Rhode Island Travel Guide
A detailed travel guide for Rhode Island including places to visit, activities, itinerary, food, culture, safety, and transportation options.
- Introduction to Rhode Island
- List of Places to Visit in Rhode Island
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Rhode Island
- Best Things to Do in Rhode Island: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Rhode Island
- Food and Drink Scene of Rhode Island
- Where to Stay in Rhode Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Rhode Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Rhode Island
- Best Time to Visit Rhode Island
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Rhode Island: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Rhode Island
- Where to Go Next from Rhode Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Rhode Island, located in New England, is the smallest state in the United States. This beautiful state has a rich history and is a very popular destination among tourists. Rhode Island is known for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, great seafood, and rich cultural heritage. In this comprehensive travel guide for Rhode Island, we will explore some of the must-visit places in the state along with the best activities, food, and culture.
Introduction to Rhode Island
Rhode Island is a state in the northeastern part of the United States. The state is known for its breathtaking scenery, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage. The capital city of Rhode Island is Providence. Rhode Island is a small state, and it is easy to get around by car or public transportation. The state has a lot to offer, from scenic drives to historical landmarks, and is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.
List of Places to Visit in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is home to many beautiful places to visit. From museums to beaches, there is something for everyone. Here are some of our top picks:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Breakers: This stunning mansion was once home to the famous Vanderbilt family and is now a National Historic Landmark.
- Rhode Island School of Design Museum: This museum is home to a vast collection of art and design from around the world.
- The Newport Mansions: These 11 historic houses are open to the public, offering a glimpse of the opulence of the Gilded Age.
Natural Attractions of Rhode Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Block Island: This beautiful island is home to 17 miles of beaches and is a popular destination among tourists and locals alike.
- Cliff Walk: This 3.5-mile path offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the famous Newport mansions.
- Roger Williams Park Zoo: This zoo is home to over 150 species of animals and is a great place for families to visit.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Rhode Island
Rhode Island has many hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the state’s natural beauty. Some of our favorite trails include:
- Blackstone River Bikeway: This 14.5-mile trail takes riders through quaint New England towns and beautiful natural landscapes.
- Newport Cliff Walk: The Cliff Walk boasts stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Rhode Island coast.
- Prudence Island: This small island is only accessible by ferry and offers several hiking trails and beautiful beaches.
Best Things to Do in Rhode Island: Activities and Tours
Rhode Island offers plenty of activities for tourists to enjoy. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the state’s beaches and hiking trails, while foodies will love the fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine. Here are some of the best things to do in Rhode Island:
- Take a tour of the Newport Mansions: These historic houses offer a glimpse of the opulence of the Gilded Age.
- Visit the famous WaterFire Providence: This unique art installation lights up the city’s rivers with a series of bonfires.
- Enjoy seafood at one of the many local restaurants: Rhode Island is known for its fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine.
Week-Long Itinerary for Rhode Island
Rhode Island is small enough to explore in a week, and there are plenty of things to do and see. Here is an itinerary for a week-long trip:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the Newport Mansions |
| 2 | Take a ferry to Block Island |
| 3 | Explore Providence |
| 4 | Hike in Prudence Island |
| 5 | See the wildlife at Roger Williams Park Zoo |
| 6 | Visit the beaches in Narragansett |
| 7 | Enjoy the local food scene in Jamestown |
Food and Drink Scene of Rhode Island
Rhode Island has a vibrant food and drink scene, with many restaurants offering fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Stuffies: These stuffed clams are a Rhode Island classic and are a must-try for seafood lovers.
- Quahogs: These large clams are a staple in Rhode Island cuisine and can be prepared in many different ways.
- Lobster Roll: This classic New England sandwich is a must-try for any seafood lover.
Local Beverages
- Del’s Lemonade: This frozen lemonade is a Rhode Island staple and is a must-try during the hot summer months.
