Why book?
For a happening, design-forward, dog-friendly stay–with a great restaurant, too–Wayfinder Newport delivers on all fronts, without the breathtaking price tag.
Set the scene
Newport’s hotel scene has long catered to old-school types (read: older folks), but this hotel is, finally, an option that resonates with millennial and Gen Z travelers. With event spaces, a spacious lobby where there always seems to be someone cool hanging out, and a buzzy restaurant, it feels more like a local hangout than an overwrought escape. Expect a younger crowd who trades J. McLaughlin sundresses for Lululemon athleisure.
The backstory
This hotel has persisted against all odds. It opened in 2020 by Dovetail + Co., the company which has since gone on to open Wayfinder Waikiki in Hawaii and Wayfinder Bishop in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. After a devastating fire in 2022 shuttered the property, it reopened with a bang–almost exactly the same as it was before–in 2024.
The rooms
This building was formerly a big-box chain hotel, and you can still tell from the rooms’ cookie-cutter–albeit spacious–floor plans. Wayfinder has done a great job making the most of them with beach-chic touches like wainscoting, coastal hues, plush Matouk throws on the beds, and, in the larger layouts, comfy and residential-feeling seating areas with TVs and wet bars. The air conditioner units could use an update and the bathrooms still feel a little character-less, but they’re outfitted with Newport’s own Shore Soap bath amenities, which are a nice touch. Speaking of which, local collaborations are central to the hotel’s identity: over 1,000 works by Rhode Island artists adorn the rooms and common areas.
Food and drink
Wayfinder Newport excels at F&B: the on-site restaurant and bar Little Clam is run by Hell’s Kitchen alumnus Chef Antonio Wormley, who cooks up contemporary New England coastal classics all day long (don’t miss the oyster po’boy, or the sticky toffee pudding!), and the kitchen also handles room service and poolside dining. For a quick grab-and-go option, the hotel’s “The Café” coffee counter sells snacks and light bites. If you need an artfully-poured latte to kickstart your day, that’s your spot.
The neighborhood/area
This is a great hotel, but its location is its own pseudo-drawback. It is not within walking distance of Newport’s restaurants and main attractions, so having a car or relying on Ubers is essential. On the plus side, all of Newport’s main sights are within a 15-minute drive, and there’s ample parking at the hotel. There also aren’t any views to speak of—the hotel is inland, not on the waterfront, and many of the rooms overlook a highway off-ramp. Wayfinder Newport's location is not a dealbreaker, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind when booking.
The service
This isn’t white-glove hospitality, but that’s part of the charm. You won’t exactly find a concierge to pull strings for you at Newport’s toughest restaurants, but you’ll still feel like you’ve made a new friend at the front desk.
Eco effort
The hotel highlights lots of local talent in everything from art to furniture to food, which helps support Newport’s community, although more environmental sustainability initiatives aren’t the main story here.
Accessibility
This fully renovated property meets accessibility needs, with ADA-compliant rooms available and elevator access to every floor.
Anything left to mention?
There’s a retro-feeling outdoor pool area that’s surprisingly fun and great on hot summer days.
151 Admiral Kalbfus Rd, Newport, Rhode Island 02840
United States
https://www.wayfindernewport.com/
(401) 849-9880