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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Thames Street
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

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.
"Thames Street is a must-visit for its historic charm, unique shops, and delicious dining options."
🛍️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Cobblestone Charm
Thames Street
Stroll along the original cobblestone streets, soaking in the historic atmosphere of Newport.

Boutique Shopping Delights
Thames Street
Discover unique finds in a variety of shops, from vintage clothing to artisanal soaps.

Culinary Adventures
Thames Street
Indulge in diverse dining options, from cozy pubs to upscale French cuisine and delicious ramen.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Thames Street Crowds
Parking on Thames Street
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ 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.
🚶♀️ Wander the Cobblestones
Enjoy the historic charm of the street, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Dining
Obrien's Pub is a top pick for dog-friendly dining with great fries!
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ 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.
🚶♀️ Wander the Cobblestones
Enjoy the historic charm of the street, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Dining
Obrien's Pub is a top pick for dog-friendly dining with great fries!
☕ Coffee & Pastries
Grab a coffee and a bite at The Nitro Bar or Lucy's for a sweet treat.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
There are no entrance fees to walk along Thames Street. It's a public thoroughfare lined with businesses and attractions.
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.
Simply walking along the historic cobblestone street, window shopping, and enjoying the atmosphere are free activities. Many shops also offer browsing without obligation.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Attractions
Thames Street boasts a diverse range of shops, including vintage clothing stores like Ltrain Vintage,
artisanal soap makers like Newport Sea F, and boutiques offering unique gifts and local crafts.Beyond shopping, you can find places offering hands-on activities like making your own soap.
The street itself is an attraction with its historic architecture and cobblestone paving.Many of the boutiques and gift shops along Thames Street offer a variety of souvenirs, from local crafts to themed items related to Newport.
Yes, Ltrain Vintage is a popular spot on Thames Street known for its selection of vintage clothing from various decades.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular dining spots include Thames Street Kitchen for steak and cocktails,
Audette for upscale French cuisine, Mountain Moose for Asian street food and ramen, and O'Brien's Pub for pub fare and dog-friendly options. Lucy's is also a gem for breakfast.Lucy's is highly recommended for breakfast, especially their biscuit breakfast sandwich. The Nitro Bar also offers delicious pancakes and burritos.
You can find a wide variety of cuisines, including American pub fare, upscale French, Asian street food, ramen, and modern American dishes.
O'Brien's Pub on Thames Street is frequently recommended as a dog-friendly restaurant with excellent food.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Absolutely! The mix of historic buildings, diverse shops, and people strolling makes Thames Street an excellent location for street photography.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more interactive experience, some shops offer activities like soap making, which can be a fun diversion for kids. 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. 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
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.
💖 Couples Seeking a Romantic Vibe
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. 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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Thames Street's Historic Charm
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.
A Culinary Journey on Thames Street
Beyond these highlights, the culinary scene extends to upscale French dining at Audette, offering an elegant escape with European flair. 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. 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.
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.
Shopping and Unique Finds on Thames Street
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. 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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit