Howland House Inn

For those navigating "Hotels Near Of Me" in the iconic city of Newport, Rhode Island, the Howland House Inn stands as a compelling choice, particularly for travelers seeking a blend of historic charm, spacious accommodations, and an exceptionally central location. Located at 205 Spring St, Newport, RI 02840, USA, this historic guesthouse, originally built around 1765, offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Newport's rich past while enjoying modern comforts. You can contact them at (401) 239-7741 or +1 401-239-7741.

The Howland House Inn is situated in a truly prime location in the heart of downtown Newport, a factor consistently highlighted by guests as one of its greatest assets. Its address on Spring Street places visitors within a short walking distance of Newport's most famous attractions. This includes the bustling waterfront areas like Bannister's Wharf and Bowen's Wharf, teeming with renowned restaurants such as The Black Pearl and The Landing, as well as unique boutiques and galleries. Guests can easily stroll to historic landmarks like Trinity Church, Touro Synagogue, and the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

The inn itself, while potentially modest in exterior appearance, is celebrated for its interior "historic vibe" and "New England ambiance." As a restored building dating back to 1765, it offers a glimpse into Newport's architectural heritage. The individual suites often feature antique elements combined with contemporary amenities, creating a distinctive atmosphere. While the hotel does not boast sprawling grounds or garden spaces, its appeal lies in its integration into the historic urban fabric of Newport, allowing guests to experience the city's charm directly outside their door. The convenience of being able to walk everywhere minimizes the need for a car, making it ideal for those who prefer to explore on foot.

The Howland House Inn operates as a guesthouse, focusing on providing comfortable and well-appointed suites with a more independent feel. While it does not offer a full-service hotel experience with a 24/7 reception or on-site restaurant for all meals, it compensates with thoughtful amenities and a high degree of cleanliness. Check-in is typically after 3:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:00 AM.

Key services and amenities include:

• Accommodations: The inn primarily offers suites, which means guests typically enjoy ample space for the price. Suites often include a separate seating area and an en-suite private bathroom. Room configurations can vary, with some featuring large double beds, sofa beds for additional guests, or even two bedrooms. Many suites are equipped with spa-inspired jetted tubs, a highlight for many guests. Standard in-room amenities generally include air conditioning (often via mini-splits for individual climate control), free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffee stations (though availability of coffee pods might vary), microwaves, mini-fridges, and ample closet space. Some larger suites, like the Green Suite and Colony Suite, may come with fully-functioning kitchens, making them suitable for self-catering.
• Breakfast & Snacks: While the review mentions "light breakfast options and farm fresh drinks" being "top notch," more recent information indicates that the property may no longer consistently offer a full breakfast, but rather "light breakfast options" or "coffee bar" with coffee and fixings available in a common area. Guests should verify current breakfast offerings. Complimentary cookies or snacks might be available throughout the day.
• Cleanliness: The inn consistently receives high praise for its cleanliness, with guests describing it as "immaculate" and "sparkling clean."
• Parking: Parking in downtown Newport can be challenging, and Howland House Inn offers a crucial amenity: parking. While on-site spots are limited (e.g., 2 spots on a first-come, first-served basis), each unit typically includes a parking pass for on-street parking, which is usually reserved for Newport residents. Guests should confirm parking arrangements at the time of booking.
• Guest Interaction & Accessibility: The property uses keyless entry with keypad smart locks, providing easy 24/7 access to the building and units. Guests receive codes via email on the morning of arrival. While not a traditional hotel, owners/management (like "Karen," who is frequently praised) are often noted for being highly communicative, helpful, and responsive to guest needs, offering local recommendations and assistance. The property does not have a pool or elevator.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The Howland House Inn is generally pet-friendly, allowing dogs (with potential fees and restrictions), though guests should confirm their pet policy directly when booking.

The distinctive features of Howland House Inn that attract and satisfy guests include:

• Historic Ambiance: Staying in a building from 1765 offers a unique, authentic Newport experience, appealing to those who appreciate historic architecture and charm. Many suites retain original features, like flooring.
• All-Suite Accommodations: The fact that all accommodations are suites provides guests with more space than a typical hotel room, including separate living areas, making for a more comfortable stay, especially for longer visits or for groups/families.
• Prime Walkable Location: Its placement on Spring Street allows guests to walk to virtually all major downtown Newport attractions, including the wharves, restaurants, shops, and historic sites, minimizing the need for driving or parking.
• Spa Tubs: The inclusion of jetted tubs in many of the private bathrooms is a significant luxury feature, allowing guests to relax and unwind.
• Owner/Manager Interaction: The personalized service and local knowledge provided by the innkeepers (such as Karen) are frequently highlighted as a major positive, contributing to a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
• Cleanliness: The consistent high marks for cleanliness contribute significantly to guest comfort and satisfaction.
• Free Parking (with caveats): In a city where parking is often a premium, the provision of on-site and street parking passes is a considerable advantage, though availability should always be confirmed.

While the Howland House Inn, as an independent guesthouse, might not run large-scale promotions like chain hotels, there are still ways to find potential value or ensure the best experience:

• Direct Booking: It's always advisable to contact the Howland House Inn directly at (401) 239-7741 or +1 401-239-7741 or through their official website if available. This can often lead to the best rates and allows for direct communication regarding any special requests or specific room preferences.
• Off-Season Stays: Visiting Newport during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or the quieter winter months can often result in more competitive rates and less crowded attractions compared to the peak summer season.
• Inquire About Specific Rooms: As highlighted in reviews, room layouts and bathroom amenities (e.g., jacuzzi vs. step-in tub) can vary. If a specific feature like a large spa tub is important, it's crucial to inquire and confirm which suite offers it before booking.
• Confirm Breakfast Offerings: Given some varying guest experiences, it is recommended to confirm the current breakfast provisions directly with the inn prior to arrival if this is a key amenity for your stay.
• Parking Confirmation: Always confirm parking availability and instructions for both on-site and street parking passes, especially if traveling during busy periods.
• Communicate Needs: The staff is generally praised for being responsive. If you have any concerns or needs (e.g., a broken coffee pot), communicating them directly and politely is the best approach to seeking resolution.
• Consider Group Bookings: The property can also be rented as an "Entire Historic 5 Bed 5 Bath Inn Sleeps 17," which could be an option for very large groups or family reunions, potentially with different pricing structures.

Overall, the Howland House Inn offers a charming, comfortable, and incredibly well-located base for exploring Newport, particularly appealing to those who appreciate historic character and the convenience of walking to city attractions.