The Ultimate Guide to Rhode Island Day Trips
Want to know the best day trips from Rhode Island?
Then read on for a collection of fantastic day trips from Rhode Island to other nearby states. I’ve even included a few right here in Rhode Island.
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Having said that, I will assume you are using Providence as your starting point and estimate all times and distances from there. If you are starting elsewhere, please make adjustments. Let’s get exploring!
30 Best Day Trips in and Around Rhode Island
The state of Rhode Island is small. It is actually the smallest state of all 50 states with measurements of 48 miles long by 37 miles wide. Even though it is tiny, the state has more than 384 miles of shoreline and the nickname of The Ocean State.
The small size of Rhode Island makes it perfect for day trips, both inside the state and to bordering states. We’ll start close to home with trips within the state and then head to Massachusetts and Connecticut. Since we are taking off from Providence as our starting point, let’s begin with some amazing places to visit right in the capital city.
Day Trips Right in Rhode Island
1) Providence, RI
We are in the heart of the state of Rhode Island, so why not spend a day exploring this capital city?
Start the day with breakfast at a local cafe or diner. You have many options, such as Cafe La France, NicoBella’s Downtown Providence, or Small Point Cafe. Then explore a bit of history on Benefit Street which is lined with historic colonial homes and landmarks.
Now you must be hungry for lunch, so head on over to Federal Hill, Providence’s “Little Italy” neighborhood. Angelo’s Civita Farnese is perfect for a casual meal. Continue your afternoon viewing the art and design as RISD, the Rhode Island School of Design. As the afternoon winds down you should take a gondola ride on the Woonasquatucket River.
Waterplace Park is a perfect place to start your evening. Make sure to check the schedule for WaterFire, featuring bonfires on the river. Next, choose one of Providence’s many restaurants to satisfy your hunger.
Wind the evening down with a show or live performance if you’re into the arts. The Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC), Trinity Repertory Company, or the Columbus Theater all offer live performances throughout the year.
Providence is a culturally diverse city with plenty of activities and restaurants to keep everyone in your group happy. Make sure to spend time exploring.
2) Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island is about 13 miles out into the Atlantic Ocean, reachable by small plane or boat only. Most people take the Block Island Ferry which departs from the Port of Galilee in Narragansett, Rhode Island. Galilee is about an hour’s drive south from Providence. This is one of the best Rhode Island day trips to take during the summer months. Block Island is a New England tradition for many sun-loving tourists.
Choose the high-speed or traditional ferry. Check their schedule here. Make sure to get there early enough to park your car unless you plan to take it over on the ferry with you. I actually recommend bringing it with you because the cost to transport the car will be less than the cost to rent a car for the day.
The ferry crossing takes a little more than an hour and docks in New Harbor. Right across from the landing are many shops and restaurants along Water Street. You can also rent bicycles or mopeds nearby to explore the island on your own. Visit the lighthouses on either end of the island, spend some time at one of the many beaches, or hike one of the nature trails. To learn more details about Block Island, also called New Shoreham, check out this blog post. And make sure to pay close attention to the ferry schedule to get back to the mainland.
3) Newport Mansions
Newport became a haven for the wealthy during the second half of the 19th century. Many New York titans built their “summer cottages” here along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, and most are concentrated along Bellevue Avenue. Newport is a little less than an hour’s drive from Providence. You can also get there by ferry which is a much more enjoyable ride. Check the schedule here.
Once in Newport, you can explore the downtown area along the docks which are full of restaurants, art galleries and shops, and historic maritime buildings. Newport was very important to the trade and growth of Rhode Island throughout its history. If swimming in the Atlantic Ocean is your choice, then you have many beaches to choose from. To learn more about Newport and its beaches, read this blog post.
The mansions can be accessed either through a tour package purchased at the Visitor’s Center or individually if you decide you only want to see one. Click here to see some options. They are an experience not to be missed. The opulence and grandeur of these “summer cottages” is just mind-boggling. If I were to recommend 3 mansions you definitely should see, they would be The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms. Enjoy your tour as you imagine the lavish summer parties held here during the Gilded Age.
