Does the cliff walk cost money?

Cliff Walk is free and open to the public.



The famous Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island, is free and open to the public in 2026. This 3.5-mile trail is a designated National Recreation Trail that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gilded Age "Mansions" on the other. While the walk itself is free, there are associated costs you should plan for. Parking in the vicinity of Narragansett Avenue or the 40 Steps can be expensive, often costing $20 or more during the peak summer season. Furthermore, if you wish to enter the mansions you see along the way—such as The Breakers or Rosecliff—you must purchase separate admission tickets, which typically cost between $25 and $35 per adult. In 2026, the city also encourages "voluntary" donations via QR codes along the path to help fund the ongoing multi-million dollar repairs caused by coastal erosion and storm damage to the historic retaining walls.

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The Cliff Walk is well worth the effort and you can walk half way or take the full walking trail. The Mansion walk and tour(s) are worth the experience, although one or two tours will suffice.

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PARKING AT CLIFF WALK Parking for Cliff Walk and Forty Steps is located at the end of Narragansett Avenue with a pay-by-plate parking meter. The Pay Station is located next to the restrooms. Metered Parking is in effect from 9 AM – 9 PM and is $1.25 - $2.00 per hour an hour with a 4-hour limit.

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You can soak up stunning views of the mighty Atlantic ocean and the rugged coastline cliffs. Contrast the raw New England beauty with the whimsy and opulence of the Newport Cliff Walk Mansions. This 3.5 mile walk hosts rich history and natural beauty, and will cost you absolutely nothing to enjoy.

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Because these shoes do not offer support. In order to make it from the beginning to the end of the walk without your ankles screaming, wear a comfortable pair of walking/running shoes to keep you light on your feet. Areas of the Cliff Walk offer climbing, terrain, and dirt.

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“The problem of continued erosion resulting in retreat of the cliffs and bluffs and consequent destruction of the walk and existing protective structures has existed for many years.”

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In March, almost a year ago now, a section of it collapsed — dramatically — into the water below. Nobody was injured, but the city had to detour the path and embarked on a study about causes and solutions. Then, just before Christmas, another nearby section was damaged during a storm.

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