Operating Schedule
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Visitor Info
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Tours, Groups, Exclusive Experiences
Explore our various tour types to find what’s best for you and your group.
History of Newport and the Mansions
Founded in 1639, Newport was an important port city, a center of the slave trade, a fashionable resort and the summer home of the Gilded Age rich.
What was the Gilded Age?
The Gilded Age was a period of unprecedented change in America. Fortunes were spent on luxuries such as the lavish "summer cottages" of Newport.
Deep Dive into the Show
Learn about the people, places and events depicted in Julian Fellowes' popular historical drama series.
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We invite you to become a member of the Preservation Society today. In addition to joining an active community of preservation supporters and advocates, members are offered unlimited access to all open houses.
About Us
Our mission is to protect, preserve, and present the best of Newport County's architectural heritage. Learn more about us and our work.
Wind Farm Federal Appeal: FAQs
The Preservation Society of Newport County is appealing federal agency approval of two massive wind farms off the Rhode Island coast.
Personal Photography on the Grounds
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Commercial Filming or Photography
Museum Rentals & Weddings
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Bid high and bid often! Our Spring 2024 online auction offers amazing opportunities for an experience you'll treasure forever. All bids support the Preservation Society's mission to protect, preserve, and present an exceptional collection of house museums and landscapes in one of the most historically intact cities in America. Please see the Auction Rules before submitting your bids.
Celebrate Mother's Day in style with an exclusive, private brunch on the Terrace of Rosecliff. Invite up to 10 guests for a unique brunch experience on our covered Terrace with stunning ocean views. Treat any extraordinary woman in your life to a brunch she will never forget, filled with a variety of brunch favorites and refreshing sparkling beverages, surrounded by all the elegance and ambiance of Rosecliff. Includes: 10 guests for seated brunch on the Terrace, option for an audio tour of Rosecliff and second-floor exhibition space. Use on Mother’s Day in 2024 or 2025 or any other available morning when Rosecliff is open and Terrace is available. 60-day advance notice is requested if interested in a date other than Mother’s Day 2024. A 3-hour experience with the audio tour and exhibition. CURRENT HIGH BID: $5,000 Bid Increments: $500 Fair Market Value: $6,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Experience the allure of Julian Fellowes’ “The Gilded Age” firsthand with an exclusive behind-the-scenes visit for 2 people to the set of the hit HBO series. Scheduled to coincide with the filming of Season 3, this unique opportunity will take place in Newport during the Fall of 2024. Step into a world of opulence and intrigue as you explore the set at a stunning Gilded Age estate, witnessing television production in action. Accompanied by a member of the HBO production staff, you'll immerse yourself in the behind-the-scenes magic and may even meet VIPs associated with the production. As a cherished memento of your visit, you'll receive a “Gilded Age” poster signed by the actors on the day of your experience. Includes: Visit for 2 to “The Gilded Age” set. A 2-hour experience. Please note that dates for the visit will be communicated to the high bidder once confirmed by the production schedule provided by HBO. This item is exclusively available for the planned production visit to Newport in Fall 2024 and cannot be transferred to another date or location. CURRENT HIGH BID: $18,000 Bid Increments: $500 Fair Market Value: Priceless Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Treat your child/ren and their friends to a magical tea party inside the Children’s Cottage on the grounds of The Breakers. The Children’s Cottage was built in 1886 when Cornelius Vanderbilt II and his wife, Alice, had six children who needed space for play. For generations of Vanderbilt descendants, it was a space for learning, playing and hosting friends, including the occasional tea party. Up to 10 children will delight in a fun 1-hour tea party experience with story time, followed by time to explore the grounds and take in the beautiful ocean views. Refreshments will include lemonade, punch, child-friendly tea sandwiches and assorted mini-desserts. Includes: 10 children for “tea” service, and story time inside the cottage. The event can be arranged for any open date through May 2025. 