D&D Travel Presents a Look at The Gilded Age - The Mansions at Newport, Rhode Island - December, 2016.

All decked out for the holidays, below is a visit to two of the most popular mansions in Newport - The Breakers and Marble House. The Breakers was built in 1893 by railroad tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt II. Marble House was constructed between 1888 and 1892 for Mr. and Mrs. William K. Vanderbilt. Both are well-preserved examples of the excess of wealth during "The Gilded Age" - a term coined by Mark Twain from his 1873 novel, representing a period that was "glittering on the surface, but corrupt underneath." Perhaps the best example of that here is the photograph of the Gold Ball Room at Marble House, whose walls are covered in 22k gold leaf! Self-guided audio tours are available at these and other mansions. Check the operating schedules as most properties operate seasonally and not all are open during the holiday/winter months...Newport offers a great weekend getaway!  - Dennis and Donna