The public can enjoy free rides to Newport’s top attractions on the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority’s (RIPTA) “hop-on, hop-off” trolley service, which returns Friday, May 23.
The free rides will run through Oct. 31 on Routes 67 and 68, thanks to a total of $85,000 in funding from Discover Newport and the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island.
About $80,000 provided by Discover Newport allows for waiving the $2 fares on Route 67, which stops at a number of the city’s tourist destinations, including the Gilded Age mansions, Cliff Walk, Audrain Automobile Museum, and International Tennis Hall of Fame.
“By providing an easy and sustainable option to get around the cit,y we are able to help divert cars from the road during the busy summer and fall seasons,” Victoria Cimino, president & CEO of Discover Newport, said in a statement.
Cimino said the free-fare program saw record ridership of 178,000 passengers in 2024, according to Discover Newport.
A $5,000 payment from the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island covers fares on Route 68, which connects Newport’s North End to the city’s beaches.
“Making it easier for visitors to leave their cars behind while they tour the city helps improve the experience for everyone,” Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, bishop of the diocese, said in a statement. “It helps us set an example of being good citizens in our changing climate.”
Riders can park at the Newport Transportation Center at 23 America’s Cup Avenue and pay $5 if they present a same-day trolley voucher provided by the bus operator.
RIPTA CEO Christopher Durand said he was grateful for the ongoing sponsorship, which began in 2022.
“This program significantly reduces traffic congestion, supports local tourism, and provides accessible transit for tourists, as well as residents living and working in Newport,” Durand said in a statement.
Additional information on RIPTA’s summer service in Newport can be found on the agency’s website.
This story was originally published by the Rhode Island Current.
