Hidden Gems and Local Favorites Across Rhode Island

I first discovered Rhode Island on a random weekend getaway back in 2019, and I’ve found myself returning to this tiny state more times than I can count. Despite being the smallest state in the US, Rhode Island packs a surprising number of experiences into its compact borders.

What makes Rhode Island special is how it manages to offer something new each time you visit. From the historic mansions and cliff walks of Newport to the artsy streets of Providence, the quiet fishing villages along the coast to the rolling farmland of the western regions, this little state keeps revealing hidden gems around every corner.

Looking to explore the Ocean State yourself? I’ve combined my personal adventures with recommendations from local experts to bring you a carefully curated list of Rhode Island’s must-visit spots.

Newport Mansions, Rhode Island

Newport’s grand mansions stand as monuments to America’s Gilded Age, when wealthy families like the Vanderbilts spent their summers along Rhode Island’s coast. Walking through Bellevue Avenue feels like stepping into the pages of a Great Gatsby novel, with sprawling estates competing for attention at every turn. Unlike other historic home collections, these mansions aren’t just about architecture – they tell stories of lavish parties, social climbing, and the rise of American aristocracy. Because most of these “summer cottages” (as their owners modestly called them) are managed by the Preservation Society of Newport County, you can tour multiple properties in a single day, from the Italian-inspired Marble House to The Breakers, the largest and most opulent of them all.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Located 13 miles off the coast of mainland Rhode Island lies Block Island, a place where life moves at its own gentle pace. Like many coastal New England destinations, you’ll find pristine beaches, weathered lighthouses, and fresh seafood aplenty. But unlike its bustling neighbors, Block Island maintains an untouched, natural charm that feels worlds away from the mainland rush. Just look for the hundreds of bikes weaving along quiet roads and the preserved Victorian-era buildings dotting the landscape, and you’ll understand what makes it special. Because of its commitment to conservation, nearly half of Block Island remains undeveloped, offering visitors miles of free public beaches, hiking trails, and some of the most impressive coastal bluffs in the Northeast.

Providence WaterFire, Rhode Island

Looking for an unforgettable evening in Providence? Head to WaterFire, where over 80 bonfires light up the three rivers that flow through downtown. This unique art installation happens several times throughout summer and fall, turning the waterways into a magical display of flickering flames while music echoes through the streets. Locals and tourists alike gather along the riverbanks to watch the fires being lit at sunset, enjoy street performances, and sample food from nearby vendors.

The Breakers, Newport

The Breakers stands as the grandest of Newport’s famous summer “cottages,” built in 1895 by the Vanderbilt family. This 70-room Italian Renaissance-style mansion sits perched on Ochre Point Avenue, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean with its limestone facade and ornate architecture. Walking through its halls feels like stepping into America’s Gilded Age, where every room tells stories of lavish parties and social gatherings of the nation’s wealthiest families. The great hall, with its 50-foot ceiling and intricate details, remains the mansion’s centerpiece, while the servants’ quarters downstairs offer a glimpse into the lives of those who kept this massive estate running. Today, visitors can tour the mansion’s opulent rooms, stroll through the manicured grounds, and gaze out at the same ocean views that drew the Vanderbilts to this spot over a century ago.

Cliff Walk, Newport

Ever wandered along a mansion-lined path where waves crash against rugged cliffs? That’s what you’ll find at Newport’s famous Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile trail that hugs the Rhode Island coastline. This public walkway lets you peek into the backyards of Newport’s most impressive Gilded Age mansions while offering clear views of the Atlantic Ocean on the other side. You can spot seabirds soaring overhead and, if you’re lucky, catch sight of seals playing in the waves below. The path ranges from easy paved sections to rocky scrambles, making it perfect for both casual strollers and adventurous hikers looking to combine a bit of history with their outdoor experience.

Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence

I always recommend the Roger Williams Park Zoo to families visiting Providence. Spread across 40 beautiful acres, this historic zoo is home to over 100 species of animals, including African elephants, red pandas, and snow leopards. The zoo opened its doors in 1872, making it one of America’s oldest zoos, and today it combines education with entertainment through its interactive exhibits and conservation programs.

