Washington Square contains various Newport RI attractions. It is part of the Newport Historic District, which encompasses 250 acres and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1968.
If you visit Newport Rhode Island, you'll definitely want to put this spot on your to do list. Here you'll see well-maintained architecture on display in this former Colonial capital.
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Completed in 1741, this was the home of the Colonial, and later, the State Legislature of Rhode Island.
The Declaration of Independence was read from these steps on July 20, 1776 by Major John Handy. Later, during their occupation of Newport, the British used this structure as a barracks for their troops.
Newport Colony House - at the eastern end of the Square
Presidents George Washington and Dwight Eisenhower both visited here, inspiring the names of the Square and its park (Eisenhower Park). Before being named after Washington, this area was called The Parade.
There is a painting of Washington, done by Gilbert Stuart, on the second floor. It is seen in the picture below, from my grandfather's collection.
Click on the image for a larger view
If you've seen Steven Spielberg's film, Amistad, this area may look familiar to you. Many Newport RI attractions can be seen in the film. The Colony House was used for both exterior and interior shots during the court room scenes.
The Colony House is open for tours:
June, July and August - Thursday through Saturday September and October - Saturdays only
You can arrange private tours and even rent the house for events year-round.
The property is still owned by the State, but is run by the Newport Historical Society. Call 401-846-0813 for further information.
Florence K. Murray Judicial Complex
45 Washington Square 401-841-8350
Newport Courthouse
This is Newport's Courthouse. It is one of the Newport RI attractions where you don't want to be a guest.
It houses Newport's Family, District and Superior courts. Behave during your visit, and you won't end up here!
Bank of Newport
10 Washington Square 401-849-1244
Opera House Cinemas
19 Touro Street 401-847-3456
One of Aquidneck Island's 3 movie theaters. The Opera House, which originally opened in 1867, shows feature films, and also hosts the Newport International Film Festival.
Jane Pickens Theater and Event Center
49 Touro Street 401-846-5252
Just one block west of the Opera House, Jane Pickens also hosts the Newport International Film Festival every summer.
This historic theater was built in 1834, and was home to the Zion Episcopal Church. Today, it hosts live events and shows a variety of films on its screens, including opera performances and independent films.
Eisenhower Park
Situated in the middle of Washington Square, this park has seen much history over the years.
The statue in the center of the park is of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, known as the "Hero of the Battle of Lake Erie" from the War of 1812.
Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry - Hero of the Battle of Lake Erie
The statue is right across the street from Perry's former home, the Buliod-Perry House, which was built in 1750.
I love the words on the pedestal of the statue, which came from his report on the battle:
"We have met the enemy and they are ours."
Yesterday's and The Place Restaurant and Ale House
This location is one of the most popular spots for locals year-round, and was probably the busiest spot in town back in 1997, when Steven Spielberg's film Amistad was shot in Washington Square.
In addition to its extensive beer and wine menus, the food is fantastic. They even have an Asian and Thai menu. I can't wait to go back again to try their Thai Chicken Peanut Pizza!
Army and Navy YMCA
This structure, built in 1911, is listed in the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It was built by a local philanthropist to serve the large Naval presence in Newport.
When the U.S. Navy pulled out of Newport in 1973, the YMCA closed. This building now hosts low-income housing.
Ocean Coffee Roasters
22 Washington Square 401-846-6060
As I mentioned on my Newport Coffee Shops page, this is one of the best spots in Newport to get some coffee and breakfast.
Museum of Newport History
127 Thames Street 401-841-8770
Located at the bottom of the hill, at the west end of Washington Square, is the Museum of Newport History.
This is one of the best Newport RI attractions because of the great education it gives on Newport's history and architecture.
The museum is located in the old Brick Market building, which was designed in 1762 by famed architect Peter Harrison. Harrison also designed Newport's Redwood Library and Touro Synagogue between 1747 and 1772.
The museum is open daily, and features many great exhibits, including James Franklin's (yes, Benjamin's brother) printing press.
