The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection
"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe? Stepping into the lobby here is like stepping into the foyer of this Gilded Age mansion during its heyday a hundred years ago. Built by a member of the Vanderbilt family, this meticulous resort recalls a time when Newport was the essential summer destination to see and be seen. What's the backstory? Touches of the building's long and illustrious history are everywhere—from the art collection, to the wood-paneled walls, to the robust reading library, to the numerous cozy nooks where you can curl up with a cocktail after a long day. Today, as part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, the hotel is once again an essential part of Newport's hospitality scene. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book? As you'd expect from any heritage property, the entry-level rooms are definitely on the cozy side. But it's an Auberge property, so all the fine details are there—luxurious linens, comfy beds, impeccable furniture, and great natural light. That said, the real story here is the suites. A number of suites have the possibility to be connected to each other, an excellent option for families and groups. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? No charge for Wi-Fi; and for a historic property it's surprisingly fast. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? Food and drink take center stage here. For fine dining, The Gwynne serves contemporary twists on New England classics, and you can expect a seafood-forward menu that takes advantage of Newport's freshest catch—the Spanish-style grilled octopus is not to be missed. In the warmer months, The Garden is the place to soak up some sunshine, with fun treats like boozy popsicles. And make sure to spend some time at the Knot Bar, where the resident mixologists will make a classic Dark 'n' Stormy to really round out your Newport experience. And the service? The property is on the smaller side by Newport hotel standards, so it feels like there's a good staff-to-guest ratio. I was never waiting for help or unable to find someone to answer a question. What type of travelers will you find here? It's a mix of old money Newporters, young couples, and sophisticated bachelorette weekenders. Think of it as a music video for Taylor Swift's Rhode Island ballad, “The Last Great American Dynasty.” What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene? It's hard to think of a better location, with all of Newport's best restaurants, bars, shopping, and historical attractions within steps from your front door. Is there anything you'd change? The only that would make the guest rooms better would be more direct views of the water. Any other hotel features worth noting? The epic Roof Deck is one of the best kept secrets in Newport. Pop by for a round of oysters and champagne as you watch the sun set over the harbor. Bottom line: Worth it? Why? Yes. It's an elegant yet unpretentious snapshot of the Newport of yesterday and the Newport of today." - Todd Plummer
