Date: April 2, 2004
I ventured off on I-95 in November, 2003 to visit Newport, Rhode Island. Newport is a little less than a four-hour drive away from New York, but a beautiful drive at that.
I arrived at the Newport Visitors Information Center and was able to get accommodations at a reasonable rate. If you have AAA, don't forget to mention it.
I recommend at least two days to visit the mansions. I loved The Elms mansion, a magnificent home. I was transported in time and impressed with the mansion and the performers at the Astors' Beechwood.
The locals of Newport advised me that during the off-season you can drive around without problems. During the mid and peak seasons, traffic is horrible. If you're looking to take the family, a child under 12 might find the mansions boring. It's a romantic getaway or just a place to relax and catch up on history.
It was a great little vacation in Newport that I gave to myself, and I recommend it to the world.
