The Historic Newport Lighthouse Where You Can Stay Overnight
Rose Island, Summer 2022 (Photo Courtesy Of Us)
The window to book a 2024 stay on Rose Island is officially open!
And, if you've ever wondered the least little bit about what it's really like sleeping in — or running away to — a lighthouse, here are some highlights from my night there a few years back.
(PS And BTW, I stayed overnight, along with one of my nieces, after first launching this site, and have since visited beaucoup times during the day via the Jamestown Hop On Hop Off FERRY.)
My Wows
The Lantern Room (aka, the actual light and deck at the tippity top) — Outstanding views of The Bridge, Fort Adams, and the entire Rose Island from this vantage point! Great spot for taking fabulous photos and video at sunrise and sunset. Please be aware that you will have to climb a steep ladder to get there: Be careful!
The Fog Horn Room — Located one flight of stairs down from the tower, it’s NOT attached to the main house, but it sure does look like something out of a Ralph Lauren photoshoot. (See last photo above.) With the exposed brick, rustic furniture and bedding, and water views, it would be perfect for a romantic night or weekend with your significant other. Just make sure it's during the summer and fingers crossed that you get “good weather” because there's no heat or a/c to speak of.
The Barracks — Ok, soldiers resided there during both World Wars and some were actually quarantined in the barracks during a Cholera epidemic. Now, it's booked out for things like corporate lunches or overnight stays. I say that the white brick, high ceilings, and great acoustics make it perfect for recording an album during the summer months. There's also lots of privacy because you're far away from the paparazzi and screaming fans. Just throwing it out there. (See last photo below.)
Prep, Pack & Plan
Not gonna lie, around 6 or 7pm that night after getting dropped off in the afternoon via fishing boat, we were desperately wishing that someone we knew would take a water taxi over and deliver some coffee, hot soup, and maybe a parka or two. Ha! I mean, it was April and pretty chilly and windy outdoors. So, dress warm and bring an extra blanket or three if you decide to staycation there in the Spring.
PS And BTW: We were infinitely grateful that there was cell service and electricity but bringing along a portable battery for your phone can't hurt.
People also come from all over. Whilst we were there, the couple staying on the 2nd floor were from Jersey. (We stayed on the first or the MUSEUM floor, see photos above. The second floor was a lot more modern with a microwave oven, new furniture and more.)
Furthermore, a friend of mine, after seeing my original posts, was inspired to reserve a stay there with her kids that summer. Well, they had an amazing time!
Why not rent out the whole island during the summer? It would be fantastic for an intimate getaway or private party. There are picnic tables, grills, kayaks, and even a cute gift shop with Rose Island merch. (Matching Tees = fun photo and videos, amirite?)
For more details, including availability for 2024 stays, check out their site.
As always, if you go after reading THIS, please let them know you were inspired by Patty J and PattyJ.com.