Why You Should Stay at Hotel Viking in Rhode Island.

Photos by Joe Loper.

The U.S. is brimming with amazing destinations that can make you feel like you’re on a completely different planet. One of my go-to getaways right now is Rhode Island - particularly Newport. The City by the Sea has charm for days (and then some) and a rich culture with some of the oldest sites in the country that date back to the Colonial era.

My go-to hotel of choice when I visit is the award-winning Hotel Viking, hands down. It’s everything you could ask for in a stay at this coastal city.

Here’s why you should stay at Hotel Viking in downtown Newport, Rhode Island:

THE History.

Established way back in 1926, Hotel Viking is a member of the prestigious Historic Hotels of America - and for good reason, too! The whole building exudes a rich, historic vibe with nordic elements, brass ornaments and stories of some well-known celebrities. 

Sleek, elegant, and minimalistic with a fine eye for detail, the hotel is a perfect combination of luxury and comfort with gorgeous period-inspired furniture. The exterior of the hotel will blow you away instantly because it totally resembles one of those old-fashioned mystery manors. Don’t fret - there are no ghosts around, only some very accommodating staff.

THE Amenities.

In regards to rooms and accommodation, this boutique hotel has awesome options you can choose from. Regardless of whether you choose a standard guest room or a luxury suite, you’ll definitely be feeling fancy all the same. Not quite Queen Elizabeth-fancy, but I think you’ll be at least a little tempted to sip your tea with your pinky up.

From high-speed Wi-Fi ( a must-have for me) and Egyptian sheets to renovated baths and terry robes, the hotel’s main goal is to simply spoil you. Hotel Viking also has a variety of activities that are available to guests like courtyard games, yoga classes, bike rentals and s’mores! 

One of the thoughtful touches I really appreciated is the special accessible rooms for those in. These rooms have features like lowered shower heads and doorknobs, accessible vanities and light switches, and grab bars for easier movement.

THE Food.

I’m forever on the hunt for good food and Hotel Viking definitely does not disappoint. I would recommend visiting Hill Market on the first floor of the hotel for a quick breakfast. This grab-and-go cafe has all kinds of pastries (the cinnamon rolls are the size of your head!) baked on-site each morning by their pastry chef, on-the-go bites, coffee or espresso from Stumptown Coffee Roasters, hand-pressed juices, and other yummy goodies. My go-to on a busy morning is always The Vanderbilt smoothie with banana, almond butter, dark chocolate, coffee, and Greek yogurt.

Hotel Viking is right in the heart of downtown Newport, so there are tons of great food options within walking distance (you can’t miss the Newport Creamery!) . If you’re looking to stay at the hotel for lunch or dinner though, you can’t go wrong with Hotel Viking’s rooftop bar, which offers delicious snacks and amazing cocktails with some of the most breathtaking views of the city. One Bellevue Restaurant on the first floor of the hotel also features great locally-sourced seafood that is both healthy and inviting. I loved the pan-roasted salmon with wild mushrooms and a side of sweet potato mash. And don’t even get me started on their dessert - the chocolate ganache was out-of-this-world good! If you’re feeling lazy (I mean, who isn’t?), don’t worry - you can always have room service instead - no judgments here!

THE Spa.

Vacations are made for pampering so I couldn’t miss an opportunity to visit the hotel’s very own Spa Fjör. The spa is mainly based on Balinese and Thai body rituals that nurture not only your body but your mind and soul as well. The service is no less than impeccable and it’s designed to make you feel like a queen (or king for that matter!) You can choose from a variety of different massage techniques - the team also specializes in facial treatments, body care, and classic grooming. If you’re just looking for a relaxing day without any specific pampering, you can always make use of the sauna, jacuzzi or the indoor pool.

Go ahead and book a stay at Hotel Viking. It will make your experience in Newport, RI that much better!