Introduction: A fresh look at an underrated city
Ben Aitken, the Portsmouth-born author and creator behind the TikTok series Shi**y Breaks, has made a habit of turning the spotlight toward places many overlook. In his latest exploration, he visits Newport, a seaside city that often flies under the radar when people compile lists of must-visit destinations. Through a series of short, punchy videos, Aitken highlights the city’s genuine charm, local scenes, and everyday attractions that locals know and travelers rarely mention—but should.
Why Newport deserves a second look
Newport’s appeal isn’t about grandiose landmarks; it’s in its understated character. The city blends coastal beauty with a approachable, small-town vibe that’s rare in larger urban centers. Aitken emphasizes how the best experiences in Newport aren’t always found in glossy brochures but in the rhythm of daily life—the way a café buzzes on a weekend morning, the sound of waves along the river, and the warmth of conversations with residents who know the city inside out.
Coastal calm meets urban accessibility
One of Newport’s strongest selling points is its balance. The town offers easy access to the water without the crowds that often accompany other coastal destinations. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, watch kayaks slice through the harbor, or enjoy a sunset from a quiet pier. For Aitken, the coast isn’t merely scenery; it’s a canvas for spontaneous moments—impromptu performances, friendly chats with local artists, and small businesses that rely on neighborhood footfall.
Neighborhoods with character
Shi**y Breaks often spotlights districts that feel like undiscovered neighborhoods rather than built-up tourist zones. In Newport, several areas stand out for their independent spirit: vintage shops tucked between coffee roasters, murals that narrate the city’s maritime history, and bakeries that make time for lingering conversations. Aitken’s videos capture the cadence of these streets—the way a passerby shares a local tip or a shopkeeper remembers a regular customer—moments that reveal a city’s personality more vividly than any guidebook could.
Underrated attractions that shine
Newport hosts a mix of small museums, green spaces, and cultural hubs that often fly under the radar. In his clips, Aitken highlights a few favorites that illustrate the city’s underrated status in a fresh, entertaining way:
- Cozy independent cinemas that screen indie films and host late-night Q&As with local filmmakers.
- Harbor-side markets where artisans sell handcrafted goods on weekend mornings.
- Hidden garden spaces and pocket parks perfect for a quiet escape from the hustle.
- Low-key venues with live music, poetry readings, and open mic nights that showcase local talent.
Food that tells a story
Newport’s dining scene mirrors its broader vibe: approachable, flavorful, and rooted in community. In Shi**y Breaks, the focus isn’t on trend-chasing but on places where the menu reflects local farmers, fishermen, and makers. A few small, beloved eateries become case studies in how a city’s food culture can feel intimate and well-curated without shouting for attention.
What makes a city underrated? Aitken’s takeaway
Across his Newport videos, Aitken distills a simple truth: underrated cities reveal themselves to those who look beyond the obvious. In Newport, the combination of coastal ease, walkable neighborhoods, and a thriving but unpretentious cultural scene offers a compelling argument for why this city deserves more than a passing mention in travel roundups. The series’ voice—playful, observational, and respectful—invites viewers to form their own impressions, encouraging curiosity rather than certainty.
Takeaways for travelers
If you’re planning a visit inspired by Shi**y Breaks, start with the everyday. Grab a coffee at a local roastery, chat with a shop owner about the city’s history, or take a sunset stroll along the harbor. Newport rewards visitors who wander with intention and a sense of discovery, not those chasing a checklist of “must-see” highlights. Ben Aitken’s Newport episode is a reminder that underrated places often offer the richest experiences when you let the city reveal itself in small, authentic moments.
Conclusion: Stay curious about the ordinary
Newport’s appeal lies in its ordinariness made extraordinary by the people who call it home. Through Shi**y Breaks, Ben Aitken shows that the magic is not in grand monuments but in the real, everyday life of a city that many pass by. If you’re tired of overhyped destinations, Newport might just be your next underrated revelation.
