Newport, Kentucky, is considered to be the original Sin City. Some rank it as one of the best places in the state for young professionals. It also has a low cost of living and various activities to keep its residents entertained.
The area’s waterfront has established various tourist attractions, such as the World Peace Bell and the Newport Aquarium. The site is also becoming a center for independent businesses and unique shops.
There are also plenty of dining options in the community. There are simply a lot of fun things to do in Newport, KY, and that is what we will be talking about here today.
Let’s get started!
Where Is Newport, Kentucky?
Located in Campbell County, Kentucky, at the confluence of the Licking and Ohio Rivers, the city of Newport is regarded as a home rule community.
According to the 2010 census, the population of this community was 15,273. It is an urban center part of Northern Kentucky’s Cincinnati metropolitan area.
The US Census Bureau reported that the city has a total area of about 3.0 square miles. Of this, 2.7 square miles are land, while 0.2 square miles is water.
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Fun Things to Do in Newport, KY
There are plenty of things to do in Newport, Kentucky, for locals and tourists. The area is known for its variety of activities.
The city is known for its unique attractions, such as its delicious food and refineries. Depending on the time of year, reservations for certain events may have to be made.
Here are the best things to do in Newport, Kentucky:
1. Newport Gangster Tour
The local expert explains the city’s history and notorious past in this informative tour.
He then leads the participants through the streets of Newport to see where the most infamous crimes occurred.
The city became known as the gambling capital of the United States from the 1930s to the 1960s.
Many prominent individuals, such as Duke Ellington and Marilyn Monroe, visited the area. The tourism industry has also contributed to the local economy.
The local expert’s presentation is very educational and provides a frightening and exciting story that can be told to your friends.
The Newport Gangster Tour is also an excellent way to spend an evening.
Address: The Newport Gangster Tour is located at 56 E 5th St, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
2. Southgate House Revival
One of the best ways to spend an evening in Newport, Kentucky, is at The Southgate Revival House, a venue that features live musical presentations.
The house dates back to 1866 and has three different scenes featured in its shows.
If there are no shows scheduled in the area during your visit to the city of Newport, Kentucky, you can still catch a show at the Falcon Theater.
The venue’s various musical performances provide a global flavor to the evening.
If you’re a music lover, this venue is a perfect choice. The various performances at the Falcon Theater provide a unique and uplifting atmosphere.
Address: The Southgate House Revival is located at 111 E 6th St, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
3. York Street Cafe
The York Street Cafe is a beautiful establishment with various art exhibitions and comfortable furnishings.
This venue is also an excellent choice for families looking for a relaxing and enjoyable evening.
The York Street Cafe’s bistro menu features a wide variety of options with top-quality ingredients.
Its various starters and main courses are accompanied by multiple other dishes designed to keep the guests busy.
Address: The York Street Cafe is located at 738 York St, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
4. Chart House
The Chart House is another beautiful establishment that overlooks the Ohio River and provides a magnificent view of Cincinnati.
This restaurant has been one of the most popular establishments in the area for a long time due to its impeccable food and setting.
The restaurant was first established in 1961 to provide a superior dining experience.
It has since expanded its offerings and features over 20 waterfront areas and over 20 grandstands.
This establishment is a family-friendly venue that can accommodate large groups.
The staff members at The Chart House ensure that the food they serve is made with the finest ingredients and presented excitingly and satisfactorily.
This restaurant is a must-visit for anyone in the area and looking for a great dining experience.
Address: The Chart House is located at 405 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
5. Newport Aquarium
The Newport Aquarium is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and uplifting experience. It’s located right across the waterway from Cincinnati.
It’s an ideal venue for families looking for a unique and uplifting experience.
The aquarium features various interactive areas that allow the entire family to participate in multiple activities.
Some popular shows you’ll be able to see during your visit are the Realm of the Eels, Gator Alley, and the Stingray Hideaway.
The bridge pathway over the tank in the Giant Shark section will also be an integral part of your experience.
Address: The Newport Aquarium is located at 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
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6. Wooden Cask Brewing Company
Since it was first opened in 2015, the Wooden Cask Brewing Company has been one of the most popular establishments in the area dedicated to providing its customers with the best possible experience.
The company’s various blends can be enjoyed at the York Street Tap Room or the Wooden Cask on the Levee.
The two areas offer several specialty beers and Kentucky Bourbons. There’s also an enormous open-air deck in York Street that can be used to enjoy various food and beverages.
Address: The Wooden Cask Brewing Company is located at 629 York Street, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
7. Rotolo – Bowling, Bocce, and Eatery
In Italian, the word “roto” literally means “the roll.” This is why it’s no wonder that the bowling alley known as Rotolo is considered one of the most innovative and cutting-edge facilities in the area.
It features two fully-functional bars, as well as a 68-seat restaurant.
The facility features a 16-lane bowling area equipped with electronic scoring systems.
Address: The Rotolo – Bowling, Bocce, and Eatery is located at 1 Levee Way, Suite 1112, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
8. Newport Racing and Gaming
The gaming facility features multiple slot machines to provide a fun and exciting experience.
If you’re a horseracing fan, this is the place for you. In addition to this, you can also enjoy the excitement of live racing events.
