26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Newport (KY)

Located on the boundary of Kentucky and Ohio, along the banks of the massive Ohio River, is the city of Newport, Kentucky.

There are quite some fun things to do in Newport, KY, as this city boasts various fun activities for locals and tourists alike.

Situated close to the clamouring metropolitan city of Cincinnati, Ohio, there is a wide assortment of sights, shops, and eateries.

You can locate these places considerably more directly across the waterway, effectively via vehicle or by strolling across the Purple People Bridge.

Newport is home to delightful food, refineries, theatre, and the world’s biggest swinging ringer. 

Depending on when you visit, your reservations for certain attractions may have to be made before time. Here’s a list of fun things to do in Newport, KY.

Things to Do in Newport, KY

1. Ohio River

Cruising the Ohio River on an exemplary paddlewheel boat is considered one of the top Newport, Kentucky activities.

The red and white paddleboats are a sight to see drifting on the water – and, surprisingly, more enjoyable to be on board.

Leaving Newport’s Riverboat Row, BB Riverboats have travelers on an assortment of themed boat trips – from heartfelt supper travels to fabulous touring travels.

Also, BB Riverboats set forth for unique occasion travels -for example, wine samplings, specialty informal breakfasts, and firecracker travels.

Whether you are looking for heartfelt activities in Newport or on the quest for family fun in the city, a riverboat journey is a strong choice!

There’s no reason not to add this to your list of places to visit in Newport, KY, as it both fun and family-friendly! What are you waiting for?

Address: 1 Levee Wy, Newport, KY 41071, United States

2. World Peace Bell.

The World Peace Bell in Newport, Kentucky, flaunts the title of the biggest free-swinging chime on the planet.

 The twelve feet by twelve feet ringer tips the scales at 66 thousand pounds, with the burden weighing 16,512 pounds.

The World Peace Bell rings around early afternoon consistently, ringing with a profound and strong tone as an image of harmony and opportunity.

Guests can take a directed visit for a little charge somewhere between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday.

Getting to see the World Peace Bell is considered an amazing sightseeing adventure and what’s better is that it’s a family-friendly environment.

You can also take great pictures around the monument for keepsake and continue to the next exciting place on your travel list.

Address:425 York St, Newport, KY 41071

3. USS Nightmare

Are you into scary places? Then the USS Nightmare is a great place for a frightening experience! It would be best to consider putting it on your list of fun things to do in Newport, KY.

For a unique evening out on the town, admirers of the puzzling and the grim can step onboard the USS Nightmare for a spooky visit like no other.

You might not come to the furthest limit of the tour as numerous previous guests have escaped in sheer frightfulness at what lies before them.

The USS Nightmare recounts the spooky story of the fantastic Mitchell Massacre, which occurred on board the William S. Mitchell, a notable stream dredger.

You can hope to experience claustrophobic faintly lit lobbies, fantastic props, and many costumed entertainers who put forth a valiant effort to frighten you.

This place is excellent for the thrill-seekers and those who love a good scare once in a while to keep their hearts pumping. Daredevils will adore this place.

Address:101 B, Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071.

4. New Riff Distillery

Established by Ken Lewis in 2014, the New Riff Distillery flaunts itself as one of the best, with that custom being an exemplary reality in Kentucky. 

The refinery creates a broad scope of bourbons, including Malted Rye, Rye, and Bourbon, as well as a variety of unique recipes and Kentucky Wild Gin.

Made by a Kentucky alcohol visionary and a group comprised of corporate exiles, New Riff distillery works toward an excellent reputation in Kentucky.

New Riff endeavors to one day be perceived as one out of the many refineries of the world. So if it’s a good drink you need, you’ll get it there.

Notwithstanding its spirits, the refinery also offers a few visits accessible to guests, making it a perfect tourist attraction.

You probably have a lot of things to do in Newport, KY, and a visit to the New Riff Distillery should be one of them. Do visit!

Address:24 Distillery Way, Newport, KY 41073

5. Falcon Theatre.

A trip to Newport, Kentucky, wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Falcon Theartre, as it’s one of the liveliest places in Newport.

The Falcon Theater is, as it were, more prominent in the Cincinnati region and flaunts that they are “not like some other theater” nearby.