The Arcade Providence

Step into America’s oldest indoor shopping mall when you visit The Arcade Providence, built in 1828. This historic three-story Greek Revival building features unique boutiques and local shops lined along its charming corridors. The upper floors have been converted into micro-apartments, making it a living piece of Providence’s history. Stop by for lunch at one of the casual eateries, or browse the independent retailers selling everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothing. It’s the perfect spot to escape Rhode Island’s weather while experiencing a piece of architectural history.

Narragansett Beach

Of all the beaches I’ve visited in Rhode Island, Narragansett Beach holds a special place in my heart. This three-mile stretch of sandy coastline has become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors looking to catch some waves or simply soak in the classic New England beach atmosphere. The consistent surf makes it one of the best spots for surfing in the Northeast, while the gentle slope of the beach provides safe swimming areas for families. It’s not just a summer destination – even in the off-season, you’ll find dedicated surfers in their wetsuits and beach walkers bundled up against the Atlantic breeze, taking in views of the historic towers that stand guard over the shoreline.

Fort Adams State Park, Newport

Step into Rhode Island’s military history at Fort Adams, America’s largest coastal fortress. This sprawling state park offers guided tours through the fort’s underground tunnels, soldier barracks, and defensive walls that once protected Narragansett Bay. You can explore the grounds year-round, where summer brings the famous Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival to the fort’s green spaces. For the best views of Newport Harbor, climb to the fort’s observation points, or pack a picnic and relax on the waterfront lawn while watching sailboats glide by.

Ocean Drive Historic District, Newport

Many travelers head to Newport’s Ocean Drive Historic District for its famous 10-mile coastal route, but this area offers much more than just scenic water views. The winding road takes you past some of America’s most notable mansions from the Gilded Age, where wealthy families like the Vanderbilts once spent their summers. You can spot sailboats dotting the horizon, watch waves crash against the rocky shoreline, or stop at Brenton Point State Park for a picnic with ocean views. While the district is especially popular during summer months when visitors flock to nearby beaches, the coastal drive remains a year-round attraction, offering different perspectives of the Atlantic with each changing season.

Thames Street, Newport

Ever wandered down a street that feels like a trip back to colonial America? That’s exactly what you’ll find on Thames Street, the beating heart of Newport’s historic waterfront district. This charming cobblestone thoroughfare runs parallel to Newport Harbor, where sailboats bob gently in the water and seagulls soar overhead. Local shops housed in 18th-century buildings sell everything from nautical gifts to handmade fudge, while cozy restaurants serve up fresh New England seafood. You can spend hours exploring the hidden courtyards and narrow side streets, or grab an ice cream cone and watch the sunset paint the harbor in soft orange hues from one of the many wooden benches along the water’s edge.

Watch Hill, Westerly

Watch Hill sits at the southwestern tip of Rhode Island, where the Atlantic Ocean meets Little Narragansett Bay. This coastal village, dating back to the late 1800s, stands as one of New England’s original summer resort communities. The area’s crown jewel is the Ocean House, a yellow Victorian-style hotel perched on a bluff overlooking the water. Families flock to Watch Hill’s pristine beaches and the famous Flying Horse Carousel – the oldest continuously operating carousel of its kind in America. The locally-owned shops along Bay Street give the village its charm, while boat tours departing from the harbor offer visitors a chance to explore the rocky coastline and spot the Taylor Swift mansion that’s become part of local lore.

Mohegan Bluffs, Block Island

The Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island first caught my eye during a New England road trip in 2019. Rising 150 feet above the Atlantic Ocean on Block Island’s southern shore, these dramatic clay cliffs stretch for nearly three miles along the coastline. A wooden staircase of 141 steps leads visitors down to a secluded beach below, where smooth stones and patches of sand create perfect spots for afternoon picnics. The waves crash against the cliff base while seabirds soar overhead, making it one of the most peaceful places to watch the sunset in all of Rhode Island. Local folklore says the bluffs were named after a battle between the Manisseans and Mohegan tribes in 1590, adding an element of history to this natural wonder.

