Fort Adams stands commandingly over the east passage of Narragansett Bay, where the high fortress walls served as a significant army post for over a century. The site that was formerly used as a vantage point in five major wars is today known for being a scenic backdrop for recreation and music festivals. Learn about the region’s intriguing military history on a tour of the historic structure and spend some time exploring the fort’s surrounding estate, where you’ll find hiking trails, sports fields, boat marinas and open-air concerts.
Wander around the expansive grassy estate and make your way along the foreshore trail. You’ll see yachts moored in the marina, protected by the bay from the open Atlantic Ocean. Watch boats and ferries sailing by as you stroll around the headland. Check out the marina’s windsurfing and sailboat rental facilities and see if any of the local teams are playing on the waterfront rugby and soccer pitches.
The imposing fortress sits back from the foreshore, its high ramparts looking out over the eastern and western sides of the headland. Join a tour of the fort and learn about its fascinating military heritage. The fort was used in five wars between 1841 and 1953. Explore the quarters where officers and their families took residence and learn about the conditions they faced during wartime. Find out about 180 years of military history, architecture and engineering. Discover a labyrinth of secret underground tunnels beneath the fort and climb to the top of the fort walls to see stunning views of the coastline.
Visit Fort Adams in summer to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Jazz Festival or the Folk Festival. These annual programmes showcase a wide array of local and international musicians with exciting open-air concerts and workshops.
Fort Adams is located on the tip of Fort Adams State Park, a grassy headland that forms the entrance to Newport Harbour. It is a 15-minute drive from downtown Newport. The park is free to enter however, tours of Fort Adams have a fee, with discounts available for children and families. Check the Fort Adams official website for specific dates and times of the tours.
