Our Family-Friendly Guide to the Breakers Mansion
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If you’re looking for a fun family day trip in Newport, RI, you should consider visiting The Breakers Mansion with the kids. This beautiful landmark was once the summer home of the Vanderbilt family and is now open to the public.
If you’re wondering how long it takes to tour The Breakers, when the best times are to visit, how much it costs to visit, and how to get there, we’ve got all that information for you.
Kids of all ages will love exploring the huge estate, and parents can enjoy learning about its rich history. Newport also has plenty of shops and restaurants for a little added fun. So, put the family in the car and head to The Breakers Mansion for some memories.
Download the FREE coloring pages of some of the historic Newport mansions for your children to enjoy.
Helpful Tips For Touring The Newport Mansion With Kids
With these tips in mind, you will have a great time visiting The Breakers Mansion with the kids.
- The Breakers offers an audio tour and a children’s audio tour that can be downloaded onto a smartphone.
- Strollers aren’t permitted inside the mansion. Consider using a baby carrier if you are visiting with a baby or young toddler.
- Dress the kids in comfortable clothes and shoes since they’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- The Welcome Center Café at The Breakers is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
- Bring snacks and drinks for the kids to enjoy before or after the tour.
- There are plenty of photo opportunities at the mansion, so make sure to bring your camera. Just note that flash photography isn’t permitted.
- The estate is very large, so plan to stay for at least an hour.
How Long Does It Take To Tour The Breakers?
The Breakers is an enormous estate with 70 rooms covering about 140,000 square feet. There are three levels to explore, including the lower kitchen level, so be prepared to do some walking.
A leisurely tour of all of the rooms in The Breakers mansion takes about an hour and a half to two hours.
Two main levels are open to the public, along with the lower kitchen level. The grounds are also enormous, so allow plenty of time so you won’t have to rush with kids.
What Is The Best Time To Visit The Breakers Mansion?
The Breakers is open daily, and the best times to visit are typically weekdays in the morning or later in the afternoon, as it tends to be less crowded then.
Visiting off-season will also be far less crowded.
How Much Does It Cost To Visit The Breakers?
Admission to The Breakers mansion is $29 for adults, $10 for kids ages 6-12, and free for children aged five and under. Admission is free for Newport residents with proof of residency.
Tours are self-guided, but there are audio tours, including a children’s tour available.
How Do You Get To The Breakers In Newport?
The Breakers is located at 44 Ochre Point Ave in Newport, RI.
There is a free parking lot across the street from the mansion, or you can take the Newport trolley tour to the mansion.
Other Newport, RI Mansion Tours With Kids
Many other historic mansions in Newport offer tours, though they may not be as family-friendly as The Breakers. The Breakers is often considered to be the most family-friendly of the Newport mansions.
Some of the other Newport mansions to tour with kids include:
While touring the Newport mansions, try to allow time to bring the kids to the Green Animals Topiary Garden.
Many of the mansions are located along the scenic Newport Cliff Walk. This is another must-see while in Newport, Rhode Island.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting The Breakers Mansion
Is The Breakers Mansion suitable for families with young children?
Yes, The Breakers Mansion is family-friendly. While younger children may not appreciate the historical significance as much, they can still enjoy the grandness and explore the beautiful gardens.
Are strollers allowed inside the mansion?
Strollers are not allowed inside the mansion, but stroller parking areas allow you to leave your stroller before entering.
Is there a family discount for admission?
The Breakers Mansion offers reduced admission fees for children at about one-third the cost of adult admission. Check their website or call ahead for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Can we take photographs inside the mansion?
Flash photography is not allowed inside the mansion. You can take pictures inside as long as you don’t use a flash as well as the beautiful gardens and on the grounds.
Are guided tours available for families?
Yes, family-friendly self-guided tours are often available. Download the app to access the tour, which is designed for children ages 4-13. These tours are designed to engage children and make the visit more enjoyable for the whole family.
How long does the mansion tour take?
The tour length can vary, but a typical visit inside The Breakers Mansion takes about 60-90 minutes. Plan for additional time to explore the gardens and surrounding areas.
Are there restrooms and baby-changing facilities available?
Yes, there are restrooms and baby changing facilities on-site at the Welcome Center for your convenience.
Can we bring our own food or snacks?
Food and drinks are prohibited inside the mansion, but you can visit the on-site café for refreshments.
Is there parking available?
Yes, there is parking available at The Breakers Mansion. Be sure to check for any parking fees and restrictions.
Are there any special events or activities for families?
The Breakers Mansion often hosts special events. Check their website for event schedules and details.
Final Thoughts
The Breakers is a great option if you’re looking for a Newport mansion tour that the kids will love. With plenty of interesting rooms to explore, your family will enjoy learning about the Vanderbilt family’s lifestyle.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
