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Destination

October 20-24, 2019

Step back into a world of opulence and grandeur, where Newport, Rhode Island, served as the ultimate summer playground for America’s elite. During the Gilded Age, this coastal haven became the stage for the nation’s wealthiest to see and be seen, showcasing their fortunes in extravagant mansions and dazzling gatherings. Today, Newport’s coastline remains a stunning showcase of this era’s architectural splendor and unrestrained luxury, offering visitors a glimpse into one of the most fascinating chapters in American history.

I’ll be honest—our first Like Minds Travel event had me feeling every bit of first-time nerves. As I prepared for our opening meet-and-greet, I kept wondering: would our guests bond over their shared love for the Gilded Age, or would we be sitting there in awkward silence? But as soon as our guests began arriving at the hotel bar, I was met with the warmest, friendliest faces. My nerves faded quickly as laughter and conversation filled the room, growing louder with each new introduction. Right then, I knew we were in for an incredible few days in Newport. What a perfect start to this exciting new adventure!

We stayed at the Newport Harbor hotel and Marina located right next to Bowen’s Wharf. Perfect location as so many shops and restaurants are all right there within walking distance. 

First up on our Newport journey: Marble House—the breathtaking mansion designed by Richard Morris Hunt for Alva Vanderbilt. It’s a masterpiece of marble elegance, and visiting during this quieter season felt almost magical, as if we had each grand room to ourselves. My personal highlights? Consuelo’s dreamy bedroom and Alva’s striking lavender sanctuary. And for those familiar with Gilded Age society, there’s an extra thrill in knowing that The Mrs. Caroline Astor’s estate, Beechwood, is right next door. The history and rivalry between these two icons make this stop even more fascinating!

Next up: The Breakers—the true showstopper of Newport’s Gilded Age mansions, home to Alice and Cornelius Vanderbilt! We kicked off with the Beneath the Breakers tour, diving into the cutting-edge (for the time) technology that kept this grand estate running smoothly. We even got a peek at the vast wine cellar, complete with a few bottles still in place! Touring the mansion afterward was a treat—The Breakers is the epitome of opulence, with details like inlaid platinum in the Morning Room walls and a multi-level butler’s pantry. It’s the ultimate symbol of Gilded Age extravagance, and I couldn’t love it more!

Rosecliff, the elegant home of Tessie Oelrichs, heiress to a Nevada silver mining fortune, stands out in Newport for its graceful simplicity (well, by Gilded Age standards!). It may feel smaller, but it’s just as grand, and I’d say it has Newport’s prettiest ballroom. With its beautiful heart-shaped staircase, you can almost picture the lavish summer night parties held here. Imagine those ballroom doors flung open, revealing sweeping ocean views—absolute magic!

Chateau-sur-Mer offers a dramatic change of pace from Newport’s other mansions, trading marble for rich, intricate woodwork that creates a warm, inviting feel. This home became an unexpected favorite for me—not only is it slightly more understated, but the story of the family is fascinating, and the craftsmanship in the woodworking and floors is truly stunning. Its Italianate style and Victorian-era charm make it feel like stepping into a different era of Newport’s storied past. We followed this home tour with a lunch at La Forge Casino, the popular Gilded Age dining and tennis center. I recommend the lobster mac and cheese!

The Elms! This was an absolute highlight and might just be my favorite home in Newport. We began with the Servants’ Life tour, where we explored the extensive kitchens, laundry area, storage rooms, and servants’ quarters—all equipped with top-of-the-line amenities for the time. These grand homes really operated like mini hotels, with the Berwind family (coal industry tycoons) at the helm here. After seeing the behind-the-scenes spaces, we toured the main mansion, and I fell in love with the works of Italian painter Giovanni Boldini that grace the walls. The Elms combines elegance and ingenuity, making it unforgettable.

We began the next day with a visit to Rough Point—Doris Duke’s stunning estate! Rough Point wins the award for authenticity. Unlike the marble-filled palaces of the Vanderbilts, this home is warm and inviting, rich with wooden details and filled with original furniture, art, and decorative pieces. Doris was an avid collector, and much of her impressive collection remains, including a beautiful mother-of-pearl armoire that truly steals the show. Rough Point feels less like a museum and more like stepping right into Doris’s fascinating world!

Next up was an incredibly unique experience! Thanks to Gary Lawrence, we had the privilege of visiting Betty Pardee, a current resident on Newport’s prestigious Bellevue Avenue, at her gorgeous home and garden. Betty graciously invited our small group for an exclusive garden tour, and it was breathtaking—she’s cultivated some of the most stunning landscaping in the area. We loved this rare peek into her world and a taste of life among Newport’s present-day elite!

Our final mansion stop: Belcourt! Remember Alva Vanderbilt from Marble House? After divorcing William Vanderbilt, she married Oliver Belmont and moved just up the street to this extraordinary estate. Belcourt’s story is as fascinating as its architecture, and it was a highlight for our group. We enjoyed an exclusive, private tour led by David Bettencourt, who made us feel like VIPs with his engaging storytelling. He even shared some fun insights from the A-list celebrity wedding that took place here just days before. It was the perfect finale to our Newport mansion tour!

We capped off our tour with a delightful dinner at The Black Pearl, right on Bowen’s Wharf. The evening continued late into the night at the hotel bar, and it’s always a joy to see my groups reluctant to part ways!

I am incredibly proud of our very first tour. I was fortunate to be surrounded by some of the warmest individuals, a few of whom I still keep in touch with years later. Their kindness and encouragement made me feel like a true success. I will forever be grateful to those who took a chance on a very small travel company, and I hope they all left Newport with a deeper appreciation for its rich history and beauty. 

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