Step back in time and experience the grandeur of Newport’s Gilded Age with the Newport Viking Trolley Tour. This 90-minute excursion showcases over 150 iconic sights, including the renowned Bellevue Avenue and Ocean Drive. But the real highlights are the exclusive visits to The Breakers and Marble House – two magnificent Gilded Age mansions that offer a glimpse into the lavish lives of the era’s elite. With convenient departures from the Newport Gateway Center and accessibility for all, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Newport’s storied past. Discover the remarkable history and architecture that have captivated visitors for generations.
Key Points
- The 90-minute Newport Viking Trolley Tour showcases over 150 points of interest in Newport, including Bellevue Avenue and Ocean Drive.
- The tour includes admission to two iconic Newport mansions: The Breakers and Marble House, allowing guests to explore each for one hour.
- The wheelchair-accessible trolley departs from the convenient Newport Gateway Center (Bus Terminal), providing easy access to the tour.
- The tour accommodates a maximum of 24 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized sightseeing experience for families and individuals with mobility challenges.
- Audio and written guides are available in English, Spanish, and French, catering to the diverse cultural backgrounds of visitors.
Tour Details
The tour is a 90-minute trolley sightseeing experience that takes visitors through Newport, Rhode Island, showcasing over 150 points of interest, including the renowned Bellevue Avenue and Ocean Drive.
Travelers will visit two iconic Newport mansions – The Breakers and Marble House – with a 1-hour tour at each.
The family-friendly, wheelchair-accessible trolley is driven by a professional guide who’ll provide commentary throughout the journey.
Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or simply taking in the scenic coastal views, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the highlights of Newport.
Included Attractions
Visitors on the Newport Viking Trolley Tour gain admission to two of the area’s most renowned historical attractions: The Breakers and Marble House.
The Breakers, a Gilded Age mansion, offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of 19th-century America’s elite. Visitors can explore the opulent rooms and learn about the Vanderbilt family who once called it home.
The Marble House, another Gilded Age marvel, features an extravagant design and stunning marble architecture. Tour-goers will have the opportunity to wander through these magnificent estates for one hour each, gaining a deeper appreciation for Newport’s rich history and the wealth that once defined it.
These included admissions enhance the overall sightseeing experience, providing a well-rounded introduction to the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Meeting Location and Pickup
Travelers meet at the Newport Gateway Center (Bus Terminal), where they board the Viking Trolley at Post 3 located at 23 Americas Cup Avenue in Newport, Rhode Island.
The trolleys depart from this meeting point approximately 15 minutes prior to the start of the 90-minute tour. This convenient location allows visitors to easily access the tour and begin their exploration of Newport’s top attractions.
Once the tour concludes, guests are returned to the same meeting point where they can continue their day or head to their next destination. The tour’s meeting and pickup logistics ensure a seamless start and end to the sightseeing experience.
Accessibility and Group Size
Wheelchair-accessible trolleys are available upon request, ensuring the tour is inclusive for all visitors.
The tours accommodate a maximum of 24 travelers, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience. This small group size means guests can easily interact with the knowledgeable driver/guide and ask questions throughout the tour.
The accessible nature of the trolleys and the limited group size create a comfortable and enjoyable outing for families, individuals with mobility challenges, and anyone interested in exploring the historic sights of Newport, Rhode Island.
Whether you’re exploring the grandiose mansions or taking in the picturesque coastal views, the Newport Viking Trolley Tour caters to the needs of all its guests.
Confirmation and Language Options
Confirmation of the booking is received at the time of purchase, unless the tour is booked within 3 days of the travel date.
Audio and written guides in multiple languages are available at both The Breakers and Marble House, catering to the diverse cultural backgrounds of visitors.
The tour offers the following language options:
- English
- Spanish
- French
These guides provide visitors with detailed information about the history, architecture, and significance of these iconic Newport mansions, ensuring a rich and informative experience for all.
Cancellation Policy
Customers can cancel their tour reservations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but no refund is provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour experience. This flexible cancellation policy allows customers to easily adjust their plans if needed.
However, last-minute cancellations aren’t eligible for a refund, as this can disrupt the tour logistics and prevent others from booking the available spots. By providing clear guidelines on the cancellation policy, the tour operator ensures transparency and fairness for all customers.
This policy strikes a balance between accommodating changes in plans and maintaining the integrity of the tour experience.
Duration and Highlights
Lasting 90 minutes, the Newport Viking Trolley Tour provides a comprehensive sightseeing experience, showcasing over 150 points of interest throughout the city, including the renowned Bellevue Avenue and Ocean Drive.
The tour also includes visits to two of Newport’s most iconic mansions – The Breakers and The Marble House – allowing visitors to explore these stunning architectural marvels up close for an hour each.
The key highlights of the tour include:
- A guided journey through Newport’s picturesque streets and landmarks aboard a comfortable, wheelchair-accessible trolley.
- The chance to step inside The Breakers, a Gilded Age mansion that was once the summer home of the Vanderbilt family.
- A tour of The Marble House, another grand Newport estate known for its opulent design and rich history.
Professional Driver/Guide
The professional driver and guide leads the Newport Viking Trolley Tour, ensuring a seamless and informative experience for guests. They’re knowledgeable about the area’s history and points of interest, providing engaging commentary throughout the 90-minute tour.
Guests can sit back and relax as the driver navigates the trolley through the picturesque streets of Newport, allowing them to fully enjoy the sights and stories.
The driver’s skill and the guide’s expertise work in tandem to create a well-organized and enriching tour, making it the perfect way for visitors to explore the highlights of this charming Rhode Island city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specified dress code for the tour. Guests can wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and spending time outdoors. The tour is family-friendly and accessible for wheelchair users.
Are Refreshments Provided During the Tour?
No, refreshments are not provided during the tour. The tour includes admission to The Breakers and Marble House mansions, but food and drinks are not part of the experience. Travelers should plan to bring any desired snacks or beverages.
Can I Take Pictures Inside the Mansions?
Yes, visitors can take photos inside the Breakers and Marble House mansions during the 1-hour tours. However, flash photography may be prohibited to protect the historic interiors. Visitors should check with tour guides for any specific photography guidelines.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?
Yes, the tour offers discounts for seniors (65+) and children (ages 5-17). Seniors receive a discounted rate, while children under 5 can join the tour for free. Discounted rates are clearly listed on the tour’s website and at the booking stage.
How Often Do the Trolleys Run Throughout the Day?
The trolleys depart from the meeting point approximately every 15 minutes prior to the start of the tour, allowing for flexibility in scheduling. The tour runs on a set schedule throughout the day.
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Recap
The Newport Viking Trolley Tour offers an immersive sightseeing experience showcasing Newport’s iconic landmarks, including the renowned Bellevue Avenue and Ocean Drive.
Guests can explore the grandeur of The Breakers and Marble House, two Gilded Age architectural marvels, and enjoy the convenience of the wheelchair-accessible trolley departing from the Newport Gateway Center.
With guides available in English, Spanish, and French, the tour caters to diverse cultural backgrounds.
