Summary
- Marvel at Mansions
- Catch a Wave at the Beaches
- Venture to Block Island
- Experience WaterFire
- Commune With the Animals
- See a Most Unusual Garden
- Ride Historic Carousels
- Play Tennis on Historic Courts
- Taste Some Rum
- Refresh With Del’s Frozen Lemonade
- Appreciate the Art of the Car
- Walk Benefit Street’s Mile of History
- Appreciate Art at the School of Design
- Enjoy America’s Cup History
- Have a Tavern Meal
- Stroll Brown University
- Savor Italian Food on Federal Hill
- Cruise the Canals
- Catch the Views From Fort Wetherill State Park
- Spend the Night in a Lighthouse
Rhode Island may be the nation’s smallest state, but it offers a wondrous number of things to see and do. Founded in 1636 by religious dissenter Roger Williams who preached religious tolerance and advocated for the separation of church and state, Rhode Island belongs on your must-see list if you are a fan of history, architecture, or the arts.
It’s also a beach lover’s heaven and a foodie’s delight, making it the perfect place to enjoy a romantic getaway.
Marvel at Mansions
Address: 44 Ochre Point Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA
Phone: +1 401-847-6544
The magnificent seaside mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, serve as monuments to early 20th-century wealth, showcasing the luxurious lives of captains of industry such as Morgan, Astor, and Vanderbilt. Intriguingly, these architectural masterpieces were only occupied for summer vacations.
You’ll find it challenging to choose which stunning homes to explore, with favorites including the renowned Breakers and Rough Point, formerly owned by Doris Duke. Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll along the Cliff Walk for breathtaking views, particularly enchanting during the holiday season when the mansions are adorned with festive decorations.
Catch a Wave at the Beaches
Address: Misquamicut State Beach, Westerly, RI 02891, USA
Rhode Island, often referred to as the Ocean State, is home to over 40 public beaches, providing an ideal setting for beachgoers. Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of Misquamicut or the tranquility of East Beach on Ninigret Pond, you have diverse options. Surfers flock to Narragansett Town Beach, while Watch Hill Beach is a family favorite.
Venture to Block Island
Address: Mohegan Bluffs, New Shoreham, RI 02807, USA
Rhode Island’s offshore gem, Block Island, has been designated one of the “Last Great Places on Earth” by the Nature Conservancy. This idyllic getaway is steeped in Victorian charm, boasting various unique attractions.
When visiting Block Island, whether for a day or an extended stay, be sure to visit the iconic Mohegan Bluffs and Southeast Light for breathtaking views.
Experience WaterFire
Address: 4 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903, USA
Phone: +1 401-273-1155
WaterFire has garnered acclaim as New England’s best free event and a signature attraction in Rhode Island’s capital city. It serves as an artistic installation set amidst the enchanting backdrop of Providence. Held on select summer and fall evenings, experiencing WaterFire is essential to appreciate the artistic impact fully.
This mesmerizing spectacle features numerous bonfires illuminating the waterways, accompanied by a captivating musical score that varies with each event. No two WaterFire events are the same, ensuring a unique experience each time.
Commune With the Animals
Address: 1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907, USA
Phone: +1 401-785-3510
As America’s third oldest zoo, Roger Williams Park Zoo offers visitors a chance to observe and learn about a diverse array of wildlife. This highly acclaimed and constantly evolving zoo has been a beloved family destination since its establishment in 1872.
During the fall evenings, the zoo transforms into a magical setting for the Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular, one of Rhode Island’s must-see Halloween attractions.
See a Most Unusual Garden
Address: 380 Corys Ln, Portsmouth, RI 02871, USA
Phone: +1 401-683-1267
Situated near Newport, Green Animals is a topiary garden famous for its meticulously shaped shrubbery. The garden features a delightful array of animal figures and geometric designs, carefully maintained for close to 140 years. While children may be captivated by the grandeur of other mansions, Green Animals presents a whimsical experience that enchants visitors of all ages.
Ride Historic Carousels
Address: 151 Bay St, Westerly, RI 02891, USA
Phone: +1 401-388-8136
Rhode Island is home to three historic carousels, but the Flying Horse Carousel in Watch Hill, built in 1883, is a must-visit. This captivating ride is suitable for kids up to 12 years old and offers a chance to grasp a brass ring for a free subsequent ride. Additionally, don’t miss the 1895 Crescent Park Carousel in East Providence and the historic 1894 carousel in Pawtucket’s Slater Memorial Park, crafted by Charles I.D. Looff.
