Rhode Island might be a tiny state, but there are all kinds of things to see and do in the state. You may want to make a Rhode Island bucket list before setting out on an adventure there.
Your Rhode Island bucket list can include things like what you want to eat, see, and do while in the state. It will help keep you organized and help ensure you get to do everything that is most important to you on your trip.
We’re sharing some of the top Rhode Island landmarks and attractions to add to your own Rhode Island bucket list.
Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park
Rhode Island’s Blackstone River was a key site during the Age of Industry. Samuel Slater’s cotton spinning mill along the river started a chain reaction that continues to change the world to this day. Visit the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park to learn more.
Roger Williams National Monument
A champion of the ideal of religious freedom, Roger Williams was banished from Massachusetts for his beliefs. Williams moved to what is now Rhode Island and founded the city of Providence in 1636, giving people a refuge where they could come to worship however they pleased. The Roger Williams National Monument commemorates Roger Williams’ life.
Touro Synagogue National Historic Site
One of the most historically significant Jewish buildings in the United States, Touro Synagogue was dedicated in 1763 and serves an active congregation to this day. The synagogue became a National Historic Site in 1946, and now over 30,000 guests visit each year.
Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail
When the French Army joined forces with America’s Continental Army in 1781, they moved hundreds of miles in order to fight the British in Yorktown, Virginia. It was the largest troop movement in the American Revolution and ultimately led to an American victory. Today, visitors can walk in the footsteps of these soldiers at the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail.
Wander the Roger Williams Park Zoo
The Roger Williams Park Zoo boasts over 100 animal species from around the world, and even has a museum of natural history onsite. Additionally, this zoo is home to the largest indoor botanical garden in New England.
Relax at the Beach
Rhode Island is known as the Ocean State for a reason. The state has 400 miles of coastline and boasts over 100 beaches. Try Third Beach or Easton’s Beach in Newport.
Stroll Along the Cliff Walk
Speaking of coastline, another must-see in Rhode Island is the world famous Cliff Walk. This path runs along the eastern shore of Newport and is an excellent way to check out the natural beauty of the area. While the walk is well maintained, you will want to be relatively physically fit to walk the length of this path.
Tour Brown University
If you’ve never toured an Ivy League campus before, your time in Rhode Island is the perfect opportunity. Brown University is a picturesque school with well-manicured grounds. Grab a coffee and take a stroll through campus.
Be Awed by the Newport Mansions
The Newport Mansions were once used as holiday retreats for the elite. These days, they are maintained by the Preservation Society of Newport County and are open to the public for tours. The most impressive of these mansions is The Breakers – you’ll want to book a tour to see this 70-room house.
Enjoy Rhode Island Clams
The Ocean State is chock-full of delicious seafood. There are clam shacks around every corner, and clams are served up in several different ways. Try them in a variety of forms including chowder, clam cakes, and stuffies.
Spot Animals at Sachuest National Wildlife Refuge
The Sachuest National Wildlife Refuge offers amazing views and spectacular sunsets. But the best thing about this park is the many animals that call it home. Watch for rabbits, birds, deer, and more while in the park, and be sure to bring your binoculars so you can see the wildlife that is too timid to get close.
Get Outside at Block Island
Block Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the state. It’s also an excellent place to ride bikes and is home to The Oar, a popular local restaurant and bar.
Visit the Beavertail Lighthouse and Museum
One of Jamestown’s most iconic landmarks, Beavertail Lighthouse is located in Beavertail State Park at the entrance to Narragansett Bay. You can wander the museum and climb the Tower when it’s open as well.
Bury Yourself in a Book at Redwood Library and Athenaeum
Rhode Island has the country’s oldest lending library, the Redwood Library and Athenaeum. It was founded in 1747 by Abraham Redwood and the site was used as a British officers club during the Revolutionary War. Now, the building is open to the public and guided tours are available.
