See Newport in bloom

Newport, R.I. — Most visitors to Newport want to see the mansions and stroll along the Cliffwalk, a 3.5-mile trail with views of the sea and the spectacular homes. But if you’re in Rhode Island this June, add another must to your itinerary — catching the area in bloom.

Newport’s 21st annual “Secret Garden Tour,” June 17-19, features a dozen private gardens in the Point neighborhood, known for its Colonial and Victorian-era homes. Tickets are $25; call (401) 847-0514 or go to www.secretgardentour.com.

The 10th annual Newport Flower Show at the Rosecliff mansion, June 24-26, will feature horticulture displays, floral design classes and workshops.

Other notable attractions for garden-lovers include the recently restored sunken garden of The Elms mansion, designed in the French classical style; the landscaping at the Harold Brown Villa (open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays), which was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and has a milelong path bordered by century-old trees and a sunken garden; and the Green Animals Topiary Garden. The topiary garden is in Portsmouth, a 25-minute drive from the mansions.

For help in planning a trip to Newport or other Rhode Island destinations, go to www.visitrhodeisland.com.

Indianapolis Speedway offers tours for fans

Indianapolis — Head to Indianapolis for three of racing’s biggest events — the Indy 500 on May 29, the Formula One U.S. Grand Prix on June 19 and the Brickyard 400 on Aug. 7.

Behind-the-scenes grounds tours are offered periodically at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, including June 24-26, July 2-4, July 14-17, July 28-31 and Aug. 13-14. Or take the basic track tour offered by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum, where you’ll also find 75 racing cars on display.

For information about visiting Indianapolis, go to a href=”http://www.indy.org” target=”_blank”>www.indy.org or call (800) 323-4639.