Newport Colonial Walk

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Due to Newport's extensive and well-preserved assortment of intact colonial 18th century buildings the 250-acre Newport Historic District has been designated a National Historic Landmark. Walk in the footsteps of some of America's earliest colonists and hear the story of how this long-neglected area became a model for historic preservation with a knowledgeable local guide.

Your 90-minute tour follows a moderate pace so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and don't forget to bring your camera-you'll want to capture photos of these carefully preserved structures. As you walk along the well-kept streets you'll learn about the early restoration efforts led by local homeowners in the 1950s and 1960s, as well as the preservation work done by Doris Duke, the tobacco heiress who personally financed much of the restoration. Due to their dedication, over 200 homes and public buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries are still standing in colonial Newport, many on their original locations.

One of the first establishments you'll see is the 245-year-old Brick Market considered one of Newport's architectural treasures. Originally an open-air market, today it's the home of the Museum of Newport History. The Old Colony House boasts a political past. Built between 1736 and 1739, it's not only the fourth-oldest statehouse in the United States but the fourth oldest statehouse still standing in the U.S. Over on Marlborough Street stands White Horse Tavern. Dating back to 1652, it's renowned as the oldest drinking establishment in the U.S. Nearby is the Quaker Meeting House. Built by Quakers in 1699, the simple, two-story structure is the oldest house of worship in the state.
From here you'll walk over to the Touro Synagogue-the oldest acting synagogue in the country. Looking at this simple building you may not guess that it was a cornerstone to one of America's most basic fundamental rights.
By tour's end you'll return to the modern era with a stroll along the square where Hollywood producer-director Stephen Spielberg filmed "Amistad" in 1997.

Special Notes:

This tour covers approximately one and a half miles over uneven ground and travels at a leisurely pace. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Child Price:

12 & under reduced