gbtour: Thank you very much for the information!

How much time should we plan to spend in Newport?

Should we buy ferry tickets in advance, or can we buy them just before the ferry leaves?

Make a reservation for the ferry just to be safe. You'd hate to get there and have it sold out.

For Newport, if you tour 2-3 mansions and have lunch/late lunch, plan on 4-6 hours.

For mansions, the Breakers is the biggest and most well known. I like the fact that they went to the audio tour (as opposed to the guided tours) I think this allows the visitor to do the tour at their own pace. Marble House and the Elms already had the self guided audio tours. I would say that you could do those 3 in an afternoon without too much trouble.

As far as vegeterian dining, most places have options that you will be able to find something. There is not really a Vegeterian or Vegan specific restaurant that I can think of.

Check out www.gonewport.com for some listings and links to menues, as well as all sorts of lodging options.

Some favorite waterfront spots:

The Mooring, 22 Bowens, Clarke Cooke House, @theDeck, Asterisks.

Casual fare:

Red Parrot, The Brick Alley, Buskers

Funky/Eclectic:

Salvation Cafe

Italian:

Mama Luisa's, Sardella's, Puerini's

For views and a drink:

Inn at Castle Hill

Thanks milemarker0 for the very detailed response.

Do you have any recos for accommodation at Block Island?

Not really, have only stayed on boats the few times I've been over there...

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