30-day advance notice is requested to determine available dates/times. A minimum of 2 adult chaperones are required to remain with the children throughout the event. A 2-hour experience. CURRENT HIGH BID: $1,200 Bid Increments: $100 Fair Market Value: $3,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Join us for the grand opening of the 2024 Flower Show with an exclusive package including 4 tickets to the Opening Night Party at Rosecliff. Your experience is enhanced with 2 car passes for reserved parking onsite on Friday, June 21, 2024, from 6 pm to 8 pm. Don't miss this opportunity to be among the first to explore the breathtaking displays and enchanting atmosphere of the Flower Show while you enjoy chatting with friends over drinks and hors d’oeuvres and shopping in the Marketplace at the iconic Rosecliff. What a terrific way to kick off the summer season in Newport! Includes: 4 Tickets to the 2024 Newport Flower Show Opening Night Party, Friday, June 21, 2024. Two parking passes for onsite self-parking that evening. A 2-hour experience. CURRENT HIGH BID: $1,500 Bid Increments: $100 Fair Market Value: $1,500 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply want a unique and enriching experience, this personal tour promises to inspire as you are immersed in the charm of Newport's "smaller" cottages for up to 6 guests. Learn about the rich history, architecture and exquisite decor of two selected homes, each offering its own unique story and ambiance. Choose from Kingscote, Chepstow, Isaac Bell House or Hunter House, and take a journey through time as you explore their beautifully preserved interiors and learn about the families who once called them home. Conclude your morning with a delightful light lunch at the picturesque Chinese Tea House on the grounds of Marble House. Includes: 6 guests for 2 personal guided tours and lunch in our café at The Chinese Tea House. Your tour and lunch can be arranged for any open date through May 2025. 60-day advance notice is requested to determine available dates/times. Please note there will be limitations in the “off-season” for lunch at The Chinese Tea House. A 3-hour experience. CURRENT HIGH BID: $1,700 Bid Increments: $100 Fair Market Value: $2,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
After the 2024 Opening Night Party, experience an unforgettable dinner seated at a beautifully adorned table of white that will recreate a mini version of Tessie Oelrichs’ 1904 “Bal Blanc” at her home, Rosecliff. Up to 10 guests will be treated to a delicious 3-course seated dinner complemented by a full bar and select wines from 8 pm to 10 pm. Savor every moment of this exclusive dining experience surrounded by the timeless beauty of Rosecliff and the enchanting and fragrant florals created for the 2024 Newport Flower Show “At Home.” This item also includes 10 tickets to the 2024 Opening Night Party from 6 pm to 8 pm with hors d’oeuvres and drinks on the back lawn. Includes: 10 Newport Flower Show Opening Night Party Tickets, 10 for seated dinner with full bar, and 3-course meal on Friday, June 21, 2024. A 4-hour experience. CURRENT HIGH BID: $8,500 Starting Bid: $5,000 Bid Increments: $500. Fair Market Value: $10,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
You and your guests will be treated to a personal evening tour of The Elms and then ascend to the roof to view a scheduled fireworks display over Newport Harbor. Experience the magic of the City of Newport’s Fourth of July Fireworks from a unique and panoramic perspective including Narragansett Bay and the Newport Bridge. Bring 8 guests to enjoy wine and cheese while taking in the spectacular display. Includes: Tour and access to the roof for up to 8 guests, wine and charcuterie tray. A 2-hour experience, timing to be determined by time confirmed for City of Newport fireworks on July 4, 2024. This can be rescheduled for another date when fireworks are held in Newport Harbor in the event of inclement weather on July 4, 2024. CURRENT HIGH BID: $5,000 Bid Increments: $100 Fair Market Value: $3,500 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Plan an unforgettable evening at The Breakers Stable & Carriage House for you and your friends, enjoying a selection of bourbons and a delectable assortment of hors d’oeuvres among the historic charm and beauty of our collection of vintage coaches. Whether you are a bourbon enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and enjoyable evening with friends, this event promises a delightful experience where sophistication meets relaxation. Includes: 20 guests for a full bar with a selection of 4 bourbons for tasting, assorted passed and placed hors d’oeuvres and live background music. To be scheduled on an available date at The Breakers Stable through May 2025. Winter and weekend dates may be limited. 60-day advance notice is requested to determine available dates/times. A 2-hour experience, typically scheduled from 6 pm to 8 pm. CURRENT HIGH BID: $4,500 Bid Increments: $500 Fair Market Value: $8,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the High Victorian style at Chateau-sur-Mer with a delicious brunch experience. Your party of 10 will begin the morning with a personal tour of this magnificent estate, delving into its rich history and opulent architecture. After the tour, you'll be treated to a seated brunch in the Ballroom, where you can savor delectable dishes in an elegant setting. Alternatively, if preferred and the weather permits, brunch can be enjoyed on the surrounding porch, offering scenic views of the estate's grounds. Take a step back in time as you enjoy this brunch experience inspired by an era when meals were savored and conversations flowed freely. Includes: 10 guests for a personal tour of Chateau-sur-Mer and seated brunch in the Ballroom. Tour and brunch can be arranged for any open date through May 2025. 