The Falcon Theater has impeccable performances and friendly workers who invite visitors by and by each opportunity they have to see a show.

The theater organization holds back nothing in making you feel welcomed while strolling through the Falcon Theater’s entryways.

Located today in the historically significant area of Newport, the theater was established by Ted Weil and Dave Radtke in 1989.

There are many fun things to do in Newport, KY, and many places to visit, but your trip wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Falcon Theater!

Address:636 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071,

6. Newport Gangster Tour

If you’re intrigued by the city’s mobster past, do join the Newport Gangster Tour!

After a presentation and brief history illustration of Newport’s criminal past, the local area expert leads members into the roads of Newport to see where the most notorious occasions happened.

Between the 1930s to the 1960s, the Northern Kentucky city was the gambling mecca of the United States. So you’d be surprised how much you’d learn from the tour.

Celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe and Duke Ellington frequented the city. Tourism boosted the city’s economy. 

The tour is very educative and makes for a good scary story you can tell your friends around a campfire in the woods.

The Newport Gangster Tour offers a one-of-a-kind experience and it proves to be exciting and worthwhile.

Address: Newport, Kentucky, United States

7. Dixie Chili

Tasting the neighborhood cooking is an exciting part of going to any new city – and there are a lot of privately claimed eateries in Newport, Kentucky.

While we have previously uncovered a couple of the must-visit diners, a couple of nearby cheap food joints that also merit notice.

Dixie Chili on Monmouth Street has been dishing up Cincinnati-style stew for over 75 years in Newport, Kentucky.

It is consistently positioned as probably the best spot to eat in Newport. But, is it better than Gold Star or Skyline? You should do a trial and choose for yourself!

Nonetheless, this place is great for those who love a good meal and wouldn’t mind chili. They have impeccable customer service as well.

If you’re all about getting a good meal, then visit Dixie Chili. It has a family-friendly environment.

Address: 733 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071, United States

8. Southgate House Revival

Attending a live melodic presentation around evening time seems to be fun, and The Southgate Revival House is the spot to make it happen!

Housed in an old block church that dates to 1866, The Southgate House Revival opened in 2012 with three exceptional scenes inside.

Assuming there aren’t any shows during your visit to the city of Newport, KY, you can check out Falcon Theater.

There’s so much to expect at the Southgate Revival House as their shows comprise various music performances with a global touch.

You will love this place if you’re into music, as you’ll be inspired by the many beautiful performances at the Southgate Revival House.

Address: 111 E 6th St, Newport, KY 41071, United States

9. Hofbrauhau

The Hofbrauhaus Newport is both a fascination and a café in the famous area of Newport on the Levee. It’s an excellent place for a family day out.

This amazing Newport eatery gives an essential feasting experience to all visitors and leaves a good impression throughout your stay.

From the scrumptious American and German food to the extraordinary lager to the generally embellished rooms, the Hofbrauhaus has it all!

The Hofbrauhaus Newport is planned after Munich’s unique Hofbräuhaus, which is hundreds of years old. It’s an excellent location with some of the best things to do in Newport, KY.

Hofbrauhaus Newport, Kentucky, is the first Hofbrauhaus to be licensed by the state-owned brewery as a franchisee.

The menu incorporates both American passage and conventional German dishes; There’s something for everyone at this place!

Address:200 3rd St, Newport, KY 41071,

10. York Street Cafe

Highlighting trinkets and comfortable furnishings, the York Street Cafe is a mix of artistry exhibitions, parlor, and café.

The place offers a beautiful spot for loved ones to assemble in Newport for feasting, craftsmanship, and relaxation.

Offering both outside and indoor feasting, the bistro menu comprises a wide range of choices made with top-notch ingredients.

The appetizers include smoked salmon and hummus, while courses incorporate dishes like messy jalapeno cornmeal with shrimp.

The York Street Cafe is also privately known for its treats that keep you busy while the main course arrives.

Address:738 York St, Newport, KY 41071,

11. Glier’s Goettafest.

One thing everyone agrees with is the fact that everyone needs food, and frankly, everyone likes food. That’s why a visit to Glier’s Goettafest is a great idea.

