15 Best Things to See in Rhode Island

The first of the thirteen colonies to declare its independence from Great Britain in 1776, Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the United States, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in character, culture, and clams. Rhode Island ought to be at the top of every traveller’s “must-see” list because it is home to more than 400 miles of coastline, several opulent homes, and some unique gastronomic delights. Here are 15 justifications:

Varied Nightlife in Newport

Almost everyone can find something to enjoy in Newport’s nightlife. Start your night in an Irish pub with a plate of Shepherd’s pie and a pint of Guinness and round your evening off by checking out some live music in Newport Blues Café. A range of filling home-cooked meals are available at Newport’s several pubs.

Walk the Newport Cliffs

This well-known road along Newport’s eastern shore is a wonderful opportunity to take in the magnificent buildings and unspoiled scenery. The cliff walk, which is around 3.5 miles long, is the first National Recreational Trail in New England. Although the trek demands some physical fitness, it is well worth the effort. Although you can see several of the big mansions from the stroll, it would be best to take a guided tour of their interiors to do them credit.

Admire the Newport Mansions

You will undoubtedly be impressed by the nine residences that are on display in Newport. The mansions are presently maintained by the Preservation Society of Newport County after serving as wealthy people’s vacation residences in the past. The Breakers, a 70-room Renaissance-style estate, is undoubtedly the most spectacular of the buildings. A wheelchair-accessible audio tour is included with the mansion admission price. Other noteworthy structures include The Elms, the former home of Mr and Mrs Edward Julius Berwind, and Marble House, so named because it contains 500,000 cubic feet of marble.

Catch a show at the Providence Performing Arts Centre

The Providence Performing Arts Centre, a multi-purpose theatre that initially debuted in 1928, is a well-liked location for both tourists and locals to enjoy musicals, drama, concerts, and free local activities. The reputation of the venue has grown in recent years and it has been chosen to host the opening of several national tours.

Place your bets in a Casino

Both residents of the area and out-of-state tourists enjoy visiting the sizable casinos in Newport and Lincoln. Thousands of table games and slot machines are available and are accompanied nicely by live entertainment and a variety of food and drink choices.

Drive the ten-mile Ocean Drive

The south shore of Aquidneck Island is travelled by the Ocean Drive, also referred to by locals as the Ten Mile Drive. Along with some breathtaking vistas, the road provides vantage points for other interesting locations, such as King Park, the New York Yacht Club, and the US Coast Guard station. Along the way, there are some excellent locations for swimming and tanning.

Head to the Beach

Over 100 beaches may be found along Rhode Island’s magnificent 400 miles of coastline. Third Beach in Middletown is the place to go if you’re searching for a serene and quiet beach. Easton’s Beach in Newport, a surf beach little under a mile long with a great snack bar, is a must-visit for thrill-seekers.

The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum

One of the most prestigious art schools in the nation is located in Providence, which has a noteworthy art scene. A sizable collection of works by both past and contemporary artists, including sculptures, photographs, and paintings, may be found at the RISD Museum.

Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame

This is a must-see attraction whether or not you are a lover of tennis. The museum features 13 full-size tennis courts that are still in use today, along with a sizable collection of rackets, balls, and a presentation showing the development of tennis styles over time.

Fort Adams State Park

Before being incorporated into Rhode Island State in 1965, Fort Adams operated as a US army and navy post for more than a century. Today, the park is a terrific place to go sailing, fishing, or just having a quiet picnic. It is situated near the mouth of Newport Harbour and provides a breathtaking view of Narragansett Bay and Newport Harbour.

Witness the “WaterFire Providence”

The Providence WaterFire is a contemporary art project that can be located in downtown Providence between May and October. According to National Geographic Magazine, it is one of the “top 20 events in North America.” Volunteer fire tenders travel along the river while igniting more than 80 floating bonfires as part of this unusual multi-sensory attraction. To further confuse the assembling audience, new-age music is played in the background of the watery display.

Naval War College Museum

You can find out more about Newport’s maritime and military history at this museum. The Founders building on the grounds of the War College houses the display collection, and entry is free.

Indulge in the Rhode Island Clam Trio

Rhode Island is well known for its fresh, delectable seafood because of its varied and extensive coastline. A Rhode Island clam shack is the place to go for a truly authentic gastronomic experience. Start with clam cakes, which are little bits of chopped clam deep-fried in the dough. Next, order the thinner, clearer clam chowder than what is found in New England. Last but not least, stuff yourself with a stuffie, which is a quahog shell that has been filled with minced clam, onion, Tabasco sauce, and breadcrumbs.

Take a trip to the Roger Williams Park Zoo

It is safe to say that the Roger Williams Park Zoo is one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Rhode Island, drawing over 500,000 visitors annually. With more than 100 species from all over the world, the zoo may easily keep you occupied for an entire day. The largest indoor botanical garden in New England and a natural history museum are both located at Roger Williams Park.

Beavertail Lighthouse Museum

Located on the tip of Jamestown, this lighthouse is home to a museum packed with information, history, and facts about the USA’s third oldest lighthouse. In order to house a lighthouse assistant, the actual structure that houses the museum was constructed in 1898. Additionally, the neighbouring Beavertail State Park is a great place to spend some time.