There is no direct ferry from New London to Newport.

How much is the bridge toll?

The toll is approximately 4 dollars for passenger vehicles.

No, it is a relatively short 75-minute drive.

Public bus options are not practical for this specific route.

What is the best time to visit?

Late spring or early autumn offers the best balance of weather and crowds.

New London

Newport

Driving

New London to Newport

Updated: 28 May 2026

The trip from New London to Newport is a scenic 85-kilometer drive along the southern New England coastline. You will primarily use I-95 North before transitioning to RI-138 to cross the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge. This route offers beautiful views of Narragansett Bay as you approach the historic city of Newport. Driving is the only practical way to make this trip, as public transit options are extremely limited and time-consuming. Expect a travel time of approximately 75 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

Total Distance: 85 km driving, 65 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via I-95 N and RI-138 is the fastest route, taking about 75 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own car is the most economical way to reach Newport.

Compare New London to Newport Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

1 hour 15 mins

Avg Price

12-18 USD

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

I-95 N to RI-138 E

The Newport Bridge has a toll; use an E-ZPass for faster processing.

Travel Tips

Toll Prep
Ensure your E-ZPass is mounted correctly to avoid toll fines.
Parking
Parking in downtown Newport is limited; use the Gateway Center parking lot.
Traffic
Summer weekends can cause significant traffic on the bridge; plan to arrive early.
Footwear
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the Cliff Walk and mansion tours.
Reservations
Book mansion tours online in advance to skip the ticket lines.

Safety Tips

Bridge Safety
High winds can occur on the Newport Bridge; drive slowly during storms.
Pedestrian Safety
Newport is very walkable; watch for tourists crossing streets in the downtown area.
Emergency
Keep a physical map in your car in case of GPS failure in rural areas.
Sun Protection
The coastal sun is strong; bring sunscreen for outdoor activities.