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Ultimate Newport Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: Walk & Drive

30 Reviews 4.30 out of 5 stars Based on 30 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Newport, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 26 (0) days in advance.

3 to 5 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Visit historic, coastal Newport at your own pace during this attraction-packed, self-guided tour. Follow a carefully chosen itinerary and live GPS map, with stops at celebrated mansions like the Bellevue House, the chateau-inspired Elms, and the iconic Vanderbilt home, the Breakers, plus natural sights like Easton’s Beach and Fort Adams State Park.

• A self-guided tour of Newport’s top historic & natural attractions
• Ideal for groups: purchase only one tour per car, & everyone can listen in
• Take as long or as little as you’d like in each location, with plenty of enriching audio

After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, & access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route.

New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.

This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

What's Included

  • Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
  • Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
  • Private tour experience for your family, in your own car.
  • No live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate.
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

23 America's Cup Avenue
Newport, RI 02840, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Newport Visitors Information Center

Our journey begins in downtown Newport, just by the Newport Visitor Center. As we set off into the heart of Newport, we'll dive into the past to learn about Newport's hey-day: the Gilded Age. This era of nouveau-riche American elites like the Vanderbilts and Astors has been marked by gorgeous mansions. We'll explore the architecture and architects behind these designs as drive.Note: The tour is over 10+ miles long per tour, with more than 30+ audio stories per tour, and takes about 2-3 hours per tour to complete.New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

International Tennis Hall of Fame (pass by)

At the International Tennis Hall of Fame intersection, we'll turn onto the famed Bellevue Avenue -- the most expensive avenue in America. We're about to see the most magnificent homes ever built in this country... facetiously known as "summer cottages". You can choose to pause here to check ou the Hall of Fame, which features tennis greats.
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Audrain Auto Museum (pass by)

As we head down Bellevue, we'll soon pass the Audrain Auto Museum and won't be able to help by admire it! It boasts both beautiful architecture and a frequent rotation of stunning cars.
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Edward King House

We'll take a quick detour off of Bellevue to get a closer look at the Edward King House, just one block away. This is our introduction to the mansions of Newport.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Kingscote

As we head back to Bellevue, we'll see our very first Newport Mansion: Kingscote. We'll learn all about this summer home and it's inhabitants over the years. You can even take a tour of the inside.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

The Bellevue House (pass by)

Bellevue House is next on our journey. This gorgeous mansion has a rich facade - and a long history to match! Since it's not open for tours, we won't try to pause here.
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Isaac Bell House (pass by)

As we continue down Bellevue Avenue, we'll pass more eye-catching homes: Issac Bell House and Snug Harbor. We'll learn about the unique owners of both homes, and can choose to stop at Issac Bell House for an interior tour.
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The Elms (pass by)

Finally, we'll see the Elms. This masterpiece was designed for the coal baron Edward Julius Berwind and inspired by France's Château d'Asnières. Here we'll want to slow down as much as possible to hear about the Berwinds -- and maybe pull inside for a tour!
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424 Bellevue Ave

When we spot Mr. Belmont's statue, we'll turn off Bellevue. We're now heading towards some of the largest and finest mansions in Newport -- and they're technically not even on this famously expensive avenue! As we drive, we'll learn a bit about Belmont -- whose fascinating story we'll pick back up when we see another grand house later on the tour.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Chepstow

As we journey along, we'll pass Chepstow, a gorgeous Italianate house museum built-in 1860. Its original inhabitant isn't usually discussed in Newport histories... but has a long connection to both early American settlers and to the nouveau-riche of the Gilded Age. We can stop here for a tour as well.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Ochre Court (pass by)

Ochre Court will immediately arrest our eyes! This châteauesque mansion cost of $4.5 million... in 1892. And it certainly shows! Now the centerpiece of the Salve Regina University, this mansion isn't open for tours... but that won't stop us from learning all about it's rich and fascinating history!
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McAuley Hall (pass by)

Vikings-inspired Vinland is now Salve Regina's McAuley Hall. As we pass this beautiful red-stone mansion, we'll learn all about it's inspiration and its unique owner.
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The Breakers (pass by)

Finally, we reach Newport's highlight: The Breakers. This Vanderbilt mansion is the biggest and the best of all of Newport's summer cottages -- and you can tell. We'll look past the towering wrought-iron gates, along the winding gravel drive, and up to the majestic and marvelous mansion's facade. We'll dive into the Vanderbilt backstory, the mansion's architectural wonders, and much more while here. This is another great opportunity to hop out for a tour.
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Chateau-sur-Mer (pass by)

