1. Marble House is a Gilded Age mansion located in Newport, Rhode Island. It was built between 1888 and 1892 for William K. Vanderbilt and his wife Alva Vanderbilt, and was designed by prominent architect Richard Morris Hunt.
The mansion is named for its exterior, which is made entirely of white marble imported from quarries in Italy. It was one of the most expensive homes ever built in the United States at the time, costing $11 million (equivalent to over $330 million today).
Marble House is considered a prime example of Beaux-Arts architecture, characterized by its elaborate decoration, symmetry, and grandeur. The interior features opulent rooms adorned with gold leaf, silk wallpaper, and intricate carvings.
One of the most famous features of Marble House is the Chinese Tea House, which was added by Alva Vanderbilt in 1912. The Tea House is located on the property’s oceanside cliffs, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Marble House is open to the public from April to November. The hours of operation are typically 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is recommended to check the official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information regarding working times. The contact phone number for the Preservation Society of Newport County, which manages Marble House, is (401) 847-1000.
3. Ticket information for Marble House can be found on the official website of the Preservation Society of Newport County. As of July 2021, the admission fee for Marble House is $20 for adults, $10 for children aged 6-17, and free for children under 6. There may be additional fees for guided tours or special events.
Transportation options vary, but Marble House is easily accessible by car or public transportation. There is limited parking available on site. Visitors can also take a bus or hire a taxi to reach the mansion. Newport also offers various tours and shuttle services that include stops at Marble House and other notable attractions in the area.