Bellevue Avenue
Newport, Rhode Island
Leafy Bellevue Avenue and its surrounding streets are home to some of the most exclusive properties in New England. The affluent area is mostly residential, and encompasses many of the Gilded Age summer “cottages” built by such iconic names as Vanderbilt and Astor. These include the Isaac Bell House, The Elms, Marble House, and Kingscote.
No trip to Newport would be complete without a stroll or drive down Bellevue Avenue, and a visit to at least one or two of the impressive Newport Mansions. Just about every tour around town will include a stop along this notable street, including trolley tours, self-guided audio tours, and private sightseeing excursions. You can also combine your visit to Bellevue Avenue with tour of the restored homes on Newport’s scenic Ten Mile Ocean Drive.
Five of the historic homes along Bellevue Avenue are open to visitors: Marble House, The Elms, Rosecliff, Kingscote, and Chateau-sur-Mer.
Marble House, The Elms, and Rosecliff are all partially accessible to wheelchairs.
Don’t forget to bring your camera; even the wrought iron gates of the Bellevue Avenue mansions are impressive.
Bellevue Avenue begins where Touro and Kay streets merge, and runs directly south, terminating near Ocean Avenue. The northern end has a cluster of shops and restaurants, turning exclusively residential the farther south you drive.
The best time to explore Bellevue Avenue and its famous mansions is during the spring or autumn shoulder season, when the summer crowds have dispersed and weather remains mild and largely dry.
While this Newport street is most famous for its palatial historic homes, it also boasts a few other notable attractions. Sports fans won’t want to miss the International Tennis Hall of Fame on the grounds of the historic Newport Casino, while those with an interest in art should stop by the National Museum of American Illustration or the Newport Art Museum. Nearby, the Audrain Auto Museum showcases a collection of vintage cars.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!