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Madeline's mom's top recommendation. The Gilded Age mansions are a testament to an era of unprecedented wealth and opulence, a time when America’s elite poured their fortunes into creating summer “cottages” that rival European palaces. The Preservation Society has preserved 11 historic house museums, including 7 National Historic Landmarks, representing nearly 300 years of American history. Our favorites: The Breakers (1895)- This 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo is the grandest of Newport's summer "cottages" and a symbol of the Vanderbilt family's social and financial pre-eminence in the Gilded Age. Marble House (1892)- Inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles, this mansion was a 39th birthday gift to Alva Vanderbilt from her husband, William K. Vanderbilt.
3.5-mile Cliff Walk is the perfect place for your moment of peace. Panoramic ocean views, crashing waves and the perfect amount of sea breeze on one side and stunning, century-old, Gilded Age mansions on the other. There are eight street access points that allow you to enter or exit the trail at any point. We suggest starting your walk from Forty Steps. Even if you're not in the mood for a walk, head to this spot for a beautiful backdrop for a quick picture!
**Make reservations in advance** Make extra time during your mansions tour for this unique brunch/lunch experience! This house was used under owner, Alva Vanderbilt, as a meeting space for her women’s suffrage movement activities. Tea has been noted to have been served on saucers inscribed with the words “Votes for Women.” The bride brought her mom, and mom's best friend, Sharon, here for a Mother's Day Brunch & they all were truly blown away by the experience.
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They offer the largest selection of oysters in town, along with a variety of seafood dishes. Fun fact: This is where Madeline's Matron of Honor, Tara, and her husband, Tyler, had their first lobster roll. Sean loves his lobster rolls hot & buttered. Madeline prefers a cold mayo salad roll. Either way, 10/10 recommend ordering one before you leave.
If you’re looking for an authentic New England clam shack style restaurant, here is one of our favorites! They offer a huge variety of classic seafood, and some of the best chowder & lobster rolls in the area. Featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive In's, and Dives!!
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