The Glier’s Goettafest in Newport, Kentucky, is a “festival of everything Goetta.” It’s an ideal place to visit in Newport, Kentucky

Goetta is a German dish commonly contrasted with a scrapple of breakfast frankfurter, a blend of flavors, steel-cut oats, meat, and pork.

The celebration comprises two weekends brimming with innovative food, family-arranged goetta games, and live entertainment.

Glier’s Goettafest highlights merchants offering more than 40 amazing Goetta things, like the Goetta Saloon and Glier’s Goetta.

Glier’s Goettafest offers a variety of family-centered attractions, inflatables, and games , making it one of the best places to visit in Newport, KY.

Address: Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071

12. Chart House

Located on the banks of the Ohio River, the Chart House gives stupendous perspectives on Cincinnati’s horizon and the water.

This restaurant in Newport, Kentucky, has been a long-term number one among neighborhood occupants and guests because of its fantastic cooking and setting.

The Chart House has strived to offer an optimal feasting experience starting around 1961 and has developed much since then.

The Chart House has an excess of twenty grandstands, waterfront, and memorable areas in the nation over, making it a family-friendly destination.

 The gourmet specialists fit the menu with dishes in sync with their nearby food while as yet presenting a dash of the extraordinary.

The Chart House is an excellent place to visit if you are in Newport, Kentucky, and it proves to be an exhilarating experience.

Address:405 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071.

13. Purple People Bridge

The Newport Southbank Bridge, also known in Newport as the Purple People Bridge, extends roughly 2,670 feet across the Ohio River.

The bridge interfaces downtown Cincinnati, Ohio, to the city of Newport, Kentucky, and trails in the two states along the waterway.

The extension gives advantageous admittance to both the midtown area of Cincinnati and the Newport on the Levee area of Newport.

In 2006, changes were made to make it feasible for individuals to cross the Newport Southbank Bridge along its superstructure with suitable security gear.

The bridge features a comprehensive range view of the vicinity and can serve as a great spot to visit and clear your mind of the day’s stress.

If you’re into pictures, the Purple People’s Bridge is also a great place for a good picture with friends and family members alike.

Address:425 York St, Newport, KY 41071

14. Newport Aquarium

Found right across the waterway from clamoring Cincinnati, the Newport Aquarium brings every one of the miracles of the distant sea to your doorstep.

The aquarium is an ideal all-year fascination that the entire family can partake in together.

There are numerous intuitive exercises, including different touch pools where you and the kids get to see stingrays, sharks, and tide-pool animals.

A couple of the shows you’ll get to see include the Shipwreck – Realm of the Eels, Stingray Hideaway, Gator Alley, and the Penguin Palooza.

An unmistakable feature of your visit will be the undeniably exhilarating bridge pathway over the giant shark tank.

If you’ve never been to the Newport Aquarium, it’s undoubtedly worth the visit as it has a load of exciting activities awaiting its visitors!

Address:1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 41071.

15. Pompilio’s 

Laid outback in 1933 at the side of Washington Avenue and Sixth Street in Newport’s East Row District is a diner formerly known as Pompilio’s

Pompilio’s has served the city and the encompassing locale for over eighty years. It undoubtedly stands the test of time and cuisine integrity.

The neighborhood diner serves valid Italian cuisine and highly esteems natively constructed sauces, soups, and traditional dishes.

Pompilio’s offers delicious dishes like Italian wiener, meatballs, ravioli, and lasagna, and that’s only the tip of the iceberg.

Notwithstanding the Italian food on the menu, Pompilio’s likewise offers conventional American meals and a menu for youngsters.

Unquestionably the freshest fixings accessible are utilized to make the assortment of dishes alongside unique recipes.

Address:600 Washington Ave, Newport, KY 41071.

Check out the top things to do in Covington, things to do in Elizabethtown, and things to do in Richmond for a memorable exploration of Kentucky.

16. Wooden Cask Brewing Company

The Wooden Cask Brewing Company is a famous specialty distillery acclaimed by Newport specialty lager devotees since opening in 2015.

The distillery has two places where you can taste their particular blends – the York Street Tap Room or come by the Wooden Cask at Newport on the Levee.

The two areas offer an incredible choice of brilliant specialty lagers as well as wines and a scope of real Kentucky Bourbons.

