Colonial Hippies Tour

If you’re looking to get a taste of Newport’s colonial past in a relaxed, intimate setting, the Colonial Hippies Tour might just be worth considering. Offered by Native Newporter Tours, this private excursion promises a laid-back vibe while taking you through some of the city’s most recognizable spots. It’s a quick, 2-hour jaunt that blends history, scenic views, and a touch of local flavor.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on sites that tell stories beyond just grand mansions—think parks, historic structures, and coastal vistas. It’s a nice change from the typical mansion-hopping or harbor cruises. Plus, the group discounts and mobile tickets make it fairly accessible and easy to organize. That said, it’s not the most in-depth historical deep-dive, so if you’re after a thorough history lesson, you might find it somewhat light.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a casual, scenic overview without a hefty price tag or long commitment. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want to soak in some Newport charm, especially with friends or family who appreciate a relaxed pace and flexible schedule.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: It’s a 2-hour tour, making it ideal for fitting into a busy day.
• Affordable value: Priced at $100 per person, it offers a quick glimpse into Newport’s colonial heritage.
• Flexible stops: Viewpoints like Brenton Point, The Breakers, and Cliff Walk offer scenic and historical appeal.
• Private experience: Only your group participates, which means personalized attention.
• Comprehensive essentials: Includes bottled water and an English-speaking guide.
• Weather-dependent: The tour relies on good weather for the outdoor stops.

What to Expect from the Newport Colonial Hippies Tour

An Easy Introduction to Newport’s Historic and Scenic Spots

This tour stands out because it’s designed to highlight some of the most iconic sights around Newport without making you sit through hours of walking or extensive explanations. Starting at 23 America’s Cup Ave, you’ll gather with your guide at 9 am, ready for a relaxed 2-hour journey.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Brenton Point State Park

The tour kicks off at Brenton Point, which is a bit of a local favorite for its widely expansive views of the Atlantic and the coastline. You can choose to drive by or stop briefly at the edge of Aquidneck Island South. It’s a quick stop—about 15 minutes—but one that offers great photo opportunities and a sense of the natural beauty surrounding Newport.

Stop 2: The Breakers

Next, you’ll drive by Newport’s most famous mansion, The Breakers. While you won’t go inside, the brief stop to view this grand estate is worth it. From the outside, the mansion’s impressive façade and the sprawling grounds capture a sense of the Gilded Age’s opulence. The view of this historic home often sparks curiosity about the wealthy families who built it.

Stop 3: Cliff Walk

The iconic Cliff Walk is a must-see for many visitors. During your 15-minute walk, you’ll traverse a section of this National Recreation Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic and the Newport mansions. While only a short segment, it’s enough to give you a feel for the landscape and a chance to stretch your legs after the drive.

Stop 4: Touro Park

Your final stop is Touro Park, home to the oldest structure in Rhode Island. Visiting this charming park allows you to glimpse the early colonial architecture and enjoy a peaceful environment with a bit of historic ambiance. It’s a fitting way to round out the tour, connecting the past to the present in a tranquil setting.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price includes bottled water and an English-speaking guide, ensuring you stay hydrated and informed without extra fuss. However, all fees and taxes are not included, so if you want to go inside the Mansions or other attractions, you’ll need to pay separately.

Since the stops are mostly outdoor or drive-by, the tour is quite flexible weather-wise, but poor weather could mean rescheduling or cancellation. The tour is a private experience, so your group gets exclusive attention—great for those who prefer a more personalized touch.

How the Experience Feels

People who have taken this tour often mention it as a pleasant, straightforward way to see key sights without feeling overwhelmed. The drive-by approach means you’ll get quick glimpses of the mansions and scenic spots, but if you’re after detailed history, you might find it somewhat light.

The guide’s commentary is typically friendly and informative, providing context about the colonial life and the landmarks. The brief stops at each site mean you won’t spend hours walking around, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, less intensive experience.

The cost at $100 per person is reasonable for a private tour that covers some of the most recognizable Newport sites in a short time. Comparing it to other experiences in Newport, it offers a good balance of scenery, history, and ease—especially if you want to avoid larger, bus-based tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys photo opportunities, scenic viewpoints, and quick cultural insights, this tour will suit you well. It’s particularly good for visitors on a tight schedule or those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Families with older children or groups who want a private experience will appreciate the customized nature of this outing.

However, if you’re seeking an in-depth historical lesson or inside access to Newport’s mansions, this might feel a bit superficial. It’s also worth noting that, given the outdoor stops, good weather is a must to maximize the experience.

Final Thoughts

The Colonial Hippies Tour in Newport offers a compact, friendly introduction to some of the city’s most picturesque and historically significant sites. It’s perfect if you want a short, guided overview without the hassle of large groups or lengthy tours. The price is fair considering the private setting and personalized attention, and the stops at scenic and historic points provide a well-rounded glimpse of Newport’s colonial heritage.

For those who value flexibility and simplicity, this tour hits the right notes. It’s ideal for travelers who love outdoor views, quick history snippets, and a casual vibe. While it might not satisfy history buffs craving detail or mansion enthusiasts looking inside, it’s a solid choice for a convenient and enjoyable introduction to Newport.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour, the short stops and outdoor nature make it manageable for older children. However, very young kids might find the pace a bit slow or the outdoor stops less engaging.

Can I cancel this tour easily?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If your plans change, you can cancel without penalty and get a full refund.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, all fees and taxes are not included. You may want to budget extra if you plan to go inside any of the sites or attractions.

What should I bring?
Bring water (the tour includes bottled water), comfortable shoes, and sun protection if it’s a sunny day. Given the outdoor stops, dress appropriately for the weather.

Is this a group tour?
No, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.

How long does each stop last?
Each stop is about 15 minutes, which is enough to see the site and take photos but not for extended exploration.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at 23 America’s Cup Ave in Newport, and the tour concludes back at this meeting point.

What is the tour duration?
Approximately 2 hours, making it perfect for a quick yet informative overview of Newport.

If you’re after a casual, scenic, and affordable way to see Newport’s highlights, the Colonial Hippies Tour could be a good fit. Just keep an eye on the weather and your own pace preferences, and you’ll come away with some lovely memories of this historic seaside town.