Rhode Island, the smallest state in the United States, packs a punch when it comes to history, scenic beauty, and vibrant culture. From stunning coastline to grand mansions, here are the top 10 places to visit in Rhode Island.
Google Maps showing the state of Rhode Island
1. The Breakers
Description: The Breakers is a magnificent Gilded Age mansion in Newport, built by Cornelius Vanderbilt II in 1895. This 70-room masterpiece is a testament to the state’s rich history and architectural grandeur.
How to get there: The Breakers is located at 44 Ochre Point Avenue, Newport, RI 02840. Take a scenic drive along the coastal road, Ocean Drive, or use public transportation.
Relevant information: The Breakers is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with extended hours in the summer. Admission tickets are available online or at the site.
What to do: Take a guided tour of the mansion to explore its opulent interiors, including the Great Hall, Music Room, and Morning Room. Don’t miss the stunning ocean views from the grounds.
Transportation: Parking is available on site, but consider walking or biking along the scenic Cliff Walk to reach The Breakers.
The Breakers is more than just a grand mansion – it’s a window into the lives of the wealthy elite during the Gilded Age. The mansion’s stunning architecture and opulent interiors showcase the craftsmanship and attention to detail of the era’s finest artisans. Visitors can explore the intricately decorated rooms, adorned with European art and furnishings, and gain insight into the daily lives of the Vanderbilt family. Additionally, The Breakers offers various special exhibitions and events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and holiday-themed tours, making each visit a unique experience. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful grounds, The Breakers is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or the Gilded Age.
2. Newport Cliff Walk
Description: Newport Cliff Walk is a 3.5-mile scenic walkway along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and grand mansions.
How to get there: The Cliff Walk is accessible from various points in Newport, including the downtown area and Ocean Drive.
Relevant information: The Cliff Walk is open year-round, and visitors can walk or bike along the path.
What to do: Take a leisurely stroll along the Cliff Walk, stopping at scenic overlooks and admiring the grand mansions. You can also grab a bite to eat or shop along the way.
Transportation: Walking or biking is the best way to experience the Cliff Walk. Parking is available at various points along the path.
Newport Cliff Walk’s scenic charm is enhanced by the variety of activities and attractions along the way. Visitors can stop at one of the many parks, gardens, or beaches that line the path, or take a break at a local café or restaurant to enjoy the views. The Cliff Walk also offers stunning views of the grand mansions, including The Breakers and Marble House, allowing visitors to appreciate the architectural grandeur of Newport’s Gilded Age elite. Additionally, the Cliff Walk is a popular spot for nature lovers, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as seals and seabirds. With its unique blend of natural beauty and historic significance, the Cliff Walk is an experience that showcases the best of Newport’s coastal charm.
3. Block Island
Description: Block Island is a tranquil gem located off the coast of Rhode Island, known for its stunning natural beauty and picturesque beaches.
How to get there: Take a ferry from Point Judith, Rhode Island, to Block Island.
Relevant information: Block Island has limited car access, so consider biking or walking to explore the island.
What to do: Visit the Mohegan Bluffs, a dramatic cliffside with stunning ocean views. Explore the island’s beaches, go hiking, or simply relax in the peaceful atmosphere.
Transportation: Bike rentals are available on the island, and walking is a great way to explore the scenic coastline.
Block Island’s serene atmosphere and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and outdoor activities. The island’s beaches, such as Crescent Beach and Mohegan Bluffs Beach, offer scenic spots for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Visitors can also explore the island’s scenic hiking trails, which provide opportunities to spot wildlife and take in the stunning ocean views. Additionally, Block Island has a rich history, with historic lighthouses and preserved buildings that offer a glimpse into the island’s past. With its tranquil atmosphere and abundance of outdoor activities, Block Island is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
4. Marble House
Description: Marble House is another grand Vanderbilt mansion in Newport, built between 1888 and 1892. Its stunning architecture and beautiful grounds make it a must-visit.
