The History of Hotel Viking and Newport, Rhode Island

The Hotel Viking opened to an awestruck public in May 1926.  As a member of the prestigious Historic Hotels of America, the hotel holds a special place in history.  From the clock above the Front Desk depicting ancient Nordic Runes to the original 1926 brass letter box in the Lobby, the hotel offers a wonderful combination of style, comfort and modern amenities.  Brimming with stories of famous dignitaries and celebrities, the Hotel Viking has offered gracious hospitality for over 80 years.

Throughout these pages we attempt to tell the story of this charmed hotel, with contributions from the Newport Historical Society and photographs that hang today among the walls of the Hotel Viking.  The employees and associates of the Hotel Viking are very proud to share more of the Hotel Viking's heritage and character with the public.  The "city by the sea" is as beautiful today as it was many years ago.  We hope that by sharing these special memories with you, you will understand why the Hotel Viking is indeed so very special to us.

Historical Time Line & Hotel Viking Evolution: 

• 1924 - Locals saw need for a grand hotel to keep pace with the economic growth in Newport.  Fundraising began.  Shares of common stock sold out in one day.
• 1926 - Hotel opened to an awestruck public on May 25, 1926.  Two lavish parties  were held.  One for the workers and one for the general public.  Tickets to the event sold for $5 and both events sold out.  The American Hotels Corporation was the opening Management Company and ran the Hotel until the late 1960’s.
• 1962 - The first motel unit was opened, an outdoor pool and patio built in a beautiful landscaped setting.  The name of the hotel changed to The Viking Hotel and Motor Inn and guests could drive up to a two way camera in the parking lot to check-in.
• 1964 - The second motel unit was added in the 1970’s.  The hotel added a 30 thousand square foot convention center on the lower level, replacing the outdoor pool and surrounding area.  This former convention center is now the Viking Ballroom, Spa Terre and back of the house areas.
• 1980’s - The new ownership of the Hotel Viking connected the two freestanding motel units to the main building, making one large complex.
• 1999 - LaSalle Hotels purchased the property and appointed Noble House Hotels and Resorts as the new Management Company.  Under their direction, an initial 3 million dollar renovation began to bring the hotel back to its original splendor.
• 2003 -  An additional 5 million dollars created beautiful public space, the Viking Ballroom, Spa Terre and much needed back of the house space.
• 2007 -  The original Viking guest rooms undergo a 6.8 million dollar renovation to restore them to their Gilded Age splendor.