Newport Cliff Walk: Self-Guided Audio Tour
0
Overview
Explore Newport Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour and step into a world of stunning ocean views and grand mansions. This self-guided audio tour takes you along Newport's famous Cliff Walk, revealing stories of wealth, ambition, and secrets from America’s Gilded Age.
Discover how tycoons and socialites competed through architecture, and learn about the lives of those who lived and worked in these incredible estates. From behind-the-scenes stories to forgotten voices, this tour uncovers a dazzling and deeply human world. As you walk, enjoy breathtaking views and listen to engaging stories based on historical research and local insights. You'll see Newport like never before, whether you're a history buff, architecture lover, or just curious. The tour includes flexible usage with unlimited access, an audio guide, and an app with the tour download. Remember to bring your own smartphone! Key stops include The Breakers, Marble House, Rosecliff, and other landmarks like Chateau-sur-Mer, Chepstow, Chinese Tea House, Isaac Bell House, Kingscote, Ochre Court, Rough Point, Salve Regina University, Belcourt, The Elms, Sheep Point, Land's End & Bailey's Beach, Miramar, and Bellevue Avenue. Also, the tour passes by The Preservation Society of Newport County. Expect a deep dive into Newport's history and culture as you explore these iconic locations at your own pace.




Highlights
Discover Gilded Age Secrets: Uncover hidden stories of Newport's wealthiest families and their magnificent mansions.
Breathtaking Ocean Views: Enjoy stunning panoramic vistas along Newport's iconic Cliff Walk.
Self-Paced Exploration: Explore at your own speed with a flexible, self-guided audio tour.
Rich Historical Narration: Listen to expertly narrated stories grounded in historical research and local insight.
Sentiment Analysis
Overall, customers found the self-guided audio tour of Newport's Cliff Walk to be an engaging and informative experience, with the stunning scenery and historical content being major highlights. Technical issues with the app were a minor concern for some.

Customers enjoyed the historical information provided during the tour.
The flexibility of the self-guided format was appreciated.
Many found the tour engaging and well-narrated.
The beautiful views along the Cliff Walk were a highlight for many visitors.
Some users experienced technical difficulties with the app download.
A few reviewers wished for more specific directions along the route.
The Journey
Belcourt
Step into the captivating world of Belcourt, a Newport mansion that defies convention. Conceived as a medieval-style fortress by Oliver Hazard Perry Belmont, this bold estate is a testament to Gothic romance and eccentric ambition. Wander through its dramatically designed halls, each echoing with tales of whimsy, personal vision, and the rebellious spirit of a Gilded Age heir.
Chateau-sur-Mer
Discover Chateau-sur-Mer, one of Newport's first grand summer cottages, embodying pre-Gilded Age opulence. Immerse yourself in its Victorian interiors and expansive grounds, and witness the transformation of Newport from a merchant port to a playground for millionaires. This landmark offers a glimpse into the dawn of Newport's golden era.
Chepstow
Experience a more intimate side of Newport at Chepstow, where history feels personal and refined. Preserved with original furnishings and family heirlooms from generations of New York elite, this quieter gem provides a lived-in atmosphere. Explore the home's carefully curated interiors and get a close look at the lives of those who shaped Newport's social scene.
Chinese Tea House
Delight in the whimsical allure of the Chinese Tea House, a pavilion of East-meets-West luxury perched dramatically on the cliffs near Marble House. This architectural gem embodies the theatrical flair of Newport's social scene, offering striking views and a glimpse into the playful extravagance of the Gilded Age.
Isaac Bell House
Admire the Isaac Bell House, a masterpiece of Shingle Style architecture that blends modern innovation with artistic restraint. Its clean lines and natural materials reveal a different facet of Newport, where design, not just wealth, shaped the future. Explore the house's groundbreaking architecture and discover a unique expression of American style.
Kingscote
Explore Kingscote, one of Newport's earliest summer cottages, blending Gothic Revival charm with Gilded Age ambition. Its unique architecture and exotic interiors reflect the tastes of a rising American elite eager to impress. Wander through its rooms and grounds, and discover the origins of Newport's transformation into a summer haven for the wealthy.
