Rosecliff Mansion Newport
A Gilded Age masterpiece inspired by Versailles, Rosecliff Mansion enchants with its grand ballroom and ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Rosecliff Mansion Newport
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Gilded Age masterpiece inspired by Versailles, Rosecliff Mansion enchants with its grand ballroom and ocean views.
"Rosecliff is truly one of the most breathtaking venues in Newport, an unforgettable encounter with elegance."
🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead
Secure your spot, especially for special events like the Newport Flower Show, to avoid disappointment.
🎧 Audio Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with an audio tour for in-depth stories and historical context.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Ballroom
Interior
The heart of Rosecliff, this magnificent ballroom was designed for extravagant parties and feels like stepping onto a movie set.
Oceanfront Terrace & Gardens
Exterior
Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and stroll through meticulously manicured gardens, offering a romantic backdrop.
Heart-Shaped Grand Staircase
Interior
An iconic architectural feature, this elegant staircase has graced the silver screen in films like The Great Gatsby.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gilded Age Glamour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead
Secure your spot, especially for special events like the Newport Flower Show, to avoid disappointment.
🎧 Audio Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with an audio tour for in-depth stories and historical context.
📸 Capture the Views
The oceanfront terrace and gardens offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
👠 Dress for Elegance
While not required, dressing up can enhance the feeling of stepping back into the Gilded Age.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead
Secure your spot, especially for special events like the Newport Flower Show, to avoid disappointment.
🎧 Audio Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with an audio tour for in-depth stories and historical context.
📸 Capture the Views
The oceanfront terrace and gardens offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
👠 Dress for Elegance
While not required, dressing up can enhance the feeling of stepping back into the Gilded Age.
🚗 Parking Considerations
Parking can be limited; consider ride-sharing or arriving early during peak season.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rosecliff Mansion is widely praised for its breathtaking beauty, elegant architecture, and stunning ocean views, making it a dream venue for weddings and a captivating historical site. Visitors are enchanted by its grand ballroom and romantic gardens, often comparing it to stepping into a fairytale or a movie scene. However, some find the admission price steep for the size of the house, and during popular events like the Newport Flower Show, it can become uncomfortably crowded.
"Rosecliff is truly one of the most breathtaking venues in Newport. As a wedding photographer, I’m always inspired by the elegance of this mansion—the sweeping staircase, ornate ballroom, and manicured gardens make for the most timeless backdrops. Every corner feels like it was designed for a love story, from golden hour portraits on the terrace overlooking the water to romantic first dances under the gilded ceilings.
The team here is also wonderful to work with, ensuring every event runs seamlessly. If you’re looking for a venue that’s equal parts iconic and romantic, Rosecliff is a dream come true.
(Sharing a few of my favorite photos from a wedding here so future couples can envision the magic!)"
Margarita Morris (Rhode Photo & Film)
"Rosecliff is an unforgettable encounter with elegance—like stepping into a romantic daydream. It’s one of those places that truly takes your breath away, the kind of timeless beauty and grace you rarely see anymore. Inspired by the Grand Trianon at Versailles, the mansion is both grand and inviting, with that classic Beaux-Arts charm. The ocean views are absolutely stunning, the gardens are picture-perfect, and there’s a quiet magic to it all that lingers long after you leave."
Rand .Valverde
"Went for the 2025 Newport Flower Show. Had never gone before and now understand why there are limited tickets and specific time slots for said tickets. It was cute and fun, but very crowded. As a "younger" horticulturalist who came to the NFS to supplement the loss of the Boston Flower Show, I was slightly disappointed and overall would think twice about doing it again. It felt like most people were there to be pretty around pretty plants and dont get their hands dirty 😂 I expected a slow moving crowd as these events usually attract the older generation, and that is exactly what happened. It wasn't just the elderly's fault though. I have patience for old people who love plants. It was the combination of older people and the younger IG photo snapping crowd was a disaster. The house is big but not THAT big, and I feel like everyone was so posh with their noses in the air they didnt take anyone else's time or space into consideration. There were displays I didnt even see because everyone needed a photo and couldnt get ir right, or would stand and wait til other got out kf their shot to get the perfect shot. The people were not the ephemeral vibe that plants and gardening is. The vendors fell below par, totally catering to the pretty posh people instead of plant people. I did get to touch base with a vendor from the Boston Flower Show, and that was great. Would probably attend solely to purchase from her in the future."
Chelsea Durr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rosecliff Mansion is located at 548 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI. If driving, parking is available on-site but can be limited during peak times. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services or taxis. Public transportation options are also available, though may require transfers.
Yes, local bus routes serve the Bellevue Avenue area, providing access to Rosecliff Mansion. Check the RIPTA (Rhode Island Public Transit Authority) schedule for specific routes and times.
For visiting multiple mansions, consider the Newport Trolley or a ride-sharing service. Walking is feasible between some mansions if you enjoy a stroll, but distances can be significant.
Rosecliff Mansion offers on-site parking. However, during busy periods and special events, parking can fill up quickly. Arriving early or considering alternative transportation is advised.
Yes, Rosecliff Mansion is a popular day trip destination from Boston. The drive typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it feasible for a full day of exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Rosecliff Mansion vary depending on the season and any special exhibitions. It's best to check the official Newport Mansions website for the most current admission fees and to purchase tickets in advance.
While tickets may be available at the door, it is highly recommended to purchase them online in advance, especially during peak season or for popular events, to guarantee entry and avoid potential sell-outs.
Rosecliff Mansion typically opens for the season in March and closes in December. Specific daily hours can vary, so it's essential to consult the Newport Mansions official website for the most up-to-date operating schedule.
Yes, Newport Mansions often offers various ticket packages that allow access to multiple properties at a discounted rate. This is a great option if you plan to visit more than one mansion.
