The older a town is, the richer and more colorful its history tends to be. The people who lived there, the events that transpired, the triumph and tragedy....The history of Newport, RI, is as prevalent as the waves that crash against the rocks. After all, this town is almost 400 years old.
The heyday of Newport was undoubtedly during the Gilded Age. This era of rapid economic growth followed the Civil War, in the late 19th century. At this time, a small number of business moguls amassed tremendous fortunes, and many of these titans of industry built their party houses in Newport, which billed itself as "America's First Resort".
As grand as these mansions were, not everyone was privileged enough to rest their heads on the satin pillows within their foreboding walls. For the unlucky masses, Newport hotels would have to suffice.
Historic Newport Hotels
In the United States, more than 200 hotels have been identified by the Historic Hotels of America. To be a part of this organization, which is dedicated to historic preservation, a hotel must be at least 50 years old and have a locally historic significance, among other things. Four Newport Hotels currently qualify:
- The Chanler at Cliff Walk – This building predates the Gilded Age, and was originally a summer home for a New York Congressman and his wealthy wife. In its 150-year existence, the structure has survived a fire, and has served as a school for girls and provided housing for Naval officers, among other things. Considered to be the first of what would be many Newport mansions, this hotel features 20 rooms and the best ocean views in Newport.
- The Newport Beach Hotel and Suites – Completely wiped out by a hurricane in 1938, this structure was re-built, and is currently the only beachfront hotel in Newport. The original building, and an all-suites structure located beside it, offer rooms ranging from $80 to $500. Granite and marble bathrooms, a rooftop hot tub and fire pit are among the many amenities.
- Vanderbilt Hall – Located in close proximity to all the beautiful things in Newport, including the harbor and the mansions of Bellevue Avenue, this 100+ year old facility was once the Newport Men's Social Club. Built by Alfred Vanderbilt, a member of what was the richest family in America, the structure currently serves as a 33-room hotel. So far, no fire, hurricane or other tragedy has visited Vanderbilt Hall, but its builder would not be so lucky. Alfred died on the Lusitania in 1915.
- The Hotel Viking – Built to accommodate some of the party guests of the day, this 210-room facility is a luxury hotel from top to bottom. The rooms feature exquisite Queen Anne and Chippendale furnishings, marble baths, Egyptian cotton sheets and rain showers. And, the Hotel Viking has a prestigious address that even the most ritzy mansion in town can't claim: One Bellevue Avenue. Suites cost up to $1400/night.
Newport Hotels and Mansions
With very few exceptions, nobody has the means to live in the luxurious accommodations provided by the fabulous mansions of Newport. Even in the halcyon days of the Gilded Age, only a select few could build in Newport, and Bellevue Avenue was among the most exclusive addresses in the world.
For everybody else, then and now, the historic Newport hotels are about as close as we'll ever get.
Dave Lovejoy - Dave is a graduate of the University of Nebraska. He is involved in farming and has a custom made furniture business that has customers ...
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