Jane’s Walk Aquidneck 2026
May 2 + 3, 2026
Our 2026 Jane’s Walk Festival Aquidneck offered a weekend of walks that explored a range of topics across the Island led by our community. All walks were free of charge, open to anyone and happened rain or shine.
Saturday May 2
10am: The Past, Present and Future of Urban Development in Newport in Three Snapshots
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90 minutes and 1/2 mile with lots to talk about.
Long period of standing
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This walk will explore and discuss some of the past, present and future influences on Newport's urban redevelopment - through three distinctly different snapshots: Brick Market Place (past); Bridge Street (present) and Gateway Center (future).
3pm: Walking the Fort - A tour of Butts Hill Fort
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45 min
Hills/Elevation, Uneven surfaces, Long period of standing
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Take in the history of Portsmouth’s Butts Hill and its fort in six stations.
6pm: Easton's Pond: Preservation and Evolution
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60 min, 1 mile
Uneven surfaces
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Come on a guided tour of the history of Easton's Pond while taking in its awakening; herons, egrets, turtles, and other surprises.
Sunday May 3
10am: 47 John Street: Inside a Preservation & Storytelling Project
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60 min
Stairs, Uneven surfaces
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This interior house “walk” will discuss how Newport Restoration Foundation distinguishes restoration from preservation while also sharing how uncovering architectural layers helps support storytelling about the house's past inhabitants.
2pm: Going Nowhere in a Winding Way: Labyrinth Walk at Miantonomi Tower
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90min
Hills/Elevation, Uneven surfaces, Long period of standing, If needed a vehicle to the tower can be arranged with prior permission
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Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the tower and wander the path of a labyrinth walk in the highest point of the island.
1pm: A Stroll Through Queen Anne Square
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60 min
Uneven surfaces, Long period of standing
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Explore Queen Anne Square and the role green spaces play in shaping our community.
4pm: Life After Life and the Common Burying Ground
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60 min, .5 miles
Hills/Elevation, Uneven surfaces
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Learn the stories of people buried in the Common Burying Ground from the lead artist and lead researcher on last year's community performance, Life After Life.