Colonial Newport Walking Tour

Explore Newport’s Colonial Past with a Focus on Diversity and History

If you’re visiting Newport and want more than just pretty seaside views, the Colonial Newport Walking Tour offers a meaningful glimpse into the city’s early days. Priced at $20 per person and lasting roughly an hour to an hour and 15 minutes, this tour packs in a solid dose of history along with lively storytelling. It starts at the Museum of Newport History and takes you through the heart of the city’s historic district, with stops at key sites like Washington Square, Old Colony House, and the Touro Synagogue (though the tour doesn’t go inside).

What we particularly love about this experience is the rich storytelling from knowledgeable guides and the chance to see diverse highlights that showcase Newport’s unique character—from religious tolerance to early American entrepreneurship. The tour’s focus on African American heritage and the history of religious freedom makes it stand out from more typical sightseeing walks.

The main drawback? The group size tends to be small, which is great for intimacy but may limit some flexibility. Also, for those wanting inside access to sites like the Touro Synagogue, separate admission is required, adding an extra step. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy story-driven walks with a focus on history, especially those interested in the dissenting voices and diverse communities that shaped Newport.

Key Points

• Cost-effective: At $20, this walking tour offers a solid introduction to Newport’s history without breaking the bank.
• Rich storytelling: Guides are generally knowledgeable, and even if new, they provide engaging narratives about the city’s past.
• Diverse sites: From civic buildings to historic houses and religious landmarks, each stop reveals a different aspect of Newport’s story.
• Focus on diversity: The tour highlights Newport’s role in religious tolerance and African American heritage, offering a well-rounded historical perspective.
• Short but substantial: The 1-hour format makes it perfect for travelers with tight schedules or those wanting a concise overview.
• Additional expenses: Admission to sites like the Touro Synagogue and the Artillery Company museum are separate, so plan accordingly if you want inside visits.

A Deep Dive into the Colonial Newport Walking Tour

Starting Point: Museum of Newport History and Shop

Your journey begins inside the Brick Market building, a historic structure from 1762, which immediately sets the tone for exploring Newport’s colonial architecture. Your guide will give you a brief introduction here, and all guests receive free museum admission on the second floor along with a 10% discount in the store. While the tour doesn’t include the museum’s interior as part of the narrative, we recommend arriving early to browse or plan a quick visit afterward.

The museum itself provides context on Newport’s colonial era, but on the tour, you’ll mainly focus on the outdoor sights and their stories.

The Heart of Newport: Washington Square

Walking from the museum, you’ll reach Washington Square, the colonial core of Newport. Here, instead of a prominent church at the center, civic buildings such as Colony House and Brick Market take precedence, reflecting Newport’s early emphasis on religious tolerance and commerce. The guide will explain how this layout signified a community that valued diversity and civic independence.

Guests appreciate that the Square is a symbol of Newport’s open-minded founding principles, making it a meaningful centerpiece of the tour.

The Oldest House and Rhode Island’s Early Education

Next, a quick stop at 8 Washington Square reveals the oldest house on the square, originally built for John Rathbun. This site is historically significant because it was a meeting place where John Gardner and others proposed establishing what would become Brown University, then called Rhode Island College. Visitors find this a fascinating link between the colonial past and the foundation of higher education in America.

Colonial Governance: Old Colony House

The Old Colony House is a highlight—one of the nation’s oldest statehouses and a designated National Historic Landmark. Here, the guide discusses how it served as the meeting place for the General Assembly and was the site of the 1776 reading of the Declaration of Independence. Travelers who appreciate architecture and political history will find this site particularly engaging.

Taverns and Religious Heritage

The White Horse Tavern and Great Friends Meeting House offer insights into Newport’s social and religious life. Outside the tavern, you learn it’s one of the oldest operating taverns in the U.S., a perfect spot for imagining colonial gatherings. The Meeting House introduces the influence of Quakers in Newport’s early society, highlighting their role in shaping tolerance and civic freedom.

The 17th-Century Homes and Religious Freedom

Moving to 17 Broadway, the tour stops at a c.1697 National Historic Landmark, which once belonged to colonial governors, Tory sympathizers, and patriots. Guests are often intrigued by the house’s layered history, including its connection to figures like Martin Howard.

The United Baptist Church demonstrates how religious communities, especially Baptists led by John Clarke, helped secure religious and civic freedoms. This site underscores Rhode Island’s role as a pioneer in church-state separation.

Jewish Heritage and Newport’s Diversity

A highlight is the Touro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in North America. While the tour stops outside, guides share stories of Jewish settlers and their contributions to Newport’s cosmopolitan makeup. Visitors should remember, viewing inside requires separate admission, but the exterior alone speaks volumes about Newport’s religious plurality.

Architectural and Military Landmarks

The tour ends with stops at Trinity Episcopal Church, built in 1726, and the Vernon House, which served as Revolutionary War headquarters for Rochambeau. Outside the Artillery Company of Newport, you learn about the city’s military history, although inside visits are not included.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer notes that “Guide was very nice but new,” indicating that guides may vary in experience, but the enthusiasm remains. Still, even less seasoned guides tend to tell engaging stories, especially about religious tolerance and early Newport entrepreneurs.

Another traveler mentioned how the tour offers a “pleasant overview”, perfect for those seeking a short, informative walk without overloading on details. The small group size enhances interaction, making it easier to ask questions and connect with the guide.

Practical Details and Planning Tips

• Price: At $20, this tour provides excellent value for a rundown of Newport’s colonial past.
• Duration: About an hour to 75 minutes—ideal if you want a quick yet meaningful introduction.
• Meeting Point: Starts at the Museum of Newport History, which is centrally located on Thames Street—a walkable area filled with restaurants and shops.
• Accessibility: Not recommended for those with mobility issues due to walking.
• Additional Costs: Entrance to sites like Touro Synagogue and Artillery House are separate, so budget extra if you plan to go inside.
• Best For: History buffs, families, and travelers interested in cultural diversity, religious history, and early American governance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This walking tour suits those who appreciate storytelling over just ticking off sights. It’s ideal for history lovers curious about religious tolerance, African American heritage, and colonial governance. The focus on diverse communities makes it a meaningful choice for travelers wanting to understand Newport’s inclusive roots. If you prefer inside visits to historic sites, you’ll need to plan for separate tickets, but the outdoor storytelling alone offers plenty of substance.

Final Thoughts

The Colonial Newport Walking Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the city’s early history, emphasizing diversity and civic values that shaped Newport. It’s a cost-effective, accessible, and engaging way to explore the city’s core, especially if you’re short on time but want a meaningful experience.

While guides may vary in experience, their passion for Newport’s story is evident, and the stops highlight some of the most significant landmarks in town. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or someone wanting to understand the city’s founding principles, this tour offers an authentic look at Newport’s roots—beyond just the waterfront mansions.

FAQ

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s $20 per person, which is a good value considering the number of historic sites and stories included.

How long does the tour last?
The walking tour takes roughly an hour to 75 minutes, making it a short but substantial experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Museum of Newport History on Thames Street and ends at 51 Touro Street, just a short walk from the starting point.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, the museum admission is included. However, visiting sites like Touro Synagogue or Artillery House inside requires separate tickets.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
It’s not recommended for travelers with mobility issues due to walking. The terrain is mostly outdoor, historic streets.

Can I see inside the historic buildings?
The tour itself does not go inside most buildings; inside visits are optional and require separate admission.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its focus on diverse themes like religious tolerance, African American heritage, and early governance adds depth that many other historic tours overlook.