Chateau-sur-Mer

Overview

Chateau-sur-Mer is a historic mansion located in the Bellevue Avenue Historic District of Newport, Rhode Island. It is one of the oldest and most architecturally significant houses in the area, showcasing a blend of French and American architectural styles.

Chateau-sur-Mer is considered one of the first grand cottages built in Newport and played a significant role in the city's development as a summer resort for the wealthy.

Historic House Architectural Landmark

Location

Address

474 Bellevue Ave., Newport, Rhode Island

Neighborhood: Bellevue Avenue Historic District

Coordinates

41.482600, -71.313600

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$20

Children

$12 (ages 6-17)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and pleasant weather

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• Gardens in bloom
• Easter events

summer

warm to hot

• Extended summer hours
• Outdoor concerts

autumn

cool to mild

• Fall foliage
• Halloween events

winter

cold

• Holiday decorations
• Winter markets

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring valid ID
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID Printed or digital tickets Comfortable shoes

seasonal

Warm jacket (spring/fall) Umbrella (spring/fall) Hat and sunglasses (summer)

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Food and drinks Pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate, some walking and stairs involved

• Uneven surfaces in some areas
• Stairs in the mansion

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Debit cards, Cash (limited)

Currency

US Dollars (USD)

Typical Costs

entry $20

parking $5

food $10-20

souvenirs $15-30

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, Walking or hiking shoes recommended, Inappropriate or revealing clothing, High heels

Booking Tips

• At least 1-2 weeks in advance, especially during peak season
• Official website or authorized ticket vendors
• 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Available through official website

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

Notes

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Notes

Digital Services

Mobile App

Newport Mansions App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Mansion maps, Audio tours, Ticket booking, Event information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Gardens

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: T.F. Green Airport (PVD)

Distance: 35 km

Travel Time: 35-45 minutes

taxi

$60-70 35-45 min

public_transport

$5-10 1 hour

From City Center

Distance: 1.5 km

walking

20-25 min

bicycle

10-15 min

taxi

$10-15 5-10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Chateau-sur-Mer is a symbol of Newport's rich history and architectural heritage. It offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Gilded Age.

Historical Significance: The mansion was built by the wealthy Newport merchant William Wetmore and was one of the first grand cottages constructed in Newport. It played a significant role in establishing Newport as a premier summer resort for America's elite.

Insider Tips

Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience
Check the official website for special events and exhibitions
Combine your visit with other nearby historic sites for a full day of exploration

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Cliff Walk for stunning ocean views
• Stop by the Newport Coffee Company for a local brew
• Ask about guided tours for a more in-depth experience

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour (late afternoon)

Tips: Capture the grand facade with the gardens in the background

Result: Stunning architectural shot

#ChateausurMer #NewportMansions #HistoricHomes

Gardens

Best Time: Spring and summer afternoons

Tips: Use the flower beds and pathways to frame your shots

Result: Beautiful garden photography

#NewportGardens #SpringBlooms #GardenPhotography

Staircase

Best Time: Morning

Tips: Shoot from the bottom of the staircase looking up

Result: Grand and impressive architectural shot

#HistoricArchitecture #InteriorDesign #StaircasePhotography

Photography Rules

allowed areas Exterior of the mansion, Gardens, Designated areas inside the mansion

prohibited areas Private areas, Restricted sections, Areas under maintenance

flash photography Not allowed inside the mansion

commercial photography Requires special permission and a permit

drone policy Not allowed without prior authorization

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas with permission

selfie sticks Allowed in designated areas

Nearby Attractions

The Breakers

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Historic House Museum

Marble House

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Historic House Museum

Cliff Walk

Distance: 800m

Walking: 12 min

Type: Scenic Walkway

Newport Art Museum

Distance: 1.2 km

Walking: 18 min

Type: Art Museum

Touro Synagogue