Cliff Walk and the Breakers
Duration: 3 hours
Tour Code: NEW-002
Enjoy the riches of Newport with this tour that takes you along a portion of its spectacular Cliff Walk trail and visits one of its most elegant mansions.
Depart the pier for a short drive to the Cliff Walk where you will have New England's rocky shore and crashing surf on one side, and Newport's most extravagant mansions on the other. This wonderful walk remains one of the top attractions in Newport and is enjoyed by people of all ages. Your guide will be happy to share the stories of America's Gilded Age and the cast of characters that made Newport one of the nation's wealthiest summer resorts.
Next, your leisurely walk takes you to The Breakers, the grandest of Newport's summer "cottages." The Breakers was commissioned by Cornelius Vanderbilt II, Chairman and President of the New York Central Railroad. Inspired by the 16th century palaces of Genoa and Turin, the 70 room Italian Renaissance-style villa was designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt who directed an international team of craftsmen and artisans. Completed in 1895, the mansion is situated on a 13 acre estate overlooking a magnificent view of the rugged Atlantic Coastline.
The self-guided audio tour of the mansion provides insight into the life of this fascinating time in American History at your own pace. Time is afforded to browse the mansion's gift shop before returning to the pier.
Please note: Due to the popularity of the Newport Mansions, please anticipate a wait of approximately 30 minutes. This tour may operate in reverse order. This tour includes approximately 2.5 hours of walking - at times on uneven ground. The tour is not available to guests who utilize a wheelchair and not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. A windbreaker or light jacket and comfortable, flat walking shoes are strongly recommended. No photography of any kind is allowed inside The Breakers. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary.