Newport, Rhode Island, famed for its stunning coastal scenery, historic mansions, and vibrant downtown, is now even more accessible thanks to the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA). The Newport Transportation Center serves as the central hub for navigating this beautiful city and its surrounding areas. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, understanding the transportation options available at the Newport Transportation Center is key to a seamless and enjoyable Newport experience.
Navigating Newport with RIPTA from the Transportation Center
Located conveniently in the heart of Newport, the Newport Transportation Center is your starting point for exploring the city via RIPTA’s efficient and eco-friendly bus services. RIPTA’s iconic green and gold hybrid trolley buses provide a comfortable and convenient way to reach Newport’s top attractions. Remember to board at designated RIPTA bus stops, and for a handy guide, you can find the Newport pocket map here.
Hop-On Hop-Off Convenience: Routes 67 & 68
For tourists eager to explore Newport’s iconic landmarks, the Hop-On Hop-Off services are invaluable.
Route 67 (Bellevue/Salve Regina Univ.): This route is a treasure for sightseers, directly connecting you to must-see destinations like the opulent Newport Mansions, the scenic Cliff Walk, the Audrain Automobile Museum, and the International Tennis Hall of Fame. With buses running every 20 minutes, you can explore at your own pace. Enjoy free bus service on Route 67 from May 24th to October 31st, 2024, sponsored by Discover Newport. This makes it an ideal and budget-friendly way to see the best of Newport’s historical and cultural attractions.
Route 68 (CCRI/Memorial Blvd./First Beach): Route 68 offers access to Newport’s northern neighborhoods and beautiful beaches. This route links the North End, Aquidneck Industrial Park, and the popular First Beach. Key stops include Rolling Green, Bayside Village, Department of Human Services, First Beach, Cliff Walk, Newport Transportation Center, CCRI Newport, and Miantonomi Memorial Park. Like Route 67, Route 68 also offers free bus service from May 24th to October 31st, 2024, sponsored by the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island. This route is perfect for those wanting to explore beyond the typical tourist trail and discover local gems.
RIPTA bus canopy at Newport Transportation Center
Connecting to Key Destinations: Route 231 Flex and Beyond
Beyond the Hop-On Hop-Off routes, Newport Transportation Center provides access to a wider network, connecting you to various parts of Newport and even further afield.
Route 231 South Aquidneck Flex: For personalized transportation within the Flex Zone, Route 231 Flex is a fantastic option. It can take you to specific locations within the zone, including Easton’s Beach and different points along the Cliff Walk. Simply inform the driver of your desired drop-off point. To return to the Newport Transportation Center from the Cliff Walk, board Route 67 at Bellevue Avenue and Ledge Road. You can reserve Flex service 24 hours in advance or board at scheduled Flex Stops. Regular RIPTA fares apply to the Flex service, offering flexible transit solutions for reaching specific destinations.
Route 14 (West Bay): Traveling to or from T.F. Green Airport? Route 14 connects you directly to the airport via the Airport Interlink stop on Jefferson Boulevard, providing easy access to the terminal via the Skyway. This route also serves CCRI Warwick and Providence, expanding your travel possibilities beyond Newport.
Route 60 (Providence/Newport): Ready to explore Rhode Island’s capital city? Route 60 offers a direct link from Newport Transportation Center to Downtown Providence. This is ideal for day trips to Providence to experience its urban attractions, dining, and cultural scene.
Route 63 (Broadway/Middletown Shops): For local shopping and amenities, Route 63 serves destinations like Newport Towne Center, Aquidneck Shopping Center, and Middletown Public Library. This route is convenient for everyday needs and exploring local commercial areas.
Route 64 (Newport/URI Kingston): Route 64 expands your reach southwards, connecting Newport Transportation Center to Kingston Railroad Station, Jamestown Ferry Landing, the University of Rhode Island (URI), Naval Undersea Warfare Center, and CCRI Newport. This is perfect for students, visitors to URI, or those connecting to rail or ferry services.
Amenities and Services at Newport Transportation Center
To enhance your travel experience, the Newport Transportation Center itself offers helpful amenities.
Customer Service Kiosk
From May 24th to December 31st, 2024, a seasonal RIPTA Customer Service Kiosk is available at the Newport Transportation Center. Open daily from 8 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 4 pm, the kiosk provides free maps and schedules, ensuring you have all the information you need for your RIPTA journeys.
Discounted Parking for RIPTA Riders
For those driving into Newport, the Newport Gateway Center Parking Garage, conveniently located at 23 America’s Cup Avenue, offers discounted daily parking for RIPTA riders. Park your car and enjoy RIPTA services for just $5 per day. Simply ask your bus driver for a RIPTA Rider Receipt on the green and gold trolley buses to access this parking discount. Please note that RIPTA is not responsible for vehicle loss or damage in the parking garage.
Planning Your Trip from Newport Transportation Center
Making the most of RIPTA services from Newport Transportation Center is easy with user-friendly planning tools.
Trip Planner and Customer Support
Utilize RIPTA’s online Trip Planner here to map out your routes and schedules. For any questions or assistance, the RIPTA Customer Service team is available via email at [email protected] or by phone at 401-784-9500 x2012.
Mobile Ticketing with Wave App
For convenient fare payment, download the Wave mobile app from RIPTA.com/Wave. Pay your $2 fare directly from your phone. Frequent riders benefit from fare-capping, ensuring you never pay more than $6 per day, regardless of how many trips you take.
Conclusion
The Newport Transportation Center, combined with RIPTA’s comprehensive bus services, makes exploring Newport and its surrounding areas easier and more affordable than ever. From historic attractions to beautiful beaches and connections to wider Rhode Island, the Newport Transportation Center is truly your gateway to discovering all that Newport has to offer. Embrace the convenience of public transportation and start your Newport adventure today!
