This place is all about over the top money in America's Gilded Age. Industry titans and tycoons built lavish 'summer cottages'. Rhode Island was a popular getaway from New York City for the wealthy. The Newport Mansions Preservation Society maintains nine homes today, plus gardens and some outbuildings.
Nav:
The Breakers: Arguably the most famous of the mansions thanks to it's previous owner being Cornelius Vanderbilt II. The preservation society has a great virtual tour if you can't make it to the site (though it's stunning in person and your admission helps preserve these buildings). The construction was completed in 1895, the same year his brother (George Vanderbilt) completed Biltmore Estates in Asheville, North Carolina.
Nosh:
The Nordic: As a buffet with premium meats and seafood, this place is all about the nosh! Filet mignon, prime rib, lobster, shrimp...and the star, King Crab! One adult is $135 and there's a two hour time limit so this is a splurge meal. Check their website for hours, prices, and current menu.
Pro Tip: 1) The place is open seasonally so make sure you time it right and avoid disappointment. 2) Reservations are highly recommended. 3) Bring an oyster glove or something because the King Crab has sharp points and the legs aren't pre-split...probably to slow you down. 4) Wear stretchy pants...and the atmosphere is pretty casual.
