NRF promotes and invests in the architectural heritage of the Newport community, the traditional building trades, and Doris Duke’s fine and decorative arts collections, for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of all.
As a leader in the preservation of early American architecture, NRF supports research and education in areas directly related to its collections and issues of critical concern to the field of historic preservation.
Visit Doris Duke’s art-filled mansion and enjoy panoramic ocean views from the extensive grounds. Open late March to November.
The Vernon House is a site for expansive story-telling, contemporary dialogue, and preservation trades skill-building. Opening July 1, 2023: NRF and Art&Newport are excited to present a group artists exhibition on cards and card playing: Games, Gamblers & Cartomancers: The New Cardsharps
Newport Restoration Foundation holds one of the largest collections of period architecture owned by a single organization anywhere in the United States.
Celebrate excellence in historic preservation efforts within the City of Newport, Rhode Island.
Live amidst history by renting one of our many historic properties.
Spring is here, and the Newport Restoration Foundation is ready to begin yet another exciting season. NRF’s three museums: Rough Point Museum, Whitehorne House Museum, and Prescott Farm will offer a variety of free and ticketed programs for all ages and interests. Please mark your calendars for upcoming special events including:
Ask a Gardener Rough Point April 27, May 25, June 29 / 11:00-11:30 am Free with house or grounds admission
Tour the Rough Point grounds in the company of experts – once a month our estate gardeners share their expertise on a range of topics from plant identification to organic garden care. Get insider tips about how the Rough Point staff keep the grounds looking lush and how to incorporate those practices in your own home garden. This event is free with house or grounds admission.
Second Sundays: Touch Tank with Save the Bay Prescott Farm May 12 / 12:00-3:00 pm / Free
Community comes together to enjoy the largest public open space on Aquidneck Island. Each month NRF joins with a non-profit partner to highlight the expansive history and horticulture of Prescott Farm. Explore the nature trails with our guest guides, chat up URI’s Master Gardeners, or climb inside the historic windmill – themes, guests, and activities change monthly! For our May event, Save the Bay brings their Traveling Touch Tank!
Stone Wall Workshop Prescott Farm June 1 / 9:30 am–12:30 pm Registration: $40; advance purchase required. Space limited.
Learn the art of traditional stone wall construction and repair from the experts. Join master class instructors Chris and Dan Smith for their sixteenth year leading this hands-on workshop. Great for owners of historic properties in New England who have their own stone wall projects, or for anyone interested in the history and craft of stone walls.
Second Sundays: Bird Walking & Watching at the Farm Prescott Farm June 9 / 12:00-3:00 pm / Free
Community comes together to enjoy the largest public open space on Aquidneck Island. Each month NRF joins with a non-profit partner to highlight the expansive history and horticulture of Prescott Farm. Explore the nature trails with our guest guides, chat up URI’s Master Gardeners, or climb inside the historic windmill – themes, guests, and activities change monthly! Bird Walking & Watching at the Farm will be June’s theme.
The Myth & Mystique of Doris Duke’s Cultural Curiosity Rough Point June 13 / 5:00-7:00 pm Tickets: $15
Gospel singing, belly-dancing, longboard surfing – Doris took up each of these hobbies by turn and moved on just as quickly. What prompted her interest? Was she welcomed in these communities? And what sort of legacy did she leave behind? This discussion-based program will take a closer look.
Newport County Free Days Rough Point & Whitehorne House Museum June 15 & 16 / 10:00 am–5:00 pm Free to all Newport County residents with ID
Have you lived in Newport your whole life and always wondered what went on at Doris Duke’s place? Now’s your chance! Residents of Newport, Middletown, and Portsmouth, Jamestown, Tiverton, and Little Compton are invited to roam around Rough Point and enjoy one of the best views in Newport. Whitehorne House Museum will also be open free to Newport County residents 10:00 am – 4:00 pm through the weekend.
Details Matter: Making Furniture Microscopic Rough Point June 18 / 5:00-7:00 pm Tickets: $15
What happens when a dovetail joint shrinks down to a few thousands of an inch? Miniatures artist Bill Robertson shares the stories and secrets of his 42-year career building tiny objects inspired by historic interiors, furniture, and decorative arts. His unique approach brings the Townsends and Goddards into the 21st century.
For more information on events and to purchase tickets, visit www.newportrestoration.org/events.
2023 DDPA recipients represent a wide variety of projects across Newport.
President Frankie Vagnone sat down with Newport This Week to discuss the Vernon House, and the future of NRF.
Art&Newport and the Newport Restoration Foundation (NRF) are pleased to announce the opening of a contemporary art exhibit at 46 Clarke Street, otherwise known as “The Vernon House.”
