15 FUN Things to Do in Rhode Island

Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the U.S., but it packs a lot of culture and character into its 1,214 square miles. Here, you’ll find beautiful, sprawling coastlines, Gilded Age mansions fit for Jay Gatsby, and tons of history as one of the thirteen original colonies. There’s no time for a single dull moment here.

Whether you want to explore the state’s rich history, or just be a beach bum for a few days, it’s easy to see how “The Ocean State” can leave such an impression on visitors. Creating the perfect agenda can be a challenge, so let this list help you choose your favorite things to do in Rhode Island.

1. Cliff Walk

This popular 3.5-mile point-to-point trail lies along the east coast of Newport where hikers, runners, and birdwatchers can enjoy the beauty, history, architecture, flora, and fauna of Newport.

It’s easy to see why it’s consistently ranked as one of the top things to do in Rhode Island.

The walk guides you through the town’s historic district before leading visitors along rugged shorelines with steep drop-offs and stunning ocean views.

Along the route, use the QR code trail markers to learn about the geographic and geologic structures encountered on your journey.

A must-do in Newport is the Cliff Walk for stunning views by the sea

2. Mansions in Newport

If you’ve seen HBO’s The Gilded Age perhaps you’ve caught a glimpse of the iconic Newport mansions.

These remarkable summer homes have been extremely well preserved and transport you back in time to retrace the footsteps of wealthy, prominent figures of a bygone era.

If you don’t have time to visit all 10 mansions, prioritize visits to The Breakers, The Elms, Marble House, and Rosecliff.

For self-guided audio tours of each of these homes, download the Newport Mansion app before your visit.

The mansions of Newport are one of the most popular attractions in Rhode Island

3. Newport Vineyards

Whether you take the time to explore the beautiful vineyards themselves or head straight to the tasting rooms, a visit to the vineyards of Newport is a must-do for any wine lovers.

Learn the history of the estates and about the soils and microclimates that allow the grapes of these award-winning wines to be grown.

Sitting in the sun with a refreshing glass of chardonnay after a long day of sightseeing is the perfect way to end your day in Rhode Island.

Plus, a bottle of wine always makes for an exceptional souvenir.

4. Rhode Island Seafood

Rhode Island is an ideal place for seafood lovers.

Taste the oysters, shrimp, clams, lobster, crab and more. Even though Rhode Island isn’t an island it does have over 400 miles of coastline.

It’s easy to see why Rhode Island is known as the Ocean State and you get to indulge in all types of seafood at a multitude of great restaurants in Rhode Island.

Benjamins Raw Bar menu - Newport Rhode Island.

For seafood lovers Rhode Island is your happy place – lots of delicious fresh seafood choices

5. International Tennis Hall of Fame

Tennis players and fans aren’t going to want to miss this. Celebrate the best of the best in tennis at the International Hall of Fame.

Learn about the history of the sport and read stories of famous champions’ perseverance, dedication, and victories as you wander through the museum.

The museum may just leave you feeling inspired enough to play a game on-site or simply stand in appreciation and admiration of the exhibits.

6. H.P. Lovecraft House

For lovers of all things horror and sci-fi, it is a treat to see the former home of Rhode Island native and strange fiction writer Howard Phillips Lovecraft.

The house was the final residence of Lovecraft before his death in 1937 and was used as a model for the home described in his book “The Haunter of Dark.”

Today, visitors to this Providence site can photograph the exterior of the house, but it is a private residence and no tours are offered.

7. Green Animals Topiary Garden

Open from mid-April to mid-October, this topiary garden is the oldest in the United States and is home to over 80 beautifully sculpted creations.

Stroll among the sea of bushy green animals, thousands of colorful blooming flowers, and geometric pathways.

You won’t find any signs here telling you not to feed the animals, so pack up a picnic basket and dine with elephants, giraffes, and lions— oh my!

It’s a wonderful activity for the whole family.

8. Providence Athenaeum

For nearly 200 years, this stunning Greek Revival-style building has served as a library where fascinating people, including Edgar Allan Poe, have come to read.

Browse through their extensive collection and spend an afternoon in the reading room getting lost in the pages of a good book.

Or choose from one of their three self-guided tours to learn more about the history of the athenaeum, the eclectic artwork and sculptures, or literary collections found here.

9. Castle Hill Lighthouse

New England is well known for its historical and picturesque lighthouses that line the shores of the coastal region and Rhode Island is no exception.

Located on Narragansett Bay, Castle Hill Lighthouse is still active in helping boats find their way to shore.

The small lighthouse is particularly beautiful at sunset and is a great spot to watch locals go fishing as the sky becomes painted in hues of pink and orange.

While in Newport visit the Castle Hill Lighthouse – one of many lighthouses along the New England coast

10. Bowen’s Wharf

In the 18^th century, Bowen’s Wharf was a bustling seaport where merchants from all over the world would come to trade and do business.

While the port still brings people in from near and far, they now come for exceptional dining options, small specialty shops, or to simply experience the Newport ambiance.

The wharf is open all year round and hosts spectacular events from its annual seafood festival to the festive lighting of the Christmas tree.

11. Beaches

In summer, one of the best things to do in Rhode Island is hit the beaches.

If you’ve come here to surf, Narragansett Town Beach will be your go-to.

The reliability of constant waves makes it a popular spot for surfers. For a more family-friendly experience head to Easton’s.

The water is clean and the sandy shores entice you to spend your day sunbathing and snacking on fresh lobster rolls from the snack bar.

If you’re looking for a lively beach with great swimming and tons of nearby entertainment, Misquamicut State Beach is a local hot spot.

12. RISD Museum

Art enthusiasts will take much delight in a visit to the museum at the Rhode Island School of Design.

The museum is home to impressive, diverse collections of art ranging from ancient Greek and Roman pieces to contemporary works and everything in between.

Even if art museums aren’t really your thing, it’s easy to find yourself lost amongst the exquisite treasures found here.

And you can visit the museum for free on Sundays.

13. Providence Children’s Museum

This museum is all about encouraging children to learn through play and exploration.

The hands-on exhibits inspire kids to be inquisitive and foster creativity.

Learn about the history of Rhode Island’s immigrants, explore the fascinating world of water, and use real tools to invent in the innovation lab.

With indoor and outdoor exhibits and displays that rotate seasonally, the sky is the limit for learning potential.

Good luck pulling your kids away from this one!

14. State Parks

Add a dash of tranquility to your New England vacation with a trip to one of Rhode Island’s state parks.

With unspoiled views of the stunning New England coast, these parks are great for hiking, biking, enjoying the local ecology, and so much more.

For a spectacle of kites on a windy day head to Brenton Point or add Beavertail to your list to snap a picture with the iconic Beavertail lighthouse.

Discover true Rhode Island history at Rocky Point State Park, while Colt will call in the snow bunnies for some cross-country skiing in winter.

When all the city attractions have been checked off your list, the state parks are a great way to embrace the natural beauty of Rhode Island.

15. Take a Boat Cruise

While in the Ocean State why not get out on the water and enjoy a boat tour.

Whether you’re interested in taking a dinner cruise, lighthouse cruise, sunset cruise, or a scenic cruise of Narragansett Bay you’ll enjoy magnificent views along the way.

Instead of an organized boat cruise you can also take the Newport Harbour Shuttle Loop – hop-on and hop-off for only $15 for the day.

You’ll get to see many sights form the water including the mansions, Fort Adams State Park, and Ida Lewis Lighthouse.

Experience New England from a different angle and hop on a boat tour in Rhode Island.