Audio Guide of Fort Adams State Park

The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, while guided fort tours are offered from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the summer season (May to October). To get there, you can drive via Route 138 in Newport; parking is available on site. Book tours on the official website: Fort Adams Trust or call (401) 841-0707.

Admission to the state park is free, but guided fort tours cost around $15 for adults and $10 for children (kids under 12 enter free). Discounts are available for military members and families; check for updated pricing. Buy tickets at the official website.

It is recommended to allow at least 2 to 3 hours for a full guided fort tour and to explore the park grounds. If you are only walking around the grounds, one hour may be enough, but the tours greatly enrich the historical experience.

Fort Adams, built in 1824, is the largest and most complex coastal fort on the East Coast of the United States, designed to protect Newport Harbor during the War of 1812 and the Civil War. It served as a military base until 1950 and is now a National Historic Site preserving 19th-century architecture.

Summer (June to August) is ideal for full tours and good weather, but it can be crowded; spring or fall are better for fewer crowds and pleasant conditions. Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy clearer views of Narragansett Bay.

The park and its outdoor trails are mostly accessible, but the interior of the fort involves stairs and uneven terrain, which limits wheelchair access. They offer adapted tours and wheelchair loans; contact them in advance at (401) 841-0707 or visit the accessibility section on their website for more details.

Nearby you will find Newport’s famous mansions, such as The Breakers, just a 10-minute drive away, as well as the Cliff Walk for a scenic stroll. There is also Goat Island with restaurants and ocean views; plan a day combining history and nature in the area.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for the grounds and bring sunscreen, since much of the visit is outdoors. Book tours in advance during peak season and consider joining special events such as summer concerts. Do not forget water and a camera to capture the panoramic bay views.