Rhode Island may be small in size, but it's big on charm and offers several noteworthy attractions. With over 600 miles of coastline, no wonder we are called "The Ocean State!" Each town is alive with a rich history, vibrant scenic routes, and local businesses excited to meet you.
Here are some of the best places to see in Rhode Island:
- Newport: Newport is renowned for its historic mansions, beautiful coastline, and vibrant sailing culture. Don't miss touring Newport Mansions, like The Breakers, a stunning Gilded Age mansion, and exploring the Cliff Walk, a scenic path along the oceanfront. Additionally, Newport offers excellent dining options and lively waterfront areas.
Superman Building at Night in Providence-DenisTangneyJr from Getty Images Signature via Canva - Providence: As the capital city, Providence is bustling with cultural attractions, historic landmarks, and culinary delights. Visit WaterFire, a unique art installation featuring bonfires along the rivers of downtown Providence. Explore the charming neighborhoods like Federal Hill, known for its Italian cuisine, and College Hill, home to Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design.
- Block Island: Just a short ferry ride from the mainland, Block Island is a picturesque destination known for its beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and laid-back atmosphere. Spend a day biking around the island, relaxing on the sandy shores, or visiting the historic Southeast Lighthouse.
- Narragansett: Narragansett is a coastal town famous for its sandy beaches, surf spots, and seafood shacks. Narragansett Town Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, while nearby Point Judith Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Roger Williams Park: Located in Providence, Roger Williams Park is a sprawling green space featuring a zoo, botanical gardens, and walking trails. The Roger Williams Park Zoo is home to animals from around the world, while the Botanical Center showcases a variety of plant species in indoor and outdoor gardens.
- The Blackstone Valley: The Blackstone Valley, stretching from Providence to the Massachusetts border, is known for its scenic beauty and rich history. Explore the Blackstone River Bikeway, a paved trail that follows the path of the historic Blackstone Canal, or visit the Slater Mill Historic Site to learn about the region's industrial heritage.
- Touro Synagogue: Located in Newport, Touro Synagogue is the oldest synagogue building still standing in the United States. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance as a symbol of religious freedom.
- Lighthouses: Rhode Island is home to 21 working lighthouses, yet we have a few more "retired" ones. You can enjoy a few lighthouse tours with either Save the Bay or Coastal Queen Cruises around the waters of Rhode Island, enjoying the historic views and taking in the native wildlife, too! For better details on the history of some of the local lighthouses, please visit http://www.rhodeislandlighthousehistory.info/
Rhode Island has 15 Chambers of Commerce; find the one in the area you are visiting.
Please make sure to check out the local Macaroni KID pages. Each one is tailored to their area's local lore.
Macaroni KID Southern RI covers "South County," a term invented in the '60s and '70s when families looking to escape the "big" city announced they were heading south to the beaches. South County is a small portion of Washington County, which got its name from George Washington.
Macaroni KID East Bay-Newport RI covers the areas that touch Narragansett Bay. Newport County is famous for being the home of the world's elite, providing an escape from their wealthy lives to little Rhody in their Summer Cottages, known today as the Newport Mansions.
Macaroni KID Cranston-Kent RI covers a combination of counties. From smaller parts of Washington County and East Bay to a larger section of Providence County. Yet the vast majority of the area is from Kent County, named after the Kent area in England.
These are just a few highlights of the many wonderful places to see in Rhode Island. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor recreation, or simply soaking up the coastal charm, Rhode Island has something to offer every visitor.
This article is ever-changing. Please check back often to see the changes we have made!
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