Stop At: Newport Visitors Information Center, 21 Long Wharf Mall, Newport, Rhode Island 02840

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 12-mile tour covers the essentials of scenic Newport, Rhode Island in 1-2 hours.

Duration: 5 minutes

Pass By: International Tennis Hall of Fame, 194 Bellevue Ave, Newport, Rhode Island 02840

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.

Pass By: Audrain Auto Museum, Audrain Building, 222 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Pass By: Edward King House, 35 King St, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Pass By: Kingscote, 253 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Stop At: The Bellevue House, 14 Catherine St, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Duration: 5 minutes

Pass By: Isaac Bell House, 70 Perry St, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Pass By: The Elms, 367 Bellevue Ave, Newport, Rhode Island 02840

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!

Pass By: Bellevue Avenue, Bellevue Ave., Newport, Rhode Island

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.

Pass By: Chepstow, 120 Narragansett Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

As we journey along, we'll pass Chepstow, a gorgeous Italianate house museum built in 1860. It's 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.

Stop At: Ochre Court, Newport, Rhode Island

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!

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: McAuley Hall, 100 Ochre Point Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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

Duration: 5 minutes

Pass By: The Breakers, 44 Ochre Point Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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 magestic 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.

Pass By: Chateau-sur-Mer, 474 Bellevue Ave, Newport, Rhode Island 02840

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

Pass By: National Museum of American Illustration, 492 Bellevue Ave, Newport, Rhode Island 02840

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.

Stop At: Frederick Law Olmsted Park, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Duration: 5 minutes

Pass By: Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Stop At: Gustave White Sotheby's International Realty, 37 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Duration: 5 minutes

Pass By: Marble House, 596 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Stop At: Belcourt of Newport, 657 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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 eccentric (and possibly dangerous) owner.

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Bailey’s Beach, Cliff Walk, Newport, RI 02840, USA

We'll exit beautiful Bellevue Avenue for another beautiful road: Ocean Drive. This part of the scenic drive is full of natural wonders.... and has a few more architectural ones thrown in too!

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Gooseberry Beach, 130 Ocean Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Duration: 5 minutes

Pass By: Brenton Point State Park, Ocean Drive, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Stop At: Castle Hill Inn, 590 Ocean Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: OceanCliff Hotel, 65 Ridge Rd, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Hammersmith Farm, 225 Harrison Ave, Newport, Rhode Island 02840

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!

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Fort Adams State Park, 80 Fort Adams Drive, Fort Adams State Park Visitor Center, Newport, Rhode Island 02840

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.

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Beacon Rock, 147 Harrison Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Bonniecrest, 111 Harrison Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Ida Lewis Rock, Ida Lewis Rock, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Rochambeau Statue and Monument, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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

Duration: 5 minutes

Stop At: Spencer Park, 26 W Narragansett Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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.

Duration: 5 minutes

Pass By: Newport Public Library, 300 Spring St, Newport, RI 02840, USA

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!

• Reservations are REQUIRED for all bookings
• Book Your Package On-Line and Receive Your Confirmation
• Departure point: Detailed check-in instructions - including the address and parking information if applicable - will be included in your final confirmation email.
• Duration: 1 to 2 hours (Approx.)
• Departure Time:
  Confirm time with the local provider in advance of your experience.
  Scenic Newport, RI Self-Driving Audio Tour
  7/20/2021 - 5/6/2025

  Monday - Sunday :

  09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

• Return Details:

  Newport Public Library, 300 Spring St, Newport, RI 02840, USA

• Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
• Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
• Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
• Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
• Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
• Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
• Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
• Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!
• Gratuities (Optional)
• Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations

• Confirmation Voucher (printed or mobile)
• Any required or suggested items listed on your confirmation email.
• A Smile!

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• How to access: Once you book a tour, you’ll get a confirmation email and an instructions email. Follow the instructions right away: • Download the app • Enter the password • Download the tour • MUST DO while in strong wifi/cellular
• How to start the tour: Once onsite, open the Action's Tour Guide App: • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If there are multiple tour versions, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction. • Go to the starting point. (Note: no one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided). • The audio will begin automatically at the starting point. If you face audio issues, visit the FAQ. • Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
• Amazing savings: • Driving Tours: Save money by purchasing a single tour for the entire vehicle, avoiding individual fees per person like on a bus tour. Connect your phone to the car speakers to share the audio.
• Flexibility and Convenience: • Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. It's perfect for tailoring your exploration and revisiting your favorite spots on future trips. • Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace, free from the constraints of a group.
• Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
• Ease of Use and Accessibility: • The app is hands-free and activates stories via GPS, offering support through call, chat, or email. • There is no need for a continuous cell or Wi-Fi connection as the GPS map works offline.
• Memorable Keepsakes: • Utilize the app’s images to create a photo book or share on social media, ensuring you have high-quality, crowd-free memories from your trip.
• Preparation: • After booking, download the app and the tour using a strong Wi-Fi connection. • Review the tour at home before your trip for a better experience.
• Starting the Tour: • Open the app upon arrival at your destination. • Select the appropriate tour based on your starting point. • Head to the starting location; the audio will begin automatically. • Follow the suggested route and adhere to the speed limit for an optimal experience. • By following these instructions and taking advantage of the app's features, users can enjoy a personalized, flexible, and in-depth exploration of their destination at their own pace and convenience.

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