Grand Mansions & Ocean Scenic Drive

Description

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

Board your comfortable transportation and begin a scenic drive through Newport's historic district. Newport was once an important trade center and enjoyed prominence in American history during colonial times. The historical buildings you will see are marvelous examples of 18th-century architecture. Your narrated drive includes such highlights as Washington Square, which contains several prominent historic landmarks, and the Tennis Hall of Fame, celebrating Newport's distinction as the cradle of tennis in America. You'll pass the Trinity Church with its magnificent Georgian design and Redwood Library, the oldest lending library in America.

The highlight of your day is a walk through one of the area's sumptuous summer cottages. Depending on local conditions, you will tour either The Elms or Rosecliff. Both are fine examples of Newport's Gilded Age. Take a step back in time at The Elms, one of Newport's premier palatial summer cottages. This elegant French-style château, sitting on 10 acres, was built in 1901 as the summer residence of Philadelphia coal magnate Edward J. Berwind. The Berwind family engaged famed Philadelphia architect Horace Trumbauer to design a house modeled after the mid-18th century French chateau d'Asnieres (c.1750) just outside Paris. The estate grounds include the elegantly restored French Classical Garden. The home contains every technological marvel of the time and was one of the first Newport houses to be fully electrified. The vast collection of Renaissance ceramics, 18th century French and Venetian paintings, and Oriental jades are a sight to behold.

Alternately experience the splendor and grandeur of Rosecliff, commissioned by Nevada silver heiress Theresa Fair Oelrichs in 1899. Architecturally designed after the garden hide-away of French kings at Versailles, it was completed in 1902, at a reported cost of $2.5 million. The home was famous for its fabulous parties and entertainment, including a fairy tale fete and a party featuring famed magician Harry Houdini. The Rosecliff has magnificent grounds and gardens and several films have been shot on the property, including "The Great Gatsby."

At the completion of your tour of one of these fine estates, the transportation will return you to the pier.

Special Notes:

Due to the popularity of the Newport mansions, anticipate a wait of up to 30 minutes for your tour. No flash photography,selfie sticks or tripods are allowed inside any mansion. Tour sequence may vary.

Mansion tours are self guided. An audio tour is available via your smart phone and a guide will assist you in downloading. Bring your own headphones.

Child Price:

12 & under reduced