A couple of worthwhile mansions not with the preservation society are the Astors' Beechwood Mansion (401-846-3772) and Belcourt Castle (401-846-0669). Another famed spot is Hammersmith Farm. Phone 401-846-7346.

The International Yacht Restoration School is at 449 Thames St. Phone 401-848-5777 or fax 401-842-0669.

The International Tennis Hall of Fame & Museum is at 149 Bellevue Ave.; phone 800-457-1144 or 401-849-3990, fax 401-849-8780, or check the Web site at www.tennisfame.org. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Prices are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $4 for children under 13, and $20 for families.

Vanderbilt Hall is at 41 Mary St. in the Historic Hill District. Phone 888-VAN-HALL or 401-846-6200 or fax 401-846-0701. The Web site is www.vanderbilthall.com. Dinners are $50 a person for five courses or $40 if you skip the appetizer or dessert. Lunch is $24 or $17.50. By contrast, most meals at Aidan's are in the $5 to $10 range. The pub is at 1 Broadway; phone 401-845-9311.

Getting around Newport is easy, whether by car, sea, air, or land tours (Viking Tours offers a variety) or public transportation. This summer, Rhode Island Public Transit Authority buses will link 35 attractions, ranging from the park to the mansions to the jai-alai fronton. As for shopping, unique stores prevail at places like the Brick Marketplace, along Thames Street, and the Long Wharf Mall.

For more information about Newport, write to the Newport County Convention and Visitors Bureau, 23 America's Cup Avenue, Newport, RI 02840; phone 800-976-5122 or 401-845-9123; fax 401-849-0291; or check the Web site at www.gonewport.com. And once you arrive, stop in at the Newport Gateway Visitors Center, also at 23 America's Cup Ave. It's one of the most extensive anywhere.