Museum of Newport History Brick Market
Explore Newport's maritime and social history in the iconic 1772 Brick Market building, a colonial architectural gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Museum of Newport History Brick Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Newport's maritime and social history in the iconic 1772 Brick Market building, a colonial architectural gem.
"A must-see spot for anyone visiting the area, offering fascinating exhibits and a great shop."
🎟️ Museum Admission
A small fee ($5 suggested donation) grants access to the upstairs museum exhibits.
🚶♀️ Book Walking Tours
Themed walking tours are popular; book ahead online or at the shop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Brick Market Building
Washington Square
Admire the 1762 architecture by Peter Harrison, a colonial masterpiece.
Newport History Exhibits
Upstairs Museum
Explore maritime and social history with engaging displays and video guides.
Newport Historical Society Shop
Ground Floor
Discover unique books, souvenirs, and gifts inspired by Newport's rich past.
Walking Tours
Departing from the museum
Join guided tours like 'Rum & Revolution' for a deeper dive into local history.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Beyond the Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎟️ Museum Admission
A small fee ($5 suggested donation) grants access to the upstairs museum exhibits.
🚶♀️ Book Walking Tours
Themed walking tours are popular; book ahead online or at the shop.
🎁 Souvenir Shopping
The shop offers unique historical books and gifts, perfect for souvenirs.
⏳ Museum Size
The museum is compact, ideal for a 45-minute to 1-hour visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Museum Admission
A small fee ($5 suggested donation) grants access to the upstairs museum exhibits.
🚶♀️ Book Walking Tours
Themed walking tours are popular; book ahead online or at the shop.
🎁 Souvenir Shopping
The shop offers unique historical books and gifts, perfect for souvenirs.
⏳ Museum Size
The museum is compact, ideal for a 45-minute to 1-hour visit.
🌧️ Rainy Day Activity
A great indoor option for a wet day, offering history and shopping.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Museum of Newport History Brick Market a wonderful place to learn about Newport's past, with engaging exhibits and a well-curated shop. The suggested donation makes it accessible, and the walking tours are highly recommended for a deeper dive into local history, even on rainy days.
"Lots of historical books and souvenirs from newport. We actually only visited the shop, the museum is upstairs and it costs $5. You can also book some walking tours there.
We did the rum tour. Learned about how alcohol was treated during the last 300 years and had a rum cocktail at the end at the stoneacre Inn. It was interesting and the guide was very professional.
We had a good time even though it rained on the day of the tour."
Anita Maguire
"We visited this museum and gift shop with my husband while on a Newport getaway 3/1/23–3/3/23. What a wonderful place! So many fascinating exhibits and well worth the suggested donation. We had a great time there learning about the history of Newport. A must-see spot for anyone visiting the area. Thank you so much!"
Melissa D'Amico
"We visited the museum and shop, and had so much fun. The museum isn’t big, but it is just a good size to spend there 45 minutes and learn more about Newport History. We enjoyed the video guides at the carriage."
Juliana I
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in the heart of Newport at Washington Square. It's easily accessible by foot if you're exploring the downtown area. Parking may be available in nearby lots, but can be competitive during peak season.
While there isn't dedicated parking for the museum, several public parking lots and street parking options are available in the vicinity of Washington Square. Be prepared for potential fees and limited availability.
Yes, the museum is a pleasant walk from the Newport cruise port, typically taking around 10-15 minutes. It's a good way to see more of the city on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a suggested donation of $5 for museum entry. The shop is free to browse.
Hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Newport Historical Society website for the most up-to-date information on opening times for both the museum and the shop.
For general museum admission, advance booking is usually not required. However, for popular walking tours, it's highly recommended to book in advance online or at the shop.
Yes, members of the Newport Historical Society often receive discounts on walking tours and other society events. Inquire about membership benefits when you visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 45 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore the museum's exhibits thoroughly.
The museum focuses on the maritime and social history of Newport, featuring artifacts and stories from the region's past.
Yes, the Newport Historical Society offers various walking tours, such as the 'Rum & Revolution' tour, which often depart from the Brick Market.
The shop offers a curated selection of historical books, local crafts, souvenirs, and merchandise inspired by Newport's history.
The ground floor shop is generally accessible. Access to the upstairs museum may involve stairs, so it's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility options if needed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not have a dining facility. However, the shop offers some small items. There are numerous restaurants and cafes located within walking distance in Washington Square and the surrounding downtown area.
Some walking tours, like the 'Rum & Revolution' tour, may conclude with a drink at a local establishment, such as the Stoneacre Inn.
📸 📸 Photography
Typically, photography for personal use is allowed in museum shops and public areas. However, flash photography or professional photography may be restricted. It's best to check for posted signs or ask staff. 
The red brick exterior of the Brick Market itself is a popular subject for photographers, showcasing its colonial architecture. Washington Square also offers picturesque views.
The shop often features historical maps and prints, such as reproductions of John Speed's maps, which make for excellent photographic subjects or unique souvenirs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the museum, the Newport Historical Society Shop is a great place for kids to find interesting books or small souvenirs related to history. Consider booking a walking tour if your children enjoy stories and exploring outdoors; the guides are often adept at making history accessible and fun for all ages.
📚 History Buffs
Don't miss the opportunity to join one of the Newport Historical Society's walking tours. These themed excursions, like the 'Rum & Revolution' tour, provide in-depth historical context and often uncover lesser-known aspects of the city's heritage.
🚶 Day-Trippers
Consider booking a walking tour that departs from the museum for a structured way to see the city's historical highlights. This can be a great way to maximize your time and gain insights into Newport's past before heading to your next destination.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance of the Brick Market
+1Harrison's work in Newport is notable, and the Brick Market is a prime example of his contribution to American colonial architecture. The building's dual purpose as a commercial hub and administrative space highlights the functional needs of a growing colonial port city. Today, its preservation and use as a museum ensure that its architectural legacy continues to be appreciated by visitors.
Visitors often admire the building's classic facade, noting its historical context and the craftsmanship involved in its construction. The red brick exterior, in particular, is a frequent subject of photography, capturing the essence of Newport's historical charm.
Exploring Newport's History Through Tours
Popular tours include the 'Rum & Revolution' tour, which explores the complex relationship between alcohol, trade, and societal development in Newport's history. These tours are not just lectures; they are often interactive and can conclude with a tasting or a visit to a historical site, providing a multi-sensory experience. Travelers have found these tours to be engaging and informative, even on inclement weather days.
Booking these tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, as they are led by knowledgeable guides and offer a unique perspective on Newport's heritage. Membership in the Newport Historical Society can also provide discounts on these enriching experiences.
The Newport Historical Society Shop
Beyond books, the shop offers unique gifts and merchandise inspired by the museum's collections. This can range from reproductions of historical artifacts, like the 'Malbone plate' mentioned by the museum registrar, to items that celebrate Newport's architectural heritage.
These items provide a tangible connection to the stories and people of Newport's past, serving as excellent mementos or gifts. Travelers often praise the shop for its quality and relevance, noting that the items are thoughtfully chosen and offer a genuine connection to Newport's history. It's a great place to pick up a last-minute gift or a personal reminder of your visit.
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