30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Rhode Island | Apr 2025
Newport Gilded Age Mansions Trolley Tour with Breakers Admission
For ages 5+ only, this approx 3-hour tour is our scenic overview trolley tour PLUS a 90-minute visit inside the Vanderbilt Breaker's Mansion.
4.87 (2953 reviews)
From $46.25
Newport Trolley Tour with Breakers Mansion - Viking Tours
Since 1962 Viking Tours has shown visitors the Newport that we know and love! Explore the history of Newport on this 3-hour trolley tour.
4.85 (1283 reviews)
From $45.00
Scenic Bay Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport
Come aboard spacious tour boat Coastal Queen at Bowen's Wharf, Newport, and see magnificent Newport Harbor and the Narragansett Bay area sites.
4.64 (128 reviews)
From $39.50
Sunset Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI
Relax and enjoy the coveted Newport sunset on this 1 hour narrated harbor cruise of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay.
4.83 (429 reviews)
From $48.00
Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport
On this narrated tour, our guides will tell you about the lighthouses of Goat Island, Rose Island, Castle Hill, Lime Rock and the neighboring sites—including the harbor mansions, churches, historic Fort Adams, Jamestown, the Pell Newport Bridge, Clingstone, Hammersmith Farm and more.
4.63 (100 reviews)
From $40.50
3 Hour Luxury Van Tour of Breakers Mansion
Board our 14 passenger black luxury van at 23 Americas Cup Ave in Newport, Rhode Island and enjoy Newport’s best narrated scenic tour in luxury and comfort! Our tour features a 90 minute narrated tour covering over 150 points of interest followed by an additional 90 minute tour inside The Breakers mansion provided by the Newport Preservation Society.
From $850.00
Newport Walking Food And History Tour
Enjoy delightful food from five restaurants while strolling the historic streets of Newport, Rhode Island! Our tour begins in front of the Wave sculpture on the corner of America's Cup Ave.
4.80 (346 reviews)
From $123.00
Newport RI Mansions Scenic Trolley Tour (Ages 5+ only)
For ages 5+ only, this approx 90-min tour is an overview of scenic Newport. After boarding our luxurious and comfortable trolley at platform #2 of the Newport Transit Center, your driver starts the tour with a brief history of Colonial-era downtown and explains the Gilded Age history and events that occurred over the centuries.
4.79 (555 reviews)
From $26.75
Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI
This 75-minute narrated harbor cruise of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay will have you cruising in comfort as you enjoy a scenic tour of Newport and Jamestown.
4.88 (1688 reviews)
From $40.00
Newport Trolley Tour - Viking Scenic Overview
On this 1. 5-hour tour, take in the beauty of Newport from a trolley. Listen to the history of the buildings and restored homes on Ten-Mile Ocean Drive, along with the mansions on Bellevue Avenue.
4.81 (671 reviews)
From $25.00
Rhode Island in a Day
We want to show what’s great about the Ocean State! If you would like to experience the culture, cuisine, scenery, and story of America’s smallest state in one amazing day with an expert guide, then this is the tour for you.
4.69 (55 reviews)
From $125.00
Newport Neighborhood Food Tour
Discover Newport’s culinary side and let your local guide lead you on this three-hour walking tour through historic neighborhood streets.
4.89 (535 reviews)
From $89.00
Newport Sunset Sail on Classic Sailboat
Sunset sailing is one of the best evening activities to do during your stay in Newport, RI. Enjoy a relaxing sail around Narragansett Bay on a classic sailboat and see all of Newport's iconic sights from the water including historic lighthouses and landmarks, other classic boats and sailboats, bridges, mansions and more!
4.76 (17 reviews)
From $67.84
Downcity Providence Food Tour
Join this 3-hour small-group food tour to savor 6+ food tastings in one of America's top food cities with a professional guide.
4.91 (271 reviews)
From $89.00
Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat
Sail on a classic sailboat in Newport, RI, and enjoy a sightseeing sailing experience around Narragansett Bay. Pass by many iconic sights during the sail, including Newport's historic lighthouses and landmarks, bridges, mansions and more! We'll even see Newport Bridge, New England's largest suspension bridge from the water.
4.83 (59 reviews)
From $57.24
Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport
Start your day with a morning sightseeing sail around Newport on a classic sailboat. Sailing aboard Schooner Madeleine is a great experience for friends and family to see all the iconic waterfront sights of Newport and Narragansett Bay.
