Newport: Touro Synagogue Entry and Guided Tour

Exploring the historic Touro Synagogue in Newport, Rhode Island is a captivating experience. Visitors can explore the synagogue’s rich past, learning about its role in promoting religious tolerance and its significance as North America’s oldest synagogue. With engaging exhibits and a knowledgeable guided tour, this educational adventure offers a glimpse into the synagogue’s architectural marvels and the enduring legacy of civil liberties it represents. Starting at just $14 per person, the Touro Synagogue entry and tour is a must-visit for anyone interested in unraveling the intriguing history of this remarkable landmark.

Good To Know

• Touro Synagogue offers entry tickets starting at $14 per person, with a reserve now and pay later option available.
• The guided tour provides insights into the synagogue’s architectural and cultural significance in American history and civil liberties.
• The Loeb Visitors Center features interactive, multi-media exhibits on the synagogue’s role in promoting religious tolerance and freedom of worship.
• The synagogue requires 24-hour advance notice for full accessibility, and special needs accommodations can be arranged.
• Guided tours are offered every 45 minutes starting at 10:00 AM, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 62 reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Touro Synagogue tour offers visitors an entry ticket starting from $14.00 per person.

Guests can choose the reserve now and pay later option, and take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour is valid for 1 day, and visitors should check availability for starting times.

The guided tour provides access to North America’s oldest synagogue, where guests can explore over 250 years of history and its significance in American history and civil liberties, as well as the interactive exhibits at the Loeb Visitors Center.

Experience Highlights

What does the Touro Synagogue tour experience entail?

Visitors can explore over 250 years of history and the synagogue’s significance in American history and civil liberties.

The guided tour takes guests through North America’s oldest synagogue, providing insights into its architectural and cultural importance.

The tour also includes access to the Loeb Visitors Center, which features interactive, multi-media exhibits on America’s first freedoms.

Guests can learn about the synagogue’s role in shaping the nation’s principles of religious tolerance and freedom of worship.

Accessibility Information

According to the information provided, the Loeb Visitors Center is wheelchair accessible, while the Touro Synagogue itself isn’t fully accessible without 24-hour advance notice.

For assistance with accessibility, visitors are encouraged to contact [email protected]. This ensures the tour operators can accommodate any special needs or requirements in advance.

The guided tours of the historic synagogue are designed to provide an engaging and educational experience for all visitors, regardless of their mobility.

Meeting Point and Tour Details

For those interested in exploring Touro Synagogue, the meeting point is the Loeb Visitors Center located at 52 Spring Street.

Tours run every 45 minutes starting at 10:00 AM until closing time. Entrance to the synagogue is by guided tour only.

Key tour details include:

1. Guided tours provide access to North America’s oldest synagogue.

2. Tours cover over 250 years of history and significance in American history and civil liberties.

3. The Loeb Visitors Center offers interactive, multi-media exhibits on America’s first freedoms.

4. Advance notice is required for full accessibility at the Touro Synagogue.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Visitors to Touro Synagogue have overwhelmingly positive experiences, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 62 reviews.

Reviewer Hillary N. praised the knowledgeable guide and historical insights provided during the tour.

Nataliya appreciated the convenience of online ticket purchase and the attentive staff.

Bruce learned a great deal about the synagogue and Jewish history in Rhode Island.

The reviews highlight the unique educational and cultural experience offered by the guided tours of this historic site, the nation’s oldest synagogue building still in use.

History and Significance of Touro Synagogue

Touro Synagogue stands as a monument to America’s founding ideals of religious tolerance and freedom. Built in 1763, it’s the oldest synagogue in North America and holds immense historical significance.

The synagogue has witnessed pivotal moments in American history:

1. It served as a sanctuary during the American Revolution, providing refuge for Jewish colonists.

2. In 1790, President George Washington visited the synagogue and penned his famous letter affirming the rights of religious minorities.

3. The synagogue’s architecture reflects the fusion of colonial and Jewish design elements.

4. Today, it remains an active place of worship and a cultural hub, preserving the legacy of America’s earliest Jewish communities.

Architecture and Design of the Synagogue

The Touro Synagogue‘s architectural design showcases a captivating blend of colonial and Jewish elements.

The exterior boasts classic Georgian styling with red brick walls and white trim. Inside, the synagogue features high ceilings, elegant hand-carved wooden furnishings, and decorative brass chandeliers.

The bimah, or raised central platform, is the focal point, surrounded by intricately carved Ark doors housing the Torah scrolls.

The synagogue’s unique layout and design reflect the harmonious coexistence of Jewish and colonial American traditions, creating a space that’s both historically significant and aesthetically striking.

Exploring the Loeb Visitors Center

After exploring the historic Touro Synagogue, visitors can enjoy the interactive exhibits at the adjacent Loeb Visitors Center.

The center features:

1. Multi-media displays highlighting the synagogue’s history and significance in American civil liberties.

2. Artifacts and interactive experiences that provide deeper insight into the Jewish community in Colonial America.

3. Informative exhibits on the origins and architecture of the Touro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in North America.

4. A gift shop offering a selection of souvenirs and educational resources for visitors to take home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography and Videography Allowed Inside the Synagogue?

Photography and videography are generally not permitted inside the Touro Synagogue during the guided tour. Visitors should check with the tour staff for any updates or exceptions to this policy.

Is There a Dress Code for Visitors to the Synagogue?

There’s no formal dress code, but visitors should dress respectfully. Modest attire covering shoulders and knees is recommended. It’s best to avoid overly casual or revealing clothing when visiting the Touro Synagogue.

How Long Does the Guided Tour of the Synagogue Typically Last?

The guided tour of the synagogue typically lasts around 45 minutes. Visitors can expect to explore over 250 years of history and learn about the significance of the Touro Synagogue in American history and civil liberties.

Can Visitors Explore the Synagogue on Their Own Without a Guide?

Visitors can’t explore the Touro Synagogue on their own – entrance is by guided tour only. The synagogue doesn’t allow independent exploration to preserve its historical integrity and ensure visitors receive the proper context and information.

Are There Any Gift Shops or Souvenir Vendors On-Site?

There’s no mention of any gift shops or souvenir vendors on-site. The tour experience seems to be focused on the guided tour of the synagogue and the exhibits at the Loeb Visitors Center.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating history of the Touro Synagogue, North America’s oldest. Discover its architectural marvels, interactive exhibits, and the synagogue’s pivotal role in promoting religious tolerance. With a high customer rating, this guided tour offers an enriching experience for visitors of all backgrounds, making it a must-do activity in Newport.

You can check availability for your dates here: