The Vanderbilts' Newport
-
Port
Newport, Rhode Island, US
-
Activity Level
Moderate
-
Excursion Type
All
-
Wheelchair Accessible
No
-
Starting At
$139.95
-
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duration
Approximately 3¼ Hours
-
Meals Included
Meals not included
Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt (1794-1877) established the famous family's fortune in steamships and later in the New York Central Railroad. As the Industrial Revolution reached its zenith in the late 19th century, the Vanderbilts became the wealthiest family in America and chose Newport as their summer playground. Learn about the family empire and visit two of the grandest villas ever built in the United States.
Completed in 1892, Marble House was modeled after the Petit Trianon at Versailles and took nearly four years to build at a total cost exceeding $11 million. Enjoy the stories of the elaborate parties of the Gilded Age as you tour the public rooms and grounds of Marble House.
You'll also visit the grandest of Newport's "summer cottages" -- The Breakers -- which was inspired by the 16th-century palaces of Genoa and Turin. Completed in 1895, the mansion is situated on a 13-acre estate with a spectacular view of the rugged Atlantic coastline.
Notes:
Due to their popularity, there may be a short wait to enter the Newport mansions. Interior photography is permitted; however, use of selfie sticks, and tripods is not allowed. Mansion tours are self-guided. Participants must bring their own smart device with earbuds and download the Newport Mansions App. You are encouraged to download the app prior to arrival at the mansions, or your guide can assist you in downloading it. The self-guided audio tour via an app is available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Mandarin. Additional house information, floor plans, historical photos and other information are also available on the app. Printed house narratives are available at the front door of each mansion.