Newport, Rhode Island, is one of America’s earliest colonial seaports and a cradle of both freedom and fortune. Founded in 1639, Newport flourished as a center of trade, religious tolerance, and revolutionary thought before transforming into the summer playground of America’s elite during the Gilded Age. Participants in a 5-day tour led by historian and guide Fred Zilian discover Newport’s layered history—from its cobblestone colonial streets and harbor-front wharves to its grand seaside mansions that stand as monuments to an era of opulence and innovation.
Highlights of the tour include self-guided visits to four Newport mansions: The Breakers, the grand palatial residence of the Vanderbilts; The Elms, inspired by an 18th-century French château; Marble House, a dazzling symbol of wealth and artistry; and Rough Point and estate gardens, the eclectic home of heiress Doris Duke.
Connect with Newport’s natural splendor on the Cliff Walk, a trail where the rugged Atlantic shoreline meets the manicured lawns of magnificent estates, offering sweeping views that capture Newport’s blend of wild beauty and refined elegance. Experience the coastline from a different perspective aboard a harbor cruise and enjoy some of Newport’s most recognizable lighthouses, including Newport Harbor Light with its famous green optic.
Beyond the mansions, immerse yourself in Newport’s colonial roots during a guided walking tour led by the study leader, exploring the city’s historic streets. A guided visit to the International Tennis Hall of Fame, housed in the 19th-century Newport Casino, celebrates a beloved American pastime.
And during an evening at Newport Vineyards you’ll enjoy a tour of the winery and a tasting, followed by a farm-to-table buffet dinner.
Know Before You Go
- Program begins Sunday, May 3 at 6 p.m. with a welcome dinner in Warwick, Rhode Island, and ends on Thursday, May 7 at 3:30 p.m. with a transfer to T.F. Green International Airport or the Providence Amtrak station.
- Important note: Flights to Warwick are not included; participants make independent travel arrangements to and from Warwick/Providence. Once the tour has reached its minimum registration, participants will be notified and encouraged to purchase airline tickets. This will occur no later than 60 days prior to the start of the program. Additional information will be sent via email.
- Cost includes 4 nights of accommodations at the Hyatt Place Warwick (Sun., May 3) and Holiday Inn Express, Middletown, Rhode Island (May 4–7), bus transportation, services of a study leader and Smithsonian representative, 11 meals (4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners), gratuities, taxes, and entrance fees.
- Single-room supplement $325 (factored into the Single Room Member and Single Room Nonmember pricing).
- Singles registering at the double-room rate are paired (on a nonsmoking basis) if possible, but must pay the single-room supplement otherwise.
- Detailed information is emailed to registrants 4 weeks prior to departure.
- Participants are advised to purchase travel insurance for overnight and multi-day tours from a provider of your choice. Travel insurance provides additional coverage against unforeseen incidents that require last-minute cancellations.
General Information
- Smithsonian Associates is a mask-friendly environment. Please feel free to bring and wear a mask at any time during a tour, both for your safety or the safety of others.
- As we aim to move away from single use water bottles, guests are strongly encouraged to get in the habit of bringing their own reusable water bottle on tour.
- For additional tour information:
