Oldest existing U.S. synagogue (1763), built in Palladian style, still open for services & tours.
At a glance
#5 of 37 Tourist attractions in NewportLocalGuideWorld score: 4.79
Rating breakdown
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5 ★88%
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4 ★11%
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3 ★0%
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2 ★0%
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1 ★1%
Quick facts
- What is the rating of Touro Synagogue National Historic Site?
- Touro Synagogue National Historic Site is rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 567 reviews.
- How does Touro Synagogue National Historic Site rank in Newport?
- Touro Synagogue National Historic Site is #5 of 37 Tourist attractions in Newport by LocalGuideWorld score (rating weighted by number of reviews).
- Where is Touro Synagogue National Historic Site located?
- 85 Touro St, Newport, RI 02840 — 0.8 km from the center of Newport.
- How can I contact Touro Synagogue National Historic Site?
- Phone: (401) 847-4794 · Website: tourosynagogue.org
Touro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the United States, is a living testament to both history and continuity. Its storied past is beautifully curated, and the presence of an ancient Torah scroll on display adds a profound layer to the experience. Remarkably, this historical landmark remains a vibrant center of worship, hosting active services that connect the past with the present. Touro's enduring legacy, coupled with its commitment to spiritual vitality, makes it an exceptional destination deserving of a resolute five-star rating.
We enjoyed the tour very much! Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and very interesting to listen to. I learned so much! Highly recommend a visit if you are in the area
The Touro is the oldest synagogue building still standing in the United States, the only surviving synagogue building in the U.S. dating to the colonial era, and the oldest surviving Jewish synagogue building in North America. Wonderful place to visit, even better to enjoy Shabbat.
Whomever gave the 1pm tour today was fantastic. I didn't catch her name. We took the Fort Adam's tour after, and it paled in comparison.
Very interesting!
First Jewish synagogue in the USA still active today. Very interesting h
Part of American Jewish history.
Cons: hard to find parking close by. Synagogue is kind of on the middle of the hill so one way will always be up hill.
First Jewish synagogue in the USA still active today. Very interesting h
Part of American Jewish history.
Cons: hard to find parking close by. Synagogue is kind of on the middle of the hill so one way will always be up hill.
Very interesting seeing the first synagogue in the united states and hearing that it's still functional on shabbat and chagim.
It's the oldest synagogue in the United States. Will sign up for the tour next time go visit.
Very cool place to visit. This is the oldest synagogue in all of America. And it actually is an active synagogue so if you’re around for services you should come in and check it out. Very good historic place in a very cool story city. It’s right in the center of town and it’s a very short walk. After that you can just walk down division Street and check out all the old buildings there that are all historical monuments. There’s a really cool black church that’s for free black sleeves down on division Street it’s not even mark any map it is very cool.
Touro Synagogue is the oldest extant synagogue in the United States. It wasn't the first, but it's the oldest one that's still around. It's technically part of the National Park Service as a National Historic Site, but it does not receive any funding from the NPS system. For those interested, you can receive a National Park cancellation stamp from the staff at the Loeb Visitor Center, but you'll have to ask for it.
The synagogue itself is very beautiful, and was built in a colonial style. There is an active congregation that still worships here, so accessing the synagogue in a tourist capacity is limited. In January-April, for example, the synagogue is open from 1100-1330 on Sundays only. The normal cost for a ticket is $12 per adult, but there are discounts for seniors, military, students, National Park passport holders, and National Trust members. Children under 12 and Newport residents have free admission.
You cannot purchase your tickets for the tour ahead of time; they must be purchased in-person at the Loeb Visitor Center (which also functions as a museum), which is right next to the synagogue. The only way to access the synagogue (bar being a Jewish worshipper attending the services) is to go on one of the tours.
There is a lot of American history related to this one small synagogue, and today, it's remains a monument to tolerance, respect, and the freedom of religion.
The synagogue itself is very beautiful, and was built in a colonial style. There is an active congregation that still worships here, so accessing the synagogue in a tourist capacity is limited. In January-April, for example, the synagogue is open from 1100-1330 on Sundays only. The normal cost for a ticket is $12 per adult, but there are discounts for seniors, military, students, National Park passport holders, and National Trust members. Children under 12 and Newport residents have free admission.
You cannot purchase your tickets for the tour ahead of time; they must be purchased in-person at the Loeb Visitor Center (which also functions as a museum), which is right next to the synagogue. The only way to access the synagogue (bar being a Jewish worshipper attending the services) is to go on one of the tours.
There is a lot of American history related to this one small synagogue, and today, it's remains a monument to tolerance, respect, and the freedom of religion.
Absolutely fascinating building, tour, guide and history. A must-see when in Newport. Learn about Washington's letter to the congregation and think about that letter (assuring Jews' wellbeing and safety) within today's experience.
Must stop in Newport for any history buff. This is the oldest synagogue in the United States. An interaction here in the 1700s between the congregation and President George Washington helped establish freedom of religion in the United States.
There is a small admission fee. It gets you into the synagogue, the grounds, andva very well-done museum.
Note: there is NO on-site parking.
There is a small admission fee. It gets you into the synagogue, the grounds, andva very well-done museum.
Note: there is NO on-site parking.
Moving history of early religious tolerance in that much of our world needs to learn from today. The Loeb Visitor Center is beautiful and we'll conceived, the staff knowledgeable, courteous and friendly.
A must experience.
A must experience.
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