The One Thing to Do in Rhode Island Before the End of the Year

The holiday season was always my favorite time of year when I lived in Rhode Island. An annual shopping trip to Wickford was something we looked forward to, along with seeing "A Christmas Carol" at Trinity Repertory in Providence and viewing the festive decor and lights at Newport's most exquisite Gilded Age mansions. But if there's one thing I'd add to my seasonal to-do list in Rhode Island before the end of this year, it would be to grab a hot beverage from the Hot Chocolate Bar at The Chanler to enjoy alongside views of the Cliff Walk. It's bound to become a favorite Rhode Island seasonal experience.

The Chanler at Cliff Walk is one of Newport's most luxurious hotels. In fact, it's one of the only 5-star hotels in town. While spending a night here is an absolute dream come true, and one of the best things to do in RI, there are other ways to enjoy the hotel without booking a room.

From November 1 through December 14, 2025, The Chanler at Cliff Walk opens its Hot Chocolate Bar on Saturdays and Sundays, and then daily (except on Christmas Day) between December 20 and December 30. Hours are set from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., except on Christmas Eve, when hours are from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. You can view the calendar on the website.

You don't have to be a guest to grab a cup of artisanal hot chocolate from the bar. With an order window set outside, you can walk up and place your order from the simple menu. Each cup is prepared upon order by the hotel's culinary team. Fine Valrhona chocolate from Tain L'Hermitage, France, is used and blended with fresh, creamy milk from Wright's Dairy Farm, a local farm in northern Rhode Island.

You'll have the choice of either a milk or dark hot chocolate served with a chocolate straw and whipped cream. If you desire something with a kick, try one of the adult hot chocolates under "Libations." There's the milk chocolate with Irish cream and vanilla vodka, or the dark chocolate with Tuaca and Grand Marnier.

Once you have your hot chocolate in hand, make your way over to one of the fire pits or sit out on the lawn and soak in the views as you sip. If you opt for one of the hot chocolates with alcohol, you must stay on the hotel's property. Otherwise, you can grab your cup and go for a stroll on the Cliff Walk. What a wonderful way to enjoy the season!

With views of the Cliff Walk and sitting at a fire pit with a cup of hot cocoa in hand, 'tis the season to sit back and relax, at least for a little while. Visiting the Hot Chocolate Bar at The Chanler is a treat and a wonderful break from the hectic holiday season— it may become one of your favorite Rhode Island winter activities!

For Hot Chocolate Bar dates and a menu, head to The Chanler at Cliff Walk's website. Parking is complimentary, and no reservation is needed.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own holiday trip to Newport, Rhode Island, using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.