Isaac Bell House Newport
A Shingle Style architectural gem by McKim, Mead & White, showcasing exquisite wood craftsmanship and Gilded Age design.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light enhances architecture
Isaac Bell House Newport
Best Time
Golden light enhances architecture
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Shingle Style architectural gem by McKim, Mead & White, showcasing exquisite wood craftsmanship and Gilded Age design.
"An outstanding architectural & historic landmark, highly recommended for architecture lovers!"
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Secure your spot online before visiting, even if you're a member. :ticket:
👢 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The grounds can be muddy; boots are recommended for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shingle Style Architecture
Exterior
Admire the distinctive Shingle Style exterior, a hallmark of American architecture from the Gilded Age.
Intricate Wood Paneling
Interior
Marvel at the detailed wood paneling and craftsmanship that defines the house's interior spaces.
Architectural Insights
Guided Tour
Gain deep knowledge from expert guides about the house's design, history, and former owners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Access
Dress for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Secure your spot online before visiting, even if you're a member. :ticket:
👢 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The grounds can be muddy; boots are recommended for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Use GPS for Directions
Navigate to 'Brenton Point State Park' for easier access. :world_map:
📸 Focus on Architecture
Appreciate the unique Shingle Style and interior details. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Secure your spot online before visiting, even if you're a member. :ticket:
👢 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The grounds can be muddy; boots are recommended for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Use GPS for Directions
Navigate to 'Brenton Point State Park' for easier access. :world_map:
📸 Focus on Architecture
Appreciate the unique Shingle Style and interior details.
🗣️ Engage with Guides
Guides offer fascinating insights into the house's history and design. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Isaac Bell House for its unique Shingle Style architecture and the knowledgeable guides who bring its history to life. The detailed wood paneling and craftsmanship are consistently highlighted as impressive features. However, some find the booking process cumbersome and note the limited furnishings inside the house.
"The Isaac Bell House is now open for about one month. If you are a Newport Mansions member, you may have to book your free tickets through the member portal. I have been a member for years, and the changes after COVID include restrictive dates and rules to see certain houses. Prior to 2020, visitors didn't have to book a tour for the Isaac Bell House -- they could just show up. Now, the process is cumbersome. I have a member plus individual membership. We got the tour, but were told we couldn't use the bathroom until every single person from the previous tour left the house, and that specific tour had started late because there were late people. Lovely house with minimal furnishings. The tour highlights the architecture and the wood paneling. Can you look at the second and fifth pictures and tell me there is no bulge in the roof? I was told there is no bulge, that there is a sun shadow."
Kelly Cambridgeport
"Nice tour, do not overlook this mansion. Nice having an actor guide. Love the additional architectural discussion. It was very interesting."
Zach Tripp
"The Isaac Bell House is an extraordinary historic house and a major place of interest in Newport Rhode Island.
In September of 2018, I brought and treated my wife and myself for a guided tour of the Isaac Bell House when celebrating our honeymoon in Newport, Rhode Island!!!
Designed by the renowned architectural firm, Mckim Mead & White during America’s Gilded Age, the house served as a summer residence for Isaac Bell Jr, a successful cotton broker & investor.
Today, the Isaac Bell House is a historic house museum, offering guided tours to the public, and due to its rich heritage and well designed architectural features, has been listed on the National Register Of Historic Places and designated a National Historic Landmark.
During our guided tour, my wife and I learned much about the history of the Isaac Bell House and were very impressed with the use of the Shingle Style Architecture on its exterior. We also liked the wall-paneling and wooden floor which is featured in the house’s interior.
The Isaac Bell House is an outstanding architectural & historic landmark, and my wife and I very much enjoyed our guided tour experience!!!"
Greg Harris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Isaac Bell House is located at Brenton Point State Park on Ocean Drive in Newport, Rhode Island. Many visitors find it easiest to use GPS and enter 'Brenton Point State Park' to navigate directly to the area. Parking is available at the park.
Yes, parking is available at Brenton Point State Park, which is adjacent to the Isaac Bell House. Be prepared for potentially muddy conditions if you're walking from the parking area.
While it's possible to walk along Ocean Drive, it's a significant distance from the main cluster of Newport Mansions. Driving or taking a taxi/rideshare is generally more practical.
