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Rhode Island
United States
Visit Rhode Island
Rhode Island, the smallest state in the United States, offers a surprising wealth of attractions and charm that belies its diminutive size. Known as the Ocean State, it boasts over 400 miles of coastline, featuring breathtaking beaches, stunning cliffs, and vibrant seaside towns. A visit to Rhode Island is not complete without exploring its beautiful coastal scenery, especially the famous Newport, which is renowned for its historic mansions like The Breakers and Marble House, remnants of America's Gilded Age. These opulent homes, once the summer retreats of the wealthiest families in the country, are now museums that offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of the era.
Beyond its coastal allure, Rhode Island is steeped in rich history and culture. Providence, the state capital, is not only the creative capital but also a hub of culinary delights. The city's celebrated restaurant scene is a testament to its diverse community, with offerings that range from traditional New England seafood to international cuisine. The Rhode Island School of Design Museum in Providence is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, featuring an impressive collection that spans different cultures and time periods. Additionally, the city's vibrant arts scene is highlighted by WaterFire, an award-winning fire sculpture installation on the three rivers of downtown Providence, which creates a magical atmosphere that is both enchanting and romantic.
For those who enjoy a more tranquil escape, the state offers lush landscapes and numerous recreational activities. The East Bay Bike Path and the Blackstone River Bikeway provide scenic routes for cycling enthusiasts, while the numerous state parks like Colt State Park in Bristol offer picnic areas, trails, and breathtaking waterfront views. In the fall, the state is a perfect place to enjoy New England’s famous foliage with its vibrant colors transforming the landscape into a painter’s palette of oranges, reds, and yellows.
Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Rhode Island's unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination for all types of travelers. Its small size means that you can experience the urban charm of Providence, the majestic mansions of Newport, and the serene beauty of its rural landscapes all in a single day. But take your time—the more you explore, the more you'll discover the rich tapestry of experiences that this little state has to offer.
Find your Next Adventure in Rhode Island
Explore Rhode Island
Iconic Landmarks
The Breakers
- This opulent mansion in Newport, built during the Gilded Age, epitomizes the lavish lifestyles of America's wealthiest families in the late 19th century.
Rhode Island State House
- Located in Providence, this state capitol building is renowned for its beautiful, fourth-largest self-supported marble dome in the world.
Cliff Walk
- A scenic 3.5-mile walking trail in Newport that offers stunning views of the shoreline and the city's historic mansions.
The Elms
- Another of Newport's grand mansions, The Elms is a beautiful example of early 20th-century architecture, featuring elaborate classical interiors and a picturesque garden.
WaterFire Providence
- An art installation and event in downtown Providence that features over eighty bonfires lit on the surface of three rivers, creating a magical atmosphere.
Roger Williams Park Zoo
- Located in Providence, this zoo is one of the oldest in the country and offers a variety of exhibits, including a rainforest building and a conservation society.
Cultural Experiences
WaterFire Providence
- An award-winning fire sculpture installation on the three rivers of downtown Providence, creating a unique urban experience with bonfires, music, and local art.
Newport Folk Festival
- Held annually at Fort Adams State Park, this iconic music festival celebrates folk music and has featured legendary artists since its inception in 195
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RISD Museum
- Part of the Rhode Island School of Design, this museum houses an impressive collection of art ranging from ancient objects to contemporary pieces.
Providence Performing Arts Center
- A premier venue for Broadway shows, concerts, and performances, housed in a beautifully restored 1920s movie palace.
Touro Synagogue
- Located in Newport, it is the oldest synagogue in the United States, offering insights into early American Jewish life and architecture.
Block Island
- Known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and preserved open spaces, Block Island offers a cultural escape with historic lighthouses and indigenous heritage sites.
Outdoor Adventures
Cliff Walk, Newport
- This 3.5-mile scenic walk offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the opulent Gilded Age mansions on the other.
Block Island
- Accessible by ferry, this island features stunning cliffs, beautiful beaches, and a variety of trails for biking and hiking.
Beavertail State Park, Jamestown
- Known for offering some of the most beautiful vistas along the New England coastline, this park is ideal for picnicking, fishing, and marine life observation.
East Bay Bike Path
- Stretching 14.5 miles from Providence to Bristol, this path takes cyclists along the picturesque shores of Narragansett Bay.
Burlingame State Park
- This park in Charlestown offers camping, hiking, and boating opportunities in a diverse natural setting that includes forests and a freshwater lake.
Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge
- Located in Charlestown, this refuge provides excellent bird-watching, fishing, and kayaking opportunities amidst diverse habitats like salt marshes and forests.
Off the Beaten Path
Beavertail State Park, Jamestown
- Known for its stunning lighthouse and panoramic ocean views, this park offers serene trails and excellent spots for picnicking and marine life observation.
Prudence Island
- Accessible by ferry, this lesser-known island in Narragansett Bay offers quiet beaches, old farms, and a quaint sense of isolation perfect for nature lovers.
Green Animals Topiary Garden, Portsmouth
- This small and enchanting garden features a unique collection of topiary animals and other sculpted plants, alongside beautiful flower beds and an antique estate.
Frosty Drew Observatory, Charlestown
- Nestled in Ninigret Park, this observatory is a prime spot for stargazing and offers public nights to view celestial events through powerful telescopes.
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory, Charlestown
- A quirky and eclectic compound that houses a collection of small shops offering goods from local artisans, a café, and beautifully landscaped gardens with roaming peacocks.
Block Island Southeast Lighthouse
- Perched on dramatic cliffs, this historic lighthouse offers breathtaking views and a nearby trail that leads to some of the island’s most secluded beaches.
Rhode Island Fun Facts
- Rhode Island is the smallest state in the United States by area.
- The official name of Rhode Island is "State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations."
- Rhode Island was the first of the original thirteen colonies to declare independence from British rule.
- The first open golf tournament in the United States was held in Rhode Island in 1895.
- Rhode Island has no county government; it is divided into 39 municipalities each having its own form of local government.
- The White Horse Tavern in Newport, built in 1673, is one of the oldest taverns in the U.S.
- Rhode Island is home to the Tennis Hall of Fame.
- The state was home to the first National Lawn Tennis Championship (now the U.S. Open) in 1881.
- Rhode Island's official state drink is coffee milk.
- The Redwood Library and Athenaeum, in Newport, is the United States' oldest library building still in use.
Featured Picture Gallery
The Road Island State House is One of the Largest Self-Supported Marble Domes in the World
Visit the First Baptist Church in America that was Founded in 1638
Explore the Providence River During the Sunset