30 Things to Do in Rhode Island

Despite being the smallest state, Rhode Island packs an incredible punch with its stunning coastline, rich colonial history, and charming towns. Known as the Ocean State, it boasts beautiful beaches, Gilded Age mansions, and vibrant cities, offering diverse experiences for every traveler, and exploring scenic coastal paths or historic streets reveals many wonderful free things to do in Rhode Island. From Newport’s grandeur to Providence’s creative energy, this compact state invites discovery.

This guide highlights 30 distinct ways to experience the best of Rhode Island, covering everything from iconic landmarks and beautiful beaches to unique cultural attractions and delicious local flavors. Whether you’re seeking relaxation by the sea, a journey through American history, or artistic inspiration, prepare to be charmed by the unique character of Little Rhody.

Newport Grandeur & History

The Breakers Mansion Tour: Explore the most magnificent of Newport’s Gilded Age “summer cottages,” the Vanderbilt family’s opulent Italian Renaissance-style palazzo overlooking the Atlantic. Its sheer scale and lavish interiors are truly breathtaking.

Marble House Tour: Visit another Vanderbilt mansion, Marble House, known for its stunning white marble construction and lavish interiors inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles. Don’t miss the ornate Chinese Tea House on the grounds.

Walk the Cliff Walk: Take this stunning 3.5-mile public path offering dramatic ocean views on one side and glimpses of Newport’s magnificent mansions on the other. Sections range from paved paths to rugged shoreline, providing unforgettable coastal scenery.

Drive Ocean Drive: Enjoy a scenic drive along Newport’s famous Ten Mile Drive, offering spectacular coastal vistas, views of grand estates, and access to parks like Brenton Point. Pull over frequently to savor the beautiful ocean panoramas.

Touro Synagogue National Historic Site: Visit the oldest synagogue building still standing in the United States, an architectural gem representing religious freedom. Take a tour to learn about its important history and design.

International Tennis Hall of Fame: Explore the history of tennis through exhibits housed in the historic Newport Casino building. Walk the grounds where the first U.S. National Championships (later the US Open) were held for a taste of sporting history.

Providence Arts & Culture

Experience WaterFire Providence: Witness the captivating art installation featuring bonfires blazing on the rivers of downtown Providence, accompanied by music (select nights, typically May-October). It creates a magical, multi-sensory atmosphere.

RISD Museum: Discover diverse art collections spanning ancient times to contemporary works at the museum of the Rhode Island School of Design. Explore impressive holdings in decorative arts, painting, and sculpture (offers free admission on Sundays and certain evenings).

Walk Benefit Street (“Mile of History”): Stroll along this beautiful street lined with one of the highest concentrations of original colonial-era buildings in the United States. Admire the stunning architecture and imagine life in early Providence.

Rhode Island State House: Tour the impressive marble-domed capitol building, featuring one of the largest self-supported marble domes in the world. Free guided tours offer insights into its architecture and state government.

Explore Federal Hill: Wander through Providence’s vibrant Little Italy neighborhood, known for its excellent Italian restaurants, bakeries, specialty food shops, and the iconic pineapple arch. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and delicious food.

Roger Williams Park Zoo: Visit one of the nation’s oldest zoos, located within the expansive Roger Williams Park. See animals from around the globe in naturalistic habitats, offering a great family outing.

Brown University Campus Walk: Stroll through the beautiful Ivy League campus located on College Hill, admiring historic architecture like University Hall and the quiet green spaces. Soak in the academic atmosphere of this venerable institution.

Coastal Beauty & Beaches

Watch Hill Village & Flying Horse Carousel: Visit the charming seaside village of Watch Hill in Westerly, browse boutiques, and see the historic Flying Horse Carousel, the oldest continuously operating carousel in the country. Enjoy views of the Watch Hill Lighthouse.

Misquamicut State Beach: Relax on the long stretch of sandy beach in Westerly, offering ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and family fun. It’s a popular spot with classic beach amenities.

Narragansett Town Beach: Enjoy swimming and surfing (conditions permitting) at this beautiful crescent beach anchored by the iconic stone Towers. Its proximity to Narragansett town center makes it easily accessible and lively.

Beavertail State Park & Lighthouse: Explore the stunning rocky coastline of Jamestown, offering fantastic ocean views, tide pools, and the historic Beavertail Lighthouse (museum open seasonally). It’s a perfect spot for picnicking and scenic walks.

Second Beach (Sachuest Beach), Middletown: Relax on this long, sandy beach popular with families and surfers, located near Newport. Enjoy views of the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge at its eastern end for nature and beach combined.

East Matunuck State Beach: Visit this popular South Kingstown beach known for its strong waves (good for surfing) and wide sandy expanse. Grab seafood nearby at local favorite restaurants.

Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge: Walk trails through coastal habitats offering excellent bird watching opportunities and ocean views near Middletown. It’s a peaceful natural escape adjacent to Second Beach.

Island Escapes & Nature

Block Island Exploration: Take a ferry to this beautiful island known for its dramatic Mohegan Bluffs, historic lighthouses (Southeast Light and North Light), pristine beaches, and nature trails. Rent bikes to explore the island’s relaxed charm and natural beauty.

Colt State Park: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Narragansett Bay from this beautiful waterfront park in Bristol. Walk or bike along paved paths, picnic by the water, and admire the manicured lawns and stone walls.

Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge: Explore trails through diverse coastal habitats including salt marshes and freshwater ponds in Charlestown. It’s another excellent spot for bird watching and peaceful nature walks.

Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park: Discover the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution through sites scattered along the Blackstone River. Visit Slater Mill in Pawtucket or take a river boat tour (seasonal) to learn about the area’s industrial heritage.

Foodie Finds & Local Flavor

Eat Clam Cakes & Chowder: Sample Rhode Island’s quintessential seaside pairing – crispy clam cakes (fritters) served alongside creamy New England clam chowder. Find excellent versions at seafood shacks up and down the coast.

Try Del’s Frozen Lemonade: Cool off with Rhode Island’s iconic frozen lemonade treat, often sold from distinctive trucks. It’s a refreshing must-try local specialty, especially on a hot day.

Drink Coffee Milk: Taste Rhode Island’s official state drink – a sweet concoction of milk mixed with coffee-flavored syrup. Find it readily available in diners and grocery stores.

Taste Olneyville NY System Wieners: Experience a unique Rhode Island hot dog style (“hot wieners”) served “all the way” with meat sauce, mustard, onions, and celery salt. The original Olneyville New York System in Providence is legendary.

Visit a Local Brewery or Vineyard: Explore Rhode Island’s craft beverage scene by visiting breweries like Narragansett Beer (revived in RI) or Newport Vineyards for tastings. Discover local flavors beyond the coast.

Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum: Tour the beautiful historic mansion and wander through extensive gardens overlooking Narragansett Bay in Bristol. The diverse gardens offer seasonal beauty and tranquility.