Milestones, Mansions, and Burgers in Newport, RI

Last Updated on February 12, 2024 by Travelationship

Rhode Island might be the smallest of the states, but big things come in small packages. We only had one day to see what we could of this great state, and the consensus seemed to be to head for Newport. On top of the excitement of exploring new territory, Rhode Island marked the culmination of Heather’s quest to visit all 50 states; that’s a huge milestone. I always joke with my friend that you could miss her home state if you blinked. That would not turn out to be the case at all.

Newport has character, from classic homes with sidewalks shaded by grand trees to ocean views. Wanting to make the most of our time, we headed straight for the neighborhood known for its lavish mansions. Entering the area was like pulling onto a movie set, so park the car at your first opportunity and truly enjoy it on foot. There is a cliff walk that will dazzle you with ocean views and take you past many of the mansions. Knowing we were only going to be able to fit two of the estates into our schedule, we went for the grandest and the most romantic.

The Preservation Society of Newport County looks after ten properties in Newport. There is a wide range of styles and decorations, each unique. Giving yourself enough time to enjoy each property and explore all they offer would be best. The audio tours at both sites took an hour to complete, and we used the additional time to walk the grounds afterward. You can view the society’s website here. Private and group tours are available, but prior arrangements must be made.

The Breakers

Of the Newport Mansions maintained by the Preservation Society of Newport County, The Breakers is the grandest. It was Vanderbilt’s premier summer cottage built for Cornelius Vanderbilt II, and the word lavish doesn’t quite say enough. Construction started for the house in 1893, completed in 1895, and was designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt. The mansion is truly a sight to behold, and you can tour it at your own pace with the aid of an audio guide. Photography is prohibited inside the home but is allowed throughout the 13-acre grounds. Tickets are available at the gate but can also be purchased online, allowing you to skip the line, which can be beneficial. If you plan on seeing more than one of the mansions, consider one of the packages offered on the website, as they are discounted. Hours, Directions, and Tickets are available here.

Rosecliff Mansion

Rosecliff is the second mansion we chose to visit, and although it is not as exuberant as the Breakers, it had enough class to go around. This mansion came to be in 1899 when it was commissioned by Theresa Fair Oelrichs, a silver heiress from Nevada, and was known as “The Party House” of Newport. Although it wasn’t fully completed until 1902, it was occupied for much of that time. When touring this French-influenced mansion, you might recognize some of its rooms from True Lies, and 1974’s The Great Gatsby. Much like The Breakers, you can explore Rosecliff at your own pace and use an audio guide. Hours, Directions, and Tickets are available here.

Food Time

The White Horse Tavern

The White Horse is more than just a place to stop for a meal or a drink. The tavern is a piece of American history. It is considered the oldest continuously running tavern in the U.S., constructed in 1673. We stopped by for some drinks and were greeted by a friendly staff. Heather ordered a cup of their clam chowder and gave me the thumbs up. The dark wood and layout have all the tells of old-world craftsmanship. The diner menu looked slightly pricey, and reservations were suggested. Check their website for more info.

Mission

This could be the home of the best burger I have ever had. Plunked in the center of a nondescript strip mall is an unassuming burger joint called “Mission.” You will find a simple menu consisting of burgers, dogs, falafels, and fries. If there is one thing I won’t let slide by, it’s a chance to have a burger or some schnitzel. I couldn’t have been happier with my choice; the cheeseburger they handed me was cooked perfectly and bursting with flavor. I contend that the Mission serves one of the best burgers I have ever had anywhere. Heather tried one of their dogs and was pretty happy with her choice. Naturally, a place like this has a secret sauce; my advice is to sit back and enjoy. More info can be found here.

Sunset Drive to Beavertail Point

We finished the day by driving to Beavertail Point to glimpse the lighthouse in the fading light. The lighthouse and park sit at the southern end of Jamestown Island in Narragansett Bay. The lighthouse is a museum now with limited hours of operation; check their website for more info.

Recommendable: A resounding YES!!! The Mansions are beautiful, the town is classic, and the history is undeniable. More than that, go for a beer in the oldest pub in the U.S. and then walk across the street for its best burger.

Have you been to Newport? Tell us about your experience. Are you interested in visiting? Ask us a question.

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