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Newport Rhode Island Mansions
The Preservations Society of Newport County has saved and runs the largest collection of mansions. In addition, there are independently managed mansions. Each of the mansions has it's own unique character. "If you've seen one, you've seen them all" is definitely not true with the Mansions. Some people visit year after year and are always seeing and learning something new.
| Preservation Society of Newport County Properties |
| The Breakers
The Breakers is the former home of the Vanderbilts. It is the largest mansion in Newport. |
| The Elms
The Elms houses a wonderful collection of statuary and art both in the mansion and the gardens. They offer 'Lunch at the Elms' where you can dine at the old carriage house. You might want to plan your visit to The Elms on a nice day in order to be able to enjoy the gardens. Be sure to wander all the way to the back of the property behind the two pavilions. Be sure to take a few moments in the basement at the end of the tour. There is a display on "Lost Newport" which documents the numerous mansions that have disappeared over time. The Elms itself was saved from the wreckers by a valiant last-ditch effort by the Preservation Society. Thanks to their efforts, all can enjoy this magnificent treasure. |
| Rosecliff
Rosecliff was the setting for the filming of The Great Gatsby. It is the only air conditioned mansion due to it's use for weddings and other events. Don't spend too much time looking for the swimming pool from the movie. That scene was shot elsewhere |
| Marble House
This is, by far, the most opulent of the mansions. The Gilding and decor of the rooms is stunning. The Marble House was offering a self guided tour with hand held players. These allow you to spend a little more time with details if you wish. The Japanese Tea House overlooking the water was under renovations in 2006 but it is worth a walk to the rear of the property to see the exterior. |
| Château Sur Mer The House by the Sea is a Gothic structure. |
| Isaac Bell House
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| Kingscote
Kingscote is located at the northern end of Bellevue Avenue. It has some beautiful woodwork. |
| Other Mansions |
| Astor's Beechwood Mansion
The Astor's Beechwood Mansion combines theatrical events with their tours. They also host murder mysteries, big band music and a Roaring Twenties speakeasy. They are open for the Christmas Season and have a Roaring 20's Speakeasy with Jazz for New Year's Eve. The Mansion is available for Weddings and other events. |
| Belcourt
Castle Belcourt Castle is the home of the Tinney Family. They have opened half of their home to visitors. The fantastic Gothic rooms are worth the trip on their own. In addition, you will find masterpieces such as the Portuguese Royal Coronation Coach and one of the best collections of Medieval arms and armor in the United States. |
Tips
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The Preservation Society owns many of the mansions. However the Belcourt Castle is independently owned.
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Bring good walking shoes. The mansions are enormous. If you really want to view the grounds in detail, you will need to allow sufficient time. Some people can see all the mansions in about two days and other people can take a week or more.
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Keep your tickets. You can use them to upgrade if you decide to see additional mansions
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Photography is not permitted inside the mansions. They request that cell phones be turned off.
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During the peak season, you might want to try to arrive as early as possible. The Breakers usually gets the most visitors. You might want to arrive there first and then visit some of the other mansions
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A walk along Cliff Walk will give you a slightly different perspective of some of the mansions.
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Most of the mansions have the original elevators in working condition. If you cannot climb stairs be sure to check with the staff.
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Parking is available at all of the 'Cottages'.
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A camera with a zoom lens or binoculars can help you see the wonderful architectural details on the exterior (Photography is usually permitted for personal use - Check with the mansion first)
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The Astor's Beechwood offers tours by actors portraying 19th Century servants and residents. That tour will give you a real feel for what life was like in the mansions.
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Many of the owners were heavily influenced by French art and culture. This becomes evident as you participate in the various tours.
| Newport Rhode Island Attractions . . . |
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Newport Rhode Island Online Hotel and Motel Reservations |
