Everything Newport Has to Offer

Mention Newport Rhode Island and the first thing that comes to mind for most people will be the Mansions. Today's Newport marries the old world with the modern world with architecture, activities, artistry, entertainment, and culinary delights.

Step back in time into the Colonial 1700's when George Washington visited. Or imagine yourself a socialite in the Gilded Age during the unprecedented growth of a new country and the rise of its elite class. The Newport Preservation Society in conjunction with the Historical society provide enjoyable and educational programs throughout the year with a more opulent decorated version at Christmastime for anyone interested in the historic content surrounding them.

Not so well know are the culinary delights and artisans of the island. Before settling for a few months respite after a busy tourist season the city offers an array of diverse delights to entertain, beguile, and enthrall the public. Enjoy a brisk walk on a private beach, take home a local vintage as a gift for the wine connoisseur on your Christmas list and taste all the finest culinary delights in one place before the long winters slumber. Walk the galleries of Thames Street and the surrounding area discovering new talent at every turn.

11/2/2006 - 11/16/2006 Holiday Lantern Tours of Historic Newport
Discover the authentic history of Newport holiday traditions during a lantern-lit stroll through the exquisitely preserved streets of central Newport. Join professionally trained guides from the Newport Historical Society for an exploration of four centuries of Newport holidays. On a visit inside the 1697 Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House, learn about changing approaches to holiday decorations and home festivities.
Newport Colony House, Top of Washington Sq., Newport, 401-846-0813 www.newporthistorical.org

The Newport Historical Society takes great pains to recreate the heyday of a colonial Newport. Well-versed staff members reiterate stories, both ruinous and bountiful, as you stroll the narrow cobbled streets and uneven sidewalks peering into hidden gardens you are transported to a time of fear and excitement unrivaled in American history.

11/3/2006 - 11/5/2006 St. Francis Vineyards Wine Weekend
St. Francis Vineyards Wine Weekend, a two-night weekend package. Call for more information.
Castle Hill Inn and Resort, 590 Ocean Dr., Newport, 888-466-1355 www.castlehillinn.com

Victorian Lodging, secluded walking trail, Castle Hill Lighthouse, and a private beach are just a few of the relaxingly luxurious experiences this weekend offers. This ocean front retreat showcases the rugged beauty of the Newport coastline.

11/9/2006 - 11/9/2006 Newport Gallery Night
Art exhibits of galleries include hand blown glass, wood block prints, award winning photography, international handcrafts and fine arts. Many of the galleries host opening receptions, introduce artists and new exhibits on Gallery Night. Free admission to all galleries and free parking at Newport Visitors Information Center, 23 America's Cup Ave., or the Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave.
Citywide, Newport 401-848-8200 www.nepwortgalleries.org

Take a piece of the city by the sea back to your home.

11/9/2006 - 12/30/2006 Victorian Christmas Living History Tour
Waltzing, merriment and holiday warmth await in the re-creation of Christmas 1891.
The Astors' Beechwood Mansion, 580 Bellevue Ave., Newport 401-846-3772 www.astorsbeechwood.com

The Beechwood mansion was acquired by the Astor family in 1881 and became the social center for New York society. A position the home held for the entire run of the Gilded Age, a full 25 years. The lady of the house Caroline Astor insisted on being called "The Mrs. Astor" by friends and family and is the undisputed queen of American society. Now a privately owned estate the mansion is available to the public for parties and weddings. Visit during their Christmas tour to get a taste of the grandeur of times gone by. If you like what you see you may consider hosting your next social event in this fabulous Victorian setting.

11/12/2006 23rd Annual Taste of Newport
More than forty-five of Newport County's best chefs and caterers join together to showcase their culinary expertise and share their delicious creations with more than 500 guests. The event also includes a silent and live auction as well as a raffle.
Hyatt Regency Newport, 1 Goat Island, Newport 401-848-4101

It's the perfect time of year to partake of the regions bounties. Be it fruits of the sea or the field you're sure to enjoy this repast.

11/18/2006 - 1/1/2007 Christmas at the Newport Mansions
The glitter of gold and sparkle of silver complement the three mansions' grandeur.
The Breakers, the Elms, Marble House, Newport 401-847-1000 www.newportmansions.org

If you want to truly become part of the living history that is Newport there is no better way than to visit the three mansions on the Christmas tour. The Elms, The Breakers, and Marble House provide a glimpse of the extravagance of the Gilded Age. The period style decoration of each house and musical enhancement transport you back to the most opulent parties in America during the late 1800's.