Golden Age to Gilded Age Newport’s Transformation Walking Tour

Embark on an enchanting journey through Newport's fascinating transformation from its colonial Golden Age to its opulent Gilded Age summer colony with our "Golden to Gilded Walking Tour." Discover how the city evolved and its people thrived during these dynamic periods, long before the Vanderbilts' arrival. Let our knowledgeable guides lead you through the rich history, stunning architecture, and captivating stories that define Newport’s legacy. This tour is a must for anyone interested in learning how Newport became a Gilded Age playground for the likes of the Vanderbilts and Astors.

Guests will check in at the Museum of Newport History. Admission to the museum is included as part of the tour, as is 10% off anything in the shop. IMPORTANT: The museum space on the second floor is not on the walking tour. It is recommended guests arrive early or come back after the tour to view the museum.

Guests will learn about the Buliod-Perry house, the Perry family, and the history of the building and surrounding area.

Guests will learn about the Levi Gale house, a perfect example of architecture in the era, and how houses were moved in early Newport.

Guests will learn about the early Irish immigrants in Newport who built Fort Adams, established Rhode Island's first Catholic church, and created a cemetery with enduring historical significance.

Visitors will learn about New York tailor-turned-real estate developer Alfred Smith, whose visionary land development transformed Newport from a hotel-based tourism culture to one of private summer residences, paving the way for the Gilded Age and skyrocketing land values.

Visitors will learn about the Queen Anne style of architecture popular from 1875-1910, exemplified by this house designed by local architect John Dixon Johnston, and how it represents the upward mobility of Irish families like the Rooneys in Newport.

Visitors will learn about Newport's oldest active fire station, highlighting the city's growth from a small town to a city requiring expanded municipal services funded by wealthy tourists, whose preferences often influenced city decisions.

Guests will stop at the Jewish Cemetery, and learn about the history of the Jews in Newport, from the 17th century to the 19th century.

Visitors will learn about the era of great hotels in Newport before the construction of Bellevue Avenue's "cottages," highlighted by the lavish Ocean House, which epitomized luxury and elegance, and attracted a privileged clientele, including notable artists and writers.

Visitors will learn about Dudley Newton, a prominent 19th-century Newport architect who designed over 100 buildings and was known for his daring architectural experimentation, including the invention of the "Newton Roof," as well as his contributions to the city's distinctive architectural landscape.

Visitors will learn about the transformation of a small Federal-style hotel into an exclusive men's club by architect George Champlin Mason Sr., his significant contributions to Newport's architecture and cultural scene, and the club's historical anecdotes, including its role in the founding of the Newport Casino.

Guests will stop outside the Newport Art Museum's main building, the Griswold House, and learn about the first Newport commission of acclaimed Gilded Age architect Richard Morris Hunt.

Guests will stop outside the Redwood Library and learn about the intellectual culture of the Golden Age of Newport's history that was reinvigorated in the mid-19th century.

Guests will end their tour at Touro Park, and learn about the Old Stone Mill; Matthew C. Perry; and the Atlantic House Hotel, home to the U.S. Naval Academy during the American Civil War.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Walking and standing for long periods of time. Not recommended for travelers with mobility/walking issues.

• Golden Age to Gilded Age Newport's Transformation Walking Tour
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• Museum Admission
• 10% Discount on NHS Museum Shop Purchases

• Admission to Newport Art Museum ($15 per adult, $10 per senior, free for youth 17 and under)

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Check in inside the Museum of Newport History and Shop at 127 Thames Street. Once inside, check in and show your tickets at the counter.

Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by Newport Historical Society Walking Tours.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at America/New_York.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• This Tour is Rated 5 Stars based on 1 valid reviews on TRIPADVISOR.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 15 Travelers is accepted for booking.