5 Places to Grab a Drink Before or After Your Newport, RI Engagement Session

Planning your Newport, Rhode Island engagement session? You’re already in for a treat with the dreamy coastal views, classic charm, and just the right dose of luxury. But here’s the thing: you’re going to want to keep the magic going after the photos wrap. Or if you need some liquid confidence, grab one before! Whether you’re riding high on that just-engaged glow or just looking for a relaxing toast with your forever person, Newport has some seriously swoon-worthy spots to grab a drink.

This list? It’s a cocktail-lover’s dream lineup — curated with couples in mind. Think: picture-perfect backdrops, coastal vibes, and cocktails that taste like vacation. These are my top spots to get the best cocktails in Newport, Rhode Island post engagement session.

1. Lawn Terrace at Castle Hill Inn

Address: 590 Ocean Drive, Newport, RI 02840

Okay, imagine this: you just wrapped up your engagement shoot on the cliffs of Newport, the ocean’s putting on a show, and you roll up to Castle Hill Inn for drinks on the lawn. It’s everything you think New England elegance should be — but with Adirondack chairs.

The Lawn Terrace is iconic. Waves crashing in the distance, cocktails in hand, boats sailing by. It’s sophisticated without being stuffy and offers the kind of timeless, classy experience that makes you want to stay a little longer. Grab a chilled glass of wine or one of their signature spritzes and watch the light fade behind the lighthouse.

If you’re envisioning your wedding here, it’s also a great way to sneak in a vibe check while you sip.

Why it’s great: Coastal luxury, breathtaking views, relaxed elegance, and that feeling of being exactly where you’re supposed to be.

The elegant golden dome and porch of Castle Hill Inn in Newport, RI, glowing at sunset with guests enjoying cocktails on the lawn.

White Adirondack chairs scattered across the lawn at Castle Hill Inn, overlooking the water at sunset.

2. Top of Newport at Hotel Viking

Address: 1 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840

Perched atop the charming and historic Viking Hotel, Top of Newport is a rooftop hideaway with gorgeous views and even better cocktails. It’s equal parts cozy and classy, perfect for couples who want a little luxury without going over the top. Whether you’re craving a fruity spritz, a strong espresso martini, or something bubbly to match your newly-engaged glow, this spot delivers.

Live music nights and soft lighting create the kind of romantic ambiance you can’t plan — it just happens. And with comfy lounge seating and an unbeatable view of the Newport skyline, it’s easy to stretch happy hour into a whole evening of love and laughter.

Why it’s great: Rooftop views, comfy-chic seating, delicious seasonal cocktails, and a perfectly relaxed-yet-refined vibe in the heart of Newport.

Aperol Spritz and the rooftop patio at Top of Newport at Hotel Viking, filled with cozy seating and rooftop views.

An Aperol Spritz garnished with an orange slice on a rooftop ledge at Hotel Viking.

3. Newport Vineyards

Address: 909 E Main Rd, Middletown, RI 02842

A little off the beaten path, but totally worth the short drive from downtown Newport. Newport Vineyards is an absolute gem for wine lovers and those who want to add a romantic vineyard vibe to their day. The grounds are stunning — rows of vines, golden-hour light, and a laid-back but elegant atmosphere that feels straight out of a Nicholas Sparks novel.

If you’re shooting your engagement photos in a garden or countryside-inspired location or getting marries nearby at Glen Manor House, this is a seamless transition. Sit on the patio with a flight of wines (yes, rosé is on the list, the Great White Rosé is my favorite), split a charcuterie board, and relive your favorite moments from the session. And bonus: their in-house brewery, Taproot Brewing, offers craft beers if wine isn’t your thing.

Why it’s great: Vineyard views, dreamy atmosphere, great wine AND beer, and the kind of peaceful energy that lets you both just exhale and enjoy.

A glass of chilled rosé on a wooden table inside Newport Vineyards with soft lighting in the background.

A woman in a floral dress holding a rosé popsicle in a wine glass in front of lush vines at Newport Vineyards

4. Diego’s

Address: 11 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport, RI 02840

Fun, funky, and full of flavor — Diego’s is where you go when you’re craving tacos and tequila after striking poses by the sea. It’s tucked right in Bowen’s Wharf, which means the harbor is basically your backyard while you sip. With an ever-changing cocktail menu and the kind of margaritas that hit just right, Diego’s brings the party in a super casual, no-fuss way.

It’s a vibe. There’s music, there’s color, there’s guac made fresh at your table. And if you’re the type of couple who giggles more than you smolder during your session (same), you’ll feel right at home here. Pro tip: grab a table on the patio and catch the salty breeze while people-watching and sipping a smoky mezcal cocktail.

Why it’s great: Laid-back, super fun, waterfront views, killer cocktails, and bold food that pairs perfectly with your post-session glow.

The lively exterior of Diego’s with string lights and neon signage creating a fun, festive vibe.

Intimate outdoor tables shaded by trees and umbrellas at Diego’s in Newport, perfect for pre-session cocktails.

5. The Landing Restaurant and Bar

Address: 30 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport, RI 02840

Want that quintessential Newport, Rhode Island cocktail moment? The Landing is your spot. Right on the water at Bowen’s Wharf, this place practically hums with summer energy. Boats bob in the harbor, music drifts through the air, and the mojitos are always cold.

It’s casual and classic — the kind of place where you can dress up or come as you are, and still feel like you’re exactly in the right place. Sit out on the deck with a Dark & Stormy or a rum punch and just let it all sink in: the photos, the love, the journey you’re on together.

Bonus: if your engagement session wraps up nearby, this is the easiest place to stroll into without having to hop in the car.

Why it’s great: Waterfront dining, upbeat vibe, ideal location, and that perfectly Newport mix of nautical and nightlife. And there’s usually live music if you want to end the night dancing.

The bustling outdoor patio of The Landing Restaurant in Newport with guests enjoying seafood and drinks near the harbor.

The waterfront facade of The Landing with white trim and blue awnings overlooking Newport’s historic harbor.

Make It a Date to Remember

Your engagement session should be more than just a quick hour in front of the camera — it should be a full experience. A celebration. A memory in the making. And what better way to keep the good vibes going than with one of best cocktails in Newport, Rhode Island in a place that makes you feel like the main character in your own love story?

These Newport, Rhode Island cocktail spots offer a little something for every couple — from vineyard dreaminess to rooftop elegance, from harbor-front fun to oceanside serenity. No matter your vibe, you’ll find the perfect post-session toast waiting for you in one of these unforgettable locations.

Looking for a Newport wedding & engagement photographer who can capture your joy with bright and airy magic? Newport is one of my favorite summer spots, and I’m here to help you turn your engagement session into an experience — with memories (and Aperol Spritzs) to match.

Cheers to love, light, and the next chapter!