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

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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.

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Marble House, 596 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA