"Your Great Gatsby Day is coming to an end." At least that's what our waiter (at another restaurant I'll probably be blogging about at another time) told us after we declined the drink menu, saying we'd already had drinks on the Lawn at Castle Hill. Sure, you can tour the Mansions (including Rosecliff where the 1974 version of "Gatsby" starring Robert Redford and Mia Farrow was filmed) and stroll Bowen's and the Cliff Walk, but there's nothing that says Summer more than some time (A staycation would be swell, but drinks or dinner are still pretty amazing!) at Castle Hill Inn. With that in mind then, here are three key things about CH - including the royal connection - to know before you go.

On The Lawn

Again, having drinks (How about a Chateau Sangria, a Blueberry Lemonade or an Esperto Pinot from Venezia?) on The Lawn at CH is the quintessential Newport Summer experience. Stunning views of the Pell Bridge and the surrounding area. But seating in their signature white Adirondacks is first come, first serve, so plan ahead. In other words, take a personal day during the week, deck yourself out in your finest Tory B. attire (or Saint James tee), and you're golden! 

To The Lighthouse

The private Lighthouse at Castle Hill is pretty much an ongoing Instagram sensation. From wedding photo shoots to blogger (influencer?) snaps on IG or Insta Stories, at this point it's probably one of the most photographed spots in all of Newport, RI. Especially this time of year. Definitely worth checking out while you're there. And if you're with someone who knows how to take fabulous fotos with their phone, even better.

Grace Kelly Beach

True story, I'm obsessed with what's come to be known as "Grace Kelly Beach" at CH. According to Newport legend, the future Princess Grace of Monaco (pre-Meghan Markle you guys!) was staying at Castle Hill while filming the 1956 movie High Society, and she got into the habit of climbing down to the rocky beach area just below the private cottage (now called Harbor House) where she was situated. To get some sun, some peace, and avoid the ever-present paparazzi (fans too I bet but whatevs). Anywho, the lovely ppl at CH went and built her a staircase, so she could access the shoreline more easily. Yesss, that's Hollywood's Golden Age/Royalty + Newport, what's not to love? (Kind of makes you want to add Harbor House to your staycation bucket list, right?)

More Photos From Our Afternoon Castle Hill

Photo Credits: Lighthouse at castle Hill Photo by iStock/Getty Images; CH Lawn photos courtesy of PattyJ.com