32 College Towns That Feel Like a European Vacation Without Leaving the U.S.

18. Newport, Rhode Island – An English Seaside Escape

With its rugged coastline, historic mansions, and old-world charm, Newport exudes the grace and elegance of a British coastal retreat. Home to Salve Regina University, the town’s architecture and seaside atmosphere are reminiscent of Cornwall, Brighton, and the English Riviera. The Newport Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile coastal path lined with grand Gilded Age mansions, feels like a stroll along England’s White Cliffs of Dover or the promenades of Eastbourne. Many of these mansions, inspired by English and French estates, transport visitors back to an era of aristocratic grandeur, much like those found in Bath or Windsor. Beyond its architectural beauty, Newport has a thriving maritime culture, with historic shipyards and one of the world's most prestigious sailing scenes. Its charming harborfront, lined with seafood restaurants, traditional pubs, and boutiques, mirrors the quaint fishing villages of England’s southern coast.