Nestled along the eastern coast of the United States, Rhode Island, fondly known as "The Ocean State," may be the smallest state in the nation, but it is rich in breathtaking landscapes and charming vistas. From pristine beaches and coastal cliffs to historic towns and lush parks, Rhode Island offers a diverse array of stunning destinations that captivate the senses and leave visitors in awe. Join us as we embark on an immersive journey to discover the 10 most beautiful places in Rhode Island, celebrating the state's natural splendor and cultural treasures.
1. Newport Cliff Walk
The Newport Cliff Walk is a scenic trail that offers stunning views of the ocean and the historic mansions of Newport, Rhode Island. The trail is about 3.5 miles long and runs along the rocky coast from Bailey's Beach to First Beach. The trail is open to the public and is a National Recreation Trail, the first in New England. Along the way, you can see some of the most famous landmarks of Newport's Gilded Age, such as The Breakers, Marble House, and Rough Point.
You can also enjoy the natural beauty of the wildflowers, birds, and geology that make this walk unique. The trail has several access points, but the most popular ones are Bellevue Avenue, Narragansett Avenue, and Memorial Boulevard. The trail has different levels of difficulty, from easy walking on paved paths to challenging hiking on rugged rocks. The trail is also subject to damage from storms and hurricanes, so be careful and check the conditions before you go. The Newport Cliff Walk is a great way to experience the history and nature of Newport in one unforgettable walk.
Tip: Explore the path during sunset for a truly magical experience, as the warm hues of the setting sun paint the sky in an ethereal palette.
2. Block Island
Block Island is an island in the Outer Lands coastal archipelago, about 14 km south of mainland Rhode Island and 23 km east of the Montauk end of Long Island. The island is part of the town of New Shoreham and is part of the Washington County of Rhode Island. The island is named after Dutch explorer Adriaen Block. Block Island is a popular summer travel destination, popular for its biking, hiking, sailing, fishing, and beach activities. The island has two historic lighthouses, Block Island North Light on the north side of the island and Block Island Southeast Light on the southeast coast.
About 40% of the island's area is devoted to conservation, and much of the island's northwest is an untapped natural area and a resting place for birds on the Atlantic migratory route. The Nature Conservancy ranks Block Island on its "Last Great Places" list, which includes 12 locations in the western hemisphere. Featured events include the annual National Day parade, celebration, and fireworks on Wednesday. The population of the island can be three times that of the usual tourist in the summer. According to the 2020 census, the island has 1,410 residents living on a land area of 25,211 square kilometers.
Tip: Don't miss the chance to witness the Southeast Lighthouse, majestically perched atop Mohegan Bluffs, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby Montauk, New York.
3. Beavertail State Park
Beavertail State Park is a 153-acre public recreation area south of Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island. The park attracts visitors from across the United States to enjoy its unspoiled environment. The most popular activity in Beavertail State Park is sightseeing which can be done from the comfort of a vehicle, in one of four viewpoints, or on foot, from the rocky shoreline. Beavertail State Park in Jamestown, Rhode Island offers the best views along the New England coast. You can enjoy this amazing landscape from one of four viewpoints or walk along the rocky shoreline, which offers excellent saltwater fishing conditions. Beavertail attracts scientists of all ages to explore its fascinating geology, ecology, and marine life.
The Beavertail Lighthouse Museum provides historical information about the site, Narragansett Bay, and the shipping industry that helped shape Rhode Island. It also displays a collection of artifacts from the third-oldest lighthouse in North America.
Tip: Bring along a pair of binoculars for some excellent wildlife spotting, as the park is home to a variety of seabirds and migratory species.
4. Roger Williams Park
Roger Williams Park is a historic and scenic park in Providence, Rhode Island, that covers more than 400 acres of land. The park was donated to the city by Betsey Williams, the last descendant of Roger Williams, the founder of Rhode Island and a champion of religious freedom. The park features seven lakes, a zoo, a natural history museum, a botanical center, a casino, a carousel, and many other attractions. The park also hosts various events and programs throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and educational activities. Roger Williams Park is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, who enjoy its beauty, history, and diversity.
Tip: Head to the Temple to Music, an open-air concert venue, to catch live performances and cultural events during the warmer months.
5. Narragansett Bay
Narragansett Bay is a large body of water that lies between Rhode Island and Massachusetts in the United States. It is one of the largest estuaries in New England, with many rivers flowing into it and several islands within it. Narragansett Bay has a rich history and culture, as well as a diverse marine ecosystem. It is also an important economic and recreational resource for the region, with ports, fishing, boating, and tourism activities. Narragansett Bay is named after the Narragansett people, who were the original inhabitants of the area before European colonization.
Tip: Take a boat tour or sunset cruise to experience the bay's beauty from a different perspective.
6. Watch Hill
Watch Hill is a coastal neighborhood and a popular tourist destination in the town of Westerly, Rhode Island. It is located at the most-southwestern point in the state, surrounded by water on three sides. Watch Hill has a rich history dating back to the 17th century when it was occupied by the Niantic Indians and later used as a lookout point during the wars with France and Britain. Watch Hill is known for its beautiful beaches, historic lighthouse, antique carousel, and luxury hotels and restaurants. Some of the attractions and activities that visitors can enjoy in Watch Hill include sailing, fishing, surfing, hiking, shopping, dining, and relaxing.
Tip: Head to Napatree Point Conservation Area for a serene beach walk, and if you're lucky, spot some harbor seals basking in the sun.