4.58 (12 reviews)
From $57.24
Private Newport, Rhode Island City Tour
Who better to tell the story of Newport's history and social and cultural scene than someone who has, and continues to be living the 'Newport life'? What sets our Tours apart is that we provide a 'Native Newporter' as your guide and chaperone, with the lifelong experiences and knowledge only obtained from being born and raised and attending the City's public and private elementary Newportschools Newport.
4.68 (62 reviews)
From $100.00
Crime and Cuisine on Federal Hill
A food tour with a felonious twist! The Federal Hill neighborhood of Providence is one of its hottest destinations, home to some of the best Italian food in the world.
4.79 (78 reviews)
From $100.00
Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI
Gansett Cruises offers a comfortable, entertaining and informative tour of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay. Our vessel, Gansett, is a wooden 1969 classic lobster fishing boat that has been beautifully restored and maintained.
4.94 (86 reviews)
From $40.00
Scenic Tour of Newport, RI By Helicopter - 3 person Mansion Tour
Enjoy a 12-minute Mansion Tour of Newport, RI for groups up to 3 passengers. A truly unique perspective above the treasures of Newport awaits you on this tour.
5.00 (12 reviews)
From $255.00
Providence Fireworks Boat Rides
View the fireworks from the best seat in town! The fun begins at 8:15pm when we will take you and your guests for a casual cruise of the downtown Providence waterways before heading out to India Point for the fireworks display.
5.00 (2 reviews)
From $125.00
Newport Sightseeing Boat Tour aboard Rum Runner II
Step aboard a classic boat and get a great overview of Newport’s historic waterfront, Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay.
4.86 (29 reviews)
From $50.88
Newport Sunset Sail on Schooner Adirondack
Join us aboard a classic sailboat for a 1. 5-hour sunset sail in Newport! Sunset sailing is one of the best evening activities to do during your stay in Newport, RI.
4.92 (36 reviews)
From $67.84
Vineyard Voyages - Floating Wine Tasting
Vineyard Voyages is an exceptional experience for wine lovers, offering a unique floating wine-tasting adventure through the waterways of downtown Providence, RI.
4.75 (4 reviews)
From $65.00
Guided Tour of Newport in Open Air LSV
Experience Newport in style and comfort with our one-of-a-kind LSV tour. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of exploring the city in a luxurious open-air electric vehicle while learning about its rich history from a knowledgeable local guide.
4.58 (12 reviews)
From $129.00
Scenic Newport, RI Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
Recommended: Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Explore Newport, RI with a scenic self-guided driving tour! See everything this seaside town has to offer at your own pace.
4.32 (295 reviews)
From $16.99
Providence Ghosts Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour
Embark on a spine-tingling journey through Providence’s shadowy streets with our walking ghost tour! Led by a seasoned local guide, this tour takes you to some of the city’s most haunted and historically significant sites.
4.52 (48 reviews)
From $26.00
Olde Town Ghost Walk
The Olde Town Ghost Walk is Newport, Rhode Island's original and most popular paranormal walking tour. Accept no imitations or copycat local ghost tours.
4.48 (165 reviews)
From $24.00
Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour
Join us for this elegant stroll through time! Allow our historically costumed, local guides to lead you down the most beautifully preserved street in all of Providence, RI- Benefit Street! Guests will learn the history of some of Providence's most prominent residents and families, including the Dorr family, Roger Williams, and the Hoppin family.
5.00 (20 reviews)
From $30.00
Golden Hour Cruise
During the picture-perfect hour before sunset, you will enjoy a lightly guided tour of the Newport waterfront. Raise a glass to the end of the day with our cash bar and complimentary champagne toast.
From $45.00
What activities can I do in Rhode Island?
