$1,234,088Average Value$909Average Price per Sq Ft6Homes For Sale
A blend of history, modernity and sailing pedigree
The city of Newport has worn many different costumes since its founding in the 17th century. It has been a haven of religious freedom for those who disagreed with the strict doctrine of the Puritans; a summer escape for wealthy landowners drawn to the cooler temperatures and seaside activities available there; and a world-class sailing destination that has hosted several America’s Cup regattas. All of those historical costumes have made Newport what it is today, a vibrant and bustling city that seamlessly combines colonial-era history with modern-day amenities. And those who want to live in the center of that action find that the Historic Hill neighborhood – known locally as The Hill – checks all the requisite boxes. “Historic Hill has some incredible historic homes, and it’s literally a stone’s throw from the wharves, the water and all the shopping and dining along America’s Cup Avenue,” says Keller Williams Realtor Connor Dowd, who has been representing transactions in the area for two decades.
In Newport, locals can enjoy a seaside lifestyle and attractions in Historic Hill.
Friends and colleagues gather to enjoy the outdoors at Queen's Ann Square in Newport, RI.
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Walk to Newport's bests shopping and dining
Historic Hill’s most notable feature is its location. Occupying a stretch of land between Newport Harbor to the west and Bellevue Avenue to the east, residents of the Hill are within easy walking distance of some of Newport’s favorite attractions. That walkability comes in handy, especially during the busy summer months, because on-street parking is next-to-impossible. “Parking is definitely at a premium,” says Dowd. “Many houses have off-street parking, but for those that don’t, there are streets that are designated resident-only parking, and the city provides stickers to those residents.” And walkability is important here, as Historic Hill delivers with an abundance of shops and restaurants nearby. Whether shoppers are looking for sweets, sweatshirts or scrimshaw, they’ll find it in the shopping district along Thames Avenue and the adjacent wharves. Local merchants mix with national retailers here, and there is literally something for every budget. From a $5 ice cream cone to a $5 million home, shoppers can purchase it on Thames. For groceries, Stop & Shop is located in Bellevue Plaza and Walmart is about 2 miles north for any home necessities. “That’s one of the real draws of the neighborhood,” says Dowd. “You’re sandwiched in the middle of the action.”
When residents here dine out, Cru Café is a popular destination, and it, too, is within walking distance from Historic Hill. Just across Bellevue Avenue, Cru Café serves breakfast all day in a come-as-you-are setting where seating is first-come, first-served. They also have extensive lunch and dinner menus, as well as a popular weekend brunch. Brick Alley Pub is a hotspot for a casual bite, and the three-story Clarke Cooke House is a fine dining institution, not to mention home to SkyBar. Those who know about this hidden, intimate bar on the top floor do their best to keep it a secret.
Clarke Cooke House ranks among the top rated restaurants in Newport, RI.
Experience a fusion of American and Italian cuisine at Mother's Pizza in Newport, RI.
Get your fresh groceries at Stop&Shop, conveniently located in Historic Hill.
Enjoy a fresh seafood meal outdoors at the Black Pearl Restaurant in Newport, RI.
Local visitors discover their next activity while enjoying the sights around Historic Hill, RI.
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Cultural sites, parks and America's Cup winners
There are also plenty of other attractions in and around Historic Hill. The Museum of Newport History highlights the city’s maritime history and the Sailing Museum is the place to learn more about the sport that shaped Newport. Trinity Church on Spring Street is the oldest Episcopal church in the state, the Redwood Library and Athenaeum is the oldest lending library in the United States. Both the International Tennis Hall of Fame and the Audrain Auto Museum are within walking distance, and the famed Newport Cliff Walk and the historic mansions on the city’s east side are about 2 miles away. Aquidneck Park offers a playground, tennis courts and plenty of open space. The park is also home to Martin Recreation Center – known locally as “The Hut” – where residents of all ages can participate in offerings ranging from theater workshops to strength training.
Walking might be the easiest way to get around The Hill, but it’s only half the story of this neighborhood. A fleet of classic 12-metre sailboats that are all former winners of the famed America’s Cup line the docks, offering the chance to step aboard and sail on these magnificent boats. No sailing experience is required, as the boats are all crewed by experts who ensure a safe and enjoyable time on the water. “Newport’s connection to the America’s Cup is incredibly important, and being able to get out on the boats that raced for the trophy is an incredible experience,” says Kevin Hegarty, owner of 12-Metre Yacht Charters. “And being out on the water gives you a whole new perspective on Newport and the sailing lifestyle.”
Families and children delight in a day at the Aquidneck Park playground in Historic Hill, RI.
Experience outdoor recreation at The Hut in Historic Hill, RI.
In Historic Hill, RI, young children enjoy refreshing drinks at a local park.
The Gull Stadium in Historic Hill, Newport, brings game day excitement.
Raise a glass and savor the sights and flavors of waterfront dining at Bowen's Wharf in Newport.
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Historic homes, at a price
Home prices here reflect both the convenience of the location and the historical significance of many of the buildings. The majority of houses reflect typical New England architectural styles – Cape Cods, colonial revivals and bungalows – and many were built in the 19th century, though buyers will find the occasional newly constructed contemporary home. The median price of real estate in Historic Hill is just over $1.8 million, and potential buyers should be prepared to pay in excess of $700 per square foot. A two-bedroom can sell for around $780,000, while five- and six-bedroom homes fetch upwards of $3 million. Condominiums are available at slightly lower price points, starting at $420,000 for a one-bedroom unit and going up to $1.1 million for a two-bedroom unit.
Historic colonial homes line the streets of Historic Hill, showcasing timeless architecture.
Colorful homes line the narrow streets of Historic Hill, adding vibrancy to the neighborhood.
Unique architectural details define a Historic Hill Greek Revival home.
Step into history and explore the charm of Colonial architecture in Newport's Historic Hill.
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Newport schools
Newport Public Schools receives an overall rating of C-plus from Niche. Claiborne Pell Elementary earns a C, Frank E. Thompson Middle earns a C-plus and Rogers High School earns a B. Students at Rogers High School can participate in over 20 school-sponsored clubs and 28 different varsity-level sports. Alternatively, there are excellent private schools in the area, including the nearby St. George’s School, which earns an A-plus from Niche.
Historic Hills students may attend Claiborne Pell Elementary School in the North End.
Thompson Middle School has a prominent site on Broadway next to Newport City Hall.
Rogers High School in Newport has a hub and spoke design and is getting a new front building.
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Getting out of town
T. F. Green Airport is less than 30 miles away in Providence, and downtown Boston is just over 70 miles away. And for a little island getaway, the Newport-to-Block Island Ferry departs from its pier at the north end of the neighborhood on Long Wharf.
RIPTA buses navigate Newport's Historic Hill, connecting locals and visitors.
For a water commute, catch the local Newport Harbor Shuttle in Historic Hill.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Historic Hill
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Historic Hill Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Historic Hill, Newport sell after 66 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Historic Hill, Newport over the last 12 months is $1,700,000, up 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.