To avoid confusion, input 'Brenton Point State Park' into your GPS. This will guide you to the general vicinity, and the house is a short walk from there.
Public transportation options to Brenton Point State Park are limited. It's advisable to check local bus routes or consider ride-sharing services for convenient access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, advance ticket booking is required for the Isaac Bell House, even for members of the Newport Mansions. It's recommended to book online through the Preservation Society of Newport County's website.
Currently, visits to the Isaac Bell House are primarily through guided tours. These tours offer valuable insights into the architecture and history of the house.
Newport Mansions members can book free tickets, but advance reservations are still necessary through the member portal.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be subject to change. It's best to check the official Newport Mansions website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and availability.
Prior to 2020, walk-up tickets were often available. However, post-COVID, advance booking is generally required to manage capacity and ensure a smooth visitor experience.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Isaac Bell House is celebrated for its distinctive Shingle Style architecture, a prominent example of this design from America's Gilded Age. Its exterior and interior showcase unique craftsmanship.
Inside, you'll find beautifully preserved wood paneling and floors, highlighting the architectural details and the era's design sensibilities. Furnishings are minimal, focusing on the structure itself.
Restroom access can be restricted to specific times or locations, and may not be available inside the house itself. It's advisable to use facilities before your tour begins.
While children can visit, the focus on architectural details might be more engaging for adults and older children interested in history and design. The surrounding park offers space for younger ones to explore.
Guided tours usually last around 45 minutes to an hour, providing a comprehensive overview of the house's history and architectural significance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions posted at the entrance or ask your guide.
The exterior, with its unique Shingle Style, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, focus on capturing the intricate wood paneling and architectural details.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic sites and state parks to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. Check with Brenton Point State Park regulations for specific rules.
Late afternoon on a sunny day provides beautiful light that highlights the architectural features of the house, both inside and out.
Visitors often recommend capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the exterior and the detailed woodwork inside, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the surrounding Brenton Point State Park offers a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy the outdoors. The park provides open spaces for kids to run around, stunning ocean views, and a chance to explore the coastline. Consider visiting the park before or after your house tour to balance the experience. Just remember to wear appropriate footwear for potentially muddy paths if you plan to explore the grounds.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Engage deeply with the guided tours, as the guides are often lauded for their in-depth knowledge of the house's design, history, and the lives of its inhabitants. This is an opportunity to learn about the transition from Victorian opulence to the more relaxed aesthetics of the Gilded Age. The house's relatively minimal furnishings allow the architectural elements to truly shine.
🚶 Day-Trippers from Providence
To maximize your day, book your Isaac Bell House tour in advance and consider combining it with a visit to Brenton Point State Park for scenic views. Factor in travel time from Providence (approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes) and allow ample time for parking and navigating to the house. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds can be uneven and muddy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Significance of the Isaac Bell House
Inside, the house continues to impress with its focus on craftsmanship and natural materials. The extensive use of wood paneling, particularly in the main living areas, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The intricate joinery and detailing in the woodwork are a testament to the skill of the artisans of the time. The interior layout emphasizes open spaces and a connection between rooms, reflecting a more modern approach to domestic living for the Gilded Age. Visitors often remark on the quality of the materials and the enduring beauty of the interior finishes.
While the Isaac Bell House may not possess the sheer opulence of some of Newport's more famous mansions, its architectural integrity and historical significance make it a must-visit for enthusiasts. It offers a unique perspective on the evolution of American residential architecture and the design philosophies of its era. The Preservation Society of Newport County has done an excellent job preserving this gem, allowing visitors to appreciate its understated elegance and historical context.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Fellow Travelers
Getting to the house can also present minor challenges. While it's located within the scenic Brenton Point State Park, the path leading to the house can become quite muddy, particularly after rainfall. Several visitors have recommended wearing sturdy footwear, like boots, to navigate the grounds comfortably. For easier navigation, using a GPS and entering 'Brenton Point State Park' is a common tip to avoid getting lost.
Once inside, the tour focuses heavily on the architectural details and the history of the house and its owners. Guides are often praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the experience enriching for architecture buffs. Be aware that restroom facilities might be limited or have specific access rules, so it’s wise to use facilities before your tour begins.
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