to our thames street shop — THIS is your sign to come get pancakes (and maybe a burrito too) 🥞👀🍳
thenitrobar_
3.9K likes • 225.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Cobblestones

Enjoy the historic charm of the street, perfect for a leisurely stroll. TikTok

🐶 Dog-Friendly Dining

Obrien's Pub is a top pick for dog-friendly dining with great fries! TikTok

50 years of Thames Street history 🕰️ Which era would you rather stroll?? #rhodeisland #newportrhodeisland #1950style #1950s #backintime #history #historicarchitecture #newportri #newportbeachrealestate #newportbeach #rhodeislandhistory #rhodeislandlife #rhodeislander #thamesstreet #rhodeislandhomes #rhodeislandbusiness #rhodeislandfood #rirealestate #rirealtor #nostalgic #nostalgia
danapizzarelli
25 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛍️ Shop Local Treasures

Explore unique boutiques and vintage stores for one-of-a-kind finds. TikTok+2

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

From ramen to French cuisine, Thames Street offers diverse and delicious dining experiences. TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Cobblestones

Enjoy the historic charm of the street, perfect for a leisurely stroll. TikTok

🐶 Dog-Friendly Dining

Obrien's Pub is a top pick for dog-friendly dining with great fries! TikTok

☕ Coffee & Pastries

Grab a coffee and a bite at The Nitro Bar or Lucy's for a sweet treat. TikTokInstagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Thames Street is celebrated for its historic charm, diverse shopping, and excellent dining options, making it a must-visit in Newport. Visitors love the cobblestone streets, unique boutiques, and the variety of culinary experiences, from casual pubs to upscale restaurants. Some find parking challenging during peak times, and the street can get crowded.

What People Like

Historic cobblestone streets
Unique boutique shopping
Diverse dining options

What People Dislike

Parking challenges
Summer crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Thames Street is easily accessible by car, and it's a central point in Newport. If you're coming from out of town, consider flying into Providence (PVD) or Boston (BOS) and renting a car or taking a shuttle. Parking can be challenging, especially during peak season, so factor that into your travel plans. TikTok

Yes, Thames Street is very walkable and is best explored on foot to truly appreciate its shops and atmosphere. Many accommodations are also within walking distance. TikTok

Parking on Thames Street itself can be difficult, particularly in the summer. Residents suggest looking for street parking on adjacent streets or utilizing public parking lots. Arriving early in the day can increase your chances of finding a spot. Reddit

While specific bus routes can vary, Newport does have public transportation. It's advisable to check the local RIPTA (Rhode Island Public Transit Authority) schedule for routes that service the Thames Street area. TikTok

Biking is a great option for exploring Newport, and Thames Street is accessible by bike. There are bike racks available in some areas, but it's always good to have a lock. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Thames Street itself is a public street and does not require tickets to access. However, individual shops, restaurants, and attractions along the street will have their own admission or purchase requirements. TikTok

Shop hours can vary, but many are open daily from late morning to early evening. Some businesses, like The Sundance Company, have specific hours like 10 am to 8 pm. It's always best to check the individual business's hours before visiting. TikTok

There are no entrance fees to walk along Thames Street. It's a public thoroughfare lined with businesses and attractions. TikTok

For popular restaurants like Thames Street Kitchen or Audette, making reservations is highly recommended, especially during peak dining times or seasons. Some restaurants may offer online booking or require phone reservations. TikTok+1

Simply walking along the historic cobblestone street, window shopping, and enjoying the atmosphere are free activities. Many shops also offer browsing without obligation. TikTok

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Attractions

Thames Street boasts a diverse range of shops, including vintage clothing stores like Ltrain Vintage,Instagram artisanal soap makers like Newport Sea F,TikTok and boutiques offering unique gifts and local crafts. TikTok+1

Beyond shopping, you can find places offering hands-on activities like making your own soap.TikTok The street itself is an attraction with its historic architecture and cobblestone paving. TikTok

Many of the boutiques and gift shops along Thames Street offer a variety of souvenirs, from local crafts to themed items related to Newport. TikTok

Yes, Ltrain Vintage is a popular spot on Thames Street known for its selection of vintage clothing from various decades. TikTokInstagram

Thames Street was officially laid out in 1654 and named after the River Thames in London. It's one of Newport's original streets and has a rich history reflected in its architecture. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Popular dining spots include Thames Street Kitchen for steak and cocktails,TikTok+2 Audette for upscale French cuisine,TikTok Mountain Moose for Asian street food and ramen,TikTok and O'Brien's Pub for pub fare and dog-friendly options.TikTok Lucy's is also a gem for breakfast. Instagram

Lucy's is highly recommended for breakfast, especially their biscuit breakfast sandwich. The Nitro Bar also offers delicious pancakes and burritos. Instagram+1

You can find a wide variety of cuisines, including American pub fare, upscale French, Asian street food, ramen, and modern American dishes. TikTok+3

O'Brien's Pub on Thames Street is frequently recommended as a dog-friendly restaurant with excellent food. TikTok

Yes, many restaurants and pubs on Thames Street offer a great selection of cocktails and drinks. Audette and Thames Street Kitchen are noted for their curated cocktail menus. TikTok+2

