The Breathtaking House In Rhode Island You Must Visit This Year

Rhode Island promises a little bit of everything, including a rich history. Even if you’re not a bona fide history buff, you’ll find yourself engrossed by the many tales Rhode Island has to tell. Discover a fascinating piece of the past when you go on a self-guided tour of this opulent house in Rhode Island. Bring the kiddos along, too. (There’s a special program for them.)

Get a glimpse into Rhode Island’s storied past when you embark on a self-guided tour of the Marble House, one of the beloved Newport Mansions.

Google/Marc Castro

With Marble House open on select days, you’ll be able to tour the home at your own pace, using the audio guide.

Google/Jason Holder

Meander through the opulent home that dates back to the late 1800s. Built for William and Alva Vanderbilt, Marble House served as a summer home for the couple and their three children.

Google/David Herszenson Mrs. Vanderbilt received the home, from her husband, as her 39th birthday present.

Boasting a price tag of more than $11 million, the majority of the money is said to have gone toward the marble that features prominently in the home.

Google/Ken Wong

The Vanderbilts would eventually divorce, and Alva would move out. Upon her new husband’s passing, she returned to Marble House. Alva was a proponent of a woman’s right to vote and hosted rallies at the mansion.

Google/Tommy Martinez

In the early 1930s, she sold Marble House and, in 1963, The Preservation Society of Newport County bought the historic home.

Google/Pyrric Victory

Today, the mansion welcomes visitors on select days for a self-guided tour. Be sure to download the free app and the tour before your visit. You’ll need earbuds, too.

Google/Ian McIlwraith

A special children’s self-guided tour, with audio, is also available.

Google/Quishi Li

After your tour, stop by the Chinese Tea House, built by Mrs. Vanderbilt upon her return to the mansion, for a bite to eat. Both indoor and outdoor seating is available.

Google/Nicolas E.

Learn more on The Preservation Society of Newport County website. Or, stop by its Facebook page.

Google/Karen W.

Have you toured the Marble House in Rhode Island? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! If you’re a fan of history, add these historic towns in Rhode Island to your bucket list.

Google/Marc Castro

Google/Jason Holder

Google/David Herszenson

Mrs. Vanderbilt received the home, from her husband, as her 39th birthday present.