On my recent trip to Massachusetts, it seemed like a great a idea to deviate from the big city life and instead head down to Newport, R.I. It was my first time there and although it rained pretty much the entire time we were there, I would recommend you add it to your Must-Do pile because it is absolutely wonderful.

Let me start by saying it has everything you would want from small-town charm, and coming from a big and often chaotic lifestyle that is Miami, I ate it all up. The local small restaurants, colorful buildings and homes, and wonderful New England architecture and the light breeze from the ocean. It was needless to say an All-American beach town.

Because, it was a last minute trip and Newport can be quite expensive to stay in, we opted for the Travelodge in Middletown, just a couple minutes from Newport. Equipped with 2 Queen Beds, a couch and a pretty large bathroom, it was perfect for a group of girls looking to get away from the weekend.

From our hotel, we made our way into town where we had dinner at the Red Parrot. We loved the place because it seemed like a perfect way to kick off our girls night, the atmosphere was cheery and the people were great. Being right by the water, I had the Lobster and Sole topped with a sun dried tomato sauce. It was tender and juicy and absolutely to die for. If you’re looking for something a little less adventurous but still delicious, try the coconut shrimp – it comes with a sweet and spicy sauce that compliments the shrimp in an amazing way. Both food and drinks were moderately priced and since I shared my meal with my friend Shannon, even after a couple rounds of drinks, the check was of a very sensible price.

After dinner, we were ready to dance the night away. My favorite place was the Newport Blues Cafe. Located in the heart of Newport, this building – a bank for over a hundreds years – has now been turned into a restaurant and nightclub. The inside while modern, is still decorated by many of its original features as a bank like the teller’s grill and vault.  This place was perfect for pretty much anything you might be looking to get out of the night. I loved that they had a live band so you could dance and enjoy the music up close or you could go to the upstairs bar and relax in the lounge area or sit by the bar. Hosting different bands every night, any time you decide to pop in is sure to be a great night.

As great as night life was, there is nothing like walking around town for the day, and seeing everything it has to offer. Streets are lined with beautiful buildings dating back to early 1800s. Doors were lined with restaurants and souvenir stores and small boutiques, I wish I could’ve gone into every single one of them. Unfortunately, we were only there for a little while longer and it rained the whole time so I had to pick a couple things I wanted to do. Everyone I spoke to told me I had to try the Fudge while I was in Newport so my must-go-to place was the Country Kettle Fudge Shop. I got the small souvenir box which came with 2 slices fudge. At first I thought it might not be enough (if you can’t tell, I love food) but it turned out to be just the right amount as the fudge is extremely sweet. Content with my small gift, we headed to the Shop on Thames, where we grabbed a quick lunch before heading back home. the Shop is a small modern yet cozy deli type shop that offers a variety of soups and sandwiches.  Perfect for relaxing and enjoying a good eat. Here, I had the crab cake sliders and chowder – both absolutely delicious and at a great price.

Though I wish my trip could’ve been longer, a day away from a busy lifestyle was exactly what I needed and my experience everywhere I went was great. Spending the day in a new city reminded me that you don’t have to go very far to travel, there is something new to see just around the corner, so if you’re close to Newport, make a trip there and enjoy some of the things I loved most.