A Magical Holiday Experience at Newport Mansions
Newport, Rhode Island is home to multiple stunning mansions that were once summer homes for some of the wealthiest families during the Gilded Age. These historic houses are now open for tours, and the holidays are a particularly enchanting time to visit as they are beautifully decorated.
When Do The Mansions Get Dressed Up For The Holidays?
The Holidays at the Newport Mansions event runs from November 22, 2025, through January 1, 2026. This gives visitors plenty of time to explore the decorated mansions. The four mansions included in this event are The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms, and Chateau-sur-Mer.
Why Visit All Four Mansions?
In my opinion, it's worth visiting all four if you're able! To save money, consider purchasing admission for three houses (The Breakers plus two others of your choosing). All of the mansions are close to each other, making it easy to see them all in one day.
What You Need To Know Before You Go
- Self-Guided Tours: The tours of the mansions are self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Audio tours are available through the Newport Mansions app, so be sure to download it and bring headphones.
- Crowds: The best way to avoid crowds is to visit during the week or early on weekends. I recommend starting with The Breakers, as it is the most popular mansion.
- Accessibility: Not all mansions are accessible. The Breakers and Marble House are partially accessible, while The Elms and Chateau-sur-Mer are not.
- Tickets: It’s best to buy tickets online ahead of time. You can print them or add them to your digital wallet. Make sure your phone is charged if using digital tickets.
The Mansions
The Breakers
The Breakers is arguably the most popular and well-known Newport Mansions property. Built between 1893 and 1895, it was Cornelius Vanderbilt II’s summer “cottage,” which is more accurately described as a lavish mansion with 70 rooms.
During the holidays, the inside of the mansion is beautifully decorated, creating a holiday movie-like atmosphere. The Breakers also has an outdoor event called Sparkling Lights, where the 13-acre landscape is adorned with holiday lights. Special tickets are required for this event.
Marble House
Built between 1888 and 1892, the Marble House was a birthday gift for Alva Vanderbilt from her husband, William Vanderbilt. After their divorce, Alva moved to Belcourt and later reopened the Marble House, adding a Chinese Tea House on the property.
The Elms
Completed in 1901, The Elms was the home of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Julius Berwind. It features classical symmetry, ornate interiors, and advanced technology for its time. I personally enjoyed visiting this mansion after proofing a book set there.
Chateau-sur-Mer
As the oldest mansion in the event, Chateau-sur-Mer was built in 1852 and was the most luxurious residence in Newport until the Gilded Age. It showcases High Victorian architecture and design trends from the 19th century.
Are The Mansions Worth Visiting During The Holidays?
Yes, absolutely! Visiting the Newport Mansions during the holidays is a magical experience that everyone should try at least once. It can be done as a day trip, but I recommend staying longer to explore everything Newport has to offer.
You can also visit Jamestown, Rhode Island, just across the bridge. There, you can check out the historic Jamestown Windmill and Beavertail Lighthouse, which hangs a wreath for the holidays.