📸 📸 Photography

The historic cobblestone streets, charming storefronts, and waterfront views (if accessible) offer great photo opportunities. Capture the unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere of the street. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! The mix of historic buildings, diverse shops, and people strolling makes Thames Street an excellent location for street photography. TikTokInstagram

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for more pleasant photography. Evenings can be magical with the streetlights and restaurant ambiance. TikTok

It's generally polite to ask permission before taking photos inside shops, especially if it's crowded or if you're focusing on specific merchandise. Most shop owners are happy to accommodate respectful photographers. TikTok

While Thames Street is more about the overall streetscape, look for unique architectural details, colorful signs, and the historic cobblestones themselves as key photographic elements. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Thames Street offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a variety of shops and eateries that can appeal to all ages. While it's a historic street, the pace is generally relaxed enough for families to enjoy a stroll. Consider stopping for ice cream or a sweet treat at one of the local shops. TikTok+1 The opportunity to browse unique stores can also be engaging for children. TikTok

For a more interactive experience, some shops offer activities like soap making, which can be a fun diversion for kids. TikTok When dining, look for casual spots like O'Brien's Pub, which is known for its welcoming atmosphere and good food that often pleases younger palates. TikTok Remember that parking can be a challenge, so planning ahead or utilizing accommodations within walking distance will make the family outing smoother.

🐶 Dog-Friendly Explorers

Newport's Thames Street is surprisingly accommodating for travelers with canine companions. O'Brien's Pub stands out as a top recommendation for its dog-friendly patio and delicious food, making it a perfect spot to refuel with your furry friend. TikTok This makes it easier to enjoy the local dining scene without leaving your pet behind.

While not all establishments may be explicitly dog-friendly, the general ambiance of Thames Street allows for pleasant walks with your dog. Always ensure your dog is leashed and well-behaved, and be mindful of other visitors. Checking with individual businesses beforehand is always a good practice if you have specific dining or shopping plans. TikTok

💖 Couples Seeking a Romantic Vibe

Thames Street offers a charming backdrop for a romantic outing. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the historic cobblestone streets, hand-in-hand, taking in the quaint architecture and vibrant atmosphere. TikTokInstagram Many of the restaurants provide an intimate setting for dinner, with Thames Street Kitchen and Audette being particularly noted for their ambiance and excellent food and cocktails, perfect for a date night. TikTok+2

Consider visiting during the evening when the streetlights cast a warm glow, enhancing the romantic feel. Window shopping at the unique boutiques can also be a fun shared activity. TikTok For a relaxed evening, enjoying a cocktail at a bar like Bar and Board adds to the sophisticated yet laid-back charm of the street. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Thames Street's Historic Charm

Thames Street in Newport, Rhode Island, is steeped in history, officially laid out in 1654 and named after London's River Thames. TikTokInstagram Its iconic cobblestone paving adds to its old-world allure, making it a picturesque setting for a stroll. The street has witnessed centuries of Newport's development, from its maritime past to its present-day status as a vibrant commercial and tourist destination. Walking along Thames Street is like stepping back in time, with many buildings retaining their historic character. Instagram

Today, Thames Street is a lively thoroughfare brimming with a diverse array of businesses. Visitors can explore unique boutiques, vintage clothing stores, artisanal shops, and a wide range of culinary establishments. The street's energy is palpable, especially during warmer months when outdoor dining and bustling shops draw locals and tourists alike. It's a place where history meets contemporary charm, offering a rich experience for anyone visiting Newport. TikTok+1

A Culinary Journey on Thames Street

Thames Street is a food lover's paradise, offering a delectable spectrum of dining experiences. For those craving comfort food with a twist, Thames Street Kitchen is a must-visit, known for its perfectly cooked steaks and expertly crafted cocktails. TikTok+2 If you're in the mood for something more exotic, Mountain Moose serves up delicious Asian street food and ramen, a delightful surprise on this historic street. TikTok

Beyond these highlights, the culinary scene extends to upscale French dining at Audette, offering an elegant escape with European flair. TikTok For a more casual yet equally satisfying experience, O'Brien's Pub is a local favorite, celebrated not only for its pub fare but also for being exceptionally dog-friendly. TikTok And don't forget breakfast! Lucy's is a gem for its homemade biscuits and breakfast sandwiches, while The Nitro Bar provides excellent coffee and pastries to start your day. TikTokInstagram+1

Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner, a casual lunch, or a delightful breakfast, Thames Street's diverse eateries ensure there's something to satisfy every palate. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with the quality of the food, makes dining on Thames Street a memorable part of any Newport visit. TikTok+1

Shopping and Unique Finds on Thames Street

Thames Street is a shopper's delight, offering a curated selection of boutiques and specialty stores that cater to diverse tastes. Ltrain Vintage is a standout for fashion enthusiasts, providing a treasure trove of 70s, 80s, and 90s fashion. TikTokInstagram For those seeking unique, handcrafted items, Newport Sea F offers artisanal soaps and the opportunity to create your own, making for a memorable activity. TikTok

Beyond these specific examples, the street is lined with numerous other shops selling everything from local crafts and souvenirs to clothing and gifts. The emphasis on supporting local businesses is evident, with many TikTok creators highlighting the charm of shopping small on Thames Street. TikTok+1 Whether you're hunting for a specific item or simply enjoy browsing, the variety and character of the shops on Thames Street make for an engaging retail experience. TikTok

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