The Oldest Tavern in America

One of my favorite places we visited in Rhode Island was the White Horse Tavern in Newport, which claims to be the oldest tavern in America. The original building was built in 1652, and although there were taverns before that, this is supposedly the only one that has been in continuous existence as a tavern since it opened. They also claim that in 1708 the Tavern became “birthplace of the businessman’s lunch” as city councilors dined here and charged their meals to the public treasury. It is a great bar and although we didn't get to eat, we heard from plenty of people that the food is excellent too. I doubt there is a drink that the bar tender doesn't know how to make, especially old cocktails from the 18th and 19th century.

White Horse Tavern
26 Marlborough Street
Newport, RI 02840
401-849-3600