Newport, Rhode Island, was once the unchallenged summer playground of the fabulously wealthy. Families like the Vanderbilts and the Astors had “cottages” here, hosting and attending parties, and tending their grandiose mansions and gardens. Most of these homes are now owned by the Preservation Society of Newport County and open to the public for tours and events.

      Some of the classic mansions include my favorite, the Breakers,

The Breakers

 Rosecliff,

Rosecliff

  and the Elms.

The Elms

   Of course, there are other things to see and visit in this lovely city by the sea. For instance, many visitors like to walk along the rocky coastline on Cliff Walk.

Cliff Walk Vista

     The waterfront area of town is great for shopping and admiring the many yachts and sailboats which constantly enter and leave the harbor.

Bowen's Wharf

 Other city sights include the Touro Synagogue, the oldest in the United States,

Touro Synagogue

 the mysterious Old Stone Mill, once thought to have been erected by Vikings.

Old Stone Mill

 and the lovely Trinity Church.

Trinity Church