Belcourt of Newport — Attraction in Newport

Response to Jennifer Manalio, previous reviewer.

I'm sorry to hear that you had a disappointing experience during your recent visit to Belcourt Mansion. It's unfortunate that your expectations were not met, but I'd like to provide a different perspective based on my visits and understanding of the mansion.

I've had the opportunity to go on mansion tours several times, including the Ghost tour last year, and each time I've found the experience to be quite enlightening and unique. One thing that stood out to me was how Belcourt Mansion skillfully blends history with modern art, creating a distinctive atmosphere that's unlike any other mansion tour I've been on. The mansion offers a one-of-a-kind guided tour experience in Newport that's based on 12 years of meticulous research. I was particularly impressed by the extensive collection of magazine articles from 1894 to our days that I saw firsthand, which showcased the mansion's rich history.

After the time when the Tinney family owned the mansion, there was a period where the house had lost much of its historical significance. However, thanks to Carolyn Rafaelian's remarkable renovation efforts, the mansion was revitalized and brought back to life. Her dedication to restoring the mansion's former glory is truly commendable and has given visitors the chance to step back in time and appreciate its unique history.

Regarding the table in question, I'd like to clarify that it wasn't a marble table, it was a table from Marble House. Mistakes like this can sometimes happen, but I believe it's important to distinguish between the two.

As for the anecdotes and humor shared during the tour, I found them to be engaging and entertaining. While there might have been jokes made about the Mansion Society, they were intended to add a lighthearted touch to the experience and shouldn't be taken as embarrassing.

Jennifer Lawrence's wedding, as you mentioned, is now part of the mansion's history, and I found the information about it to be quite interesting. It's a testament to the mansion's continued relevance in the present day.

I appreciate your additional insight, and I'm glad you brought up the topic of the tour guide with the cup of coffee. It's worth noting that in many tour settings, guides often have beverages on hand to stay refreshed, especially during longer tours. It's quite common for guests to carry their own bottles of water or other beverages as well. Just as guests might have water bottles with them, tour guides having a cup of coffee is a practical and understandable practice to help them stay energized throughout the tour.

Lastly, I'd like to mention that Belcourt Mansion is indeed a mansion, not a castle, and it offers a unique charm that distinguishes it from other historical sites. It's worth noting that the review you mentioned seemed to focus on a single aspects of the hour-long tour, which might not provide a comprehensive view of the entire experience.

While I understand that everyone's expectations and experiences can vary, I hope this alternate perspective sheds light on some of the positive aspects of Belcourt Mansion that you may not have fully experienced during your visit. The mansion's blend of history, modern art, and engaging anecdotes make it a truly captivating and worthwhile destination for those interested in Newport's...

This tour is unlike any other mansion tour in Newport. To begin, this house is a private residence that is owned and currently lived in. The owners are extremely gracious and allow for tours. As such its not a museum, in the traditional sense, such as the The Breakers or Marble House et al.

Consequently, many of the current owners personal furniture and art are what makes up the contents of the home. For some this will come as a shock. As much of the personal collection comprises Post Modern furniture. Personally I found it wonderful, it's two exhibitions in one

With that being said, the tour wasn't focused on the post modern furniture. Instead the tour focuses on the persons, history, and architecture, that make up the wonderful estate.

Additionally, a tour is completely dependent on the docent. Our docent was not only knowledgeable, he was passionate. He excellently conveyed the immense undertakings that have gone into restoration of the house.

You will learn that the house will have more to show in the future. With new portions of the house planning to be restored. Along with a new permanent collection.

With its on going growth, renovation and outlook. This is definitely a property and tour one should revisit every so often to see it progress and flourish. I can't wait...

This is not your typical Newport Mansions tour, so don't go in expecting polished perfection or grandeur like the Breakers or Marble House. You will need to use your imagination to get the full experience. The tour guide was entertaining and funny, which adds a nice personal touch if you want to ask questions. The house and furnishings are very eclectic, which may not suit everyone's taste - the first floor feels rather sparse and is a mix of old and new. The second floor appears more traditional, but is still a work in progress. I liked learning about the history of the home and seeing how modern families live in these white elephants. One suggestion: would love to hear so much more about some of the challenges of maintaining and renovating these enormous structures. Overall, would definitely recommend for anyone who is obsessed with...