Rough Point — Attraction in Newport

Great way to spend 2 hours. The house itself is not super extensive, you can finish touring the rooms on your own in 45 minutes, and spend some time on the grounds. I enjoyed Rough Point a lot more than Marble House down the road - the architecture and decor inside is a lot more personable, and it’s an added bonus that Doris Duke actually spent time living in the house, so it’s not like a museum where everything is set up to be displayed but rather we saw how she actually used her rooms. There’s a lot of European inspiration, like tapestries and period furniture/portraits so it’s funny to see modern items like a microwave, dustbuster, landline phone, all from the early 90s. Just a reminder that it was lived in until Duke died in 1993.

The outdoor grounds are worth a stroll too - a couple of benches outside for sitting and lots of open grass. I don’t know if you can picnic on the grounds - if you can, definitely do because the scenery can’t be beat. The Cliff Walk passes by this house so you’ll see some people walk by. You can visit just the grounds for $5 if you’re not interested...

This was a fun departure from the ostentatious grandeur of the other Gilded Age Mansions of the period. While still a grand home (by any standards outside the insane ones set in Gilded Age Newport), this one feels homey due to it being lived in through modern times. The audio guide was very informative, and I recommend you bring headphones to enjoy it. However, it was the phenomenal staff that really brought the place to life. We were there on the afternoon of 5/13, and every single staff member was so eager to share their knowledge, answer questions and tell great stories to bring the home to life. We had to leave after an hour and half but could’ve easily spent 2+ hours admiring the home and all the art. Doris Duke is such a fascinating individual you’ll be happy to...

After seeing the Big Four, (Breakers, Elms, Rosecliff and Marble House), we still had time and wanted to see just one more “cottage.” Doris Duke’s Rough Point came up on our search and we are glad it did. Doris Duke’s home was tastefully done. She traveled around the world and was an avid collector. Consequently, every room was filled with hidden gems. Joan, the docent/greeter was fun, interesting and informative. Upstairs, there is a nice collection of furniture and Ms. Duke’s bedroom. There is also a room with a few pieces of her haute couture. The setting is also wonderful with a gorgeous bay view and a bridge. The formal garden definitely needs some loving care, but there are enough flowers to envision what it may have been...