Garden tour coming to Newport

The Secret Garden Tour of Newport has announced the fifth annual Fall Secret Garden Tour. This self-guided tour leads visitors through some of the most beautiful private gardens in Newport. Along the tour route, visitors will discover unusual plantings, dynamic architectural features, and remarkable porches. For an additional treat, each afternoon brings an ice cream social sponsored by Ben and Jerry's of Newport.

For over 22 years, the spring and fall tours have not only provided an exclusive glimpse into Newport's hidden gardens, but have also provided an important service to Rhode Island schools. Each year, funds raised by the tour are granted to local schools to support music programs, cultural events and workshops. To date, The Secret Garden Tour has raised more than $1.25 million for arts education in Rhode Island schools.

This year's event will be held on the weekend of Sept. 9 and 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine.

Purchase tickets at the Newport Visitors Center, online at www.secretgardentours.org, or call 847-0514.

The tour begins at Kingscote, 253 Bellevue Ave., in Newport.