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Are you planning a road trip in Rhode Island but don’t know where to start? You’ve come to the perfect place!
I know Rhode Island is the smallest state so it may not feel like the best road trip destination but I think it’s a great addition (or inclusion) to any New England trips.
There is quite a lot to see and it has its own vibe. It’s not trying to be Connecticut or coastal Massachusetts, it’s just its own self and that’s what I loved about it.
In just a few days you can go from artsy communities to Gilded Age mansions, quaint harbor villages to beautiful beaches… it truly has a bit of everything.
Because everything is so close together, it’s the perfect state for a relaxed, unhurried drive.
Here’s how to plan the perfect Rhode Island road trip.
🚗 Good to know: Although small, Rhode Island is still best explored by car. This loop runs from Providence in the north down to the southern coast, and you can do it in a long weekend. If you don’t have a car, I recommend using Discover Cars to find the best deals.
🔥 1. Providence
Start in Providence, the capital of Rhode Island.
Start on Benefit Street which is the most historic street in the city. It’s a great place to do a walking tour as there is plenty to learn.
Then head to the Rhode Island State House to see the beautiful dome and back down to the RISD Museum which is one of the best museums in New England.
After that, walk around downtown, browse the shops and head to Federal Hill.
This is basically Rhode Island’s Little Italy and an excellent place to go on a food tour and discover the best Italian food!
If you’re lucky enough to visit on a WaterFire night, don’t miss it. Dozens of bonfires are lit along the rivers after dark, creating a magical atmosphere.
🎆 2. Bristol
Head south to Bristol, a gorgeous historic harbor town.
Its claim to fame is hosting the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the US (since 1785), but it’s lovely any time of year.
You can explore the charming waterfront downtown, and walk or cycle the shoreline at Colt State Park.
Don’t miss the stunning Blithewold Mansion and Gardens overlooking the bay.
🍦 3. Tiverton
Continue to Tiverton, a charming, artsy coastal town centered on the historic crossroads of Tiverton Four Corners.
Browse the lovely art galleries, boutiques and make sure to grab breakfast or lunch at Groundswell Cafe + Bakery. It’s delicious!
🏛️ 4. Newport
Newport is famous for its opulent Gilded Age mansions like The Breakers and Marble House, built by some of the most famous and wealthiest families in America.
If you’d like to discover them, I would recommend going on a trolley tour.
If you’re up for a walk, the Cliff Walk is a lovely seaside 3.5 mile walk. The ocean views are lovely and you can see a lot of mansions there.
Make sure to also drive on Ocean Drive, go to the harbor and Bellevue Avenue.
Finally, it’s an excellent place to go on a sailing cruise.
⚓ 5. Wickford Village
Next, drive about 20 minutes to reach Wickford Village.
This is one of my favorite little harbor villages in Rhode Island. I find it a bit similar to Essex Village in Connecticut if that’s somewhere you know.
You can walk down the main street and discover the little shops, pottery studios and cafes.
There is a self-guided Wickford Walk that you can also do. There is a map in the town (as you can see in the photo below).
PRO TIP: If you love cheese, stop at Wickford Cheese & Sundry for amazing cheese and deli products.
🏄 6. Narragansett
Continue down the coast to Narragansett, a lovely seaside town famous for its beaches and surf.
Park near the beach and head down to the sandy beach. You can swim, relax or surf here which is great as it gives plenty of options to everyone.
You can also walk along the promenade to The Towers. It’s a beautiful stone landmark that looks like something you’d find in Europe.
🚢 Optional: Block Island
If you have enough time to spare a day, it’s well worth going to Block Island.
You can hop on the ferry from nearby Point Judith over to Block Island.
It only takes about 30 minutes on the high-speed ferry (or 55 minutes on the slow ferry).
This peaceful island feels a world away, with rolling hills, gorgeous beaches and dramatic coastline.
Don’t miss the Mohegan Bluffs, towering clay cliffs with a lighthouse on top and a stairway down to the beach.
Rent a bike and explore at your own pace, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the state.
🧌 7. Charlestown
Back on the mainland, head west along the coast to Charlestown.
Drive down to the beautiful Charlestown Beach for some more relaxing beach time.
I loved how relaxing it is around here and the houses on stilts are so beautiful.
Then head to Ninigret Park, where you can find the famous giant trolls. There are two of them and it’s an easy and pleasant walk around the lake to see them.
After that, make sure to stop at Dave’s Coffee just off Route 1. It’s a very unique coffee shop and despite being on the side of the road, it’s by far one of my favorite in New England. The garden at the back is simply amazing.
🎠 8. Westerly
Finish your road trip in Westerly.
Start in Watch Hill, an elegant seaside village with the historic Flying Horse Carousel (the oldest of its kind in the country) and grand old summer homes (including one that belongs to Taylor Swift!)
Make sure to go to East Beach, Napatree Point and Misquamicut Beach.
It’s a beautiful, relaxing finale to your Rhode Island adventure.
🗺️ Map of this Rhode Island Road Trip
💡 A few practical tips
- A car is essential, but because Rhode Island is so small, you’re never far from the next stop.
- Book the Block Island ferry (and any Newport mansions or tours) ahead in peak season.
- Summer is best for the beaches, but the coast is lovely year-round (and quieter off-season).
- Check WaterFire dates in Providence, as it only runs on select nights.
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