Newport has a lively bar scene concentrated on Thames Street, running hard in summer and settling to a manageable pace off-season. The Pineapple Club above Thames Street is a good cocktail bar. Fastnet Pub on Thames is the most reliable Irish pub option and useful for watching sports. Fifth Element upstairs at Bannister's Wharf does a good rooftop bar in summer, with harbor views. Clarke Cooke House at Bannister's Wharf is a Newport institution — a restaurant that functions as an upscale bar on multiple levels, with the downstairs Candy Store bar the more accessible option.
For a quieter option, the Landing bar at the bottom of America's Cup Avenue has waterfront seating and is less intense than the Thames Street options. In summer the entire street operates as one continuous outdoor party until the small hours; outside of July and August, Newport quiets considerably and the bar culture is more local and manageable.