The Newport Flower Show at Rosecliff Mansion is a popular event, but reviews suggest it can get very crowded, and some visitors felt the experience was more about photos than horticulture. If you enjoy floral displays and don't mind crowds, it could be worthwhile.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Rosecliff, you can explore its opulent interiors, including the grand ballroom, and admire the ocean views from the terrace and gardens. Audio tours provide historical context about its Gilded Age past and its role in films.
Rosecliff Mansion is incredibly photogenic, both inside and out. Its elegant architecture, stunning ballroom, and picturesque gardens make it a favorite for photographers, especially for weddings and events.
Photography is generally permitted inside Rosecliff Mansion for personal use, but tripods and flash photography may be restricted. Always check the latest guidelines upon arrival.
Completed in 1902, Rosecliff was built for silver heiress Theresa Fair Oelrichs and designed by Stanford White, inspired by the Grand Trianon at Versailles. It was primarily used for hosting lavish parties during the Gilded Age. +1
While there are no widespread reports of hauntings, the mansion's rich history and grand architecture lend themselves to a sense of timelessness and perhaps a touch of mystery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Rosecliff Mansion itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant for daily visitors. However, the Newport Wine & Food Festival held there offers food and drink. For other meals, numerous dining options are available in downtown Newport.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the mansion to preserve the historic interiors. There are often cafes or snack bars available at some of the larger Newport Mansions properties, but check in advance.
The Newport Wine & Food Festival at Rosecliff Mansion features a variety of gourmet food tastings from local chefs and restaurants, alongside wine and beverage pairings.
While there aren't designated picnic areas directly within the mansion's formal gardens, the surrounding Bellevue Avenue area and nearby parks offer opportunities for picnics with scenic views.
Newport offers a wide array of dining options. For seafood, The Mooring or Clarke Cooke House are popular. For a more casual bite, consider The Black Pearl or various eateries on Thames Street.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand ballroom, the heart-shaped staircase, the oceanfront terrace, and the meticulously landscaped gardens are prime locations for stunning photographs at Rosecliff.
Professional photography and tripods may be subject to specific rules and may require advance permission or additional fees. It's best to contact the Newport Mansions administration for their current photography policy.
Absolutely! Rosecliff Mansion is a highly sought-after wedding venue, and photographers frequently capture breathtaking images of couples against its elegant backdrop.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most magical light for photography at Rosecliff, especially on the terrace and gardens. Midday can be harsh, but the interiors are well-lit.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at historic properties like Rosecliff Mansion due to privacy concerns and potential impact on the structures and visitors. Always check local regulations and property rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for a more interactive experience, combining a visit to Rosecliff with other Newport attractions like the International Tennis Hall of Fame or a scenic harbor cruise might offer a more balanced itinerary. Keep in mind that younger children may have shorter attention spans for guided tours, so a shorter visit focused on the main highlights might be best.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing expensive items on-site. Look for free activities in Newport, such as exploring the public beaches or walking along Thames Street, to balance out the cost of mansion tours. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) might also offer slightly lower admission prices or fewer crowds, making the experience feel more valuable.
💖 Couples & Romance
For an extra special experience, consider visiting during the late afternoon to catch the golden hour light, which casts a beautiful glow over the mansion and its surroundings. Many couples choose Rosecliff for engagement photos or even their wedding venue, drawn by its timeless beauty and cinematic charm.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gilded Age Legacy of Rosecliff
The mansion's purpose as a party house is evident in its most striking feature: a colossal ballroom, designed to host hundreds of guests for dances and social gatherings. This grand space, with its soaring ceilings and elegant decor, remains the heart of Rosecliff and is often cited as one of its most breathtaking elements. The Oelrichs family used Rosecliff to entertain extensively, solidifying its reputation as a hub of Gilded Age social life. The mansion's history is also intertwined with popular culture, famously serving as a filming location for 'The Great Gatsby,' further cementing its image as a symbol of opulent, bygone eras.
Today, Rosecliff is preserved and managed by the Newport Restoration Association, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Gilded Age. Tours offer insights into the lives of the Oelrichs family and the social customs of the era. The mansion's enduring elegance and its role in cinematic history continue to draw visitors seeking a glimpse into a world of unparalleled luxury and architectural artistry.
Rosecliff Mansion: A Cinematic Star
Beyond 'The Great Gatsby,' Rosecliff has graced the screen in other notable productions. It was featured in the action-comedy 'True Lies' starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jamie Lee Curtis, and the romantic comedy '27 Dresses' with Katherine Heigl. The mansion's picturesque gardens and elegant interiors provide a versatile setting for a range of genres, from historical dramas to contemporary romances. Its timeless beauty allows filmmakers to evoke different eras and moods, making it a consistent favorite for productions seeking a touch of classic elegance.
For visitors, recognizing these cinematic connections can add an extra layer of enjoyment to their tour. Imagining scenes from these films playing out within the mansion's walls can bring its history to life in a unique and engaging way. The fact that Rosecliff continues to be chosen for major productions underscores its enduring appeal as a visually spectacular and historically rich landmark.
Weddings and Events at Rosecliff
Event planners and photographers consistently praise Rosecliff for its beauty and the magical experiences it hosts. The venue is particularly popular for its romantic ambiance, making it ideal for everything from intimate ceremonies to grand receptions. The surrounding gardens and terrace offer additional picturesque settings for photos, cocktail hours, and even outdoor ceremonies, weather permitting.
+1While Rosecliff offers unparalleled beauty, couples should be aware that it is a highly sought-after venue, and booking well in advance is crucial. The Newport Mansions organization manages events, ensuring a professional and seamless experience. The combination of historic grandeur and stunning seaside location makes Rosecliff a dream destination for those seeking a truly memorable event.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit