things to do with kids in rhode island
Updated Tue 10/13/2026
PORTSMOUTH
NEWPORT CAR MUSEUM
Updated
ABOUT
Newport Car Museum opened in mid-2017 in a former missile manufacturing facility on seven acres in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. Founded by Gunther and Maggie Buerman, the museum features a private collection of over 100 automobiles that span eight decades of automotive design. The museum showcases separate galleries for Corvettes, Ford/Shelby Cars, Porsches, Fin Cars, Mopars, and American Muscle Cars, celebrating cars as works of art and reflecting the creativity of industrial designers from the post-World War II era.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Families can explore themed galleries that highlight the beauty and history of automotive design, featuring iconic vehicles from the 1950s to the present. The museum integrates a collection of Mid-Century Modern furniture throughout its exhibits, enhancing the overall design experience. Interactive elements, such as six driving simulators, provide an engaging way for guests of all ages to immerse themselves in the world of automobiles.
GOOD TO KNOW
The Newport Car Museum has gained recognition, including being named one of USA Today’s Top 10 Best New Attractions shortly after its opening. The museum is a year-round destination, hosting car clubs and special events, and features free parking. The museum's expansive grounds and giant gift shop further enhance the visitor experience, making it a notable addition to the classic-car world.
UPCOMING EVENTS as of 10/18/2026
THIS WEEK: SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18 · COMING UP: THE 4 WEEKS AFTER
No dated events on our list for Newport Car Museum right now. Most visits here need no event — check hours on their site.
Full schedule at newportcarmuseum.org/events →
Something wrong or out of date here? Tell us — we fix listings within a week.
On nearby this week and next
Next two weeks · from our weekly check of each venue's own calendar
- SUN 10/18 · 10:00am — Lou's Pumpkin Patch at Escobar Corn Maze & Farm · Portsmouth details
- SUN 10/18 — Creative Movement at Newport Recreation Department · Newport details
- SUN 10/18 — Fairy House Competition! at Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum · Bristol details
- MON 10/19 · 4:45pm — Girl Scouts Lower Level (Ashley Murphy) at Events / Activities Calendar - Common Fence Point · Portsmouth details
- MON 10/19 · 11:00am — Story Time at Middletown Public Library · Middletown details
- MON 10/19 · 10:30am — Toddler Storytime with Miss Erin - 1st Fall Session at Rogers Free Library · Bristol details
- MON 10/19 · 2:30pm — After School Club at Little Compton Community Center · Little Compton details
- TUE 10/20 · 10:00am — Baby Story Time at Portsmouth Free Public Library · Portsmouth details
- TUE 10/20 · 1:45pm — Calvin & Friends (Lower Level) at Events / Activities Calendar - Common Fence Point · Portsmouth details
- TUE 10/20 · 4:45pm — Girl Scouts Lower Level (Ashley Murphy) at Events / Activities Calendar - Common Fence Point · Portsmouth details