Hunter House
A mid-18th-century Georgian mansion offering an intimate, historically rich tour of colonial Newport life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Hunter House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mid-18th-century Georgian mansion offering an intimate, historically rich tour of colonial Newport life.
"Hunter House offers a wealth of history and information about Newport and its people, highly recommended."
🎯 Book Tickets Online Early
Timed tours fill up fast! Secure your spot online well in advance, especially for weekend or peak season visits.
🗣️ Engage with Your Guide
The guides are incredibly knowledgeable. Ask questions to deepen your understanding of the house and its history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Georgian Colonial Architecture
A stunning example of mid-18th-century Georgian architecture, showcasing period craftsmanship and design.
Period Furnishings
Explore authentic 18th-century furniture, including pieces by renowned Newport cabinetmakers like Townsend-Goddard.
Bay Views and Dock Walk
Enjoy picturesque views of the bay from the house and a pleasant walk along the nearby dock.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Timed Tour in Advance
Embrace the Colonial Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online Early
Timed tours fill up fast! Secure your spot online well in advance, especially for weekend or peak season visits.
🗣️ Engage with Your Guide
The guides are incredibly knowledgeable. Ask questions to deepen your understanding of the house and its history. +1
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
While not extensive, there's a pleasant walk to the dock. Comfortable footwear is always a good idea for historic sites.
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate details of the furniture, architecture, and historical artifacts for stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online Early
Timed tours fill up fast! Secure your spot online well in advance, especially for weekend or peak season visits.
🗣️ Engage with Your Guide
The guides are incredibly knowledgeable. Ask questions to deepen your understanding of the house and its history. +1
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
While not extensive, there's a pleasant walk to the dock. Comfortable footwear is always a good idea for historic sites.
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate details of the furniture, architecture, and historical artifacts for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Hunter House for its exceptional historical accuracy and the deep knowledge of its tour guides, offering an intimate look at colonial life. While some find the admission price steep for its size, many agree it's a worthwhile experience for history enthusiasts due to its authentic preservation and engaging narratives. The beautiful bay views and dock walk add to its charm.
"Our tour guide was really knowledge and detail about the history of this building. How the building was restored as well. However, it’s a small building to see. The interior was left in quite original condition."
Jean Tsou
"Yes it's another historic house in Newport. And yes it's worth a visit. If you love old houses, taking a step by in time, and soaking up a little local history then the Hunter House is worth your time. It's not a "must see" like the great Gilded Age palaces, but it is worth a visit. Some comment that the $25 pp admission price is steep. I suggest that it costs a fortune to restore and maintain these national treasures of homes. If you love history, it's worth the price."
TJJ
"We visited Hunter house during the week. Reservations are timed and have to make reservations online early. Tours are limited to eight people total. Our tour guide was Lauren Armstrong and she was excellent! She had an enormous amount of information not only about the house and the owners, but also about Newport in the 1700s to current times. She took time to explain each of the owners connection to the house along with their histories. The tour lasted approximately an hour and a half that went by very quickly. We all came away with a much better understanding of Newport’s place during the early days of our nation as well as what life was like back then. Hunter House does not have the size or opulence of the mansions on Bellevue Avenue but what it does have is a wealth of history and information about Newport and it’s people. Our group was very impressed with the quality and information given on the tour. We all gave it a 10 out of 10."
Brian Clarkson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hunter House is located in Newport, Rhode Island. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may also be available depending on your starting point.
Yes, Hunter House is situated in a prominent location in Newport, often mentioned alongside other historic sites. Its proximity to the bay and docks makes it a scenic destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but reviews suggest it's around $25 per person. Some visitors find it steep, but others feel it's worth the cost for the historical preservation.
Absolutely! Reservations are timed and must be made online in advance. Tours are limited to small groups, so booking early is essential. +1
Hunter House is typically open seasonally for tours. It's best to check their official website for the most current operating hours and dates.
Information on discounts is not widely available in reviews, but it's always worth checking the official Hunter House website or inquiring directly about potential group rates or special offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tours are guided, last about an hour and a half, and are limited to eight people. Guides are highly praised for their knowledge of the house, its owners, and Newport's history.
While children can visit, the focus is on historical details and colonial life. It might be more engaging for older children or those with a specific interest in history.
Photography policies can vary. It's advisable to check with your tour guide or staff upon arrival regarding restrictions on interior photography.
Hunter House offers a more intimate look at colonial life and architecture, whereas the Gilded Age mansions are known for their immense size and opulence.
Yes, the house is situated with nice views of the bay, and there's a pleasant walk along the nearby dock. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Hunter House itself is a historic house museum and does not typically offer dining facilities. However, Newport has numerous restaurants and cafes nearby.
Newport offers a variety of dining experiences, from seafood restaurants to casual cafes. You can find many options within walking distance or a short drive from Hunter House.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the house, especially its Georgian architecture, is highly photogenic. The gardens and bay views also offer beautiful photo opportunities. 
One TikTok video mentions a 'Hunter House' in Madison, Georgia, as being 'the most photographed house.' However, the Hunter House in Newport, Rhode Island, is a distinct historical site.
Architectural photography, historical details, and scenic shots of the bay and gardens are ideal. Capturing the period furnishings inside can also yield great results.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider discussing colonial life and the significance of historical homes with your children before your visit to enhance their engagement. The walk along the nearby dock can also be a pleasant diversion for younger family members. Remember to book your timed tickets well in advance to ensure your family can experience this piece of history together.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
The knowledgeable guides are a significant draw, offering detailed historical context that goes beyond what's visible. They connect the house to broader narratives of Newport's colonial past and its role in early American history. The intimate tour size allows for in-depth discussion and a more personal connection with the history presented.
📸 Photographers
While interior photography policies should be confirmed, focus on capturing the textures, the play of light on antique surfaces, and the overall historical atmosphere. The scenic bay views and the nearby dock also present opportunities for landscape and lifestyle photography, adding variety to your portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colonial Newport
The house provides an intimate and detailed look at the lives of Newport's early residents. Unlike the sprawling estates, Hunter House's charm lies in its historical authenticity and the stories it tells. The guided tours are highly praised for their depth, with guides sharing extensive information not only about the house and its owners but also about Newport's pivotal role during the early days of the nation and life in the 1700s.
Beyond the interiors, the location itself offers a unique perspective. Situated with a nice view on the bay, a walk out on the nearby dock provides a serene experience and a different appreciation for the historical context of this waterfront property. It’s a place where history feels tangible, offering a quiet yet profound connection to Newport's colonial past.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
Once you're there, engaging with your tour guide is paramount. Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional knowledge of the guides, who offer detailed insights into the house's history, restoration, and the lives of its former inhabitants. They transform the visit from a simple viewing into an educational journey.
While the house itself is a treasure, remember that it's a historical site. The experience is less about grand scale and more about appreciating the colonial details, the craftsmanship of the period furniture, and the historical narrative. Visitors often note that while it may not have the 'wow' factor of larger mansions, its wealth of history and information makes it a highly recommended stop for history enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit