Hunter House
54 Washington Street, Newport, Rhode Island 02840
About the Business
Hunter House, located at 54 Washington Street in Newport, Rhode Island, is a museum and tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Gilded Age rich. Founded in 1639, Newport was once a bustling port city and fashionable resort, known for its opulent "summer cottages." The Preservation Society of Newport County, which oversees Hunter House, is dedicated to protecting and presenting the architectural heritage of Newport County.
Hunter House, built around 1748, is a prime example of Georgian Colonial architecture. The house was owned by wealthy merchants who adorned it with exquisite decorative arts crafted by skilled artisans. However, it is important to note that this lavish lifestyle was sustained by the labor of enslaved individuals of African descent. Recent research by the Preservation Society has uncovered at least 13 enslaved individuals who lived and worked at Hunter House, highlighting their invaluable contributions to Newport's history.
Visitors to Hunter House can take guide-led tours by reservation only. It is recommended to bring a smart device with earbuds/headsets and download the free Newport Mansions tour app for an enhanced experience. Parking is available at all properties managed by the Preservation Society, except for Hunter House and The Breakers Stable & Carriage House, where street parking is an option.
In addition to exploring Hunter House, visitors can also discover the other 10 historic properties under the stewardship of the Preservation Society. Special events, exhibitions, and property openings are regularly featured, and interested individuals can sign up for email updates to stay informed. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or simply appreciate the beauty of Newport's past, Hunter House offers a captivating experience for all.
Photos
Hours open
Monday:
10:00 - 17:00
Tuesday:
10:00 - 17:00
Wednesday:
10:00 - 17:00
Thursday:
10:00 - 17:00
Friday:
10:00 - 17:00
Saturday:
10:00 - 17:00
Sunday:
10:00 - 17:00
Reviews
"Had a very informative tour of the house. Our guide Nancy was great! Engaging and addressed everyone's questions throughout the tour. Definitely would recommend visiting this house while touring Newport!"
"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."
"Thoughly enjoyable guided tour! The guide was very knowledgeable and there were some outstanding pieces of art work and antiques. Remember to get your timed tickets online!"
"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."
"Great colonial house with a different vibe than the big mansions. Beautiful Newport furniture, tall clocks, and fireplace tiles. Excellent tour guide, knowledgeable about the house and Newport as a colony during the British occupation. Nice walk out on the nearby dock."
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