A LOT OF AMERICA IN A SMALL SPACE: NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND
Story and photography
by Eric Anderson & Nancy Allen

Those who might not find studying old buildings an active enough vacation can visit several wineries in the area, go on escorted walks or lantern-led ghost tours, or take a dinner train or a yacht charter. Daily ferries run to Block Island. Sailors with some experience can rent one of the many 12 meter yachts that were former competitors, even winners, in previous America's Cup races. The Museum of Yachting which is the home of Courageous, a two-time America's Cup winner, is open daily at Fort Adams State Park as is the historic fort itself-built in 1824-1857.

The International Tennis Hall of Fame, the world's largest tribute to its second oldest game (after golf) is open daily too. www.tennisfame.com. A hundred years of tennis is on display from Bill Tilden's many medals to the Renshaw Cup won by Don Budge as Wimbledon Singles Champion in 1937 and donated to the Hall of Fame in 2000 by his many friends.

DINING

For lunch, consider the Brick Alley Pub at 140 Thames Street. www.brickalley.com. The bric-a-brac on its walls and hanging from its ceilings defies description. It's fun; try any of its salads. For dinner, 22 Bowen's Wine Bar and Grille with waterfront dining on, where else? Bowen's Wharf, is one of the city’s most popular spots. It doesn't offer fun just probably the best meal you will have eaten this year. www.22bowens.com