60-day advance notice is requested to determine available dates/times. A 3-hour experience. CURRENT HIGH BID: $7,000 Bid Increments: $200 Fair Market Value: $6,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Elevate your Newport summer experience with a personalized one-day itinerary featuring guide-led tours of our Newport Mansions, a delightful lunch in a spectacular location and an inspiring concert at the Newport Classical music festival. We have put together a dream day to be scheduled for July 2024 that includes: • Servant Life Tour at The Elms – 11 am. • Casual Lunch at The Chinese Tea House – 1 pm. • Personal Tour of Marble House – 2 pm. • Afternoon at your leisure. If you would like to visit another property on your own in the afternoon, we can provide these tickets as part of the package. Just let us know! • Attend an inspiring concert at the Newport Classical Music Festival at The Breakers – 8 pm. Available for concerts on July 6, 13 or 20, 2024. Tickets will be available on April 10, 2024; the winner should select their concert preference that week for the best chance to secure the concert of their choice. The schedule for performances will be announced on March 26, 2024. Includes: Up to 4 guests for house tours, light lunch & evening concert. A 1-day experience. CURRENT HIGH BID: $1,500 Bid Increments: $100 Fair Market Value: $2,500 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
This is an exclusive early opportunity to secure a reserved patron-level table for 10 guests at the Preservation Society’s major fundraising event, our prestigious black-tie Summer Dinner Dance. Join us at The Elms on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at 7 pm for an unforgettable evening of elegance and entertainment, set amidst the breathtaking gardens, terraces, pavilions and fountains. Mingle with friends beneath the stars and inside a beautifully adorned tent. Don your finest attire and prepare for a night of enchantment, delicious cuisine and captivating music. Includes: Premier placement at a Patron-level table for up to 10 guests for cocktails and a seated dinner in the main tent on Saturday, August 10, 2024, 7 pm to 12 am. A 5-hour experience. CURRENT HIGH BID: $16,000 Bid Increments: $500 Fair Market Value: $15,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Experience the epitome of seaside luxury at Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island. You will be pampered with a two-night stay in one of their most impressive accommodations, the two-bedroom Tower Suite, along with breakfast each morning and a memorable dining experience at Coast, a five-star restaurant where you will savor a chef-curated tasting experience overlooking the ocean. The grandeur of the Tower Suite is meticulously designed by Greenwich-based decorator Cindy Rinfret. Adorned in bright blues and gentle creams, the suite exudes a nautical charm befitting Ocean House’s seaside location. The first level features a gracious foyer, a master suite with a king-size bed, and a bathroom with a standing shower and tea-for-two tub. An adjoining guest room offers a king-size bed and a four-fixture marble bathroom. Ascend the large stairs to the second level, where you will find a stunning living area with floor-to-ceiling fir paneling, a charming slate fireplace and built-in bookshelves. The dining area boasts a custom-built banquette and access to a roof deck overlooking the ocean. Availability and Validity: Available for up to 4 guests. Valid based on availability from September 30, 2024, to May 30, 2025. This item will expire on May 30, 2025. CURRENT HIGH BID: $8,000 Bid Increments: $500 Fair Market Value: $15,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Share a beautiful experience with your friends as you immerse yourself in the art of floral design, guided by our talented Newport Mansions floral design staff. Invite up to 6 guests to create your own stunning floral arrangements to take home. You will learn the best methods to create a balanced arrangement or extend the longevity of your creations, all while enjoying a selection of wine and cheese. It is the perfect opportunity to bond with friends while exploring your passion for flowers with a “behind-the-scenes” peek at our Newport Mansions greenhouses. Includes: 6 guests, all floral supplies and assorted flowers, wine and charcuterie refreshments. A 2-hour experience. Date and time to be confirmed with greenhouse staff schedule. Can be arranged for any open date through May 2025. 