Movie road trip: A cinematic site per state for all 50 states

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Rhode Island: 27 Dresses

While the smallest state in the Union, Rhode Island holds many firsts. Some are sports related, like the first open golf tournament and first tennis championship. The state is also home to the first discount department store, Ann and Hope. It is only fitting that 27 Dresses was filmed partly in Rhode Island.

27 Dresses, starring Katherine Heigel, is about a women who has been a bridesmaid one too many times. As the subject of an article, her character chronicles the 27 bridesmaid dresses that she’s worn. Why she kept all those absolutely absurd dresses still confuses me. Too bad she wasn’t able to save money at a discount store like the original Ann and Hope.

27 Dresses was filmed in a noted historical home in Newport, Rhode Island. The Marble House is considered a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture. Designed by Richard Morris Hunt, the house, really a mansion, is known for its over the top opulence. From the impressive front portico to the Versailles-inspired interiors, the design has impeccable details. Considered a summer cottage for the Vanderbilt family, this vacation retreat is a National Historic Landmark.

One recognizable feature of Marble House is the Chinese Tea House. While not part of the original build, the Chinese Tea House was added by Alva Vanderbilt. In the early 1900s, the Chinese House hosted women’s suffrage events.

The Chinese Tea House is featured in 27 Dresses. To see this area, fans will have to purchase a tour of the Marble House. Tours are available June through October for a cost of $17.50. Other ticket packages are available.