4) Rhode Island Beaches
Nobody can come to Rhode Island and not visit some of our beautiful beaches. We are called “The Ocean State” and on a hot summer day, a perfect Rhode Island day trip is to spend it at the beach.
You have many options from Misquamicut Beach in Westerly to Scarborough Beach in Narragansett, and from Salty Brine Beach in Galilee to Oakland Beach in Warwick. With more than 380 miles of ocean coastline, there are a multitude of beaches for you to choose from. Read more about Scarborough Beach in this blog post.
When you’re ready to head out, pack a cooler full of food and drinks to keep you hydrated on the beach. Make sure to check for any fees at the specific beach you choose. Beach chairs are a plus, but a blanket or towel will do just fine. Don’t forget the sunscreen or a beach umbrella. Most of the state beaches have public bathrooms and outdoor showers to rinse off the sand before heading back.
Here are some activities to check out for Providence, Block Island, and Newport. Providence Block Island Newport
Rhode Island Day Trips to Massachusetts
Since Rhode Island is so small, traveling into Massachusetts is something we take for granted. Here are a few special places you may want to take a day trip to from Rhode Island.
5) Boston, MA
The closest big city to Providence is the Massachusetts capital of Boston which is about an hour’s drive north. You can also take the MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority) train, usually called the T, from downtown Providence. It takes about an hour to reach the main train stations in the city. Check the schedule here. Once in the city, there are so many places to explore. I shortened the list and chose a few options that many people find enjoyable.
6) Faneuil Hall
Faneuil Hall is a historic marketplace located near the waterfront in Boston. It has served as a market and gathering space since 1742. Today it is a collection of three buildings, Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, and South Market.
Faneuil Hall is an iconic meeting hall where many famous American Revolutionary debates and speeches took place. Quincy Market offers a wide range of food options with specialty shops and souvenir stalls. The New England Aquarium is about a 10-minute walk
7) Chinatown
Boston’s Chinatown is the only established Chinatown in New England. It’s a bustling neighborhood filled with cultural experiences, delicious food, and unique shops. As you stroll the streets you’ll see traditional Chinese architecture, vibrant decorations, and a multitude of Chinese restaurants and markets. Immerse yourself in the rich Asian heritage as you sample authentic cuisine and browse through shops.
I have lived in China and walking through Chinatown made me feel like I was back on the streets of Guangzhou. The dim sum restaurants are a definite must-taste when strolling through Chinatown.
8) Fenway Park
Home of the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park is a legendary baseball stadium even if you’re not a die-hard baseball fan. Guided tours are offered where you can tour the ballpark, explore the press box, and sit on top of the Green Monster.
The “Green Monster” is the nickname given to the left-field wall. Learn about the fascinating history of the Boston Red Sox and early baseball. If you time your visit right, you may even be able to catch a game during your time there.
9) Salem, MA
Traveling north through Boston and up to Salem takes approximately 90 minutes depending on the city traffic in Boston. The Salem Witch Trials of 1692 brought notoriety to Salem and many people still flock to the city every year, especially around Halloween. There are many shops catering to tourists and those looking for New Age and occult items. You might even find a practicing witch to talk to.
Once there, visit the Salem Witch Museum to learn more about the trials. Walk down the streets lined with historic 17th century architecture and make sure to visit the House of the Seven Gables. Made famous in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s story of the same name, this house has significance to both Hawthorne and the Salem Witch Trials.
Find some hauntingly good tours and activities by clicking here.
10) Plymouth, MA
Plymouth, an hour from Providence, is a significant destination in American history as the landing site of the Mayflower Pilgrims in 1620. Start your visit at Plymouth Rock, a symbolic landmark commemorating the Pilgrims’ arrival. Don’t miss a visit to the Mayflower II, a full-scale replica of the original ship. Climb aboard the ship and imagine how 102 passengers and all their worldly possessions, along with 30 crew members, managed 10 weeks crossing the Atlantic Ocean.
After the Mayflower, explore the living history museum, Plimoth Patuxet, which recreates a 17th-century Pilgrim village and a Wampanoag homesite. This is representative of how the Pilgrims lived once on land. Plymouth may be full of history, but it also offers picturesque waterfront views, charming shops, and restaurants.
