Activity Overview
Marble House was completed in 1892 and given by William Vanderbilt to his wife, Alva, as a birthday gift. Hosting lavish parties in this magnificent mansion, the Vanderbilts paved the way for Newport's transformation from a quiet summer community of modest, summer homes to a social playground for the wealthy American families of railroad, steel and mining fortunes.
Acquired by The Newport Preservation Society in 1963, Marble House was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006.
Things to Do
- Take a self-guided, audio tour which will lead you through the kitchen and services areas on the basement level, reception rooms on the ground floor, bedrooms upstairs, and servants' quarters on the third floor.
- Admire the grounds, which include a Chinese Tea House where Mrs. Vanderbilt threw many of her parties.
- Stroll along the cliffs which overlook the ocean.
The Marble House Insider Tips
- Allow about an hour and a half for a tour of the mansion. No advance ticket purchase is required.
- Strollers and oversize bags are not allowed inside The Marble House. Consider a wearing baby carrier if you have an infant or small child.
- Photographs are permitted only of the exterior of the building.
- Only partially wheelchair accessible.