As we head back towards Bellevue Avenue, we'll pause to check out the delicate beauty of Chateau-sur-Mer. Not only is the first Gilded Age mansion in Newport, but it also boasts one of the most beautiful, green, sprawling gardens. Both the house and the gardens are open for an optional tour.
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National Museum of American Illustration (pass by)

Right on the corner of Bellevue, we'll pause once again for a glimpse of Vernon Court. This mansion holds a different type of treasure inside: the National Museum of American Illustrations. Norman Rockwell fans simply can't skip this hidden gem.
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Frederick Law Olmsted Park

We continue our journey along Newport's Bellevue Avenue, passing the historic Frederick Law Olmstead Park and learning about this historic landscape architect -- and his Gilded Age gardens.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Rosecliff (pass by)

Rosecliff is next on our path. This is arguably the most beautiful of the Newport Mansions, and it contains a rotating exhibition gallery on it's top floor. If you pause here for a tour, you'll also be treated to phenomenal ocean views.
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Gustave White Sotheby's International Realty

As we continue, we'll pass the Astors' summer cottage: Beechwood. Mrs. Astor famously had a "300 List" - the definitive list of the 300 people she considered high society. Where did that number come from? Well, this ballroom actually! It fit 300 guests. We'll learn more about this list, the Astors, and the Gilded Age as we continue to drive down Newport's Bellevue Avenue.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Marble House (pass by)

Our journey now takes us past Marble House, one of the most opulent and magnificent of Newport's Mansions. This Gilded Age marvel is another Vanderbilt home, and actually has one of the most interesting histories of all the mansions here. We'll learn all about Marble House and it's owners as we continue onwards -- or you can pause here for a tour.
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Belcourt of Newport

We'll then pass three amazing homes in a row: Beaulieu House, Miramar, and Belcourt Castle. All three of these beautiful mansions were built in the 1800s and belonged to Gilded Age elites. Like the other Newport mansions, they were only ever intended to be used as summer homes, and left vacant for the rest of the year.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Rough Point Museum

We're now at the end of Bellevue Avenue and can catch a glimpse of an English Manorial style home through the trees: that's Rough Point. Now a museum open for tours, we'll learn all about it's the eccentric (and possibly dangerous) owner.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Bailey’s Beach

Our tour along the beautiful Cliff Walk ends near another beach: Bailey's Beach. The northeast end of the beach, where the Cliff Walk ends, is open to the public, but Bailey’s Beach itself is private, welcoming only a very exclusive club.... reminiscent of Mrs. Astor’s “400” list. Perhaps the Gilded Age lives on in Newport!
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Gooseberry Beach

As we meander along this scenic path, we'll enjoy the fresh ocean air and relative calm. As we drive, we'll dive into the history of seafaring, trading, and yachting in Newport -- much of which finds its roots in the Gilded Age. As we continue, we can choose to pause at some of the public beaches to stretch our legs.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Brenton Point State Park

Our journey continues past Brenton Point State Park, which boasts magnificent ocean views and sprawling green lawns. We'll try to spot the lighthouse as we continue forward.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Castle Hill Inn

We'll continue past Castle Hill Inn and it's a lighthouse, learning a bit more about Newport's history after the Gilded Age.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

OceanCliff Hotel

Next up, we'll pass OceanCliff and the Newport Country Club. We're now at the farthest point along the Ocean Drive.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hammersmith Farm

Our journey brings us to Hammersmith Farm, the childhood home of Jackie Kennedy. Jackie and JFK would later return to summer here, enjoying the same scenery, views, and breeze that you feel today!
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Fort Adams State Park

We'll continue both our history lesson and journey into Fort Adams, as we explore this historic site and it's significance to Newport's independence.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Fort Adams State Park

As we turn the corner on Ocean Drive, we'll gatch a glimpse of Beacon Rock through the trees. We'll learn a little about this mansion's history as we admire it's facade.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Bonniecrest

Our journey then brings us to BonnieCrest, home of the Worcestershire Sauce family! We'll then push forward to Harbor Court and finally, get some more scenic ocean views.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Ida Lewis Rock