Learn more about Plymouth with these activities.
11) Fall River, MA
Fall River is located on the eastern shore of Mount Hope Bay about 30 minutes from Providence. One of the main attractions here is Battleship Cove, a maritime museum featuring the USS Massachusetts and several other historic naval vessels. The Marine Museum at Fall River provides insights into the city’s maritime heritage.
Another famous place is the Lizzie Borden house which has been turned into a bed and breakfast. In 1892, Lizzie Borden was accused of murdering her father and stepmother with an axe in their home. The case was well-known yet still remains an unsolved mystery to this day since Lizzie was never found guilty.
Check out some more ideas for your day in Fall River by clicking here.
If Portuguese feasts, music, and folklore are your thing, try to visit Fall River during one of the many festivals held throughout the year. Fall River has a large Portuguese population and their influence can be seen in many restaurants and shops featuring foods from their homeland.
12) New Bedford, MA
Another Massachusetts city with ties to the sea, New Bedford is called the Whaling City. This was once the hub for the whaling industry during the 19th century. Start your visit at the New Bedford Whaling Museum to view whaling exhibits and explore the city’s seafaring past. The Seamen’s Bethel, made famous by Herman Melville’s Moby Dick and mentioned in the novel, is worth a visit.
Although the whaling industry is now gone, fishing is still important in the area. New Bedford is one of the highest-value fishing ports in the United States.
Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets of the historic district and explore the shops and galleries. The city boasts a thriving art scene with many galleries and art events.
Click here for activities in New Bedford.
13) Cape Ann, MA
Cape Ann is a scenic region comprising the New England coastal towns of Manchester-by-the-Sea, Gloucester, and Rockport. This area is perfect for exploring maritime history and is northeast from of Boston. Traveling here by car will take you about 90 minutes to get to the coastal region.
Starting in Manchester-by-the Sea, you can enjoy a more relaxed coastal experience with beautiful beaches and a charming village center. Gloucester, known as America’s oldest seaport, is a fishing hub and offers harbor views, art galleries, and plenty of seafood restaurants. Then Rockport is at the tip of Cape Ann and juts out into the Gulf of Maine on the Atlantic Ocean. It is the perfect place to relax by the ocean or browse the work of many local artists. And don’t miss trying a lobster roll.
14) Martha’s Vineyard, MA
Located off the coast of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard is known for its charming towns, beautiful beaches, and New England landscapes. You must first drive to either Woods Hole or Hyannis, Massachusetts. This will take about an hour and a half. Then the island is 7 miles off the coast. Pay close attention to the ferry schedule so you don’t spend an unexpected night on the island. Look at the information here.
Once there you can wander the streets of Vineyard Haven or explore the historic Edgartown. Activities abound for all kinds of experiences. From biking or hiking, to relaxing by the beach, to visiting galleries and art studios across the island, there is something for everyone here.
15) Nantucket, MA
Situated several miles to the east of Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket is also a ferry ride from Cape Cod. Just like traveling to Martha’s Vineyard, keep an eye on the schedule for the ferry to get you back to the mainland.
Once you arrive from the ferry, Nantucket is filled with rich maritime history with cobblestone streets and pristine beaches. Stroll along the historic wharves and stop to visit the Nantucket Whaling Museum to learn about the island’s seafaring past. The main town, Nantucket Town, offers well-preserved 18th century architecture and charming boutiques for shopping. Don’t forget to try the local seafood.
Here are some things to do in Cape Ann, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, and Provincetown. Cape Ann Martha's Vineyard Nantucket Provincetown
16) Provincetown, MA
Situated at the tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown, or P-Town, is a vibrant and artistic town. The drive here from Providence takes about 2 and a half hours depending on the traffic heading onto the Cape. P-Town is home to a thriving LGBTQ+ community, picturesque beaches, and a bohemian atmosphere.
If shopping is your thing, Commercial Street is lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and many restaurants for refueling. The beaches are perfect for a day of sunbathing or swimming. You can also embark on a whale-watching tour from Provincetown. If you stay until evening, then the nightlife scene offers a wide variety of entertainment options.
