USA Bound . . . First Stop: Newport, Rhode Island!

Tomorrow I am headed back the US for a trip across the states to see family and friends! I am so excited about all my stops but especially happy to be kicking off my journey with a girls weekend in Newport Rhode Island with one of my very best friends. I have never been to Newport before but am looking forward to some summery New England charm, touring ornate Gilded Era mansions {I am a total history nerd after all!}, walking the beach and having a few cocktails by the water. Have any of you spent time in Newport? I would love to hear your favorite places to visit, eat and shop . . . .