Daderot/iStockphoto.com
AAA Editor Notes
The Elms, 367 Bellevue Ave., is a neoclassical mansion designed by American architect Horace Trumbauer and built in 1901 as a summer residence for Edward J. Berwind, the king of America's coal industry. The mansion, based on the 18th-century Château d'Asnières near Paris, houses lavish 18th-century French antique furniture and Venetian paintings.

The large proportions of the rooms, especially the entrance hall and ballroom, are awe-inspiring. Noteworthy are the Louis XVI drawing room and the Chinese breakfast room, with lacquered panels that date from the K'ang Hsi period.

Bronze and marble statuary, fountains, terraces and gazebos embellish the well-tended grounds; rare trees and shrubs are labeled. The formal sunken gardens are reminiscent of 18th-century France. The house is decorated for the holidays mid-November through January 1. The guided Servant Life Tour includes a visit to the servant's quarters, basement kitchens, laundry rooms, coal cellar and a rooftop view (weather permitting) of the estate and Newport Harbor. A main house audio tour and a virtual tour are available.

Note: The Servant Life tour includes a walk up an 82-step staircase; comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Guided tours are available.

Map
Get Directions
Hotel
Hotel Name
1234 Street Address City, State 00000
AAA Inspector Rating
More Hotels in Newport, RI
Restaurant
AAA Inspector Rating
More Restaurants in Newport, RI