We stayed at the Viking last summer and had a wonderful experience. Our room was in the older part of the hotel versus the new wing. No view really at all.

I am going to Newport next weekend - we met there a year ago - and have decided that for less money we can stay in a balcony room overlooking the harbor at the Newport Harbor hotel, www.newporthotel.com. With the AAA rate we are only paying $322 vs. $439 for the Viking.

Just a thought... Though the Viking had great service and a wonderful garden patio for breakfast.

The Viking is a great hotel and in an excellent location. Most of the rooms are have been updated and are great. Even the ones that haven't are pretty decent, they are just small, it all depends on how much you pay. We use Priceline all the time, we usaully request a 3 star in Newport and offer $100. Two weeks ago we stayed at the Hyatt for that amount. In the past we have goten the Viking. Newport is one of our favorite places but it can be very expensive, You might also check out Newport Harbor hotel which is right in the center of town.

Just saw a new Viking Wing room. WOW, very nice

Have you thought about the Hyatt also? Outdoor and indoor pool, outside dining area, tennis and lots of room for your sons to run around outdoors. The Viking is just the building without a great deal of public space.

www.GoNewport.com for everything Newport. Great calendar of events. Definately bring your sons for a tour of Astors' Beechwood Mansion. A living history tour with professional actors. They will love it.

Also bring them to see the lobsters at Aquidneck Lobster Company.

Have chowder at the Black Pearl's patio.

Family style dinner at Salas. Not great, but inexpensive and great for families.

See if a Gull's baseball game is playing while you are here. Best college players in the country and family oriented. Great time!!

Take a harbor tour.

Brenton State Park for a picnic with sanwiches from Sig's Deli. Bring a kite as this is a great place to fly one and also walk on the rocks.

Walk the Cliff walk

Bring your sons on a Pirate Walking Tour