1. Visit Newport: Explore the historic mansions along Bellevue Avenue, such as The Breakers and Marble House. Take a stroll along the Cliff Walk, a scenic path that offers beautiful views of the ocean and the mansions. 2. Discover Providence: Explore the charming capital city, Providence. Visit the Rhode Island State House and take a walk along the Waterplace Park, which features a series of picturesque canals and bridges. Don't miss the vibrant Federal Hill neighborhood, known for its Italian cuisine and lively atmosphere. 3. Relax at the beaches: Rhode Island is known for its beautiful coastline and numerous beaches. Spend a day at Misquamicut State Beach, Narragansett Town Beach, or East Matunuck State Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports. 4. Explore Block Island: Take a ferry from the mainland to Block Island, a small island known for its natural beauty. Rent a bike or scooter to explore the island's beaches, lighthouses, and nature trails. Don't forget to visit Mohegan Bluffs, a stunning cliffside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. 5. Visit the Roger Williams Park Zoo: Located in Providence, the Roger Williams Park Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. Explore the exhibits, watch animal feedings, and even take a camel ride. 6. Experience the Newport Jazz Festival: If you're visiting in the summer, don't miss the famous Newport Jazz Festival, held annually in Newport. Enjoy live performances by renowned jazz musicians in a beautiful waterfront setting. 7. Take a scenic drive: Rhode Island offers picturesque drives, especially along the Ocean Drive in Newport. Enjoy stunning views of the coastline, historic sites, and beautiful mansions along the way. 8. Explore the RISD Museum: The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum in Providence houses an impressive collection of art and design from various cultures and time periods. Spend a few hours exploring the galleries and appreciating the diverse artworks on display. 9. Go on a food tour: Rhode Island is known for its delicious seafood and unique culinary traditions. Take a food tour in Providence or Newport to sample local favorites like clam chowder, lobster rolls, and stuffed quahogs. 10. Visit the Newport Vineyards: Rhode Island has a growing wine industry, and the Newport Vineyards is a great place to learn about and taste local wines. Take a tour of the vineyard, enjoy a wine tasting, and relax on the outdoor patio overlooking the vineyard.
When is the best time to travel to Rhode Island?
The best time to travel to Rhode Island, USA is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when the weather is at its warmest and most pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). During this time, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and coastal areas of Rhode Island, as well as outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. The summer months also offer a variety of festivals and events, including the famous Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival. If you prefer to avoid crowds and higher prices, consider visiting Rhode Island during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is still mild, and you can enjoy the changing foliage and quieter atmosphere. However, it's important to note that Rhode Island experiences cold winters, with temperatures dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. While winter can be a beautiful time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or holiday festivities, it may not be the best time for outdoor activities and beach trips.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Rhode Island
Rhode Island, also known as the Ocean State, has a unique and vibrant travel culture that combines its rich history, beautiful coastal landscapes, and diverse communities. Here are some highlights of Rhode Island's travel culture: 1. History and Heritage: Rhode Island played a significant role in the American Revolution and is home to many historical sites, including the famous Newport Mansions, which showcase the opulence of the Gilded Age. The state's capital, Providence, also has a rich history, with well-preserved colonial architecture and landmarks like the Rhode Island State House. 2. Coastal Beauty: With over 400 miles of coastline, Rhode Island offers stunning beaches, charming coastal towns, and picturesque lighthouses. Popular destinations include Newport, with its scenic Cliff Walk and historic harbor, and Block Island, a small island known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. 3. Culinary Delights: Rhode Island has a thriving food scene, particularly when it comes to seafood. The state is famous for its clam chowder, clam cakes, and stuffies (stuffed clams). Don't miss out on trying a traditional Rhode Island-style hot dog, known as a ""New York System wiener,"" topped with mustard, meat sauce, onions, and celery salt. 4. Festivals and Events: Rhode Island hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from seafood and arts to music and culture. The Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival are internationally renowned events that attract music enthusiasts from around the world. 5. Arts and Culture: Providence, the creative capital of Rhode Island, is home to a vibrant arts scene. The city hosts numerous galleries, theaters, and museums, including the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and design. 6. Outdoor Recreation: Rhode Island offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as sailing, kayaking, fishing, and biking. The state has numerous parks and nature reserves, including the Roger Williams Park in Providence, which features a zoo, botanical gardens, and a carousel. 7. Quaint New England Charm: Rhode Island exudes a classic New England charm with its quaint villages, historic inns, and scenic landscapes. The state's small size makes it easy to explore and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Overall, Rhode Island's travel culture combines history, natural beauty, culinary delights, arts, and a warm New England charm, making it a destination that offers something for everyone.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Rhode Island