Off the in the distance, we'll see Ida Lewis Rock. As we pass by, we'll learn all about Ida Lewis' heroic activities here.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Rochambeau Statue and Monument

We'll continue past the historic Rochambeau Monument, celebrating the French commander's assistance in the fight against the British for American independence.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Spencer Park

Our journey then brings us to Newport's Irish District or 5th Ward. Here we'll explore the lives behind the scenes -- those of the workers that made the Gilded Age possible.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Newport Public Library

Our tour through Newport finally ends at historic St. Mary's Church, almost a full circle to where we started out at the Newport Visitor Center!
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Easton's Beach

Embark on this scenic walk at the Cliff Walk entrance by Easton's Beach. We'll learn a little about Easton's Beach as we set off on this journey, followed immediately by a short look at the Chanler. As we continue along, we'll dive into Newport's history, the effect of the Gilded Age, and the Cliff Walk's creation. We'll also learn a little about the "old-money" families, like the Vanderbilts and Astors, whose grand summer cottages line the Cliff Walk.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Forty Steps

Our first major stop comes at the iconic Forty Steps. This is an alternative starting point for the tour and a wonderful opportunity to walk down these historic steps and appreciate the wild beauty of the crashing waves in front. We'll learn about the Gilded Age elites who tried to keep access to the Cliff Walk for themselves by building a wall -- and about the lower-class residents who tore those walls down! Thanks to their battles, this beautiful pathway has remained open to the public.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Lands End

As we near the end of the Cliff Walk, we'll see one final mansion: Land's End. This was the home of Edith Wharton, the gifted author who abhorred being a Gilded Age elite. We'll learn all about Wharton and her works as we continue.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 36 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Works offline: Once downloaded, the tour works using GPS without Wi-Fi or cellular service.
  • Good value: One purchase covers everyone in your vehicle, not each person separately.
  • More ways to save: Choose a single tour, a nearby bundle, or access to 200+ tours.

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Ultimate Newport Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: Walk & Drive?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-259640P4

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.30
30 reviews

Average 4.30 out of 5 stars based on 30 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
17
4 stars
8
3 stars
3
2 stars
1
1 star
1
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 26 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
  • Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
  • Private tour experience for your family, in your own car.
  • Lifetime access: use the tour anytime and keep it for future trips.
  • Works offline with GPS route guidance and automatic audio stories.
  • One purchase covers everyone in your car, not per person.
  • Flexible tour: start, stop, and pause anytime during your trip.
  • Access your tour in our separate audio tour app after booking.
  • Hidden gems and local stories included along the route.
  • Just bring your car and phone; the app guides your tour.
  • No live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate.

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The driving tour begins on America’s Cup Avenue near the Gateway Visitors Center. As you drive south, Cardines Field will be on your left, while the Visitor Center parking lot and bus depot will be on your right. This is only a suggested starting point. We are not affiliated with the Visitor Center or nearby businesses, and their staff cannot assist with the tour. Please note that the Visitor Center has not reopened since the pandemic.
  • Many museums, including The Elms, The Breakers, Rosecliff, Marble House, and Chateau-sur-Mer, require a valid ticket or membership to access the properties and their parking lots.
  • Parking is available in the lot next to Easton’s Beach.
  • Easy to use: GPS-triggered audio plays automatically along the route for a hands-free experience.
  • Private tour: Explore in your own vehicle without crowded buses or large tour groups.
  • At your own pace: Start anytime and pause for hikes, picnics, photos, or scenic stops.
  • Works offline: Once downloaded, the tour works using GPS without Wi-Fi or cellular service.
  • Good value: One purchase covers everyone in your vehicle, not each person separately.
  • More ways to save: Choose a single tour, a nearby bundle, or access to 200+ tours.
  • Download in advance: Download the Tour Guide app by Action and tour while connected to Wi-Fi or a strong cellular signal.
  • Follow the route: Begin at the suggested starting point or join anywhere along the route shown in the app.
  • Lifetime access: Preview the tour before your trip and revisit the stories, photos, and details afterward.
  • Supported devices: iPhone with iOS 15+, Android with version 9+, or a GPS-enabled iPad/tablet with cellular capability.
  • The app’s audio will play through your car’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display, while the app’s map will display on your phone. You can connect your phone to the car via Bluetooth to listen to the commentary through the car stereo.
  • For walking portions, we recommend using headphones or earbuds for clearer audio and to avoid disturbing others nearby.

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