The Newport Trolley Tour with Marble House – Viking Tours offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s rich history and architectural marvels. Led by a knowledgeable driver-guide, the 90-minute tour immerses participants in the legacy of Newport’s Gilded Age elite. Providing admission to the opulent Marble House mansion, the experience showcases the city’s captivating coastal scenery and historic landmarks. With informative commentary, audio and written guides, and a maximum of 24 travelers, the tour caters to those seeking an insightful and immersive encounter with Newport’s past. While the overview may pique one’s interest, delving deeper into the tour’s specific offerings and the significance of the Marble House mansion could uncover a truly remarkable experience.

This experience made our list of the 12 Best Tours In Newport.

Key Points

  • The 90-minute driver-narrated trolley tour provides admission to the Marble House mansion and highlights Newport’s scenic landmarks and historic significance.
  • The tour offers informative commentary about the city’s Gilded Age history and architectural marvels, catering to a maximum of 24 travelers.
  • The Marble House, a Gilded Age landmark, features grand Baroque architecture, a 22-karat gold-leaf Main Dining Room, and a Versailles-inspired Petit Trianon.
  • The tour is conveniently located near public transportation, but it is not wheelchair-accessible.
  • The tour provides audio and written guides in multiple languages and has received positive reviews, earning a Badge of Excellence.

Tour Overview

Newport Trolley Tour With Marble House - Viking Tours - Tour Overview

The Newport Trolley Tour with Marble House – Viking Tours offers a 90-minute driver-narrated tour of scenic Newport, allowing visitors to learn about the city’s history and significance.

This tour also provides admission to the Marble House mansion.

The tour has received 81 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, indicating its quality and popularity.

During the tour, guests will explore Newport’s landmarks and attractions while listening to the guide’s informative commentary.

The tour also includes access to the Marble House, a stunning mansion that offers a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage.

With a maximum of 24 travelers, this tour is likely to sell out, making it a must-do activity for those visiting Newport.

What’s Included

This tour includes a 90-minute driver-narrated trolley tour of scenic Newport, as well as admission to the Marble House mansion.

The tour package offers the following:

  • A 90-minute guided trolley tour where a professional driver provides narration about Newport’s history and significance.
  • Access to the Marble House, a gilded age mansion that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of Newport’s elite.

Audio and written guides are available in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, German, and Chinese.

The tour has a maximum of 24 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

This comprehensive tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the beauty and history of Newport in a convenient and informative way.

Meeting and Pickup

Newport Trolley Tour With Marble House - Viking Tours - Meeting and Pickup

Travelers can meet at the Newport Gateway Center (Bus Terminal) Viking Trolley Post 3, located at 23 Americas Cup Avenue in Newport, RI 02840, where the trolleys depart.

The meeting point is conveniently located, making it easy for participants to find and board the trolley. The tour starts promptly, so it’s recommended that travelers arrive a few minutes early to ensure they don’t miss the departure.

The trolleys are equipped with professional guides who provide informative commentary throughout the tour, enhancing the overall experience.

The tour is easily accessible, as it’s near public transportation, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly. Travelers of all ages can participate, including infants who must sit on laps.

Additional Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and infants must sit on laps during the tour.

The trolley tour is located near public transportation, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Most travelers can participate in the experience, which is available in multiple languages including English, French, Spanish, German, and Chinese via audio and written guides.

Maximum of 24 travelers per tour.

Likely to sell out quickly.

Price: $44.00 with a lowest price guarantee.

Professional guides lead the experience.

Tour Details

The Viking Trolley Tour with Marble House can accommodate a maximum of 24 travelers per excursion, making it an intimate experience. Given its popularity, it’s likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.

The tour is priced at $44.00, which offers a lowest price guarantee. Travelers can expect a 90-minute driver-narrated trolley tour of scenic Newport, followed by admission to the Marble House mansion.

The tour is suitable for most participants, though infants must sit on laps, and it’s not wheelchair accessible. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour departs from the Newport Gateway Center’s Viking Trolley Post 3.

History and Significance

Newport’s rich history and cultural significance come alive during the Viking Trolley Tour with Marble House, providing visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s past.

The 90-minute driver-narrated tour highlights the city’s key landmarks and historic districts, weaving together the stories of its prominent families, architectural marvels, and pivotal events that have shaped Newport over the centuries.

Discovering the opulent Gilded Age mansions, like the Marble House, that once belonged to America’s wealthiest families.

Learning about Newport’s role as a hub for the American elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Exploring the city’s colonial roots and its transformation into a renowned resort destination.

Appreciating the diverse architectural styles that define Newport’s unique character.

Scenic Newport

During the 90-minute driver-narrated trolley tour, travelers can admire Newport’s captivating coastal scenery and historic landmarks.

From the comfort of the trolley, they’ll witness the city’s remarkable blend of natural beauty and architectural grandeur, which have long attracted visitors to this renowned New England destination.

As the trolley winds through the picturesque streets, passengers will be treated to breathtaking views of the Cliff Walk, a renowned 3.5-mile trail that hugs the rocky shoreline and offers stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.

The tour also showcases the opulent Gilded Age mansions that line Bellevue Avenue, providing a glimpse into Newport’s illustrious past as a summer playground for America’s elite.

Marble House Mansion

After the scenic trolley tour, visitors can explore the opulent Marble House mansion, a Gilded Age landmark that stands as a testament to Newport’s illustrious past. Built in 1892 for the Vanderbilt family, this breathtaking structure boasts grand Baroque architecture and features an impressive array of marble imported from across the globe.

Highlights of the Marble House include:

  1. The Main Dining Room, adorned with stunning 22-karat gold-leaf ceilings.

  2. The Chinese Tea House, a fanciful addition inspired by the owner’s love of Asian art and culture.

  3. The Versailles-inspired Petit Trianon, a testament to the Vanderbilts’ lavish tastes.

  4. The breathtaking marble Grand Ballroom, a centerpiece of the estate that epitomizes Gilded Age opulence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on tour, unless otherwise specified by the tour operator. It’s best to check the tour details or contact the company for their specific policy.

Is There a Restroom on the Trolley?

The trolley does not have a restroom on board. However, public restrooms are available at the Newport Gateway Center where the tour departs from. Guests are advised to use the facilities before the tour begins.

Can I Get off the Trolley and Explore on My Own?

Passengers can typically get off the trolley and explore on their own during the tour. However, they should follow the guide’s instructions and be back at the pickup location by the designated time to rejoin the group.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

Yes, Viking Tours offers discounts for seniors and students on the Newport Trolley Tour with Marble House. Seniors receive a 10% discount, while students with valid ID get a 15% discount off the regular tour price.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, many tour providers offer the option to extend the duration of their tours for an additional fee. This allows visitors to spend more time exploring the sights and attractions on the tour.

Recap

The Newport Trolley Tour with Marble House – Viking Tours offers a comprehensive 90-minute experience.

It showcases the city’s rich history, architectural marvels, and the legacy of its Gilded Age elite.

The tour provides admission to the opulent Marble House mansion and features informative commentary, audio and written guides.

It also offers the opportunity to take in Newport’s captivating coastal scenery and historic landmarks.