Play Tennis on Historic Courts
Address: 194 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA
Phone: +1 401-849-3990
The International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport celebrates the legends of the sport, but it also boasts the world’s largest tennis museum housed within the historic Newport Casino. The Hall features 13 grass courts that remain the only public competition-level grass tennis courts in the country. Visitors can reserve a court to play on the same grounds where the first U.S. National Lawn Tennis Championships were held in 1881.
Taste Some Rum
Address: 293 JT Connell Hwy, Newport, RI 02840, USA
Phone: +1 401-849-5232
During colonial times, Newport was renowned for its rum production, a tradition that disappeared for over 150 years. Recently, however, the founders of Newport Storm Brewery revitalized this legacy by producing Thomas Tew Rum at their distillery. When visiting their facilities, you can savor a variety of spirits or beer.
Refresh With Del’s Frozen Lemonade
Address: 1264 Oaklawn Ave #2628, Cranston, RI 02920-2628, USA
Phone: +1 401-463-6190
No visit to Rhode Island is complete without trying Del’s Frozen Lemonade. This refreshing treat was introduced to the state by Italian immigrant Franco DeLucia in 1840. With 20 locations in Rhode Island, locals insist that the best flavor comes from Del’s iconic trucks.
Appreciate the Art of the Car
The Newport Car Museum in Portsmouth celebrates the elegance of automotive design, featuring interactive exhibits like a driving simulator. The private collection boasts around 50 automobiles, representing six decades of industrial automotive artistry, showcasing classics from the 1950s to contemporary models.
A complimentary coffee bar enhances the visitor experience.
Walk Benefit Street’s Mile of History
Benefit Street in Providence represents a rich tapestry of social and cultural history, serving as the colonial and early Federal center of the city. Walking along this iconic street, you’ll encounter remarkable Colonial homes that overlook the historic waterfront.
As you stroll the mile, take in the diverse architectural styles, from Colonial to Victorian and even 20th-century designs. Expect to discover hidden gardens, a historic graveyard, churches, and residences that are still inhabited today. Self-guided walking tours and guides on Providence architecture are available through the Providence Preservation Society.
Appreciate Art at the School of Design
The Rhode Island School of Design Museum in Providence houses a vast collection of art, including paintings, photographs, and sculptures. The museum provides family-friendly activities and workshops for those eager to develop their artistic skills. Additionally, it hosts a calendar of various performances and screenings throughout the year.
Enjoy America’s Cup History
The Herreshoff Marine Museum in Bristol showcases scale models and beautifully restored sailing boats, including designs considered masterpieces of maritime engineering. A hallmark of the museum is its America’s Cup Hall of Fame, honoring the renowned boat designing family, the Herreshoffs, celebrated for their remarkable success in defending the America’s Cup from 1893 to 1934.
Have a Tavern Meal
Newport’s White Horse Tavern, established in 1673, ranks among the oldest taverns in the United States. This historic venue continues to provide guests with farm-to-table meals, emphasizing artisan cheeses and freshly caught seafood, all within an elegant atmosphere.
Stroll Brown University
With much to explore, the historic Brown University campus in Providence is ideal for a student-led tour. Founded in 1770, the university’s centerpiece is the historic University Hall, which previously served as a barracks and hospital during the Revolutionary War.
Campus libraries feature rare collections of stamps and maps, complemented by art exhibits in the David Winton Bell Gallery. Guided tours and information sessions generally take place on weekdays and during select Saturdays when classes are in session.
Savor Italian Food on Federal Hill
Federal Hill is the culinary heart of Providence’s Italian-American community, where traditional Italian restaurants, cafés, and shops thrive. Stroll down Atwells Avenue and surrounding streets to savor authentic Italian cuisine or enjoy a cup of cappuccino. The neighborhood hosts the popular “Columbus Day” Festival during the long weekend in October, showcasing its rich heritage.
Cruise the Canals
Consider embarking on a gondola ride through the picturesque canals of Providence. These waterways, unveiled during urban renovations, are crossed by stunning bridges reminiscent of Venetian designs. Daytime cruises and sunset tours are available, allowing you to savor the waterways, including special excursions during WaterFire events.
Catch the Views From Fort Wetherill State Park
Fort Wetherill State Park, situated in Jamestown, provides breathtaking views of Newport Harbor and the East Passage of Narragansett Bay. This former coastal defense site, located atop 100-foot granite cliffs, is ideal for activities such as picnicking, boating, fishing, and hiking. The park also serves as a popular spot to observe America’s Cup races.
Spend the Night in a Lighthouse
Rhode Island boasts several iconic New England lighthouses, including the Rose Island Light, which offers unique overnight accommodations in the 1900s keeper’s house. Visitors can also enjoy tours during the day, making it a memorable destination.
