You’re walking down Mary Street, just a few blocks from the chaos of Thames, and there it is. A red-brick Federal-style beauty that looks more like a private residence than a hotel. Most people still call it the Grace Vanderbilt hotel Newport, but if you try to book it under that name today, you’ll realize the brand shifted a few years back. It’s officially The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection.
Honestly? The name change was the best thing that ever happened to this place.
It used to feel a bit stiff. Now? It’s basically the coolest living room in Rhode Island. This isn’t the Breakers where you’re staring at gold leaf through a velvet rope. You’re actually living in it. Well, for $1,000 a night, you’re living in it.
The Scandalous History Nobody Mentions
Everyone knows the Vanderbilt name. It’s synonymous with "old money" and "enormous boats." But this specific building wasn’t just a summer "cottage." Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt built this place in 1909.
He didn't build it for his wife.
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The manse was actually intended as a place for his mistress. It has that vibe, too—discreet, tucked away, and slightly mysterious. Later, it served as a YMCA before becoming the luxury boutique it is now. When Auberge took over and finished their massive phased renovation in 2024, they leaned into that "naughty" history. They replaced the stuffy floral wallpapers with moody navy walls, curated "curiosity" art, and hidden bars.
Why the Vibe Hits Different in 2026
If you’ve stayed at other Newport hotels like the Marriott or even the Viking, you know they can feel a bit... corporate. The Vanderbilt is the opposite. It’s small. Just 33 rooms.
The recent redesign by the Dallas-based firm SWOON really nailed the "Modern Gilded Age" aesthetic. Think dapper leather club chairs and wood-burning fireplaces that actually smell like cedar.
The Food Situation (Don't Skip the Roof)
You've got two main spots to eat, but the real magic is the Roof Deck. In the summer, it’s easily the best view of Newport Harbor. You’re sitting up there with a glass of rosé, looking at the masts of multi-million dollar yachts, and you realize why the 1% chose this town.
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- The Dining Room: It’s cloaked in navy blue. Very moody. They do a New England menu—lots of local oysters and lobster—but with a twist.
- The Conservatory: Way more light. Good for brunch.
- The Macallan Reserve Room: This is where you go if you want to pretend you're an industrialist from 1912. They do whiskey tastings that are surprisingly educational without being boring.
What Most Travelers Get Wrong
The biggest misconception about the Grace Vanderbilt hotel Newport is that it’s right on the water. It isn't. You aren't getting a balcony that hangs over the Atlantic like you might at Castle Hill Inn.
However, being in the "Historic Hill" district is actually a massive advantage. You can walk to the White Horse Tavern (the oldest in America) in five minutes. You’re away from the tourist traps, but close enough that you don't need a car.
Also, it’s pet-friendly. Like, actually pet-friendly. They don't just "allow" dogs; they have amenities for them. But be warned: the pet fee is around $150 per stay, so your golden retriever better enjoy the luxury.
Choosing the Right Room
Not all rooms here are created equal. Because it's a historic 1909 structure, the layouts are "quirky." That's a polite way of saying some are smaller than others.
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- The Guild Rooms: These are your entry-level rooms. Around 300 square feet. Plenty of light, but if you’re a "heavy packer," you might feel tight.
- The Alfred Suite: This is the sweet spot. 500+ square feet, views of Trinity Church, and enough space to actually move around.
- The Elise Suite: These usually have the fireplaces. If you're coming in October or November (the best time for Newport, don't @ me), book this.
Is It Worth the Price Tag?
Rates in 2026 fluctuate wildly. You might see a random Tuesday in February for $450, but during the Jazz Festival? You're looking at $1,500+.
The value isn't just in the thread count. It's the service. Auberge is known for this. They do things like "The Green Hour" (an absinthe ritual) and tarot readings in the mezzanine. It feels like a club where you actually want to be a member.
Practical Steps for Your Trip
- Book Direct: Seriously. You’ll often get a better cancellation policy or a breakfast credit that isn't available on the big travel sites.
- The Spa Secret: Even if you aren't staying there, you can book the spa. Their "Atlantic Stone Massage" uses stones pulled from the local coast.
- Off-Season is Better: Newport is a zoo in July. If you visit in May or late September, the hotel is quieter, the staff is more relaxed, and the rooftop isn't a battle for a table.
- Check the Calendar: The hotel closes the dining room for private events occasionally in January. Call ahead if you're planning a winter escape.
Newport has plenty of history, but a lot of it feels like a museum. Staying at what was once the Grace Vanderbilt hotel Newport lets you actually touch the history—and have a cocktail while you do it.
To get the most out of your stay, book a room on the second or third floor facing Mary Street for the best light, and make sure to reserve your spot at the Roof Deck at least 48 hours in advance during peak summer weekends.