The Breakers Newport
Palatial Gilded Age summer home of the Vanderbilts, featuring 70 rooms of ornate artwork, gardens & ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
The Breakers Newport
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Palatial Gilded Age summer home of the Vanderbilts, featuring 70 rooms of ornate artwork, gardens & ocean views.
"The Breakers is absolutely stunning! Such a nice mansion with incredible architecture, rich history, and beautifully preserved details."
🎧 Audio Tour is a Must
Enhance your visit with the audio guide; it's incredibly informative and brings the Vanderbilt legacy to life.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking indoors and outdoors, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Hall
Interior
Jaw-dropping central hall with marble fireplaces and gilded ceilings, embodying Gilded Age opulence.
Oceanfront Lawn
Exterior
Stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from the meticulously maintained rear lawn.
Gertrude Vanderbilt's Bedroom
Second Floor
A vision of floral elegance and gilded accents, this room channels Gilded Age royalty.
Dining Room
Interior
An unforgettable space that hosted opulent parties, showcasing exquisite artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Allocate Ample Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Audio Tour is a Must
Enhance your visit with the audio guide; it's incredibly informative and brings the Vanderbilt legacy to life.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking indoors and outdoors, so comfortable footwear is essential.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Photography is allowed indoors (no flash), so capture the intricate details and grandeur.
🚗 Convenient Parking
Parking is plentiful and convenient, making your arrival hassle-free.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Audio Tour is a Must
Enhance your visit with the audio guide; it's incredibly informative and brings the Vanderbilt legacy to life.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking indoors and outdoors, so comfortable footwear is essential.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Photography is allowed indoors (no flash), so capture the intricate details and grandeur.
🚗 Convenient Parking
Parking is plentiful and convenient, making your arrival hassle-free.
🚶 Explore the Grounds
Don't just see the mansion; walk around the beautiful grounds and enjoy the ocean breeze.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Breakers for its stunning Gilded Age architecture, opulent interiors, and breathtaking oceanfront location. The audio tour is highly recommended for its informative content, and the well-maintained grounds offer a beautiful setting for exploration. While generally a positive experience, some visitors note that it can get crowded, especially during peak season.
"An impressive summer mansion with beautiful surroundings. The interiors are grand, but what I enjoyed most was the area around it. You can walk around, explore, and even do a small hike along the shore near the property. A lovely spot to experience both history and scenic views."
Jishnu Nair
"The Breakers is absolutely stunning! Such a nice mansion with incredible architecture, rich history, and beautifully preserved details throughout. Walking through the rooms feels like stepping back in time, and every space has its own unique charm. On top of that, the view of the ocean from the property is breathtaking and makes the visit even more special. Definitely a must-see if you’re in Newport!"
S.H. M
"Visited June 2025 | Spent ~3.5 hours
The Breakers is a breathtaking mansion and a true masterpiece of the Gilded Age. We spent about 3 to 4 hours here, and every minute was worth it. The audio tour was incredibly informative and easy to follow, blending history with personal stories that brought the Vanderbilt legacy to life.
The architecture is grand and luxurious, with intricate details in every room—from marble fireplaces and gilded ceilings to hand-painted murals and imported furnishings. The Grand Hall is just jaw-dropping! The ocean views from the rear lawn are stunning, and you can imagine the opulent parties that must’ve taken place here.
The grounds are beautifully maintained, and there are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the ocean breeze. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the whole experience felt well-organized and peaceful despite a moderate crowd.
Pro tips:
• Definitely get the audio guide—it enhances the experience immensely.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there’s quite a bit of walking (both indoors and outdoors).
• Allow at least 2.5–4 hours if you want to explore at a relaxed pace and soak it all in.
• Photography is allowed indoors (no flash), and there are so many photo-worthy spots.
Would highly recommend this to anyone visiting Newport—whether you’re into history, architecture, or just want to enjoy a beautiful day by the sea."
Anish Sinha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Breakers is located at 44 Ochre Point Avenue, Newport, RI 02840. If driving, it's easily accessible via major highways. Public transportation options are limited, so many visitors opt for driving or ride-sharing services.
Yes, there is plentiful and convenient parking available on-site for visitors.
Absolutely! The Breakers is a popular day trip destination from Boston, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.
Many visitors use ride-sharing services or taxis to travel between the mansions. Some also opt for walking if distances are short, or consider a trolley tour for a comprehensive overview.
