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Citadel · Newport, Rhode Island
Fort Adams
A 19th-century stone fortress at the entrance to Newport harbor, one of the largest in the country, with guided tours through the tunnels and walls and views of the bay and the Newport Bridge.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Fort Adams
Fort Adams was built between 1824 and 1857 to defend the entrance to Newport harbor and Narragansett Bay. It is one of the largest coastal fortifications in the United States, with granite walls and a large interior parade ground. The fort served the army until the mid-20th century and was never attacked.
On guided tours you visit the casemates, listening tunnels built to detect enemy digging, vaulted galleries and the top of the walls, from where you can see the harbor, the sailboats and the Newport suspension bridge. Part of the structure is undergoing restoration, and the areas open to visitors vary.
The fort is inside Fort Adams State Park, which has waterfront lawns, picnic areas and a small beach. The park hosts Newport’s jazz and folk festivals in summer, and sailing-related events.
From the walls and the lawn you can see the harbor entrance, where the America’s Cup yachts used to pass, a regatta Newport hosted between 1930 and 1983.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour and a half with the guided tour; more time for the park.
Best time
From spring to fall, when guided tours usually operate daily. In July and August, music festivals occupy the park on some weekends. Check the schedule.
How to get there
It is on Harrison Avenue, about 3 km from downtown Newport. You need a car or bicycle; in summer there are tour boats that stop at the fort. The park is open; guided tours of the fort are paid—check the current rates.
Tip
Take the guided tour to enter the tunnels and climb the walls. Combine it with Ocean Drive, which passes nearby.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fort Adams
What is there to see at Fort Adams?
The casemates, the listening tunnels, the ramparts with views over the harbor and the Newport Bridge, and the waterfront park.
Does Fort Adams open in winter?
The park is open year-round, but guided tours of the fort run on reduced schedules outside the season. Confirm before you go.
Where is the Newport Jazz Festival held?
At Fort Adams State Park, on summer weekends. Check the dates for the year.