The gaming facility also features several racing games that provide an enjoyable and memorable experience.
However, if you’re craving something a bit more, you can head over to the local establishment known as Smiley’s Bar and Grill.
Address: The Newport Racing and Gaming is located at 1723 Monmouth Street, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
9. The Footlighters Inc
The Footlighters Inc. is a non-profit organization that’s dedicated to showcasing local theater exhibitions in the city of Newport.
It was established in 1963 by a group of volunteers. Over the years, this organization has become a popular tourist destination.
The group currently features six different stage productions inside the Stained GlassTheater.
These performances are held in the western section of Cincinnati. The venue was originally a church building that was renovated in 1882.
Address: The The Footlighters Inc is located at 802 York St, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
10. Newport Riverwalk
The Newport Riverwalk is a bikeway and raised footpath that offers fantastic views of the Licking and Ohio Rivers and the Cincinnati region.
This area is ideal for panoramic views of the city and the region. The walkway also features various platforms that can be used for different activities.
The Newport Riverwalk is a part of the more expansive RiverFront Commons Trail. It connects with other communities and features beautiful stained trees.
Address: The Newport Riverwalk is located at 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY 41071-1652, United States.
11. Mad Mike’s Burgers
Suppose you’re a burger fan and want a great meal at a great price, head over to Mad Mike’s.
This establishment offers a variety of burgers that are made with high-quality ingredients. In addition, you can choose from a variety of flavor combinations and toppings.
Aside from their burgers, Mad Mike’s also has a variety of other food items that provide you with a great dining experience.
The restaurant’s interior design and friendly staff make it a great place to visit.
Address: The Mad Mike’s Burgers is located at 342 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
12. The Levee
The Levee is an excellent place to visit if you’re looking for fun things to do in Newport, KY.
This area has various activities and restaurants that provide an enjoyable and memorable experience.
The Levee is a popular tourist destination in the city of Newport. It has various activities and restaurants to provide an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Address: The Levee is located at 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY 41071-1652, United States.
13. Pompilio’s
The location of Pompilio’s is in the East Row District of Newport. For over 80 years, it has been serving the people of the city and its surrounding area with high-quality food.
The restaurant features various food items known to provide you with a great dining experience.
Some popular dishes they offer include Italian food, such as meatballs and Italian sausage.
Address: The Pompilio’s is located at 600 Washington Ave, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
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14. Purple People Bridge
The Newport Purple People Bridge spans the Ohio River and connects the city of Newport, Kentucky, and Cincinnati, Ohio.
It spans approximately 2,670 feet long. It also connects the region with other trails and roads.
In 2006, various changes were made to how people can cross the bridge.
As a result, it was eventually more accessible for people to use the bridge with proper security equipment.
Address: The Purple People Bridge is located at 1 Levee Wy, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
15. Glier’s Goettafest
Everyone agrees that everyone needs food. That’s why a visit to Glier’s Goettafest is a great idea.
The event, which takes place in Newport, Kentucky, is known as a festival of everything Goetta. It’s an ideal place to spend your time and experience the culture of Italy.
Address: The Glier’s Goettafest is located at 533 Goetta Pl, Covington, KY 41011, United States.
16. Hofbrauhau
One of the best places to enjoy a meal in the Levee is the Hofbrauhaus Newport, a café located in the historic area of Newport.
This restaurant serves a variety of food items that are made with high-quality ingredients.
Address: The Hofbrauhau is located at 200 3rd St, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
17. Dixie Chili
One of the most exciting things about visiting a new city is learning about the local cooking.
In Newport, there are a lot of privately-owned restaurants. While we have already talked about the must-visit places, you might also want to check out the cheap food joints in the area.
Address: The Dixie Chili is located at 733 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
18. Falcon Theatre
Another popular place to visit in Newport is the Falcon Theater. This popular venue has been serving the community with high-quality performances.
The staff members of the Falcon Theater are amiable and welcoming. This is an ideal place for people looking for a great theater experience.
Address: The Falcon Theatre is location at 636 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
19. New Riff Distillery
The New Riff Distillery was established in 2014 by Ken Lewis. It is a large facility that produces various whiskeys, such as Bourbon, Rye, and Malted Rye.
The facility is known for its unique recipes and is a great place to visit for those looking for something different.
Address: The New Riff Distillery is located at 24 Distillery Way, Newport, KY 41073, United States.
20. USS Nightmare
If you are a fan of scary places, the USS Nightmare is a must-visit area in Newport. This is an excellent place to experience a truly frightening episode.
Address: The USS Nightmare is located at 101 B, Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
21. World Peace Bell
The World Peace Bell, located in Newport, Kentucky, is regarded as the giant free-swinging bell in the world. It weighs over 61,000 pounds and measures 12 by 12 feet.
Address: The World Peace Bell is located at 425 York St, Newport, KY 41071, United States.
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When is the Best Time to Visit Newport, KY?
According to the annual BestPlaces Comfort Index, which measures the comfort level of various places, the city’s warmest months are June and September, making it the best time to visit.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit Newport, KY?
The average cost of a trip to Newport is about $5,114 for a family of four, $2,728 for a couple and $1,550 for a single individual.
There are various types of accommodations in the city, such as hotels and vacation rentals.