There is an enormous open-air deck in the York Street area and a splendid barbecue eatery called Beards and Bellies, which presents the best meats nearby.

Visiting the Wooden Cask Brewing Company would be worthwhile if you’re in or around Newport.

There are many things to do in Newport, KY, and they wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Wooden Cask Brewing Company.

Address:629 York Street, Newport, KY 41071.

17. The Levee

Visiting the Levee is a great idea if you’ve been searching for the best things to do in Newport, KY. The Levee is an exciting place in Newport city.

The Levee is a center point of action and one of the top city attractions in Newport, and there are many interesting things to do in the Levee.

The Newport retail plaza opened in 2001 as an area for the city’s rejuvenation project. It’s a beautiful sight in the building.

Inside, visitors will find privately claimed idea shops on the primary floor and notable store brands throughout the shopping center.

Notwithstanding the shops, there is a cinema, bowling alley, and video arcade, which are great activities in Newport, KY.

You’ll also see the Bridgeview Box Park in the mall; it’s an open-air, stream confronting compartment transport park. It’s an interesting place to visit for sure!

Address: 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY 41071-1652

18. Rotolo – Bowling, Bocce, and Eatery

In Italian, Rotolo means “the roll” or is utilized as the action word for moving something. So it’s no wonder Rotolo is a bowling alley.

Rotolo is a cutting-edge bowling alley that offers two fully-functional bars and a 68-seat eatery.

The 16-path bowling alley highlights electronic scoring frameworks, and four of the paths are saved for private gatherings.

Different exercises associated with the Rotolo include Bocce Ball, Billiards, and Foosball. There’s something for everyone to do!

The center has a lot of space for simply relaxing around and enjoying the fresh air. It’s not a bad idea to make it amongst your top things to do in Newport, KY.

The food is also Italian and offers everybody something from sharing plates and hand-held luxuries to delightful level bread.

Address :1 Levee Way, Suite 1112, Newport, KY 41071.

19. Mad Mike’s Burgers

Who doesn’t like a good snack every once in a while? If you’re searching for a nice place to have delicious snacks, Mad Mike’s Burgers is the perfect location.

Mad Mike grills up enormous gourmet burgers at a budget price. Just be sure to order the fries and sit back as you enjoy your snack.

You can go for a unique flavor combination, like the Rockefeller, or pile your burger with your favorite toppings.

Aside from the delicious tasting snacks, you can appreciate so much more at Mad Mike’s, as the restaurant has a beautiful decor.

The restaurant also has friendly staff, making it a great place to visit again and again. This place proves to be the best.

If you’re still thinking of things to do in Newport, KY, why not visit Mad Mike’s Burgers and have a burger while you think?

Address: 342 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071, United States

20. Newport Racing and Gaming

Newport Racing and Gaming is a famous grown-up gaming and entertainment setting situated in the core of Newport.

The setting offers all the fun of a Vegas-style gambling club with many different slot machines competing for your focus.

If you lean toward the adventure of horseracing, you can get all the fervor you can deal with as you bet on live races in the Simulcast region.

There are additionally many memorable racing games to play. The Game Center lives up to its name and satisfies visitors looking for best things to do in Newport, KY.

If you’re hungry, you can go to Smiley’s Bar and Grill for rewards before listening to some unrecorded music performances.

If you feel bored and need someplace interesting to do, then a trip to Newport Racing and Gaming would be perfect. Do well to visit!

Address:1723 Monmouth Street, Newport, KY 41071.

21. Newport Riverwalk

The Newport Riverwalk is a raised footpath and bikeway that gives extraordinary perspectives over the Ohio and Licking Rivers and the Cincinnati region.

 Newport Riverwalk is the ideal spot to partake in a walk and take in the perspective on the Cincinnati horizon and the scaffolds that range from the Ohio stream.

The Newport Riverwalk is part of an extended pathway called the Riverfront Commons Trail. It interfaces with a few communities.

This place is great for those seeking an outdoor experience with friends, as all that’s left is for you to bask in nature surrounded by beautiful trees.

Your list of things to do in Newport, KY, wouldn’t be complete without a memorable outdoor adventure, and the Riverwalk takes care of that.

If you’re not too busy enjoying other places, you might as well visit this great location. You should probably come along with a camera for a great picture.