How to get there: Marble House is located at 596 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840. Take a scenic drive or use public transportation.
Relevant information: Marble House is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with extended hours in the summer. Admission tickets are available online or at the site.
What to do: Take a guided tour of the mansion to explore its opulent interiors, including the Reception Room and Dining Room. Don’t miss the stunning grounds and gardens.
Transportation: Parking is available on site, but consider walking or biking along the scenic Cliff Walk to reach Marble House.
Marble House’s grandeur is reflected in its impressive architecture and exquisite interiors, showcasing the Vanderbilt family’s impeccable taste. The mansion’s Reception Room, with its stunning marble columns, and the Dining Room, with its intricate woodwork, are particularly noteworthy. Visitors can also explore the beautifully landscaped grounds, featuring a variety of flowers, trees, and scenic walkways. Additionally, Marble House offers a glimpse into the lives of the Vanderbilt family and their role in Newport’s social scene during the Gilded Age. With its stunning architecture, beautiful grounds, and rich history, Marble House is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or the Vanderbilt family’s legacy.
5. Providence
Description: Providence, the capital city of Rhode Island, is a vibrant and dynamic location known for its rich history, diverse culture, and thriving arts scene.
How to get there: Providence is easily accessible by car, train, or bus.
Relevant information: Providence has a walkable downtown area, and public transportation is available.
What to do: Explore the historic Federal Hill neighborhood, visit the RISD Museum, or take a stroll along the Providence River Greenway. Don’t miss the stunning WaterFire installation.
Transportation: Walking or biking is a great way to explore downtown Providence. Public transportation and parking options are also available.
Providence’s unique blend of history, culture, and creativity makes it a fascinating destination. The city’s arts scene is thriving, with numerous galleries, museums, and performance venues, including the RISD Museum and the Providence Performing Arts Center. Visitors can also explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, such as Federal Hill, with its historic architecture and vibrant food scene, or College Hill, with its charming shops and cafes. Additionally, Providence’s WaterFire installation, featuring burning braziers on the city’s rivers, is a must-see experience, especially during the evening hours. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and lively atmosphere, Providence is a city that has something to offer for everyone.
6. Beavertail Lighthouse
Description: Beavertail Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located at the mouth of Narragansett Bay, offering stunning ocean views and picturesque surroundings.
How to get there: Take a scenic drive along Ocean Road, or use public transportation to reach the lighthouse.
Relevant information: Beavertail Lighthouse is open daily, and admission is free.
What to do: Take a tour of the lighthouse, explore the surrounding park, and enjoy the stunning ocean views.
Transportation: Parking is available near the lighthouse, and walking is a great way to explore the surrounding area.
The Beavertail Lighthouse is not only a historic landmark but also a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers. The surrounding park offers scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the ocean and surrounding coastline. Visitors can explore the lighthouse’s museum, which features exhibits on the history of the lighthouse and its role in maritime navigation. Additionally, the Beavertail Lighthouse is a great spot for birdwatching, with opportunities to spot seabirds and other wildlife. With its rich history, stunning ocean views, and picturesque surroundings, the Beavertail Lighthouse is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Rhode Island’s coastline.
7. The Elms
Description: The Elms is a stunning mansion in Newport, built in 1898 for the Berwind family. Its French Renaissance-style architecture and beautiful grounds make it a must-visit.
How to get there: The Elms is located at 367 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840. Take a scenic drive or use public transportation.
Relevant information: The Elms is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with extended hours in the summer. Admission tickets are available online or at the site.
What to do: Take a guided tour of the mansion to explore its opulent interiors, including the Ballroom and Music Room. Don’t miss the stunning grounds and gardens, featuring a sunken garden and a picturesque walking trail.
Transportation: Parking is available on site, and walking or biking along the scenic Bellevue Avenue is a great way to reach The Elms.
