Must-see Mansions
The three must-see mansions include The Breakers, The Elms, and Marble House as they transform into grand celebrations of Christmases past, with rooms filled with themed decor, carefully matched to the period furnishings.
The Breakers
Built by Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt — who made his fortune in shipping and railroads — this mansion was designed by Richard Morris Hunt, consists of 70 rooms, and boasts an apparent affinity to Italian Renaissance architecture.
During The Breakers tour, one of the most popular stops is in the kitchen, where the Preservation Society displays gingerbread replicas of the mansions made by local pastry chefs. Another notable and possibly favorite display of The Breakers is the massive 15-foot tree constructed of 150 live poinsettias. This incredible arrangement requires the plants to be watered weekly and replaced three times during the six-week holiday season. A bit high maintenance, though, we’d argue, completely worth it for the perfect holiday photo opportunity!
The Elms
The Elms, built by coal magnate Edward Julius Berwind in 1901, is crafted in the fashion of a mid-18th century French chateau, with stunning classical sculpture gardens and ornate interiors. Originally constructed as a summer home for Edward and his wife Herminie, the home was never used at Christmas time until The Preservation Society of Newport County came to own it and open it to the public in 1962.
The horticulturist for the Preservation Society, Jim Donahue, dresses the mansion up like a giant jewel box, decorating the rooms with fresh flowers, (artificial) trees, garlands, even real gingerbread houses.
Marble House
Built between 1888 and 1892 for Mr. and Mrs. William K. Vanderbilt, this home was constructed as a “summer cottage” for the family. The Marble House is modeled after the Petit Trianon — Marie Antoinette’s private pleasure palace on the grounds of Versailles — and holds 50 rooms and has been built from over 500,000 cubic feet of marble.
A favorite recurring event that takes place at the Marble House mansion during this six-week long holiday celebration is the Holiday Brunch at The Chinese Tea House. From 10 am - 3 pm on weekends November 27 - December 19, AND Christmas week, December 27-31, visitors can enjoy a three-course holiday brunch curated by Stoneacre Brasserie while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are welcomed.
Learn more about Christmas at the Newport Mansions and accompanying special events here.
Where to Stay in Newport
New England Inns and Resorts offers 14 high-quality, luxury accommodations within 15 miles of Newport. From the lively The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection to the new and luxurious Brenton Hotel to the waterfront Newport Harbor Hotel and Marina there’s an accommodation option to suit everyone’s preference.
If you’re hunting for a deal this holiday season, be sure to check out these Newport hotels and their weekend getaway packages:
- Hotel Viking, Celebrate the Good Times Package – Package includes: Overnight accommodations, complimentary bottle of Gruet Brut Sparkling Wine from New Mexico upon arrival, two bottles of Aqua Panna Still Water, and $25 Credit to Hill Market.
Offer valid Oct 8, 2020 - Dec 31, 2022
- The Chanler at Cliff Walk, Stay More-Save More-15% Off Package – Package includes: 15% off our Best Available Rate when you book any 3-night or 4-night stay
Offer valid Mar 16, 2021 - Dec 29, 2021
About New England Inns and Resorts
The New England Inns & Resorts Association has proudly represented over 300 New England resorts, inns, bed and breakfasts, hotels, and motor inns since 1907. From the grandest luxury resort to the coziest country inn, what ties us together is our commitment to gracious hospitality!
Let us help you plan your holiday getaway this season and remember to look to us any time of year to help you find the perfect accommodations for your New England trips.
