newport , ri??

Hey everyone,
I will give a little background. With the economy, like everyone else, we want to travet with the kids, but we want to watch our money. I have been looking into Newport, RI, and Mystic, CT. I have been to Mystic, but never to Newport. We are going with two boys, ages 8 and 11. I have been getting some really good deals on line for Newport, or just out of the area, Mystic also has good deals with my DH's gov't discount. I know my kids would love the aquarium at Mystic. We were thinking of doing 2 nites Mystic, 2 nites Newport. My question for those that have been to Newport, is there enough to do for the kids there? I see about the walk, but how are the beaches? When i go online there are so many beaches, im not sure which to choose? Are the beaches like Long Island beaches? Any info that you all could give me i would really appreciate!! TY in advance!

Re: newport , ri??

I am not a Newport expert, but I have been a couple of times. I have never been with kids, but I don't think there is too much specifically for them other than the beach. My suggestion would be to stay in either Narraganset or Westerly, RI. The beaches are much nicer than in Newport, IMO. You can easily travel to all of these places no matter where you stay, so I would suggest staying at the cheapest place available and then doing day trips to the surrounding areas. I know that Westerly has a boardwalk with rides and I believe a small waer park. Narraganset also has mini golf, batting cages and I think a few water slides too. You can also do a day trip to either Block Island or even Martha's Vineyeard from RI too. If you're going in the summer, which I assume you are, there are often festivals and family events around. You can research that online when you decide your dates.
You can definitely have a very enjoyable family vacation at a reasonable price in that area as a whole.
If you need any specific recomendations I can do my best to help.

Re: newport , ri??

TY so much for your advice! We are traveling July 4th and the few days afer. Was looking to go for 4-5 nights. I will check into the other places you mentoned and will def take you up on the offer to help I appreciate it!

Re: newport , ri??

There is def. enough to do for 2 days in each place.

Mystic has the aquarium, seaport, etc

Newport has the cliff walk, downtown, mansion tours, etc

I've been to both places many times and I highly recommend both!

I would try to find a hotel/B&B in downtown Newport - this way you only have to drive the mansions, but can walk to any of the restaurants. There is limited parking downtown and it can be $$ to pay.