Destination Tennis, Newport: Rail Explorers

WATCH: Monica Puig tries out Rail Explorers ⤴️

Do you know why trains can operate with the engine in the front and not in the middle? Because steel wheels on steel rails don't create very much rolling friction—it's more of a gliding sensation. The same principle makes a Rail Explorers ride a fun, easy adventure along the quiet coast in Newport.

A railbike is a recumbent cycle designed to travel along railroad tracks, similar to hand-pumped carts of old. The modern railbike is pedal-powered with an engine assist. Riders kick back and cruise along the iron tracks while drinking in sea views and serenity.

Rail Adventures offers group tours along the Aquidneck Island coast north of Newport, harking back to the Gilded Age when East Coasters journeyed to the area on the Old Colony Railroad. Rhode Island is one of only six destinations in the country where Rail Explorers operates, and it’s an unforgettable way to see the gorgeous views of Narragansett Bay and parts of the island only seen from railroad tracks.

Tours cover six miles in two hours or less on a choice of routes. The Northern circuit doubles as a history lesson, as the guide points out a Revolutionary War battle site and the railroad’s beginnings.

The Southern circuit is the more social option. Some tours stop at a picnic spot with fire pits and Adirondack chairs to enjoy sunset, or feast on a gourmet brunch.

More Destination Tennis: Newport

👉 International Tennis Hall of Fame
👉 What to see and where to stay in this coastal charmer
👉 Rail Explorers
👉 Sail Newport and The Sailing Museum

The pack eventually spreads out and maintains about 500 feet between bikes, with a guide at the front and rear and others in the middle.

"We call it guided solitude," says owner Mary Joy Lu.

Up to four people can share a bike. Two bikes can be linked together to form a caravan and combine pedal power. There are no limitations on age, weight, or height.

Destination Tennis host Monica Puig has traveled the world, but never rode a railbike until she visited Newport.

“It’s really cool because you get beautiful views of the ocean and trees,” she says. “It’s different in terms of excursions and things to do.”

Rail Explorers

• 1 Alexander Rd., Portsmouth, RI
• 877-833-8588
• $45 per person and up
• Instagram: @railexplorerusa
• Facebook: /RailExplorersUSA
• YouTube: /@railexplorers
• TikTok: @railexplorerusa

One Thing You Need to Know: The company calls its quads the Rolls-Royce of railbikes. The custom design uses an advanced propulsion system for a safe, effortless ride, even on any inclines.