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5 (21)

Location Icon Newport

Newport Trolley Tour: Mansions, History & Ocean Views

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Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo The Newport Open Air Trolley Tour (Ages 5+ only) shows off the best of Newport, Rhode Island. It is the only open-air trolley tour that shows you amazing views of Ocean Drive, the big Gilded Age houses on Bellevue Avenue, and the Cliff Walk.

This tour tells you about over 150 interesting things in Newport. You'll learn about the Gilded Age, when rich families built fancy homes here. You'll also hear about the city's history from colonial times and its naval history. The tour also talks about places to shop, eat, take boat tours, see lighthouses, and watch sunsets. It even points out where movies and TV shows like Hocus Pocus 2 and The Gilded Age were filmed.

A guide shares tips on how to get around Newport and where to park for free. This narrated tour drives past places like the Newport Transit Center (Platform #7-9), Fort Adams State Park, Brenton Point State Park, Ocean Drive Historic District, Newport Cliff Walk, The Marble House, Rosecliff Mansion, The Breakers Newport, The Elms Newport, International Tennis Hall of Fame, and Downtown Newport & Bowen's Wharf. The tour includes a narrated tour. Gratuity is not included. Quotes Logo

Highlights

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See Newport's Famous Mansions: Get a close-up look at the Gilded Age mansions along Bellevue Avenue.

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Enjoy Open-Air Views: Ride in an open-air trolley for the best views of Ocean Drive and the Cliff Walk.

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Learn Newport's History: Hear stories about Newport's Gilded Age, colonial past, and naval history.

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Discover Movie Locations: See where movies like Hocus Pocus 2 and The Great Gatsby were filmed.

Sentiment Analysis

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Customers generally loved the tour of Newport. They learned a lot and enjoyed the views. Some thought the tour was long. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers enjoyed learning about the history of Newport.

    Positive Highlight Icon Visitors loved the open-air views of the mansions and ocean.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many reviewers appreciated the guide's knowledge.

    Positive Highlight Icon Customers found the tour to be a relaxing way to see Newport.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some visitors found the tour to be too long.

    Negative Highlight Icon A few customers wished for more stops.

The Journey

1

Newport Transit Center (Platform #7-9)

Begin your Newport adventure at the Newport Transit Center. Hop aboard the white open-air trolley at Platform #7-9 to commence your historical journey. This convenient starting point offers easy access to Newport's iconic landmarks, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience from the very beginning.

2

Fort Adams State Park

Explore Fort Adams State Park, a historic 1799 landmark and the vibrant home of the annual Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals. Discover the Eisenhower House, President Eisenhower's summer retreat, and take a tour inside the fort via the Welcome Center. Enjoy stunning sunsets over Narragansett Bay from the Bennington Overlook, explore water taxi stops, and utilize the free public parking available within the park.

3

Brenton Point State Park

Visit Brenton Point State Park, once the estate of RI's 2nd governor, William Brenton. This free public park offers pristine, panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and spectacular sunsets throughout the year. With its scenic beauty and historical ties, Brenton Point is a must-see destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

4

Ocean Drive Historic District

Immerse yourself in the opulence of Newport's Gilded Age as you traverse the Ocean Drive Historic District. Marvel at the majestic mansions lining the Atlantic, including Mavis and Jay Leno's Seafair, and recognize filming locations from HBO's "The Gilded Age," such as Indian Spring Castle, The Ledges, and Crossways mansions. Experience the grandeur and elegance of Newport's most prestigious addresses.

5

Newport Cliff Walk

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Newport Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile path showcasing Gilded Age mansions on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. Your guide will provide essential tips for accessing the Cliff Walk and locating free parking, ensuring an enjoyable exploration of this iconic landmark. Capture stunning views and immerse yourself in Newport's architectural and natural wonders.

6

The Marble House

Stop at The Marble House, the second of the three Vanderbilt mansions in Newport. This stunning palace, built in 1892, played a pivotal role in the women's suffrage movement. Explore its opulent interiors and the Chinese Tea House (pagoda) on the Cliff Walk, where Alva Vanderbilt hosted crucial fundraisers. Movie buffs will recognize it as the setting for the Asian wedding in "27 Dresses." Free parking is available for visitors across the street at 585 Bellevue Ave.

7

Rosecliff Mansion

Visit Rosecliff Mansion, Tessie Fair-Oelrichs' 1902 "summer cottage," famous for its role in the film "The Great Gatsby" (starring Robert Redford and Mia Farrow). Admire its stunning architecture and elegant interiors. Tours are available seasonally, offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Gilded Age elite.

8

The Breakers Newport

Arrive at The Breakers, the grandest of the Vanderbilt mansions and Rhode Island's most visited tourist attraction. This 1895 "summer cottage" overlooks the Atlantic Ocean from its prime location on the Newport Cliff Walk. Experience the unparalleled opulence and architectural splendor of this iconic landmark.

9

The Elms Newport

Pass by The Elms, the Gilded Age mansion of Edward and Sarah Berwind, located along Bellevue Avenue. Learn about the available tours that offer insights into the mansion's history, architecture, and the lives of its former residents.

10

International Tennis Hall of Fame

See the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the site of the 1881 Newport Casino, once a shopping district for Gilded Age millionaires. Discover the history of tennis and explore the free and paid tours available inside this prestigious institution.

11

Downtown Newport & Bowen's Wharf

Conclude your tour in Downtown Newport's vibrant waterfront district, anchored by Bowen's Wharf. Explore the array of shopping, dining, boating excursions, and other attractions along America's Cup Avenue. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and enjoy the scenic beauty of Newport's waterfront.

Know Before You Go

This narrated trolley tour is a great way to see Newport's highlights. Gratuity for the guide is not included in the price. The tour starts and ends at the Newport Transit Center.

Hot Tip

Bring a camera to capture the beautiful views of the mansions and the ocean. Also, wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather!

From $27 Price

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