Newport’s rich history comes alive through excellent guided experiences. Two standout tours make the most of your time: The Ocean Drive Historic District tour reveals spectacular mansions along the water’s edge, while the Colonial History Walking Tour connects you with America’s roots at essential stops like the historic Touro Synagogue.
We especially love the Downtown Historic audio tour for its clear storytelling about Newport’s Revolutionary War significance. The African American History Walking Tour presents an important perspective on the city’s complex past, highlighting both struggle and triumph.
For something different, the Historic District Ghost Tour offers entertaining evening walks filled with local legends.
These top tours help uncover Newport’s fascinating story…
Good To Know
- The Ocean Drive Historic District Self-Guided Tour offers a 1.5 to 3-hour exploration of Gilded Age mansions and scenic Narragansett Bay views, with a 4.8-star rating.
- The African American History Walking Tour provides a 90-minute guided experience highlighting the lives and enterprises of enslaved and free Black individuals in Newport.
- The Colonial History Walking Tour with Museum Entry combines a 75-minute guided tour of significant landmarks with free admission to the Museum of Newport History.
- The Downtown Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour allows visitors to explore cobblestone streets, shops, and the American Revolution’s role in Newport at their own pace.
- The Historic District Ghosts Guided Walking Tour, led by a costumed host, uncovers the haunted history of Newport’s historic sites over 1.5 to 3 hours.
Newport: Ocean Drive Historic District Self-Guided Tour
The Newport: Ocean Drive Historic District Self-Guided Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque seaside town at their own pace.
This 1.5 to 3-hour tour allows guests to discover the area’s stunning Gilded Age mansions, including the opulent Breakers estate, and take in breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay.
With a 4.8-star rating from 535 reviews, the scenic trolley tour provides an immersive experience, transporting visitors back in time to the era of wealth and luxury that defined Newport’s past.
Along the way, guests can stop at various points of interest, such as Bowen’s Wharf, and learn about the town’s rich history and architecture.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a leisurely sightseeing adventure, the Newport: Ocean Drive Historic District Self-Guided Tour offers a perfect blend of flexibility and enriching exploration.
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Newports African American History Walking Tour
Delving into Newport’s rich African American history, the Newports African American History Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating 90-minute exploration. Priced at $20 per person, this live guided tour led by an expert in English provides an engaging introduction to the city’s architectural significance and the lives of its people of color, both enslaved and free.
The tour commences at the Museum of Newport History and ventures through the Old Quarter and Historic Hill neighborhood, concluding at God’s Little Acre in the Common Burying Ground. Along the way, participants discover the locations where enslaved people lived and labored, as well as sites where free African Americans built enterprises and supported local industry.
The tour also includes admission to the Museum of Newport History, allowing visitors to further explore the region’s history.
With flexible booking options and no upfront payment required, the Newports African American History Walking Tour presents an opportunity to dive into Newport’s diverse past and gain a deeper understanding of the community’s cultural heritage.
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Newport: Colonial History Walking Tour With Museum Entry
Stepping away from the exploration of Newport’s African American history, the Newport Colonial History Walking Tour offers visitors an engaging 75-minute journey through the city’s rich colonial past.
Starting at the Museum of Newport History, located in the historic Brick Market building, this guided walking tour takes participants to significant historical landmarks, including the Great Friends Meeting House, Touro Synagogue, City Hall, and the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House.
Along the way, the informative and knowledgeable guides provide an in-depth narrative, helping visitors understand the diverse populations that have inhabited Newport over the past 400 years.
The tour’s focus on architecture and history creates an immersive experience, with highlights including the friendliness and enthusiasm of the guides, as well as the good pacing of the tour.
Priced at $20 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Newport Colonial History Walking Tour is an excellent way to explore the city’s colonial roots and discover its significant historical landmarks.
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Newport: Downtown Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour
Conveniently, the Newport: Downtown Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour allows visitors to explore the city’s rich colonial past at their own pace. Priced at just $6.50 per person, this one-hour tour provides an immersive audio experience as you stroll through the picturesque downtown.
Along the way, you’ll discover cobblestone streets, quaint shops, wharfs, restaurants, and landmarks, all while learning about Newport’s pivotal role in the American Revolution and its transformation into a 19th-century resort destination.
The tour is highly flexible, as it never expires and can be taken anytime and as many times as desired. You can access the virtual tour to relive the experience, and the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance ensures hassle-free planning.
With a 5/5 rating based on positive reviews from various travelers, this self-guided tour offers an engaging and affordable way to uncover Newport’s fascinating history at your own pace.
Read our full review: Newport: Downtown Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour Review
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Newport: Historic District Ghosts Guided Walking Tour
The Newport: Historic District Ghosts Guided Walking Tour offers visitors a spine-tingling exploration of the city’s haunted past. The 1.5-hour tour, which can sometimes last up to 3 hours, takes participants on a journey through the Newport Historic District, uncovering true ghost stories and haunted hotspots compiled from over 20 years of research.
Guided by a costumed host with a lantern, the tour immerses guests in the eerie atmosphere as they discover the city’s haunted sites, including the historic White Horse Tavern. While the tour doesn’t enter buildings, participants can explore dark lanes and church graveyards, capturing ghostly images along the way.
With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 61 reviews, the tour has been praised for its enthusiastic guides, engaging historical details, and memorable experiences.
Suitable for all ages, the tour encourages participants to wear comfortable shoes and bring their cameras, ensuring an unforgettable journey through Newport’s spooky past.
Read our full review: Newport: Historic District Ghosts Guided Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Operating Hours for the Historic Sites?
The operating hours for the historic sites vary, but most are open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM during the peak season. Some sites may have extended hours or seasonal closures, so visitors should check the websites or call ahead to confirm.
Do the Tours Accommodate Large Groups or Families?
Most historic site tours in the area can accommodate large groups and families. Many offer special discounts for group bookings and have flexible scheduling to cater to the needs of larger parties.
Are the Walking Tours Accessible for People With Disabilities?
Most walking tours accommodate visitors with disabilities, providing accessible routes and accommodations. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider in advance to ensure the specific tour meets the needs of those with mobility challenges.
Can Visitors Take Photographs During the Guided Tours?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during guided tours, though some restrictions may apply to protect historical sites or ensure a quality experience for all. It’s best to check with the tour operator for their specific photography policies.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation and refund policy varies by tour operator, but many offer full refunds if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled tour. Some may charge a small fee for late cancellations or no-shows.
The Sum Up
Newport, Rhode Island offers several captivating historical tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich past. From self-guided explorations of the iconic Ocean Drive Historic District to guided walks uncovering the area’s colonial history and African American heritage, there’s something for all interested in experiencing Newport’s well-preserved past. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a spooky ghost tour, these tours provide an engaging way to discover the city’s enduring historical significance.