Address: 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY 41071-1652

22. The Footlighters Inc.

The Footlighters Inc. is a non-benefit scene for local area theater exhibitions in the riverside city of Newport, Kentucky.

The Footlighters Inc. was established by a little band of local area theater volunteers back in 1963 and has become a tourist attraction over the years.

Intending to carry theater chances to Cincinnati’s western side, the theater organization puts on six principal stage theater creations at the nearby venue each season.

These creations are performed within the Stained Glass Theater; previously, an 1882 notable church building changed into a remarkable presentation space.

Exhibitions range from clown comedies to expressions shows to blockbusters, large-cast musicals, and more.

This place should be part of your list of top things to do in Newport, KY, if you are looking for entertainment. It’s a great location!

Address:802 York St, Newport, KY 41071,

23. Brio Italian Grille.

The Brio Italian Grille is a perfect location for visitors to eat and unwind with their friends and family. The restaurant has very delicious food.

Brio Newport is after Tuscan-propelled eatery location serving bona fide northern Italian food, extravagance wines, and mixed drinks.

Their specialties include premium quality steaks, cleaves, fish, specially made pasta, and flatbreads arranged in a credible Italian wood-consuming broiler.

Bringing the delights of the Tuscan country manor to Newport, our culinary expert propelled menu, stylish climate, and elite help will give an eating experience like no other.

The Restaurant also features an outdoor seating space for those who don’t mind a little sunlight and fresh air.

There’s something for everyone to do at this place as it’s also a great place to watch a game with friends while you have a meal.

Address:1 Levee Way Suite #1140, Newport, KY 41071, United States

24. General James Taylor Park

Although small and a bit difficult to find, General James Taylor Park makes a lovely and quiet diversion for visitors vacationing in Newport.

General James Taylor Park, named after General James Taylor Jr., the founder of Newport, is a small urban park In Newport, KY. 

It is close to the beautiful Mansion Hills and the landmark residence of General James Taylor. 

The land where the Park stands used to be the site of Newport Barracks from 1803 to 1893. 

The Park is situated on Riverboat Row and perhaps has the most magnificent views of Cincinnati. It faces the Ohio and Licking Rivers and the skyline of Cincinnati. 

General James Taylor Park is family-friendly. It has a play area and benches. For the bold and adventurous, the park has a helicopter tour. 

For courageous adventurers not scared to tackle urban river destinations, General James Taylor Park makes for a terrific point for kayaks and canoes. 

Address: 100 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071, United States

25. Newport Arcade Legacy

One of the best places game lovers should visit in Newport is Newport Arcade Legacy. 

Newport Arcade Legacy is an exciting venue featuring epic games and 5,000 square feet of pinball. 

This center has over 40 pinball machines, 20 +arcade games, and a console area with stations for retro and modern games. 

Newport Arcade Legacy also has a gigantic high-definition project screen for Nintendo Switch console titles, such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Smash Bros Ultimate, and many more. 

At Arcade Legacy, you can buy, trade, or sell your used board games, video games, action figures, games, manga, and other collectibles. 

They also host several events, including art exhibitions, LAN parties, graduation, wedding and wedding parties, and tournaments. 

Address: 1751 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071, United States

26. Thompson House

Thompson House is a Newport historic landmark mansion transformed into a live music venue. 

Thompson House features three performance spaces: Heaven Parlor, Rockstar Lounge, and Tommy Gun Theater. 

Each offers various music performances throughout the year, including several weekly theme nights. 

The main stage downstairs can host local, regional, and national touring acts. 

Thompson House is perfect for anyone looking for a place to enjoy live music during their stay in Newport. 

Address: 24 3rd St, Newport, KY 41071, United States

Want to explore more places in Kentucky, check out our list of things to do in Bardstown, things to do in Somerset and things to do in Williamstown  for a fun time in these cities of Kentucky.

Plan a Trip to Newport

Newport, KY is a beautiful city that is perfect for a personal or family vacation. 

With its modest yet unique attractions, your choices are boundless, as are the encounters ahead for you. So it’s always going to be a blast.

There’s something for everyone to do In Newport, Kentucky, and it’s all at your disposal to choose what you’d like to do to have the best vacation.