Marble House
Be dazzled by Marble House, a temple to wealth built by Alva Vanderbilt. Marvel at the splendor of over 500,000 cubic feet of imported marble and Versailles-worthy interiors. More than just a mansion, it's a bold statement of power, taste, and defiance, reflecting the ambition and vision of one of Newport's most influential figures.
Ochre Court
Evoking the drama of a French château perched above the sea, Ochre Court is a grand and romantic landmark. Once a summer palace, it now anchors Salve Regina University, proving that old-world glamour can still serve a modern purpose. Visit this architectural gem and experience its timeless beauty and enduring legacy.
Rosecliff
Experience Newport at its most theatrical at Rosecliff, inspired by the Grand Trianon at Versailles. Designed for lavish parties and glittering society events, it's a place where imagination and extravagance still echo off marble floors. Imagine the elaborate celebrations of the Gilded Age as you stroll through its opulent spaces.
Rough Point
Step into the oceanfront estate of heiress Doris Duke at Rough Point, where European treasures blend with a surprisingly lived-in warmth. With its art-filled rooms and quirky personal touches, it offers an intimate view into the life of one of America’s most enigmatic millionaires. Explore the house and gardens, and discover the unique spirit of its remarkable owner.
Salve Regina University
Stroll through Salve Regina University's campus, a stunning fusion of academia and architectural heritage set among Newport's most iconic mansions. Ivy-covered halls and ocean breezes create a one-of-a-kind backdrop for higher learning. Experience the unique atmosphere where education and history intertwine.
The Breakers
Witness the unparalleled luxury of The Breakers, the crown jewel of Newport’s Gilded Age mansions, built by the Vanderbilts to dazzle. With its Italian palazzo design and commanding ocean views, it’s a testament to extravagance on a scale few could ever imagine. Tour its opulent rooms and expansive grounds, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of a bygone era.
The Elms
Experience elegance with an edge at The Elms, modeled after a French château. Its formal gardens, lavish interiors, and cutting-edge technology of the time reveal a world of wealth, ambition, and meticulous design. Explore its meticulously crafted spaces and discover the innovative spirit that defined the Gilded Age.
Sheep Point
Find a moment of pastoral calm at Sheep Point, a quieter stretch of coastline between the mansions and the sea. Offering sweeping views and a touch of tranquility, this scenic pause along Newport’s dramatic shoreline was once used for grazing. Enjoy the peaceful beauty of this coastal escape.
Land's End & Bailey's Beach
Discover the literary history and high-society lore of Land's End and Bailey's Beach. At the southern tip of the Cliff Walk, Land’s End once hosted novelist Edith Wharton, while exclusive Bailey’s Beach remains a summer retreat for Newport’s elite. Experience the windswept beauty and timeless allure of this iconic stretch of coastline.
Miramar
Experience the understated elegance of Miramar, a French classical estate that feels more private than palatial, with its sprawling lawn cascading to the sea. This stunning reminder that Newport’s most powerful families often preferred quiet grandeur to showy excess offers a glimpse into a world of refined taste and discreet wealth.
Bellevue Avenue
Journey through Newport’s historic showcase of wealth, architecture, and ambition on Bellevue Avenue, known as The Avenue of the Mansions. Lined with palatial estates and grand entrances, it's a journey through America’s most opulent era. Drive or stroll along this iconic avenue and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Gilded Age.
The Preservation Society of Newport County
Support the stewards of Newport’s historic legacy, The Preservation Society of Newport County, who have saved, restored, and opened to the public many of the city’s most iconic estates. Their work ensures that the Gilded Age and the stories behind it live on. Visit their properties and contribute to the preservation of Newport's rich heritage.
Know Before You Go
This self-guided audio tour includes unlimited access to the tour via a downloadable app and audio guide. A smartphone is not included, so please bring your own device to access the tour. There is no designated pickup or drop-off location, as this is a self-guided experience. The tour begins at Memorial Boulevard & Easton's Beach.
Hot Tip
Some customers recommend bringing headphones to better enjoy the audio tour without distractions from surrounding noises. Also, wearing comfortable shoes is a must, as the Cliff Walk involves some uneven terrain.