Rhode Island Day Trips to Connecticut
For Rhode Islanders on the western side of the state, people cross the state line into Connecticut without a thought. Read on for a handful of Rhode Island day trips to Connecticut.
17) Mystic, CT
Mystic is located about an hour southwest from Providence and is full of maritime history. It offers a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural attractions in the coastal town. The Mystic River offers beautiful waterfront views and is the perfect place to take a river cruise or walk along the riverfront. Watch the drawbridge rise to let tall boats pass under the road and then wander the many shops and galleries lining the street nearby.
18) Mystic Aquarium
If marine life interests you then you must visit Mystic Aquarium. It is home to a wide range of aquatic animals including beluga whales, penguins, sharks, and sea lions. Walk around outside to the different areas and watch the sea creatures right in front of you.
Inside there are many varieties of sea creatures like jelly fish, eels, and so many fish. The Mystic Aquarium also serves as a research facility studying the sea life and improving marine conservation efforts.
19) Olde Mistick Village
This charming shopping village offers a unique shopping experience. It features over 40 shops, boutiques, and restaurants housed in picturesque New England-style buildings. This is a perfect place to visit once done at the Aquarium which is just across the large parking lot.
20) New Haven, CT
New Haven is the home of Yale University and is 90 miles from Providence. Take a leisurely stroll through the campus grounds and visit prominent landmarks such as the Art Gallery, the Yale Center for British Art, and the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library. The Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History is also located close to the campus. It is famous for housing an extensive collection of natural and cultural artifacts, dinosaur fossils, Egyptian mummies, Native American artifacts, and so much more.
If you want to get off the campus grounds, then explore downtown New Haven. The streets are lines with historic buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. A Rhode Island day trip to New Haven would not be complete without a stop at Louis’ Lunch. They claim they invented the hamburger in 1900, so check out their no-frills atmosphere and delicious burgers.
21) Hartford, CT
The capital city of Connecticut is about one hour and thirty minutes from Providence. Visit the Connecticut State Capitol, a stunning architectural gem located in Bushnell Park. Take a guided tour of the building to learn about the state’s political history and admire the gorgeous interior. After exploring here, visit the nearby Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, the oldest continually operating public museum in the United States. Their collection consists of European and American artwork spanning several centuries.
Once the hunger sets in, there are plenty of culinary options from local favorites to international cuisine. The Mark Twain House & Museum was once the historic home of the famous American author. Tour the house to learn about Twain’s life and see where he wrote some of his most iconic works.
Wrap things up with a stroll along the Connecticut Riverwalk to admire the views of the river and the skyline. Riverboat cruises are also an excellent way to enjoy the view from a different perspective.
22) Essex, CT
A Rhode Island day trip to Essex will be full with the many places to see and things to do. It is nearly 2 hours from Providence and you should start in Essex Village. This area boasts well-preserved 18th and 19th century architecture. Take a leisurely stroll to explore quaint shops, art galleries, and antique stores.
For a unique experience, consider taking a ride on the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat. This nostalgic excursion allows you to board a vintage steam train and embark on a scenic journey through the Connecticut River Valley. The ride also includes a riverboat cruise with stunning views of the countryside. And if medieval-style castles are more your thing, Gillette Castle State Park will suit your needs. Built by William Gillette, an American actor, the eccentric architecture and beautiful grounds have hiking trails with views of the Connecticut River.
Check out these links for activities in the following cities. Mystic New Haven Hartford Essex 23) Foxwoods Casino, Ledyard, CT
23) Foxwoods Casino
Run by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Foxwoods is the largest casino in New England and one of the largest in the entire United States. It is approximately a little more than an hour away from Providence. Your travels options are to either drive or take a coach bus tour.
There are many entertainment options like gaming, concerts, shows, dining and shopping, and of course gambling. The casino features a huge gaming floor with a variety of slot machines, table games, and poker rooms.
If gambling is not for you, then try to catch one of their live performances by renowned artists or enjoy fine dining at one of the many restaurants within the resort. Shopping boutique stores and luxury brand name stores is available on premises. Foxwoods also offers attractions such as a spa, golf courses, bowling, and even a zip-line adventure. There is definitely something for everyone at Foxwoods.
