Best Places to Visit in Rhode Island
Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the U.S., but it’s full of coastal charm, historic towns, and scenic beauty that make it an unforgettable place to explore. Having traveled its shores and cities during my 10 years living in NYC (and on many return trips since) I’ve found that Rhode Island offers the perfect mix of seaside relaxation, cultural experiences, and hidden gems.
I’ve enjoyed picturesque beaches, lively waterfronts with incredible seafood, and historic streets filled with New England character. From family-friendly attractions to romantic getaways and outdoor adventures, Rhode Island has something for every kind of traveler. Here are the places I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Newport, RI
Newport swept me away with its Atlantic views, cobblestone streets, gilded-age mansions, and lively harbor lined with sailing yachts.
Just a 90-minute drive south from Boston brought me to this storied seaside city where colonial history mingles with upscale coastal charm. I based myself at the cozy and colorful Attwater Hotel for three days, walking along the Cliff Walk past dramatic oceanfront estates, sipping wine on Bowen’s Wharf as tall ships drifted by, browsing nautical finds at Newport Bookstore and Kristen Coates Gallery, and catching a sunset concert on the lawn at Fort Adams.
Walking through The Breakers and Marble House felt like stepping into a gilded past, while lively nights at Midtown Oyster Bar and Wharf Pub reminded me this is still very much a vibrant, modern community.
- Check prices at Attwater Hotel
- Location: Map & Directions
2. Providence
Founded in 1636, Providence charmed me with its riverfront setting, colonial architecture, indie art scene, and a culinary flavors this month.
Just an hour’s drive south of Boston (or 40 minutes north of Newport) brought me to Rhode Island’s capital, where academic energy from Brown University and RISD blends with historic New England grit and a buzzy creative vibe.
You can check out the RISD Museum’s eclectic collections, explore the colorful murals and studios in the West End, savor Italian pastries along Atwells Avenue in Federal Hill, treasure-hunt at Symposium Books, and stroll along the riverwalk at sunset.
I loved timing my visit to catch WaterFire in the fall, when bonfires blaze on the rivers threading through downtown while music fills the night air—it felt like a giant community celebration.
- Check prices at Attwater Hotel
- Location: Map & Directions
3. Block Island
I think that Block Island is one of the best places to visit in Rhode Island. Why? Because I loved its windswept bluffs, Victorian cottages, and harbors on Block Island, not to mention miles of pristine beaches!
A short ferry ride from Point Judith transported me into this tranquil island world where bicycles outnumber cars and every turn offers a postcard view. I based myself at the historic 3.5 star Spring House Hotel for two days, climbing to the top of the Southeast Lighthouse cliffs, savoring lobster rolls on the deck at The Oar, kayaking in Great Salt Pond, browsing island-made crafts at the Farmer’s Market, and strolling Mohegan Bluffs as waves thundered against the shore below.
- Check prices at Spring House Hotel
- Location: Map & Directions
4. Woonsocket
Woonsocket is known for its French-Canadian heritage, red-brick mill buildings, powerful Blackstone River views, and strong sense of community pride.
Just a 20-minute drive north of Providence brought me to this once-booming textile hub that now mixes industrial grit with cultural resilience. You can explore the immersive Museum of Work & Culture, catch a show at the Stadium Theatre, photograph the dramatic mills along the Blackstone River Greenway, sample pastries from Wright’s Dairy Farm & Bakery, and wander along Main Street where murals and cafés are bringing new life into historic storefronts.
- Location: Map & Directions
5. Coventry
Coventry welcomed me with its rolling woodlands, Revolutionary War history, mill villages, and a quiet rural charm that feels worlds away from the bustle of Providence.
A 25-minute drive southwest of the capital brought me to Rhode Island’s largest town by land area, where forests, ponds, and bike paths stretch out across a surprisingly spacious landscape. Here you can pedal on the 19-mile Washington Secondary Bike Path, kayak at Carbuncle Pond, explore the restored mills and history displays at Anthony and Arkwright villages, savor hearty comfort food at local diners, and hike through Nicholas Farm Management Area.
I loved hearing from locals how Coventry played a role in the American Revolution and how mill villages once thrummed with industry along the Pawtuxet River.
- Location: Map & Directions
6. Portsmouth, RI
Portsmouth charmed me with its pastoral farmlands, sweeping Narragansett Bay views, and centuries-old stone walls that weave through rolling countryside.
Just a short 15-minute drive north of Newport delivered me to this quiet Aquidneck Island town where colonial history mingles with a strong agricultural tradition.
You can tour the grounds of the historic Glen Manor House, sip locally made reds at Greenvale Vineyards, wander along the scenic trails at Glen Park, photograph wind turbines set against salt marshes, and explore Prudence Island by ferry for a more off-the-grid escape.
- Location: Map & Directions
My highlight was watching the sun set over Narragansett Bay from Island Park Beach. Portsmouth felt like a serene, timeless corner of Rhode Island.
7. Westerly, RI
Westerly swept me up with its golden beaches, lively summer vibe, and a downtown rich with Victorian architecture and boutique charm.
Just an hour’s drive southwest of Providence brought me to this sun-kissed seaside town at the Connecticut border, where coastal relaxation blends with a strong arts and dining scene. I based myself at the elegant Ocean House resort for two days, basking on Watch Hill Beach, strolling the historic carousel and lighthouse at Watch Hill Point, exploring the artsy Wilcox Park and Westerly Armory, browsing books and vinyl at Savoy Bookshop & Café, and catching live music at the Knickerbocker Music Center.
- Check prices at Ocean House
- Location: Map & Directions
8. Wakefield, RI
Settled in the early 18th century, Wakefield charmed me with its riverfront mills, lively village center, and easygoing vibe as the gateway to South County’s beaches.
Just a 40-minute drive south of Providence delivered me to this bustling yet laid-back community along the Saugatucket River, where historic storefronts and cafés spill onto Main Street. I based myself at a cozy inn nearby for two days, browsing art and gifts at Brickley’s and local boutiques, catching a show at Theatre By The Sea, walking the peaceful South County Bike Path, savoring fresh seafood at Matunuck Oyster Bar, and wandering down to Narragansett Town Beach only a few miles away.
- Location: Map & Directions
9. Bristol, RI
Bristol swept me up with its proud maritime heritage, colonial streets lined with clapboard houses, and a harbor that still buzzes with boatbuilders and sailors.
Just a 30-minute drive southeast of Providence brought me to this classic New England seaport where history and celebration meet. I based myself at a historic inn on Hope Street for two days, touring the grand Blithewold Mansion and gardens, wandering through Linden Place where gilded-age elegance lingers, exploring Herreshoff Marine Museum’s boatbuilding legacy, browsing antiques and gifts downtown, and savoring waterfront dining at Thames Waterside.
I loved hearing from locals how Bristol proudly hosts the oldest continuous Fourth of July parade in America—dating back to 1785.
- Location: Map & Directions
Conclusion
After exploring towns across Rhode Island, I realized how much variety this little state packs into every corner. It's home to some of the best places to visit on the East Coast.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