While the historic nature of the mansion presents some challenges, The Breakers offers accessible routes and accommodations. It's best to contact them directly for specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's recommended to check the official Preservation Society of Newport County website for the most current pricing. Booking in advance is advised.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your entry time and avoid potential queues.
Opening hours for The Breakers can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Newport Mansions website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, you can often purchase tickets at the door, but timed entry might be required, and availability can be limited during busy periods. Booking ahead is safer.
Yes, the Preservation Society of Newport County often offers various ticket packages that allow you to visit multiple mansions at a discounted rate, which is a great way to see more of Newport's history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend between 2.5 to 4 hours exploring The Breakers, including the mansion interior, grounds, and audio tour.
Yes, an audio tour is highly recommended as it significantly enhances the experience by providing historical context and personal stories.
Photography is permitted inside The Breakers, but please refrain from using flash to protect the historic interiors.
There is no strict dress code, but comfortable attire and shoes are recommended, especially for exploring the grounds and extensive interiors.
While the audio tour is self-guided, there are often staff members available to answer questions, and special guided tours may be offered. Inquire upon arrival or check the website.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Breakers itself does not have a full-service restaurant. However, there are often cafes or snack bars available on-site or nearby for light refreshments.
Newport offers a wide array of dining options. For a quick bite, consider The Mooring, or explore the many restaurants along Thames Street for diverse culinary experiences.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the mansion itself, but you may be able to enjoy them on designated outdoor areas or picnic spots on the grounds.
📸 📸 Photography
The Grand Hall, the oceanfront lawn, Gertrude Vanderbilt's bedroom, and the exterior architecture offer stunning photo opportunities.
No, flash photography is not permitted inside The Breakers to help preserve the historic artwork and interiors.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites like The Breakers to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. Check with the venue for specific regulations.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light for exterior shots, while mornings can offer softer light for interior photography.
Professional photoshoots may require special permits and advance arrangements. It's best to contact the venue directly for their policies on commercial or professional photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit smoother, bring snacks and drinks for before or after the tour, as dining options inside are limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
Prioritize which mansions are most important to you to avoid unnecessary expenses. Pack your own snacks and water to save on on-site purchases. Focus on enjoying the exterior beauty and the ocean views from the grounds, which are often accessible with a general admission ticket.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
+1Explore the various rooms, each with its own distinct character and story, such as Gertrude Vanderbilt's bedroom or the grand dining room.
The mansion's preservation allows for an authentic experience, offering insights into the opulent lifestyle and the craftsmanship of the late 19th century. Consider researching the Vanderbilt family and the Gilded Age prior to your visit to further enhance your appreciation of the historical context. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vanderbilt Legacy and The Breakers
+1 With 70 rooms spread across 138,300 square feet, it was the largest of Newport's Gilded Age mansions and remains Rhode Island's most visited attraction. The Vanderbilt family continued to use The Breakers as a summer residence until 2018, preserving its historical integrity. The Gilded Age was a period of rapid economic growth and social change in the United States, marked by ostentatious displays of wealth. The Vanderbilts, pioneers in the railroad and shipping industries, epitomized this era.
Visitors often remark on the sheer scale and detail of the mansion, with many highlighting the Grand Hall as particularly breathtaking.
+1Architectural Grandeur and Design
+1 Inspired by the Italian Renaissance, the mansion's exterior features classical Roman influences, including grand columns and arches, creating an imposing yet elegant facade. The interior design is a symphony of luxury, with extensive use of marble, gilded accents, and intricate detailing throughout its 70 rooms. Each room within The Breakers tells a story through its unique design and furnishings. From the richly decorated dining room, which hosted lavish banquets, to the more intimate spaces like Gertrude Vanderbilt's bedroom, adorned with floral motifs and gilded accents, every detail reflects the wealth and aesthetic sensibilities of the Vanderbilt family.
The Ladies' Reception Room, for instance, offers insights into the craftsmanship and hidden details of the era. The sheer scale of The Breakers, covering over 138,000 square feet, is a testament to the ambition and resources of the Vanderbilt family.
Visitors are consistently impressed by the preservation of these historic interiors, allowing them to experience the grandeur of the Gilded Age firsthand. Experiencing The Breakers: Tips for Visitors
Comfortable footwear is a must, as you'll be doing a significant amount of walking both inside the mansion and across its expansive grounds.
While The Breakers doesn't have extensive dining facilities, there are often cafes for light refreshments. Newport itself offers a wide range of dining options nearby, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit