Rhode Island may be small, but it’s packed with amazing tourist attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, Rhode Island has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top tourist attractions in Rhode Island, including The Breakers, Newport Cliff Walk, Block Island, and Slater Mill Historic Site.
1. The Breakers
The Vanderbilt family built The Breakers, a stunning mansion located in Newport, Rhode Island, during the late 19th century. It’s a perfect example of Gilded Age architecture that has attracted tourists for decades. Visitors can explore the mansion’s main rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens with the help of guided tours. The mansion’s interior boasts period furniture, artwork, and luxurious touches.
One of the most memorable aspects of The Breakers tour is the opportunity to walk through the mansion’s beautiful gardens. The gardening team meticulously maintained a variety of different plants, flowers, and trees that feature in the landscaped grounds. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens or relax on one of the benches and take in the stunning scenery. Anyone who is interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a beautiful place to visit must see The Breakers attraction.
- Address: 44 Ochre Point Ave, Newport, RI 02840
- Phone: (401) 847-1000
- Website: https://www.newportmansions.org/explore/the-breakers
2. WaterFire Providence
WaterFire Providence is a unique and unforgettable event that takes place several times a year in downtown Providence. The event involves lighting over 100 bonfires along the city’s rivers, creating a breathtaking display of fire and light. Visitors can watch the fires from various locations along the river or enjoy an up-close view by taking a gondola ride.
In addition to the fires, the event features live performances, food vendors, and other entertainment. WaterFire Providence is an excellent way to experience the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Rhode Island. It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy a beautiful evening outdoors and take in the sights and sounds of this unique event. With its lively atmosphere and stunning visual display, WaterFire Providence is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Rhode Island.
- Address: 129 Dyer St, Providence, RI 02903
- Phone: (401) 273-1155
- Website: https://waterfire.org/
3. Roger Williams Park Zoo
The Roger Williams Park Zoo is a 40-acre park and zoo located in Providence, Rhode Island. The zoo houses over 150 species of animals from all over the world, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and more. Visitors can explore the zoo at their leisure. They can also take one of the guided tours for a more in-depth look at the animals and their habitats.
Apart from the animal exhibits, the park also features a carousel, train ride, and a variety of other family-friendly attractions. The park maintains its grounds well, allowing visitors to enjoy a picnic or take a leisurely walk through the gardens. The Roger Williams Park Zoo is an excellent place to spend a day with family and friends, learning about the different animals, and enjoying the park’s beautiful scenery.
- Address: 1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907
- Phone: (401) 785-3510
- Website: https://www.rwpzoo.org/
4. Newport Cliff Walk
The Newport Cliff Walk is a 3.5-mile scenic walkway that runs along the coast of Newport, Rhode Island. The walk offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the beautiful mansions that line the coastline. Visitors can start the walk at any point, but the most popular starting point is at the end of Memorial Boulevard.
You can complete the walk relatively easily within a few hours. Along the way, visitors can explore the different mansions and gardens that are open to the public. The Cliff Walk is an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Rhode Island and get some exercise while taking in the stunning views. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during the walk.
- Address: 117 Memorial Blvd, Newport, RI 02840
- Phone: N/A
- Website: https://www.cliffwalk.com/
5. Block Island
Block Island is a small island located off the coast of Rhode Island, and it’s a popular summer destination for tourists. The island is accessible by ferry from the mainland, and visitors can enjoy a variety of activities once they arrive. Some of the most popular activities on Block Island include swimming, kayaking, hiking, and biking. The island is also home to several restaurants and shops, where visitors can sample local cuisine and purchase souvenirs.
One of the main attractions on Block Island is the Southeast Lighthouse, which is located on the southern tip of the island. The lighthouse was built in 1875 and has been in operation ever since. Visitors can take a tour of the lighthouse and learn about its history and importance in maritime navigation. The views from the top of the lighthouse are breathtaking, and visitors can see the entire island and the surrounding ocean from this vantage point.
- Website: https://www.blockislandinfo.com/
6. Slater Mill Historic Site
The Slater Mill Historic Site is located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and is considered the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. The site consists of several buildings, including a textile mill, a workers’ village, and a water-powered sawmill. Visitors can take guided tours of the site and learn about the history of the industrial revolution and the role that Slater Mill played in it.
In addition to the tours, the site also features several exhibits that showcase the machinery and tools used during the industrial revolution. Visitors can see how textiles were produced, and learn about the working conditions and daily life of the mill workers. The Slater Mill Historic Site is an excellent place to learn about an important period in American history and the technological innovations that shaped the modern world.
- Address: 67 Roosevelt Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860
- Phone: (401) 725-8638
- Website: https://slatermill.org/
7. Newport Mansions
The Newport Mansions are a collection of historic mansions located in Newport, Rhode Island. These mansions were built during the Gilded Age, a period of great wealth and prosperity in America, and are considered some of the most impressive and opulent homes in the country. Visitors can tour several of the mansions, including The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms, and lead about the lifestyles and stories of the families who once lived there.
The tours of the Newport Mansions provide a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of America’s elite during the turn of the 20th century. The mansions are furnished with ornate furniture, art, and decor that reflect the wealth and extravagance of their owners. Visitors can also explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds that surround the mansions.
- Address: 424 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840
- Phone: (401) 847-1000
- Website: www.newportmansions.org
Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the US, but it’s big on charm and history. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic mansions, hiking along scenic cliffs, or relaxing on a beautiful beach, Rhode Island has something to offer. The seven tourist attractions we’ve highlighted in this article are just a small sample of what Rhode Island has to offer. So why not plan a trip to Rhode Island today and discover all that this amazing state has to offer?
READ MORE HERE: 17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rhode Island