Newport is a charming small town located in the Northeast Kingdom region of Vermont
There are plenty of things to do and see in the Newport area, and I’m sure you’ll have a great time exploring.
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Visit Lake Memphremagog: This beautiful lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. You can take a boat tour to explore the lake or rent a kayak or canoe to paddle around on your own. The lake has quite a history and even a few legends.
Living in the Newport and the Northeast Kingdom
Living in the Northeast Kingdom isn’t easy but it does have its pluses. The glory days of the huge hotels and tour boats on Lake Memphremagog are long gone but tourists can still find plenty to do and see in the area. You’ll also want to read the Vermont Northland Journal to catch up on local history and some intriguing stories about the region.
As late as the 1970’s, Newport was a bustling town with at least a half dozen famous named department stores on Main Street alone. The railroad was one of the best paying jobs in the region and manufacturing offered livable wages to families in the area. Unfortunately, many of these jobs and industries vanished in the early 1980’s resulting in Newport becoming a “sleepy little town with a beautiful lake”.
Fun things to see and do in the Newport area
Enjoy a scenic drive around the area: The Newport area is known for its stunning natural beauty, so taking a drive on some of the scenic roads is a must-do. One of the most popular routes is the Vermont Route 100 Byway, which takes you through the Green Mountains.
Visit the Jay Peak Resort: If you’re visiting in the winter, the Jay Peak Resort is a great place to go skiing or snowboarding. In the summer, you can take advantage of the resort’s golf course, water park, and other activities.
Explore the Northeast Kingdom Tasting Center: This center showcases the delicious food and drink made in the Northeast Kingdom region. You can sample local cheeses, honey, beer, and more.
Check out the MAC Center for the Arts: This art center features the work of local artists and is a great place to learn about the art scene in the area.
Take a hike: There are plenty of hiking trails in the area, including the Newport Bike Path and the Mount Pisgah Trail, in Westmore at Willoughby Lake. Both offer beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Visit the Haskell Free Library and Opera House: This unique building sits on the border between the United States and Canada and is both a library and an opera house. It’s definitely worth a visit!
Visit the Old Stone House Museum: This museum is located in nearby Brownington and features exhibits on the history of the area. It’s a great place to learn about the people who lived in the Northeast Kingdom in the past.
Go fishing: The Newport area is known for its great fishing, especially in the Spring of the year, so bring your rod and reel and try your luck at catching some trout or bass. Another great place for fishing (and watching the Steelhead Rainbow Trout jump in the Spring) is at Willoughby Falls in Orleans.
More Great Reasons to Visit the Newport Vermont Region
- The great outdoors: Newport is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including forests, lakes, and mountains. There are many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing.
- Local history and culture: Newport has a rich history and culture, and there are many opportunities to learn about and experience it. The town is home to several historical sites and museums, as well as local festivals and events.
- Small-town charm: Newport has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and is a great place to relax and unwind. The town has a vibrant downtown area with many local shops and restaurants, as well as a farmers market and other community events.
- Proximity to other attractions: Newport is located near several other popular destinations in Vermont, including Stowe, Burlington, and Montpelier. It is also just a short drive from the border with New Hampshire, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.
Newport is surrounded by beautiful forests, mountains, and lakes, making it a great place for outdoor recreation. Some recreational activities that you can enjoy in Newport, Vermont include:
- Hiking and camping: There are many hiking and biking trails in the area, including the Appalachian Trail and the Long Trail. There are also several state parks and campgrounds where you can pitch a tent and spend the night.
- Fishing and boating: Newport is home to several lakes and rivers, including Lake Memphremagog and the Clyde River, which offer excellent opportunities for fishing and boating.
- Skiing and snowboarding: The nearby Jay Peak Resort is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders, with over 70 trails and a terrain park.
- Golfing: The Newport Country Club is a public 18-hole golf course that is open to the public.
- Swimming and beach activities: There are several public beaches in the area, including the North Beach State Park and the Lake Memphremagog Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy other beach activities.
- Shopping and dining: Newport has a downtown area with several local shops and restaurants, where you can browse for souvenirs or enjoy a meal.
Overall, Newport, Vermont offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, from outdoor adventures to cultural and historical attractions.
Yet, Lake Memphremagog remains one of Vermont’s most beautiful lakes and is breathtaking on a sunny day. A new lighthouse mock-up now stands near the former Newport railroad station, as a beacon of hope for the future. There are high hopes that with the recent expansion of nearby Jay Peak, new jobs and a new vitality will return to the Northeast Kingdom, particularly the Newport area. It would be well deserved for a region that has so much to offer.
Enjoy your visit to the Newport, Vermont region and don’t forget to check out other Northeast Kingdom regions such as the St. Johnsbury area.