Wander Fort Adams State Park
For over 200 years, Fort Adams served as a US army and naval base. In 1965, the base officially became part of the state of Rhode Island and it is now used as a park. You can tour the fort buildings or choose to go fishing or sailing while in the park.
Attend the Newport Folk Festival
The Newport Folk Festival is at Fort Adams State Park and lasts for three days. It features four stages with live music. Food and crafts are available for purchase as well.
Hop on a Carousel (or Seven)
Rhode Island is home to seven carousels – if you’re traveling with kids, you may want to check some out.
The carousels include:
- Roger Williams Park Carousel — This is a great addition to your zoo day. Be sure to save time to play on the Hasbro Imagination Playground as well.
- Crescent Park Looff Carousel —Designed by the famous Charles Looff, this carousel is one of the few of his works left in existence. The artwork transports you back to the time the ride was built.
- Easton’s Beach Carousel —Beach views are a bonus when riding this merry-go-round. Additionally, this is a rare four row carousel.
- Flying Horse Carousel —This is believed to be the oldest continuously operating carousel in the country. Instead of being attached to the floor, the horses on this carousel are suspended from the center frame, meaning they “fly” when the ride moves.
- Atlantic Beach Carousel —This one is located in Atlantic Beach Park. The park is also home to a roller coaster, bumper cars, and a full arcade, making this a super fun stop for kids.
- Adventureland Carousel —Located in a full-fledged theme park, this carousel is memorable because it has unusual carousel animals such as penguins and anteaters.
Learn at the Tennis Hall of Fame
The International Tennis Hall of Fame shares the evolution of the sport. You can check out the hall of fame to learn about various players through history, and then play tennis yourself on one of the 13 full-sized courts located at the museum.
Admire WaterFire
WaterFire is touted as one of the “top 20 events in North America” by National Geographic. This modern art installation is only viewable during May and October, when more than 80 floating bonfires parade down the river. The fires are accompanied by music and the event is a delightful spectacle.
Chow Down on Pizza Strips
Pizza strips are strips of pizza dough covered in tomato sauce. Strips are served at room temperature, and are a unique Rhode Island treat.
Discover Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium
Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium is an excellent place to learn about sea life. It features just species found in Narragansett Bay including dogfish sharks, crabs, seahorses, starfish, and clams. The mission of Save the Bay is to protect and improve Narragansett Bay, and a big part of this is educating the public. They do this quite well, offering plenty of interactive exhibits that allow guests to the aquarium to really connect with the ocean animals there.
Gaze at the Green Animals Topiary Garden
The Green Animals Topiary Garden in Portsmouth has been around since 1872 and is the oldest topiary garden in America. It features all kinds of animal topiaries – real and mythical – including camels, unicorns, bears, and more.
Cruise Ocean Drive
Rhode Island’s Ocean Drive is often referred to as the Ten Mile Drive by locals. No matter what you call it, this drive along the south coast of Aquidneck Island offers stunning views, and a number of points of interest. Be sure to check out King Park, New York Yacht Club, and the US Coast Guard station. You may also want to allow time for an impromptu ocean swim along the way.
Check Out the Rhode Island School of Design Museum
The Rhode Island School of Design is one of the most reputable art schools in the country. Check out their enormous collection of paintings, sculptures, photography, and more.
Go Rock Pooling
Rock pooling or tide pooling means exploring tidepools to investigate the marine life you might find there. Look for anemones, barnacles, sea stars, and more.
Rhode Island is a wonderful place to visit and there is no shortage of things to do. You might even find yourself needing to move around a little bit during your visit. This is where an RV can help.
By choosing to visit in a Rhode Island RV rental, you can visit different parts of the state easily. Not only that, you’ll be super comfy no matter where you end up each night.
Why not book an RV today? That way you can hit the road on the ultimate Rhode Island adventure sooner rather than later.
Download the Top 10 Bucket List Destinations in Rhode Island