7. Colt State Park
Colt State Park is a public park located on the Poppasquash Neck peninsula in the town of Bristol, Rhode Island. The park covers an area of 464 acres (188 ha), once owned by industrialist Samuel P. Colt, grandson of arms manufacturer Samuel Colt. The park has been dubbed the "jewel" of the state park system, with stunning views of Narragansett Bay, walking and biking trails, and vast fields with ancient stone walls. The park is open year-round and has many amenities for visitors, such as a marina, picnic areas, a waterfront church, and a golf course. It is also close to Bristol's historic center, home to the oldest 4th of July parade in the United States, and the Coggeshall Farm Museum (a living history museum that recreates 18th-century peasant life).
Tip: Bring your camera, as Colt State Park provides numerous picturesque spots for capturing postcard-worthy photographs.
8. Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge is a 242-acre area of land that protects various habitats and wildlife in Rhode Island, United States. The refuge is located on a peninsula between the Sakonnet River and Rhode Island Sound, in the town of Middletown. The refuge attracts over 65,000 visitors each year, who enjoy hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and learning about the natural and cultural history of the area. The refuge is home to more than 200 species of birds, including the largest wintering population of harlequin ducks on the East Coast. The refuge also has salt marshes, beach strands, and upland shrubs that provide shelter and food for other animals and plants.
The refuge was established in 1970 with a donation from the Audubon Society of Rhode Island and later expanded with land transfers from the Navy, which used the area for military purposes in World War I and World War II. The refuge has a visitor center that offers exhibits, programs, and volunteer opportunities for the public. Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge is part of the Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex, which manages five other refuges in the state.
Tip: Attend one of the educational programs organized by the refuge to learn more about the area's wildlife and conservation efforts.
9. The Breakers
The Breakers is a name that refers to two different places in the United States: a luxury resort in Palm Beach, Florida, and a historic mansion in Newport, Rhode Island. Both places are connected to the Vanderbilt family, one of the richest and most influential families in American history.
The Breakers mansion was built between 1893 and 1895 by Cornelius Vanderbilt II, the grandson of Cornelius Vanderbilt. The mansion was designed by Richard Morris Hunt, who modeled it after the Renaissance palaces of Italy. The mansion has 70 rooms, decorated with marble, alabaster, gold, and paintings. The mansion was used as a summer residence by the Vanderbilt family until 1972 when it was sold to The Preservation Society of Newport County. The mansion is now a museum and a National Historic Landmark.
Tip: Opt for a guided tour to gain insights into the fascinating stories and historical significance behind The Breakers.
10. Providence Riverwalk
Providence Riverwalk is a scenic area along the Providence River that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. It is part of the Waterplace Park, which was created in 1994 by rerouting the river and removing a large bridge that covered it. The park features several bridges inspired by Venice, as well as public art installations, cultural events, and a massive WaterFire display that runs on selected nights throughout the year.
The Riverwalk connects State Capitol Hill with the historic South Main Street, where one can find many shops, restaurants, and landmarks of interest. Some of the popular places to shop include Capucine, a women's clothing store that carries hip and cool designer brands, and Bin 312 Wine Cellar, a wine shop that offers free tasting events on Thursday nights. Some of the places to dine include Bacaro, an Italian restaurant that serves salumeria, grilled pizzas, and handmade pasta, Hemenway's, a seafood restaurant that sources its ingredients locally from Narragansett Bay, and New Rivers, a modern bistro that prepares an extensive charcuterie menu with high-quality local produce and meats.
Providence Riverwalk is a great place to enjoy the beauty and culture of Providence, as well as to experience some of the best food and shopping options in the city.
Tip: Don't miss the WaterFire events, where the river is illuminated by flickering bonfires, accompanied by music and artistic performances.
When is the best time to visit Rhode Island?
Depending on your preferences, you may want to visit Rhode Island at different times of the year. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip:
Weather: Rhode Island has four distinct seasons, with cold and snowy winters, mild and rainy springs, warm and humid summers, and crisp and colorful falls. The average temperature ranges from 37°F in January to 83°F in July. If you are looking for ideal warm weather, the best time to visit Rhode Island is from May to October, when the daily temperatures are between 55 and 75°F and the rainfall is moderate. However, be aware that May is the rainiest month and August is the best month for swimming.
Events: Rhode Island hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating its rich history, culture, and cuisine. Some of the most popular events include WaterFire, a series of bonfires along the Providence River that run from March to November; Providence Restaurant Week, a biannual event in January and July that offers discounted menus at more than 100 restaurants; Newport Folk Festival and Newport Jazz Festival, two iconic music festivals that take place in late July and early August; and Block Island Race Week, a sailing competition that happens every June.
Crowds: Rhode Island is a popular tourist destination, especially in the summer months when the beaches, mansions, and historic sites attract many visitors. The peak season runs from June to August when the hotel rates are the highest and the crowds are the largest. If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, you may want to visit Rhode Island in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when the weather is still pleasant and the attractions are less busy. However, keep in mind that some beach towns and tourist destinations may have limited hours or close down during the off-season.
Rhode Island's charm lies in its ability to captivate visitors with a diverse array of natural wonders and cultural treasures. From the rugged coastline of Newport's Cliff Walk to the serene beauty of Colt State Park, each destination on this list offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you're drawn to the calming waves of Narragansett Bay or the historic opulence of The Breakers, exploring the 10 most beautiful places in Rhode Island is sure to leave you with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for the state's enchanting allure.
Watch more video: Explore Rhode Island - 10 Most Beautiful Places in Rhode Island 2023
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