24) Mohegan Sun Casino, Uncasville, CT
Mohegan Sun is located just 15 minutes from Foxwoods and is run by the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut. Mohegan Sun features a massive gambling floor with thousands of slot machines, table games, poker rooms, and other gaming options. You also have the option of driving or taking the coach tour there and back.
In addition, Mohegan Sun offers world class entertainment and hosts concerts, comedy shows, and sporting events in its arenas. The resort boasts an array of restaurants ranging from casual eateries to upscale fine dining experiences. You’ll also find bars, nightclubs, and retail shops to explore.
Although Foxwoods is much larger and offers more activities at their huge resort, I find Mohegan Sun easier to walk around without getting lost. I also appreciate the decor and atmosphere at Mohegan Sun a bit more, but you visit them both and decide for yourself.
Scenic Drives in and near Rhode Island
Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut offer a variety of scenic drives that showcase the natural beauty, historic sites, and charming towns of the region. Cruising in your car and enjoying the fresh air and fantastic views are Rhode Island day trips you will remember.
Rhode Island
25) Ocean Drive (Newport)
This 10-mile drive takes you along the coast of Newport, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, picturesque mansions, and the iconic Newport Cliff Walk. Starting right in downtown Newport, the views are breathtaking and Brenton Point is a great place to stop for pictures. Get out and explore the tidal pools on the rocks and admire the view out across the Atlantic Ocean. Once you get back into town you are cruising Bellevue Avenue, home to many of the famous Newport mansions.
26) Blackstone Valley
Explore the historic Blackstone River Valley on Route 114, which winds through charming towns, farmland, and offers glimpses of the region’s industrial past. This northern route starts close to my home and is the area where I grew up. Passing through Cumberland, this Rhode Island day trip can take you to Phantom Farms, an apple orchard and shop, Diamond Hill Vineyards, and then Diamond Hill State Park.
Traveling toward the south, you will pass close by Slater Mill, the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. It is worth it to tour this historic site and learn about the textile industry that built this region.
Massachusetts
27) Mohawk Trail
Spanning 63 miles through the Berkshire Mountains, the Mohawk Trail is one of the oldest scenic drives in the United States. The views are the most breathtaking during the autumn making this a popular leaf-peeping destination.
There are several state parks along the way that are perfect for a picnic lunch and some hiking or fishing. There are several scenic overlooks perfect for enjoying the views or taking some Instagram-worthy pictures.
28) Cape Cod National Seashore
Drive along Route 6 to experience the natural beauty of Cape Cod’s coastline, with sandy beaches, dunes, and quaint seaside towns. There are too many towns to list, but start in Sandwich, Massachusetts and drive all the way along the Cape to Provincetown, which is mentioned above.
It takes approximately an hour and 20 minutes to get to Sandwich and the drive along the entirety of Route 6 will take you a minimum of 2 hours. Plan for traffic, especially during nice weather, and leave yourself time to get out and explore along the way.
Connecticut
29) Merritt Parkway
Known for its architectural beauty, the Merritt Parkway is a historic scenic drive that stretches from Greenwich to Stratford. It features tree-lined roadways, art deco bridges, and offers a unique driving experience.
These are just a few examples of the scenic drives you can enjoy in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. Each state has its own unique charm and landscapes, so take the time to explore and discover the hidden gems along the way. Please make sure to follow all rules of the road while enjoying your day trip.
30) Route 156
Running along the Connecticut River in the southeastern part of the state, Route 156 provides stunning views of the water and the surrounding countryside. This scenic drive takes you through picturesque towns such as Lyme and Old Lyme, known for their art galleries and historic sites.
In Conclusion: Rhode Island Day Trips
Rhode Island’s little size makes it a perfect launching point for day trips to surrounding states, or even within the state itself.
Please make sure to check for hours of operation and fees for the many locations and attractions listed. Be prepared before you go.
Many options are available here, and this is just the tip of the iceberg for Rhode Island day trips. Happy exploring!