When visiting Rhode Island, there are several unique shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider bringing back home. Here are some suggestions for your shopping list: 1. Del's Lemonade Mix: Del's Lemonade is a popular frozen lemonade drink in Rhode Island. You can find Del's Lemonade mix in various flavors, allowing you to recreate this refreshing beverage at home. 2. Coffee Syrup: Rhode Island is known for its coffee milk, a sweetened milk drink flavored with coffee syrup. Pick up a bottle of Autocrat or Eclipse coffee syrup to enjoy this local favorite. 3. Rhode Island Red Rooster merchandise: The Rhode Island Red Rooster is the state bird and a symbol of Rhode Island. Look for souvenirs featuring this iconic rooster, such as t-shirts, mugs, or keychains. 4. Newport-themed items: If you visit the charming coastal town of Newport, you'll find plenty of souvenirs related to its rich history and beautiful scenery. Look for Newport-themed postcards, magnets, or artwork. 5. Handmade Jewelry: Rhode Island has a thriving jewelry industry, and you can find beautiful handmade pieces in various shops. Look for locally crafted earrings, necklaces, or bracelets made with precious metals and gemstones. 6. Quahog shells: Quahogs are large clams found in Rhode Island's waters. You can find polished quahog shells that are often used as decorative pieces or made into jewelry. 7. Gourmet Food Products: Rhode Island is known for its delicious food scene. Look for local gourmet products such as Rhode Island-style clam chowder mix, hot pepper jelly, or artisanal chocolates. 8. Narragansett Beer: Narragansett Beer is a famous local brewery in Rhode Island. Pick up a pack of their beer or merchandise featuring their iconic logo. 9. Block Island souvenirs: If you take a trip to Block Island, you can find unique souvenirs like seashells, lighthouse-themed items, or artwork inspired by the island's natural beauty. 10. Rhode Island-themed clothing: Look for t-shirts, hats, or sweatshirts featuring the state's name or iconic landmarks like the Newport Bridge or the Rhode Island State House. Remember to explore local shops, boutiques, and markets to find these unique Rhode Island souvenirs and support local businesses.
Rhode Island travel review
Rhode Island: A Gem of New England Nestled along the picturesque coast of New England, Rhode Island is a charming state that often gets overlooked in favor of its larger neighbors. However, this tiny state is brimming with history, natural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene that make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. One of the first things that strikes visitors about Rhode Island is its size. Known as the ""Ocean State,"" it covers just over 1,200 square miles, making it the smallest state in the United States. Despite its small stature, Rhode Island packs a punch when it comes to attractions and activities. Providence, the capital city, is a vibrant hub of art, culture, and history. Stroll along the cobblestone streets of Benefit Street, lined with beautifully preserved colonial homes, and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. The city is also home to prestigious institutions like Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, which contribute to its thriving arts scene. Explore the RISD Museum, filled with an impressive collection of art from around the world, or catch a show at the renowned Providence Performing Arts Center. For history buffs, a visit to Newport is a must. This coastal town is famous for its opulent Gilded Age mansions, such as The Breakers and Marble House. These grand estates, once owned by wealthy industrialists, offer a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyles of the elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Take a guided tour and marvel at the intricate architecture, lavish interiors, and stunning ocean views. Rhode Island's coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches and charming seaside towns. Narragansett, with its pristine sandy shores, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, or surfing, and don't forget to indulge in some delicious seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants. For a quieter beach experience, head to Block Island, a small island located just off the coast. With its untouched natural beauty, rolling hills, and picturesque lighthouses, it's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Rhode Island's numerous state parks and nature reserves. Beavertail State Park, located in Jamestown, offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Colt State Park, in Bristol, is another great option, with its expansive lawns, walking trails, and panoramic views of Narragansett Bay. Rhode Island is also known for its culinary delights, particularly its seafood. Indulge in a traditional New England clam chowder or savor a plate of freshly caught lobster. The state's capital, Providence, is a foodie haven, with a diverse range of restaurants offering everything from fine dining to street food. Don't miss out on trying a ""hot wiener,"" a local specialty consisting of a small, spicy hot dog topped with mustard, onions, and celery salt. In conclusion, Rhode Island may be small in size, but it is big on charm and attractions. From its historic cities to its beautiful coastline and delicious cuisine, this hidden gem of New England has something to offer every traveler. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the wonders of Rhode Island for yourself.