With 400 miles of entrancing Atlantic coastline, Rhode Island is the best place to get refreshed on your once-in-a-lifetime vacation.
From picturesque beaches to Waterfire, the living sculpture of Rhode Island holds explicit treasures. So, if you are looking for a classic New England experience, Rhode Island is the one for you!
In this article, we’ll give you the ultimate guide to Rhode Island, which will help you make your experiences memorable. So why wait? Let’s jump right in.
How to Travel To and Around Rhode Island
Rhode Island might be a small part of the United States, but it has every travel facility you can think of. It all depends on your choice and budget, but the options are always available.
Flying in Style
Rhode Island has multiple airports spread around the state, the main one being Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport. With no reservation costs and great care for your limited budget, this airport is a good choice. Rhode Island website even gives a long list of hotels near its location so visitors can easily find a destination.
Other state airports include Block Island State Airport, Green Airport, and Newport State Airport. These also provide good service and can be trusted for traveling long distances.
Roaming in Cars
Besides planes, traveling by land is also an option. A rented car is the best option if you want to get up early on your vacations and explore the mornings. You can rent vehicles from Rhode Island Green Airport offices and enjoy the city’s beauty.
Taxis are also available, but a call in advance might sometimes be necessary. Also, Rachel’s Big City Transportation in Providence has immense facilities for travelers.
Lyft and Uber are also available for tourists.
Adventure on Foot
While traveling on foot is also an option, it is actually an invitation to truly immerse yourself in its charm at a slower pace. You can wander through Newport’s historic districts or stroll along Providence’s Riverwalk with its captivating cityscape and public art.
Coastal towns like Watch Hill and Bristol offer scenic, walkable neighborhoods with quaint shops and waterside paths. Don’t miss the Cliff Walk in Newport—a breathtaking 3.5-mile trail where the rugged coastline meets Gilded Age opulence.
Sailing Smoothly
Ferries and cruises are also options to make your trip memorable. You can hop on a ferry to Block Island, where you can enjoy pristine beaches, lighthouses, and biking trails. Narragansett Bay cruises offer stunning views of Newport’s historic mansions, seaside villages, and beautiful scenery.
Pro Tip: Be sure to check the seasonal hours and weather alerts before planning your rides.
Best Places to Visit
Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Pawtucket, Rhode Island, is a real gem for travelers seeking a blend of history and modern culture. Visitors can explore unique galleries, enjoy local dining, and stroll through beautiful parks.
The city is home to the renowned Slater Mill, America’s first textile factory, and hosts a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year that attract tourists from all over.
Narragansett Bay
Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island’s crown jewel, stretches over 30 miles. This scenic bay is renowned for its picturesque coastlines, charming seaside villages, and rich maritime heritage.
Whether sailing, kayaking, or enjoying the view from its many coastal parks, Narragansett Bay promises unforgettable experiences. Visitors can explore historic lighthouses, dine on fresh seafood, or simply relax by the water.
Waterplace Park Riverwalk
This place allows visitors to enjoy the peaceful rush of the Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck Rivers during their afternoon stroll. This is a perfect place to visit, with lush greenery, charming bridges, and beautiful public art installations.
WaterFire in Providence is a mesmerizing display of art and culture that captivates visitors with its stunning bonfires floating on the Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck Rivers.
This iconic event combines music, performance, and the glow of 100+ flaming cauldrons, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Held seasonally, WaterFire invites travelers to experience the enchantment of Providence’s waterfront and make wonderful memories.
“Rhode Island may be small, but its beauty and character are as vast as the ocean.” — Meredith Vieira
Best Hotels to Stay
Here’s a list of the best hotels in Rhode Island that will make your stay more comfortable than you can imagine.
Shelter Harbour Inn in Westerly is a grand choice. Originally a 19th-century farmhouse, it’s now a cozy getaway with beautifully decorated rooms, a serene garden, and an on-site restaurant serving delicious New England-inspired dishes.This hotel features the most beautiful views of Rhode Island’s coastal beauty.
The Winnapaug Inn is a welcoming, family-owned inn near the beautiful Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly, Rhode Island. Known for its relaxed, coastal atmosphere, the inn offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and scenic views of Winnapaug Pond and the Atlantic Ocean.
Guests can easily access nearby attractions, including beaches, golf courses, and local dining spots. It’s a beautiful place suitable for most travelers.
Located in Westerly, Rhode Island, The Western is just minutes from the area’s pristine beaches, local shops, and restaurants. The Western offers stylish rooms with amenities to make guests feel at home and easy access to nearby attractions like Misquamicut State Beach and Watch Hill. This prime feature is bound to make you happy.
Best Restaurants
Eating at that scenic place is an incredible moment that you can capture. Here are some of the best places to dine in.
Knead Doughnuts is the place for an early morning breakfast. Known for its handmade, small-batch doughnuts crafted with love, Knead offers an array of fantastic flavors. In Providence, it’s a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike.
Amy’s Restaurant in Rhode Island is a beloved local spot known for its cozy atmosphere and classic American food. This family-owned eatery offers hearty breakfasts and lunches, with popular dishes like fluffy pancakes, omelets, sandwiches, and homemade soups. This restaurant serves the charm of Rhode Island in every bite.
Brickway on Wickenden is a cozy cafe in Providence, Rhode Island, known for its delicious, hearty breakfasts and brunches. Located in the lively Fox Point neighborhood on Wickenden Street, this local favorite serves everything from fluffy pancakes and creative omelets to unique dishes like stuffed French toast. The aromas wafting from this place will surely make you come here often.
Best Time to Visit
Rhode Island looks beautiful the whole year, but fall gives it a unique charm. The autumn sprinkles a new look to the place with crisp and cool breezes, the apple cider aroma, crunchy leaves under your feet, and vibrant colors to the already eye-catching sky.
The fall in Rhode Island welcomes you to a season of cozy sweaters, beach bonfires, and exploration of fall magic. If you visit it during those autumn months of September to November, be prepared to be impressed by New England’s coastal charm.
Final Thoughts
You might be confused about going to Rhode Island this fall, but believe it, those wonderful moments would be worth it. Rhode Island has every facility in store for you, waiting to welcome you this year. So plan a trip now before it gets too late!
