Newport’s gilded mansions and working waterfront are famous, but some of the most memorable moments come from special-access tours that peel back layers tourists rarely see. From ghostly candle-lit corridors to boiler rooms humming with Gilded-Age tech, the experiences below add depth (and a dash of adventure) to any itinerary. Most fill quickly and may require good mobility (stairs and tight spaces!), so reserve early and wear sensible shoes.
1. A Spirited Evening at Belcourt: The Ghost Tour
For those with a penchant for the paranormal, the Belcourt of Newport Ghost Tour is an absolute must. This historic mansion, once owned by socialite Alva Vanderbilt after her marriage to Oliver Belmont, is said to be one of the most haunted locations in a city full of spirited tales. As dusk settles over Bellevue Avenue, embark on a guided “Candlelight” walk of Belcourt’s shadowy halls and opulent rooms, where tales of eerie occurrences and lingering spirits come to life. Hear stories of the mansion’s eccentric former residents and the ghostly encounters that have been reported for decades. Whether you’re a true believer or a curious skeptic, the atmospheric setting and chilling narratives of the Belcourt ghost tour will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
Why go? It’s the only mansion tour in town focused solely on the paranormal, and being after hours means you see spaces off-limits on daytime history tours.
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2. The Breakers Third-Floor “Preservation-in-Progress” Tour
For over 120 years, the upper reaches of Newport’s grandest “summer cottage,” The Breakers, remained a mystery to the public. Now, The Breakers 3rd Floor Tour offers an exclusive look into the private living quarters of the Vanderbilt family. This intimate, guide-led tour takes you through bedrooms, bathrooms, and sitting rooms used by the family and their personal staff. Witness the ongoing preservation efforts and discover a more personal side of the Vanderbilts, away from the lavish entertaining spaces on the lower floors. This tour provides a fascinating contrast and a deeper appreciation for the daily life of one of America’s most famous families. Tours run daily at noon and 2 p.m., about an hour long.
Longing for a trip to Newport? Check out hotel availability here!
3. Servant Life Tour at The Elms
Step back in time and experience the world of the “other half” on The Elms Servant Life Tour. This compelling tour reveals the intricate workings of a Gilded Age estate from the perspective of the butlers, maids, and cooks who made it all possible. You’ll explore the servants’ entrance, climb the back stairs to the staff quarters on the third floor, and descend into the vast basement with its kitchens, laundry, and boiler room. Through personal stories and historical accounts, you’ll gain a profound understanding of the dedication, hierarchy, and daily struggles of the domestic staff who were the unsung heroes of these magnificent homes.
4. Beneath the Breakers Underground Tour
Discover the technological marvels that powered the Gilded Age on The Breakers Underground Tour. This fascinating exploration takes you beneath the opulent mansion to uncover the innovative systems that made this modern marvel of its time function. Explore the boiler room, which provided central heat, and learn about the early electrical system and the advanced plumbing that was a luxury for the era. This tour offers a unique perspective on the engineering and ingenuity that supported the lavish lifestyle of the Vanderbilts and is a must for anyone interested in history, technology, or simply seeing a different side of this iconic landmark.
5. Viking Trolley “Scenic Overview” & Mansion Packages
For a comprehensive and comfortable way to see the best of Newport, hop on a Viking Trolley Tour. These classic, narrated tours offer a variety of routes that cover the city’s most famous landmarks. From the colonial-era architecture of the historic downtown to the stunning Gilded Age mansions along Bellevue Avenue and the breathtaking scenery of the Ten-Mile Ocean Drive, the trolley provides a fantastic overview of all that Newport has to offer. With different tour options available, including some that combine the trolley tour with mansion admission, it’s a convenient and informative way to plan your visit and see the highlights.
6. Newport Foodie Stroll
Embark on a culinary journey through Newport’s charming streets with a Newport Food Tour. These guided walking tours offer a delicious way to experience the city’s vibrant food scene. Combine history with a progressive five-stop meal along lower Thames Street. Small groups sample dishes and cocktails while guides link rum-running, pirates and the city’s Irish heritage to today’s dining scene. Dietaries (gluten-free, vegetarian) are accommodated, and winter evening “Strolls” add wine pairings.
7. Set Sail into the Sunset: A Classic Sailboat Experience
Experience the magic of a Newport sunset from the water on a Sunset Sail on a Classic Sailboat. Step aboard a beautifully restored sailboat and glide across Narragansett Bay as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Enjoy stunning views of the Newport coastline, the iconic Pell Bridge, and the magnificent mansions from a unique and unforgettable perspective. This romantic and picturesque tour is the perfect way to end a day of exploring.