Marble House, Newport

Built in 1892 as a summer “cottage” for the wealthy Vanderbilt family, Marble House stands as one of Newport’s most memorable Gilded Age mansions. With over 500,000 cubic feet of marble used in its construction, this palace-like structure cost $11 million to build at the time – that’s equivalent to more than $300 million today. While other Newport mansions might grab more attention, Marble House tells a fascinating story of American wealth and social ambition through its opulent rooms and perfectly manicured grounds. Modeled after the Petit Trianon at Versailles, the house features intricate gold details, elaborate ceiling murals, and a Chinese Tea House perched on the cliffs – where Alva Vanderbilt once hosted rallies for women’s suffrage. These days, you can tour the 50-room mansion, walk the grounds, and get a real sense of what life was like for America’s wealthiest families during the Gilded Age.

The Elms, Newport

Located in the heart of Newport’s famous Bellevue Avenue, The Elms stands as a testament to America’s Gilded Age. Built in 1901 as a summer home for coal baron Edward Berwind, this mansion follows the pattern of many Newport estates – designed to impress and entertain the social elite. What makes The Elms different from its neighbors is how it shows off the “downstairs” life of the servants who kept these massive homes running. Through the restored servants’ quarters and tunnel system, you can see where the staff lived and worked, offering a rare glimpse into both sides of mansion life. The gardens, with their marble pavilions and fountains, tell stories of elaborate garden parties where the wealthy would gather on warm summer evenings. Because The Elms was almost demolished in the 1960s before being saved by preservationists, walking through its halls today feels like an especially lucky peek into Newport’s past.

Misquamicut State Beach, Westerly

When summer hits Rhode Island, there’s no better place to cool off than Misquamicut State Beach. This three-mile stretch of sandy shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean draws families and beachgoers from across New England, all seeking that perfect mix of surf, sun, and seaside fun. The beach’s gentle waves make it ideal for boogie boarding and swimming, while the expansive coastline offers plenty of space to spread out your towel, even during peak season. It’s more than just a beach day destination – the surrounding area comes alive with seafood shacks, ice cream stands, and an old-school amusement park that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped back into a classic New England summer.

Rhode Island State House, Providence

The Rhode Island State House in Providence stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks in New England’s smallest state. I first visited this marble and granite marvel back in 2019, where its gleaming white dome – the fourth-largest self-supporting marble dome in the world – immediately caught my eye. The building sits atop Smith Hill, overlooking downtown Providence with quiet authority. Inside, the rotunda houses historic artifacts including the original Rhode Island Charter of 1663 and a Gilbert Stuart portrait of George Washington, while the halls echo with over 100 years of legislative history. The building’s architecture mirrors the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C., making it a perfect spot for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike.

Colt State Park, Bristol

Locals and tourists alike flock to Colt State Park for good reason. Located along Bristol’s scenic coastline, this 464-acre park offers four miles of winding paths along Narragansett Bay, where you can bike, jog, or simply take in the peaceful ocean views. The park features expansive lawns perfect for picnicking, historic stone walls, and colorful gardens that make it one of Rhode Island’s most beloved outdoor spaces.

Benefit Street, Providence

Have you ever strolled down a street where every house tells a story from the 1700s? That’s exactly what you’ll find on Benefit Street, a mile-long stretch in Providence that’s often called the most impressive collection of colonial architecture in America. Running along the edge of Brown University’s campus, this historic thoroughfare lets you step back in time among well-preserved homes, churches, and museums from the Colonial and Federal periods. The Providence Athenaeum, a member-supported library from 1836, still welcomes visitors to browse its shelves, while the John Brown House Museum shows how the city’s merchant elite lived during the American Revolution. You can join a walking tour or simply wander on your own, taking in the brick sidewalks and gas lamps that make this neighborhood feel like a living history book.