You had us at tennis!
As the spring tulips begin to pop in a variety of color and the first signs of traffic signal the return of a vibrant season, there is nothing more satisfying than escaping to the court for a friendly match. In a town defined by its sporting heritage, we highly recommend leaving the road rage behind and trading the driver’s seat for a racquet.
This is the season where Newport truly shines. From the floral spectacle of Wicked Tulips to the coastal charm of commuting via water taxi, the city’s energy is unmatched. As we look forward to the prestige of the International Tennis Hall of Fame inductions, there’s no better time to embrace the pace of life on the island. Whether you’re navigating the Historic Hill or the harbor, the best way to experience Newport is to slow down, look up, and enjoy the match.”
Tennis
Mark your calendars for a historic weekend as the International Tennis Hall of Fame prepares for one of its most anticipated inductions to date. From August 27–29, 2026, Newport will become the center of the tennis universe to celebrate the Class of 2026, headlined by 20-time Grand Slam champion and global icon Roger Federer. Joining him in the Contributor Category is the legendary trailblazing sportscaster Mary Carillo, whose voice has defined the sport for decades.
The celebration kicks off on Thursday with the high-fashion “Courting Fashion” event, followed by the Celebrity Pro Classic on Friday, where you can catch legends back on the grass. The weekend culminates on Saturday, August 29, with the official Induction Ceremony. As these icons cement their legacy on Bellevue Avenue, it’s a poignant reminder of the timeless style and sporting excellence that make our community so unique. If you’re navigating the Hill that weekend, we recommend the water taxi—it’s the most sophisticated way to beat the “Hall of Fame” traffic and arrive in style!
Transportation
Navigating the City by the Sea in 2026 is all about choosing the pace that fits your mood. To bypass the summer traffic on Bellevue, we highly recommend the FREE RIPTA Route 67 trolley service, which offers a charming, high-frequency loop through the historic mansion district—and is often free for passengers during the peak season.
For a more adventurous perspective, rent a scooter or a Polaris Slingshot from Scooter World at Christie’s Landing to zip along Ocean Drive, or grab a bike rental from Ten Speed Spokes to explore the hidden lanes of the Hill.
If you’re looking to trade the road for the water, the Newport Harbor Shuttle is the local’s secret for a sophisticated commute between Perrotti Park, Fort Adams, Sail Newport and the wharves. Whether you’re hopping on the trolley or catching a water taxi, the best way to experience Newport is to step out of the car and into the scenery.
Tulips
Tulips are one of the most recognizable signs that spring has fully arrived. With their vibrant colors and elegant shape, they instantly brighten gardens, entryways, and living spaces.
Tulips bloom at their peak this time of year, adding vibrant color and life to your home’s exterior. A simple row along a walkway or garden bed can instantly boost curb appeal, making a property feel more welcoming and well cared for. Whether planted outdoors or displayed in a vase, they offer an effortless way to refresh your space for the season.
Planting tulips in the fall pays off in May—stay tuned for our fall newsletter for your tulip planting guide. In the meantime, enjoy the season by adding fresh-cut arrangements to your kitchen, dining area, or entryway.
In areas like Newport County, tulips can be seen blooming in gardens, parks, and along scenic streets—adding to the charm of the season. For a true spring experience, visit Wicked Tulips Flower Farm and stroll through fields of colorful blooms.
Sometimes it’s the simplest touches—like a bouquet of tulips—that make a home feel warm, inviting, and ready for the season ahead.
Traps
Sink traps aren’t glamorous, but they’re one of the most important (and overlooked) parts of your home’s plumbing
What is a sink trap?
The curved pipe under your sink (often called a P-trap) is designed to hold a small amount of water at all times.
Why it matters:
• Prevents odors: The water barrier stops sewer gases from coming back up into your home.
• Catches debris: Helps trap hair, food, and small items before they clog. Sink traps aren’t glamorous, but they’re one of the most important (and overlooked) parts of your home’s plumbing.
• Easy maintenance point: It’s the first place to check if a sink is draining slowly.
May Maintenance Tip:
As part of your spring home care routine:
• Place a bucket underneath and carefully unscrew the trap to remove buildup.
• Rinse and reinstall to keep drains flowing smoothly.
• Check for leaks or corrosion while you’re at it.
If a sink isn’t used often, the trap can dry out—leading to odors. Running water periodically keeps that seal intact.
A quick 10-minute check of your sink traps in May can prevent odors, clogs, and costly plumbing issues down the road.
