A New England sailing capital famous for Gilded Age mansions built as summer cottages for America’s wealthiest families.
Related: Newport, Rhode Island Travel Guide: Gilded Age Mansions, the Cliff Walk and Best Things to Do
Why Visit Newport, Rhode Island
Newport’s Cliff Walk passes a string of extravagant Gilded Age mansions built as summer cottages for families like the Vanderbilts, a scale of Gilded Age wealth display rarely seen anywhere else in the country. The city’s deep sailing history, having hosted the America’s Cup for decades, gives it a genuine maritime pedigree alongside the mansion tours.
Top-Rated Newport, Rhode Island Tours & Experiences
Top Experiences
- The Breakers: The grandest of Newport’s Gilded Age mansions, built for the Vanderbilt family in the style of an Italian Renaissance palazzo.
- Cliff Walk: A scenic public trail along the coastal bluffs, passing behind the backyards of Newport’s historic mansions.
- Newport Harbor sailing: A historic sailing hub that hosted the America’s Cup for decades, still active with sailing charters and regattas.
- Marble House: Another opulent Vanderbilt family mansion, notable for its extensive use of marble and gilded interiors.
Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Newport, Rhode Island.
Scenic Tour of Newport, RI By Helicopter - 3 person Mansion Tour
Practical Tips
- Combine two or three mansion tours in one day using a multi-mansion ticket to save money.
- The Cliff Walk is free and offers views of the mansions without needing to pay for tours.
- Newport gets very crowded in summer, a shoulder season visit offers a quieter experience with the same scenery.
FAQ
What is the Cliff Walk?
A scenic public trail along Newport’s coastal bluffs, passing behind the grounds of the city’s historic Gilded Age mansions.
What is The Breakers?
The grandest of Newport’s Gilded Age mansions, built for the Vanderbilt family in the style of an Italian Renaissance palazzo.
Is Newport known for sailing?
Yes, it has a deep maritime history and hosted the America’s Cup for decades, remaining an active sailing hub today.
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