Robert Frost could have used an audio guide when he decided to take the road less traveled by, as he discovered only too late that it was patrolled by feral park rangers. Learn how an audio guide makes all the difference with today’s Groupon: for $45, you get a one-year household membership to the Preservation Society of Newport County (a $90 value). Some properties are seasonal and hours vary; check the schedule for the society’s hours. The membership includes the following:

• Membership benefits for two adults and all children 17 and under living at the same address
• Free and unlimited admission to regular self-guided and guided tours at all 10 properties
• Front-of-the-line entrance at all properties
• Savings on special events and purchases<p>

The Preservation Society of Newport County, a nonprofit organization, rolls out 10 magnificent domiciles, illustrating their dedication to preserving and presenting historically significant homes, gardens, and landscapes. Imparting more than 250 years of American history along the way, tours expose eyes to elegant architecture and stunning vistas and stimulate the brain with facts and historical details. Visitors explore many of the 70 French-style rooms comprising The Breakers, a stately cottage that was home to the Vanderbilts, and frolic about hedge sculptures formed from California privet, yew, and English boxwood, filling the Green Animals Topiary Gardens with giant leafy figures shaped like animal crackers. Modeled after both the Grand Trianon at Versailles and Marie Antoinette’s wig collection, the opulent Rosecliff was erected in 1902 and continues to astound visitors with a heart-shaped staircase, ornate crystal chandeliers, and two fountains. The Elms’ luscious décor and Marble House’s sumptuous architecture likewise enchant the eye.

The Preservation Society’s robust calendar is dotted with social, educational, holiday, and family-oriented events, to which members receive reduced admission rates. The Breakers, The Elms, Marble House, and Rosecliff provide visitors with self-guided audio tours, and informative guides lead tours in all other estates.