Newport, RI: Gilded Age Christmas

Duration: 3 Days | Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Newport Sightseeing Tour

Soak in Newport's rich history and coastal beauty on this guided tour. Enjoy the charm of its historic buildings and meticulously restored homes, soak in the stunning scenery along Ten-Mile Ocean Drive, and admire the grandeur of the opulent mansions lining Bellevue Avenue's tree-shaded streets.

 

Blithewold Manor & Gardens

Each year in late December, the Van Wickle/McKee family returned to Blithewold to celebrate Christmas and the New Year, with household staff preparing the house for festive gatherings. Today, Blithewold continues this tradition with volunteer decorators transforming the mansion into dazzling displays that reflect themes inspired by the family’s late 19th- and early 20th-century interests, celebrating the magic of Christmas. Located along Narragansett Bay, Blithewold Mansion & Gardens is one of New England’s most exquisite estates, featuring stunning gardens, majestic specimen trees, and a 45-room English-style manor house that offers a glimpse into over 80 years of rich social history.

 

The Breakers

Experience the magic of the holidays at The Breakers, where nearly 30 exquisitely decorated Christmas trees complement the unique décor and theme of each room, including Mr. Vanderbilt’s tree adorned with trains and top hats. Don’t miss the stunning 15-foot poinsettia tree in the Great Hall, crafted from 150 vibrant poinsettia plants. Built between 1893 and 1895 by Cornelius Vanderbilt II, one of America’s wealthiest men, The Breakers epitomizes Gilded Age opulence. Designed by renowned architect Richard Morris Hunt, this grand retreat combines the elegance of a classic Italian palazzo with modern technology, American and European craftsmanship, and breathtaking ocean views.

 

Thames Street

Thames Street lies at the heart of Newport’s vibrant downtown, bustling with charming shops, delightful restaurants, and lively bars. Enjoy some free time to wander along this street, where seasonal decorations offer a taste of Newport's holiday spirit.

 

Marble House

Experience the opulence of Newport's Gilded Age mansions paired with the sparkle and magic of the holiday season. Marble House transforms into a festive wonderland, adorned with ornamented evergreens, themed Christmas trees, wreaths, fresh flowers, elegantly set dining tables with period silver and china, beautifully decorated mantelpieces throughout, and many more festive touches. Visitors can explore the mansion's rich history and holiday splendor through a self-guided audio tour.

 

Meal Information:

 

Dinner on day one is included at Johnny's Restaurant. Choices are:

• Chicken Picatta with capers

• 12 oz. Grilled NY Sirloin

• Vegetarian Entree

Dinner includes salad, dessert, coffee, tea, and soft drinks.

 

Lunch on day two is included at Blithewold Manor

Lunch will be served buffet-style and includes chicken bacon avocado sandwiches, caprese sandwiches with fresh mozzarella & basil, and roast beef sandwiches. Also included is pasta salad, potato chips, and dessert.

 

Menus are subject to change.

 

Need to Know:

• Blithwold Manor and Gardens: To fully enjoy your visit, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire for exploring the gardens and grounds.

• Newport Mansions: Visitors must bring their own smart device with earbuds/headsets and download the free Newport Mansions tour app before visiting. Click here to download the free Newport Mansions app in the Google Play Store for Android devices, or the Newport Mansions app in the App Store for Apple devices. Printed scripts may be available and staff may be on hand to answer questions.

• Every Starr trip includes deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation from one or more of our departure locations.

• A Starr Tour Director will accompany you on this trip.

• Baggage handling at hotels is included.

 

Accessibility:

• Blithewold Mansion & Gardens: The first floor is wheelchair accessible. There is no elevator access to the second floor. Benches are conveniently placed throughout the grounds for resting.

• Marble House: offers partial wheelchair accessibility. The front door has one step for entry. The second floor is accessible by elevator or stairs. The mezzanine, kitchen, and pantry are not wheelchair accessible. A handicap-accessible restroom is located on the second floor.

• Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Wyndham Newport Hotel (Middletown, RI)

The Wyndham Newport Hotel is your waterfront retreat near historic downtown Newport. The hotel has a restaurant/lounge, indoor pool, and fitness room. Guest rooms include one or two king-size beds, coffee maker, mini-fridge, microwave, hair dryer, and iron/board.