Adventure brief
Historic Bus Tour
Step aboard the Historic Bus Tour with Wicked Awesome Tours of Newport and uncover the city’s rich history, iconic mansions, and legendary ghost stories—all while enjoying stunning coastal views.
Located on Rhode Island’s scenic coastline, Newport is a city woven with American history and coastal charm. Wicked Awesome Tours of Newport offers an immersive Historic Bus Tour that delivers a front-row seat to this city's layered past. This three-hour shuttle experience is more than a sightseeing trip; it’s a journey through centuries of Newport’s architectural grandeur, maritime intrigue, and ghost stories.
The tour kicks off in historic downtown Newport, where colonial-era buildings stand shoulder to shoulder with lively restaurants and boutique shops. From here, the shuttle winds along Bellevue Avenue, home to some of the most impressive Gilded Age mansions in the U.S. Among these architectural giants is The Elms Mansion — a dazzling example of 19th-century opulence and a filming location for HBO’s The Gilded Age.
Visitors receive admission to The Elms, allowing a deeper dive into Newport’s coal baron legacy and the mansion’s finely appointed rooms. The route also follows Ocean Drive, a coastal stretch known for its breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay and striking historic landmarks. Along the way, guides bring Newport’s stories to life, including eerie ghost tales and the darker history of pirates drawn to this port city’s rich trading past.
Wicked Awesome Tours of Newport stands out because it combines accessible transportation with engaging narration and insider access. This makes the Historic Bus Tour perfect for travelers seeking both comfort and a richly textured understanding of Newport’s unique charm. Whether you’re here for architecture, history, or coastal vistas, this tour provides a layered experience that highlights why Newport remains a compelling destination for outdoor and cultural adventurers alike.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early for Check-ininfo
Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure at 23 America's Cup to ensure smooth boarding.
- 02Bring a Camerainfo
Coastal vantage points and Gilded Age mansions offer fantastic photo opportunities.
- 03Dress for the Weatheressential
Though the tour is mostly seated, coastal winds can be chilly; bring layers accordingly.
- 04Minimum Age Requirementwarning
Guests must be at least 13 years old to join the tour.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning mansions and coastal scenery along the tour.
EssentialLayered Clothing
Prepare for variable coastal temperatures and breezes.
spring|fall|winterEssentialComfortable Walking Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for brief walks during mansion visits.
EssentialLight Rain Jacket
Useful for unexpected drizzles along the coastal route.
spring|fallLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Cliff Walk access points offering unique coastal rock formations, Quiet side streets in historic downtown with local art galleries
Local fauna
Seagulls frequenting the coastline, Occasional harbor seals spotted offshore
Historic heritage
Newport's Gilded Age mansions reflect rapid growth fueled by wealthy industrialists in the late 1800s, establishing it as a summer playground for America’s elite.
Mindful exploration
Efforts in Newport focus on preserving coastal habitats and maintaining the integrity of historic buildings while managing tourist impact.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Bellevue Avenue mansions, Ocean Drive coastal overlooks, Courtyard of The Elms Mansion
- Subjects
- Historic architecture, Ocean views, Street scenes in downtown Newport
- Best times
- Golden hour, Midday for mansion detail, Overcast days for softer light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is food or drink included on the tour?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks, so plan to eat beforehand or afterwards.
Are tours wheelchair accessible?
The shuttle bus accommodates wheelchair users, but certain mansion areas may have limited accessibility.
Can children join the tour?
Guests must be at least 13 years old to participate.
What is the cancellation policy?
Tours must be canceled at least 24 hours in advance to receive a refund.
How large are the tour groups?
Groups are limited to 14 people for a comfortable and intimate experience.
Are there restroom facilities on the bus?
The shuttle bus does not have restroom facilities; stops will be at location points with access.