Newport, located at the confluence of the Licking and Ohio Rivers directly across from Cincinnati, is an old river town with a rich history and a focus on the future. The city was settled in 1791 and was named after Christopher Newport, the commander of the first ship to reach Jamestown, Virginia. The city grew especially with a large German immigration during the late 1800s. Newport used to have a bit of a reputation as a “Sin City” – due to gambling halls and other not-so-savory activities on Monmouth Street. During the 1980s and 1990s, Newport transformed itself with a focus on tourism and its riverfront. In 1999, the Newport Aquarium opened and boasts a collection of over 11,000 aquatic creatures, including 50 sharks which can be viewed through 200 feet of clear, underwater tunnels. The following year, the Newport on the Levee shopping and entertainment development opened. With over 17,000 residents, Newport is now a great place to play, walk and live.
Newport is the largest city in Campbell County and the center of much political, commercial and industrial activity. It has a number of neighborhoods offering stately homes and elegant mansions on tree-lined streets, as well as hillside condos with magnificent views of downtown Cincinnati. In recent years, much-needed renovation has taken place, especially in the Mansion Hill and Gateway neighborhoods. Three bridges connect Newport to downtown Cincinnati. Newport’s riverfront, with spectacular views of Cincinnati, has seen major growth in recent years and has attracted new industry to the area.
Six National Register historic districts in Newport feature many individual homes listed as landmarks. Many of these homes are located at the East Row Historic District that includes a part of the Mansion Hill and the East Newport historic district.
Transportation
Interstate 471 and two other bridges connect Newport to downtown Cincinnati. There are two other bridges that connect the city to Covington. Public transportation services all parts of the city. Newport offers two marinas for water transportation and recreation. I-471 connects to I-275 which makes easy travel to all of a Northern Kentucky. The Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport services the area.
Hospitals
St. Elizabeth Hospital East is five minutes from the center of town and several Cincinnati hospitals are about ten minutes away. Emergency Medical Service (EMS) is available. Doctors’ offices are located in the city.
Shopping
Local merchants provide the necessities, with Newport Shopping Center offering a variety of shops. Local and national chain stores are located in the city. Newport on the Levee features many stores and restaurants to enjoy. The Hofbrauhaus is modeled after its namesake in Munich, Germany and has brews, Germany food and entertainment.
Recreation
The city provides swimming facilities, tennis, ballfields and picnicking areas. Parks include 'Bartlett Field', 'Bernadette Watkins Park ', 'Buena Vista Park', 'Clifton Neighborhood Park', 'Gateway Neighborhood Park', 'General James Taylor Park ' (site of the annual Riverfest celebration), 'Mansion Hill Neighborhood Park', 'Phelan Park', 'Providence Park', 'Riddleview Park', 'Tim Freudenberg Memorial Park' and 'Veterans Memorial Park' (which features a pool).
The river brings many people to Newport where they enjoy the views, BB Riverboat tours, many festivals and other events. Annual events include: Greater Cincinnat Chilifest; Taste of Newport; Newport Italianfest; Newport Motorcycle Rally; Bacon, Bourbon & Brew Festival; Gleir’s Goettafest; Great Inland Seafood Festival; Riverfest; Harvest Fee and Newport Oktoberfest.
Lifestyle
Check out these local highlights by area experts!
