What You Will Do
Explore Newport's Revolutionary War history on this engaging walking tour, Road to Independence, which takes you to iconic sites like Washington Square and the Colony House. Discover Newport's pivotal role during the lead-up to the American Revolution, including European occupations, George Washington’s visit, and the city’s fight for freedom. Perfect for history buffs, families, and curious travelers, this tour offers an immersive experience filled with insider knowledge, captivating stories, and a deeper understanding of America’s path to independence!
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
Go to the old Brick Market building at 127 Thames Street. This building is located at the foot of Washington Square, where Long Wharf Mall meets the square and intersects with Thames Street. It is a large brick building with arches on the ground level. Check in for the tour inside at the front desk.
1
Museum Of Newport History And Shop
20 minutes
Visitors will check in at the Museum of Newport History and Shop. Tour guests get free access to the award-winning museum, that covers the history of Newport from its founding to the Gilded Age.
2
Shops at Long Wharf
5 minutes
Tour guests will start their journey on Long Wharf, the only public wharf in the city in colonial times.
3
5 minutes
Guests will stop outside the Captain William Read House, and learn about the hated Stamp Act of 1765 and Newport's very own Liberty Tree.
4
5 minutes
Guests will stop at Liberty Tree Park, and see Newport's own Liberty Tree, and learn about Founding Father William Ellery.
5
5 minutes
Guests will stop at the Coddington Family Burial Ground, and learn about Newport's first governor, William Coddington, and the Society of Friends, or Quakers.
6
Great Friends Meeting House
5 minutes
Guests will stop at the oldest house of worship in Rhode Island and learn about the role Quakers played during the American Revolution in Newport.
7
Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House
10 minutes
Guests will stop at one of the oldest houses in Newport, the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House, and learn about the governors, patriots, and loyalists who lived there.
8
Colony House
5 minutes
Guests will stop at the Colony House, the nation's 4th oldest extant state house, and learn about colonial politics and government in early Rhode Island, as well as the British occupation of the city.
9
5 minutes
Guests will stop at the Second Congregational Church on Clarke Street and learn about the British Occupation, minister Ezra Stiles, and the French assistance in the war.
10
Artillery Company of Newport
5 minutes
Guests will stop at the Artillery Company of Newport and learn about the artillery company and the role it played in the Revolution.
11
Vernon House
5 minutes
Guests will learn about the French occupation of the city, and the spot where the Comte de Rochambeau kept his headquarters while in Newport.
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