Step into a world of sweeping ocean views, architectural ambition, and high-society drama on this immersive self-guided audio tour along Newport’s legendary Cliff Walk. You’ll uncover the stories of a city where old money met new ambition—and where elegance masked scandal, rebellion, and reinvention.
Journey through the heart of America’s Gilded Age. Discover how self-made tycoons and society queens used architecture to vie for dominance, and how the lives of servants, socialites, and outsiders influenced the creation of these incredible estates. This tour peels back the curtain on a world that is dazzling and deeply human, from behind-the-scenes secrets to forgotten voices.
Move at your own pace as you take in breathtaking views while listening to richly narrated stories grounded in historical research and local insight. See Newport as you’ve never seen it before, whether you're a history lover, an architecture fan, or a curious wanderer.
A bold blend of Gothic romance and eccentric ambition, Belcourt is unlike any other Newport mansion. It’s a dramatic expression of wealth, whimsy, and personal vision designed as a medieval-style fortress for a rebellious heir.
One of the first truly grand summer cottages, Chateau-sur-Mer showcases pre-Gilded Age opulence with its Victorian interiors and sweeping grounds. It tells the story of a city on the brink of transformation—from merchant port to millionaire playground.
Chepstow offers a more personal look at the intimate and refined Newport life, with preserved furnishings and family heirlooms from generations of New York elite. It's a quieter gem where history feels lived-in and close to the surface.
The Chinese Tea House is a whimsical pavilion that was a playground for East-meets-West luxury perched dramatically on the cliffs near Marble House. It embodies the theatrical flair of Newport’s social scene with its striking architecture and sweeping views.
The Isaac Bell House blends modern innovation with artistic restraint and is a masterpiece of Shingle Style architecture. Its clean lines and natural materials reveal a different side of Newport—where design, not just wealth, shaped the future.
One of Newport’s earliest summer cottages, Kingscote blends Gothic Revival charm with Gilded Age ambition. Its unique architecture and exotic interiors reflect the tastes of a rising American elite eager to impress.
Built as a temple to wealth, Marble House dazzles with more than 500,000 cubic feet of imported stone and Versailles-worthy splendor. Created by Alva Vanderbilt, it's not just a mansion—it's a bold statement of power, taste, and defiance.
Grand, romantic, and richly detailed, Ochre Court evokes the drama of a French château perched above the sea. Once a summer palace, it now anchors Salve Regina University—proof that old-world glamour can still serve a modern purpose.
Rosecliff was inspired by the Grand Trianon at Versailles and is Newport at its most theatrical. Designed for lavish parties and glittering society events, it’s a place where imagination and extravagance still echo off marble floors.
The oceanfront estate of heiress Doris Duke, Rough Point blends European treasures 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.
Set among Newport’s most iconic mansions, Salve Regina’s campus is a stunning fusion of academia and architectural heritage. Ivy-covered halls and ocean breezes create a truly one-of-a-kind backdrop for higher learning.
The crown jewel of Newport’s Gilded Age mansions, The Breakers was built by the Vanderbilts to dazzle—and it still does. With its Italian palazzo design and commanding ocean views, it’s luxury on a scale few could ever imagine.
Modeled after a French château, The Elms is elegance with an edge—where formal gardens, lavish interiors, and the cutting-edge technology of the time reveal a world of wealth, ambition, and meticulous design.
A quieter stretch of coastline between the mansions and the sea, Sheep Point offers sweeping views and a touch of pastoral calm. Once used for grazing, it's now a scenic pause along Newport’s dramatic shoreline.
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. This windswept stretch blends literary history with high-society lore.
Miramar feels more private than palatial with its understated French classicism and sprawling lawn cascading to the sea. Yet it’s a stunning reminder that Newport’s most powerful families often preferred quiet grandeur to showy excess.
Known as The Avenue of the Mansions, Bellevue is Newport’s historic showcase of wealth, architecture, and ambition. Lined with palatial estates and grand entrances, it's a journey through America’s most opulent era.
The Preservation Society is the steward of Newport’s historic legacy—they 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.
The Forty Steps entrance to the Cliff Walk is located at the end of Narragansett Avenue, where it meets the ocean. The steps are close to the junction with Ochre Point Avenue.
IMPORTANT – YOUR ACCESS CODE IS: RNH370 - PLEASE READ STEPS BELOW - To access your tour, you’ll need the Drives & Detours App. We recommend downloading the tour in advance in case cell service is unreliable.
DOWNLOAD THE APP:
iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/drives-detours/id6443681888
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mytoursapp.android.app6506
UNLOCK YOUR TOUR:
1. Open app, tap "Walking Tours", then "Newport Cliffs"
2. Enter Your Access Code (on iPhone tap "Login to Download" then "Login")
3. Tap "Download Tour" and wait until complete (1-2 minutes)
STARTING THE TOUR:
1. Open app, select your tour
2. Go to start location shown
3. Tap “Start Tour”
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Tour is valid for 180 days, no need to reschedule
Questions? TEXT us at 619.324.9920
Newport is a charming coastal city known for its historic mansions, stunning ocean views, and rich sailing heritage. It offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, making it a perfect destination for all types of travelers.
The Breakers is a stunning Gilded Age mansion built by the Vanderbilt family. It offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of America's wealthiest families.
Cliff Walk is a scenic 3.5-mile trail that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the famous Gilded Age mansions.
The Newport Art Museum features a diverse collection of art, including contemporary and historical pieces, as well as rotating exhibitions.
A creamy and hearty soup made with clams, potatoes, and cream.
A buttered and grilled roll filled with fresh lobster meat and lightly dressed in mayo or butter.
Quahog clams stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs, butter, and various seasonings.
This is the most popular time to visit Newport, with warm weather and numerous events. The city is bustling with tourists, and all attractions are open.
United States Dollar (USD)
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5:00, GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)
120VV, 60HzHz
Newport is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Newport Station
Newport Bus Terminal
RIPTA buses are affordable and convenient for getting around Newport. Fares are low, and schedules are frequent.
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Car, Bike, Scooter
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Providence is the capital of Rhode Island and offers a rich cultural scene with museums, historic sites, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Mystic is a historic seaport town known for its maritime museums and attractions.
Price varies by option