Historic Hill
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.
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.”
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.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.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.


Agents Specializing in this Area
-
Connor Dowd
Keller Williams Coastal
(401) 830-9302
402 Total Sales
6 in Historic Hill
$359K - $1.7M Price Range
-
Brian Burke
Responds QuicklyColdwell Banker Realty
(860) 791-4794
220 Total Sales
1 in Historic Hill
$1,264,744 Price
-
Christine MacDonald
Responds QuicklyHoulihan Lawrence Inc.
(401) 205-8713
121 Total Sales
2 in Historic Hill
$1.6M - $1.8M Price Range
-
Paula Dickson-Rando
Responds QuicklyConway - Mansfield
(339) 230-0937
59 Total Sales
1 in Historic Hill
$505,000 Price
-
Alisha Juzapavicus
Responds QuicklyWarner Realty Group
(631) 336-2584
38 Total Sales
2 in Historic Hill
$375K - $1.3M Price Range
-
Lori Seavey
Responds QuicklyKeller Williams Elite
(774) 332-5861
304 Total Sales
1 in Historic Hill
$2,900,000 Price
Schools
Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to
, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.Parks in this Area
Transit
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime | Historic Hill | US |
---|---|---|
Homicide | 4 | 4 |
Sexual Assault | 3 | 4 |
Assault with Weapon | 3 | 4 |
Robbery | 5 | 4 |
Burglary | 5 | 4 |
Motor Vehicle Theft | 4 | 4 |
Larceny | 6 | 4 |
Crime Score | 5 | 4 |
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Historic Hill Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Historic Hill, Newport sell after 20 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Historic Hill, Newport over the last 12 months is $690,000, up 97% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Housing Trends
Neighborhood Facts
Distribution of Home Values
Homes for Sale
Homes for Rent
Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to
, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.Average Home Value
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Finances
Education and Workforce
Weather
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
Some Transit
Transit Score®
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Nearby Neighborhoods

Historic architecture, large lots and a more secluded lifestyle

Walkable, waterfront neighborhood south of Memorial Boulevard in east Newport

Ice cream cones, souvenir shops and tourist attractions on the water

Ornate condos and historic homes in a laid back atmosphere.

Waterfront living and fish markets in the smallest state

A historic playground for Gilded Age tycoons near the Atlantic Ocean