60-day advance notice is requested to determine available dates/times. CURRENT HIGH BID: $3,300 Bid Increments: $100 Fair Market Value: $2,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Surround yourself with the world of HBO’s “The Gilded Age” with an exclusive after-hours personal tour of The Elms, where many of the show’s scenes were filmed. Led by an expert guide, you and up to 10 guests will delve into the history of The Elms and discover fascinating stories about the real-life residents who once called it home. You will explore rooms used in the HBO series, including Gladys Russell’s bedroom and the kitchen and pantry where household staff worked and gossiped. Gain insights into the behind-the-scenes workings of a major television production, learning what it takes to bring the opulent world of “The Gilded Age” to life on screen. As the tour concludes in the kitchen, you and your guests will be treated to light refreshments, wine and a signature Gilded Age cocktail, perfectly capping off your 2-hour immersive experience. Includes 10 guests, a Gilded Age personal tour and refreshments in the kitchen. Tour and refreshments can be arranged for any date that The Elms is available through May 2025. 60-day advance notice is requested to determine available dates/times. CURRENT HIGH BID: $1,900 Bid Increments: $100 Fair Market Value: $2,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Meet a member of the Preservation Society’s Collections Department for a private viewing of the upcoming second-floor exhibition at Rosecliff, titled "Wild Imagination: Art and Animals in the Gilded Age." The exhibition will be the first major presentation to explore Americans’ changing relationship with animals in the Gilded Age with a focus on Rhode Island history. On display will be roughly 100 treasures of animal art drawn from across the Preservation Society’s historic properties as well as other institutions. We will take you on a deep dive into the research and stories behind the exhibition and the details of the objects on display. Then enjoy contemplating all that you have learned with wine and cheese on the Terrace at Rosecliff, overlooking the ocean beyond. Includes: 10 guests; personal tour followed by wine/cheese with collections staff; Friday, August 30, 2024, through January 15, 2025, to be scheduled on an evening that is available at Rosecliff; Summer and Weekend dates may be limited. 60-day advance notice is requested to determine available dates/times. 2-hour experience, typically scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. CURRENT HIGH BID: $2,200 Bid Increments: $100 Fair Market Value: $5,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Embark on an unforgettable journey with a Tradewind Aviation experience, offering personal air travel to some of the most luxurious destinations. This gift certificate entitles you to two round-trip seats on a Tradewind scheduled service to your choice of destinations, including: • Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard from Teterboro, N.J., or White Plains, N.Y. • Newport, R.I., from White Plains • St. Barth’s from San Juan, St. Thomas, Anguilla or Antigua • Anguilla from San Juan, St. Barth’s or Antigua • Virgin Gorda, BVI, from San Juan Tradewind Aviation is renowned for providing unparalleled personal air travel experiences throughout North America and the Caribbean. Prepare to elevate your travel experience with Tradewind Aviation's exceptional service and explore the world in style and comfort. Includes: 2 round-trip seats on a scheduled service. Please note that holiday blackout dates apply, and the certificate expires on March 31, 2025. CURRENT HIGH BID: $2,200 Bid Increments: $100 Fair Market Value: $3,500 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
This event sells out within 24 hours every year! Get ahead of the crowd and submit your bid for the highly sought-after Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival Vintner Dinner. The dinner will take place on Friday, September 20, 2024, in the legendary Ballroom at Rosecliff. Guests will dine on a four-course meal and enjoy a delicious array of wines expertly paired with each dish, along with the opportunity to hear from wine experts about the selections. Includes: 4 Tickets to the 2024 Vintner Dinner, Friday, September 20, 2024, with reception, dinner & wines.. A 4-hour experience. CURRENT HIGH BID: $3,700 Bid Increments: $200 Fair Market Value: $2,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
It is never too early to start planning for your next holiday to remember! The high bidder will join us for our annual Holiday Dinner Dance at The Breakers on Saturday, December 14, 2024. This black-tie evening will begin with delicious hors d’oeuvres and cocktails amid stunning rooms filled with holiday décor and spirit. After drinks, guests will be seated for a holiday-inspired four-course dinner in the Great Hall, followed by lively dancing in the Music Room. This event is a sell-out every year! Includes: 4 guests; black-tie reception & seated 4-course dinner and dancing; 7 pm to 12 am. A 5-hour experience. CURRENT HIGH BID: $3,100 Bid Increments of $100 Fair Market Value: $2,500 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Are you intrigued by the grandeur of The Breakers? Now is your opportunity to embark on a personal journey through this iconic property, starting from the top and delving deep into its fascinating history and hidden corners. Up to 10 guests will enjoy a comprehensive tour of The Breakers that goes beyond the standard visit. Your experience begins on the third floor with exclusive access to the private spaces undergoing restoration (shown in photo). As we descend through the mansion, you will explore a variety of public and private spaces, from the opulent bedrooms and sitting rooms to the breathtaking views enjoyed by the Vanderbilt family. Every stop along the way offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of America's Gilded Age elite. Then you will venture beneath The Breakers to see the underground systems that made this magnificent house a marvel of technology for its time. Includes: 10 guests for an in-depth personal tour of The Breakers. Your tour can be arranged for any open date through May 2025. 