Explore Newport’s colonial history with expert guides. Discover tales of entrepreneurship, African American heritage, and religious tolerance on this immersive walking tour.
Explore Newport’s colonial history with expert guides. Discover tales of entrepreneurship, African American heritage, and religious tolerance on this immersive walking tour.
- Museum Of Newport History And Shop - Guests will begin their visit at the Museum of Newport History and Shop, situated within the historic Brick Market building (circa 1762). All tour participants enjoy complimentary access to the Museum on the second floor and a 10% discount on store purchases. The Brick Market is one of the initial sites…
-
Museum Of Newport History And Shop - Guests will begin their visit at the Museum of Newport History and Shop, situated within the historic Brick Market building (circa 1762). All tour participants enjoy complimentary access to the Museum on the second floor and a 10% discount on store purchases. The Brick Market is one of the initial sites introduced on the tour.
IMPORTANT: The Museum itself is not part of the tour; it is recommended to arrive early to explore the museum or visit after the tour concludes. - Washington Square - Guests will discover Washington Square, the colonial heart of Newport, showcasing its history of religious tolerance and diversity. It features civic buildings like the Colony House and Brick Market instead of a central church, emphasizing the city’s unique founding principles and commercial significance.
- 8 Washington Square - Guests will learn about the oldest house on the Square, initially built for John Rathbun and later owned by John Gardner. It was a meeting place where, in the summer of 1763, Gardner and others proposed establishing a Baptist college in Rhode Island, leading to the chartering of Rhode Island College (now Brown University) the following year.
- Old Colony House - Guests will explore the Colony House, the nation’s fourth oldest existing statehouse and a National Historic Landmark, where the General Assembly convened and significant historical events, such as the reading of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, took place.
- White Horse Tavern - Tour participants will pause outside the White Horse Tavern to learn about the history of one of the oldest operating taverns in the United States.
- Great Friends Meeting House - Guests will visit the Great Friends Meeting House, the oldest place of worship in the state. Here, they will learn about the Society of Friends, or the Quakers, and their influence on early Newport history.
- 17 Broadway - Guests will explore Newport’s earliest restored museum house, a circa 1697 National Historic Landmark. It was home to colonial governors, Tories, and patriots, including Martin Howard, a wealthy lawyer and Tory supporter during the Stamp Act era.
- United Baptist Church - Guests will learn about Newport’s founding by Baptists in 1639, led by minister John Clarke, who authored Rhode Island’s 1663 charter, presenting it to King Charles II and securing freedom of religious and civic governance, marking the first separation of church and state in North America.
-
Touro Synagogue - The guide will stop outside Touro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in North America, where guests will learn about the history of the Jews in Newport.
IMPORTANT: Touro Synagogue is a separate attraction. The walking tour does not include entry; separate admission is required before or after the walking tour. - Trinity Church - Guests will learn about Trinity Church, constructed in 1726 by Richard Munday with influences from Christopher Wren.
- Vernon House - Guests will learn about the 1708 Vernon House on Clarke Street. During the Revolutionary War, the house served as headquarters for Rochambeau and hosted significant meetings with Washington and Lafayette.
-
Artillery Company of Newport - The guide will stop outside the Newport Artillery Company.
IMPORTANT: The tour does not include admission to the Artillery Company museum. It is a separate attraction, viewable on weekends, before or after your tour.

- Bottled water
- Museum of Newport History Admission
- Bottled water
- Museum of Newport History Admission
- Private transportation
- Gratuities
- Parking fees
- Entrance fees
- Private transportation
- Gratuities
- Parking fees
- Entrance fees
Our “Discover Colonial Newport” tour offers a unique and immersive journey into Newport’s vibrant colonial history. Walk the old streets as our expert guides bring to life the tales of bold entrepreneurship, rich African American heritage, and the city’s remarkable legacy of religious tolerance. This tour is not just a glimpse into the past but an…
Our “Discover Colonial Newport” tour offers a unique and immersive journey into Newport’s vibrant colonial history. Walk the old streets as our expert guides bring to life the tales of bold entrepreneurship, rich African American heritage, and the city’s remarkable legacy of religious tolerance. This tour is not just a glimpse into the past but an exploration of the diverse and dynamic forces that shaped Newport into the historic treasure it is today. Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover the stories that make our city truly special.
- Not recommended for travelers with mobility/walking issues.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.