The Elms is renowned for its impressive collection of European art and furnishings, which adorn the mansion’s opulent interiors. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the Ballroom, with its stunning frescoes and crystal chandeliers, and the Music Room, with its beautifully crafted paneling and ornate furnishings. The mansion’s grounds are equally impressive, featuring a sunken garden and a picturesque walking trail that offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, The Elms offers various special exhibitions and events throughout the year, showcasing its extensive collection of art and artifacts. With its stunning architecture, beautiful grounds, and impressive art collection, The Elms is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or art.
8. Roger Williams Park Zoo
Description: Roger Williams Park Zoo is a popular attraction in Providence, featuring over 200 species of animals from around the world.
How to get there: The zoo is located at 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, RI 02907. Take public transportation or drive to the park.
Relevant information: The zoo is open daily, and admission tickets are available online or at the site.
What to do: Explore the various animal exhibits, including the African Savannah and the Marco Polo Trail. Don’t miss the beautiful botanical center and the zoo’s educational programs.
Transportation: Parking is available on site, and public transportation options are available.
The Roger Williams Park Zoo is a beloved destination for families and animal enthusiasts alike. The zoo’s diverse animal collection includes elephants, giraffes, and snow leopards, among many others. Visitors can explore the various exhibits, such as the Tropical Habitat and the Reptile House, and enjoy interactive experiences like animal feedings and encounters. The zoo is also committed to conservation and education, offering programs for children and adults to learn about wildlife and the environment. With its beautiful grounds, diverse animal collection, and educational programs, the Roger Williams Park Zoo is a great place to spend a day with family or friends.
9. Newport Mansions
Description: Newport Mansions is a collection of historic mansions in Newport, including The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms. A single ticket provides access to multiple properties.
How to get there: Purchase a ticket online or at one of the participating properties.
Relevant information: Newport Mansions offers guided tours and special exhibitions throughout the year.
What to do: Explore the grand interiors and beautiful grounds of multiple mansions, including the stunning architecture and decorative arts.
Transportation: Parking is available at each property, and walking or biking between properties is a great way to experience the scenic surroundings.
The Newport Mansions offer a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur and elegance of the Gilded Age. With a single ticket, visitors can explore multiple properties, including The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms, each showcasing stunning architecture, decorative arts, and beautifully landscaped grounds. The guided tours provide insight into the lives of the wealthy families who once inhabited these mansions, while special exhibitions offer a deeper look into the history and artistry of the era. By visiting multiple properties, visitors can compare and contrast the different architectural styles and decorative tastes of the Vanderbilt and Berwind families, among others. This comprehensive experience makes Newport Mansions a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, and art.
10. Block Island Lighthouse
Description: Block Island Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Block Island, offering stunning ocean views and picturesque surroundings.
How to get there: Take a ferry from Point Judith, Rhode Island, to Block Island, and then walk or bike to the lighthouse.
Relevant information: The lighthouse is open daily, and admission is free.
What to do: Take a tour of the lighthouse, explore the surrounding park, and enjoy the stunning ocean views. Don’t miss the beautiful beaches and scenic coastline of Block Island.
Transportation: Bike rentals are available on the island, and walking is a great way to explore the scenic coastline and reach the lighthouse.
The Block Island Lighthouse is a beloved landmark and a popular destination for visitors to the island. With its stunning ocean views and picturesque surroundings, the lighthouse offers a glimpse into the island’s rich maritime history. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding coastline. The surrounding park is also a great spot for picnics, nature walks, and wildlife watching. After exploring the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches, scenic coastline, and charming atmosphere. With its historic significance, stunning views, and natural beauty, the Block Island Lighthouse is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Block Island.
In summary
Rhode Island’s rich history, stunning coastline, and vibrant culture make it an ideal destination for travelers. From the grand Vanderbilt mansions in Newport to the beautiful beaches and scenic coastline of Block Island, there’s something for everyone. Explore the historic city of Providence, visit the stunning lighthouses, and experience the state’s unique blend of colonial and Gilded Age architecture. With its walkable cities, scenic drives, and public transportation options, Rhode Island is easy to navigate and full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.