There is an abundance of beautiful vacation spots in the ocean state, Rhode Island. “Little Rhody” as the locals it, is cheap to visit and easy to navigate. Here is a list of things to do in the ocean state—all of which can be done in a single weekend, from one jumping off point. Rent a car at the T.F. Green airport in Providence, find a room in a quaint Newport B&B (of which there are many), and check out these sights.
Historic Landmarks
Newport Mansions. The Preservation Society of Newport is constantly setting up new events to refresh one of the ocean state’s most beloved tourist attractions: the Newport Mansions. Check out their website for tour info and hours.
Fort Adams. August visitors have the chance to attend Rhode Island’s annual Newport Folk Festival, held at the historic sight Fort Adams.
Slater Mill. Located in the gorgeous Blackstone River Valley, Slater Mill is a landmark of Rhode Island’s factory history. Take a tour to see how 19th century factory workers lived, and take a scenic drive through the hilly valley. The mill is available to rent from special events.
Rhode Island's Natural Treasures
Block Island. This small island is a short ferry ride from Newport, and in summer months, it offers a gorgeous place to ride bicycles, eat ice cream, and revel in the few warm days Rhode Island sees each year.
Little Compton Beaches. Drive out to the tip of Rhode Island and visit one of the ruggedly beautiful beaches in the rural community of Little Compton.
Sachuset Point National Wildlife Refuge. Bring binoculars to this bird watchers’ paradise. This wildlife refuge is located smack in the middle of Aquidneck Island, twenty minutes from Providence down rt. 95.
Towns and Villages
Wickford Village. This is the kind of town that looks like a post card of a quaint New England town. Drive to North Kingston and visit historic Wickford Village. Spend the day walking around, stepping in and out of shops and café’s, and feel the sea breeze at your back. This is budget traveling at its best.
Bristol. This is the place to see a fourth of July parade. Bristol townspeople spend the entire year preparing for their parade, which they are very proud of. The line in the middle of the roads in Bristol is not yellow: it is red, white, and blue.
East Providence. Close to the airport and Providence Amtrak train station, the east side is home to Brown University, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) and several renowned preparatory high schools. As a result of the educational environment, this area of town is full of lively ethic restaurants and coffee shops. It is also a great place to shop for specialty hand-made crafts—check out Thayer and Wickenden Streets.
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