60-day advance notice is requested to determine available dates/times. A 2-hour experience. CURRENT HIGH BID: $2,000 Bid Increments: $100 Fair Market Value: $3,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Since the Gilded Age, caviar has been esteemed as a luxury delicacy with a finite supply, evoking a sense of exclusivity among informed consumers. Now, you can host your own Gilded Age-style gathering at The Elms or in the Music Room at The Breakers and invite up to 20 guests to indulge in the extravagant spirit of this era. Sip Champagne and savor tastes of caviar as a talented musician sets the mood with melodies on the historic piano. Includes: 20 guests for a full bar with Champagne and caviar with an assortment of passed and placed hors d’oeuvres, and a solo pianist for background music. Schedule for an available date at The Breakers or The Elms through May 2025. Summer and weekend dates may be limited. 60-day advance notice is requested to determine available dates/times. A 2-hour experience, typically scheduled from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. CURRENT HIGH BID: $7,500 Bid Increments: $500 Fair Market Value: $8,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Denée Benton’s portrayal of Peggy Scott in “The Gilded Age” brings depth and nuance to this important character. Join us in celebrating this star of Julian Fellowes’ historical drama, alongside Dr. Erica Armstrong Dunbar, co-executive producer and consulting historian to the show. The Preservation Society is pleased to host a lecture at Rosecliff on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, titled “Becoming Peggy Scott: The Creation of the Character on HBO’s The Gilded Age.” Benton and Dunbar will explore the process of creating this independent and pioneering character, including the historical women who inspired her as well as the collaborative process that ensured the historical and social accuracy of her portrayal on screen. The successful bidder for this item will receive 2 reserved seats to attend this very special lecture, followed by an invitation for 2 to an intimate seated dinner in the Rosecliff Dining Room with Denée Benton and Dr. Erica Armstrong Dunbar. Includes: 2 guests; 2 reserved lecture seats, reception following lecture and invitation for 2 to private dinner. Tuesday, July 9, 2024 – 6 pm. lecture; 8 pm dinner (estimated timeline). A 4-hour experience. CURRENT HIGH BID: $3,000 Bid Increments: $200 Fair Market Value: $5,000 Email bid to: events@newportmansions.org
Explore the underground systems that made this great house a marvel of technology for its time.
This exhibition explores a largely unknown but important chapter in American history: the experience of a thriving African heritage community in Newport.
See and hear how the other half lived. This tour will highlight the stories of some of the men and women who worked to service the social whirl of Newport during the Gilded Age. *June 1-Aug. 31, 10:30 am, 2 pm & 3:30 pm. Sept. 1-Oct. 14, 10:30 & 3:30. Oct. 15-Jan. 1, 2025, 10:30 & 2:30.
Rhode Island Black Heritage Society scholars will interpret the evolution of Black Civil Rights movements in Newport from the beginnings of the 18th-century Free African Societies to the formation of Colored Women Clubs during the Gilded Age.
Fans of HBO’s "The Gilded Age" will love this guide-led tour of locations in four of the Newport Mansions where the show was filmed. Tuesdays and Fridays only, May 17 through June 28. Tickets now available.
Black Newporters in the late 19th and early 20th centuries had idiosyncratic, localized approaches to politics that differed from the conventional narrative of the time. Dr. Myra Armstead of Bard College will explain how these African Americans gave their own meaning to what collectively may be called independent politics.
Newport County residents and employees of the hospitality industry are invited to visit the Newport Mansions as our guests!
The 28th annual edition of New England’s premier flower show explores the theme "At Home," celebrating the beauty and inspiration that flowers and plants bring to the spaces in which we live. Tickets now available.
Save the dates for the 19th annual festival, featuring the Vintner Dinner, Sunday Brunch and tasty yet educational seminar experiences.
Download our tour app before your visit and bring your earbuds.
Parking is free onsite at all properties except for Hunter House and The Breakers Stable & Carriage House, where street parking is available.
Answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Explore the 11 properties under the stewardship of the Preservation Society and open as historic house museums.
Partners in Preservation
