A lakefront city reborn
Newport is the county seat and commercial hub of the Northeast Kingdom, wrapped around the southern bay of Lake Memphremagog just a few miles from Canada. Once a busy railroad crossroads, it has reinvented itself around its waterfront, with a lakeside boardwalk, marina and Gateway Center at the foot of downtown.
It makes a natural base for exploring the northern Kingdom — Jay Peak, Lake Willoughby and the Quebec border are all close.
Lake Memphremagog
The lake itself is the star: a narrow, fjord-like glacial water 31 miles long, with roughly three-quarters of its length in Quebec. From Newport you can sail, paddle, fish for trophy walleye and lake trout, or simply walk the boardwalk at sunset.
In winter the bay freezes for ice fishing and the Newport Winter Carnival.
Downtown & the border
Newport’s compact downtown and the curious border village of Derby Line are worth a wander.
The boardwalk & marina — lakeside strolling and boat rentals.
Derby Line — the Haskell Free Library literally straddles the US–Canada line.
Prouty Beach — a town park with swimming, camping and lake views.
Where to eat
Newport’s waterfront and Main Street anchor the county’s dining.
Lakeside restaurants — dining along the Memphremagog boardwalk.
Local cafes & bakeries — Kingdom coffee and pastries downtown.
Nearby Hill Farmstead — a 25-minute drive to the world-famous brewery.
Good to know
How big is Lake Memphremagog?+
About 31 miles long, crossing the border into Quebec — roughly three-quarters of it lies in Canada.
Can you cross to Canada from Newport?+
Yes — the Derby Line border crossing is minutes away, and the Haskell Free Library famously sits on the border itself.
What is there to do in winter?+
Ice fishing, the Newport Winter Carnival, and quick access to skiing at nearby Jay Peak.