Touro Synagogue
National Historic Site · Newport, Rhode Island
Dedicated on 2 December 1763 and designed by Peter Harrison, this is the oldest synagogue building still standing in the United States and the only one surviving from the colonial era. It is not a museum: it is the home of an active Orthodox congregation, and visitors come as guests. Its place in American history rests on a letter — in August 1790 George Washington wrote to the congregation that the government of the United States "gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance", and that sentence is read aloud here every year.
85 Touro Street, Newport, Rhode Island, 02840, United States
An active Orthodox synagogue that welcomes visitors of all faiths, generally by guided tour at set times rather than by open admission. ⚠ CLOSED TO TOURS ON SHABBAT, FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH SATURDAY, AND ON JEWISH HOLIDAYS — which move each year against the civil calendar and cluster in the autumn, closing the building on several separate days. Tour hours are limited and seasonal. START AT THE LOEB VISITORS CENTER next door, where tours begin. Modest dress is expected and head covering is expected for men in the sanctuary; kippot are provided. Photography is generally not permitted inside. A modest admission charge applies, roughly $10-$15 for an adult. CHECK THE CONGREGATION'S OWN CALENDAR THE WEEK YOU TRAVEL.