If you would like to retire in a community that has the ocean and harbor on 3 sides, a vibrant, large and interesting downtown, and has one of the largest concentrations of beautiful and historic homes in the country, Newport, Rhode Island (population 26,000) is for you. In colonial days Newport was the most important port in Rhode Island. It has a magnificent stock of colonial homes – in fact walking down the streets of Newport is probably the closest one can come to seeing what colonial American looked like. During the 19th century it became famous among the richest Americans as the place to live in the summer. Soon the Vanderbilts and most of the nation’s wealthiest families were in a mad rush to see who could build the most extraordinary "cottage" (mansion). Several hundred years and many booms and busts later, the town is an exceptional destination for tourists and active adults. Thanks to Doris Duke and the Newport Restoration Foundation which she created, you can tour many of these mansions. But beyond the mansions open to the public, everywhere in town there are wonderful old homes that have either been restored, or are waiting for a handyman with deep pockets. Salve Regina University’s campus in Newport incorporate many former mansions of American’s wealthiest families. The town is walk-able and features many parks and squares. Photo of Marble House courtesy of Wikipedia and Daderot. | 
