Introduction

In the mid-19th century, wealthy Americans, anxious to avoid the heat of the cities, began to come to Newport to enjoy some time by the seaside. As these visits became a regular part of their year, they began to build “cottages” where they could spend their time in Newport. Over time, these cottages evolved into mansions designed by the foremost architects of the day as well as decorated and furnished in the most lavish style. While they were only occupied for a few weeks each year, the elite of American society built them so as to display their wealth and prominence.
A substantial number of the Newport mansions have been preserved and are open to the public. They attract thousands of visitors each year not only because of their impressive architecture and the artistic quality of their contents but because they offer a glimpse into an extraordinary way of life that evaporated during the 20th century.
Cruise ships calling in Newport invariably offer one or more shore excursions to the mansions. Several local companies also offer tours.
However, passengers can visit the mansions independently. The Yellow Line (#67) of the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority goes from the Newport Visitor Center to Bellevue Avenue where most of the mansions are clustered. In addition, if you are a strong walker and the weather is nice, it is not difficult to walk from the tender pier to Bellevue Avenue.
Once you are there, The Preservation Society of Newport County, which operates most of the mansions that are open to the public, offers a variety of tours of its properties. These include self-guided audio tours of some of the most popular mansions as well as specialized tours such as a tour that looks at life at The Elms from the servant's perspective. Personal and group tours with guides can also be arranged. Admission tickets can be purchased online or at the mansions themselves. Not every mansion is open every day, so it is worthwhile to check the schedule online beforehand.
This article describes only a sampling of the Newport mansions.
A substantial number of the Newport mansions have been preserved and are open to the public. They attract thousands of visitors each year not only because of their impressive architecture and the artistic quality of their contents but because they offer a glimpse into an extraordinary way of life that evaporated during the 20th century.
Cruise ships calling in Newport invariably offer one or more shore excursions to the mansions. Several local companies also offer tours.
However, passengers can visit the mansions independently. The Yellow Line (#67) of the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority goes from the Newport Visitor Center to Bellevue Avenue where most of the mansions are clustered. In addition, if you are a strong walker and the weather is nice, it is not difficult to walk from the tender pier to Bellevue Avenue.
Once you are there, The Preservation Society of Newport County, which operates most of the mansions that are open to the public, offers a variety of tours of its properties. These include self-guided audio tours of some of the most popular mansions as well as specialized tours such as a tour that looks at life at The Elms from the servant's perspective. Personal and group tours with guides can also be arranged. Admission tickets can be purchased online or at the mansions themselves. Not every mansion is open every day, so it is worthwhile to check the schedule online beforehand.
This article describes only a sampling of the Newport mansions.
The Breakers
The Elms, The Issac Bell House and Kingscote are next
Click here to continue Click here to go to the Newport overview page |
|
|
|
Cruise destination - - Newport, Rhode Island - Attractions and Places of Interest - - Mansions - - page one