- Coffee Milk: This sweet and creamy drink is a Rhode Island classic and can be found at local diners and restaurants.
- Beer: Rhode Island is home to many great breweries, including Newport Craft Brewing and Grey Sail Brewing.
Where to Stay in Rhode Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Rhode Island offers a wide range of accommodations for tourists, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of our top picks:
- The Chanler at Cliff Walk: This luxurious hotel is located on the famous Cliff Walk in Newport and offers stunning ocean views.
- Hostelling International Providence: This budget-friendly hostel offers shared and private rooms and is a great option for solo travelers.
- The Spring House Hotel: Located on Block Island, this hotel offers stunning views of the ocean and easy access to the island’s many attractions.
What to Buy in Rhode Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Rhode Island has many unique souvenirs and local products that make great gifts. Here are some of our top picks:
- Del’s Lemonade Mix: Bring home some Del’s Lemonade mix and make this Rhode Island classic in the comfort of your home.
- Rhode Island Red Roasters Coffee: This coffee is roasted locally in Rhode Island and makes a great gift for coffee lovers.
- Newport Storm Beer: Pick up some locally brewed beer to share with friends and family back home.
Local Culture and Customs of Rhode Island
Rhode Island has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its unique festivals and traditions. The state is home to many historic sites, such as the famous Newport Mansions and the Roger Williams National Memorial. Rhode Island is also known for its love of baseball, and the state’s baseball history is celebrated at the Pawtucket Red Sox Hall of Fame.
Best Time to Visit Rhode Island
The best time to visit Rhode Island is during the summer months, from June to September. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, and the state’s many attractions are open to the public. Fall is also a great time to visit, as the leaves change colors and the weather is still mild enough to enjoy outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Rhode Island
Do:
- Visit the Newport Mansions
- Try the local seafood
- Take a ferry to Block Island
- Enjoy the beautiful beaches
Don’t:
- Ignore the state’s rich cultural heritage
- Expect to find big cities or crowds
- Forget to pack sunscreen and bug spray
Safety and Health
Safety in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is generally a safe place to visit, but tourists should still take precautions to ensure their safety. It is important to lock car doors and keep valuables out of sight. Visitors should also avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
Health in Rhode Island
Rhode Island has excellent healthcare facilities, and tourists are advised to buy travel insurance before visiting the state. The state is known for its clean air and water, and tourists should take advantage of the state’s many outdoor activities.
Getting to Rhode Island: Transportation Options and Logistics
Rhode Island is easy to get to by plane, bus, or car. Here are some transportation options:
Airports Near Rhode Island
- T.F. Green Airport: This airport is located in Warwick, just 6 miles south of Providence.
- Logan International Airport: This airport is located in Boston, about an hour’s drive from Providence.
Bus Stations Near Rhode Island
- Peter Pan Bus Lines: This bus line operates out of Providence and connects to many other cities in the Northeast.
- Greyhound Bus Lines: This national bus line connects many cities in the United States and has stops in Providence.
Other Options
- Car: Rhode Island is easily accessible by car, and there are many rental car options available.
- Train: Amtrak operates a station in Providence, making it easy to travel to and from other cities in the Northeast.
How to Get Around in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is small enough to get around easily by car or public transportation. There are many rental car options available, and the state also has a reliable public transportation system.
Where to Go Next from Rhode Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Rhode Island is surrounded by other amazing destinations to explore. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:
- Boston, Massachusetts: This historic city is just a short drive from Rhode Island and is home to many famous landmarks and attractions.
- Cape Cod, Massachusetts: This picturesque coastal destination is just a few hours’ drive from Rhode Island and is known for its beautiful beaches and charming towns.
- New York City, New York: This iconic city is just a few hours’ drive from Rhode Island and is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the Northeast.
Conclusion
Rhode Island is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and outdoor activities. The state has a lot to offer, from its beautiful beaches to its rich cultural heritage. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Rhode Island is definitely worth a visit.
