If you find yourself in the Ocean State this summer, there are plenty of things to do on beautiful summer days (and nights)! Although Rhode Island is the smallest state, there is more than plenty that this beautiful and historic place has to offer. If you are looking for day trips near the ocean or in the city, there is always something for everyone to enjoy in little Rhody!
1. Beaches
Of course going to the beach in Rhode Island on a hot summer day is a given, but what beaches are the ones worth going to? From a locals perspective, Newport Second and Narragansett Beach are probably my favorite stops. Although the coast of Rhode Island offers some of the most amazing views, these two beaches are the ones you should consider. Newport Second is a long stretch of sand, surrounded by sand dunes in Middletown Rhode Island. At the far end of the beach, near the surfers end, there is a cliff you can even walk up for some spectacular views! Gansett overlooks The Towers, and a fantastic restaurant called The Coast Guard House you can eat at after you clean up from the beach. Be aware that the parking is limited, so a day at Gansett Beach is an early day.
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2. Crescent Park Looff Carousel
Located in Riverside, Rhode Island, the carousel which was built in 1895, is still standing and working today! People of all ages can enjoy the rides, and collect rings as they go round and round. Every time you collect a ring you can throw it in the clown's mouth--if you catch the golden ring, don't get rid of it--It's lucky! You can even check out the history of the carousel and what once stood on the grounds of the park. Across the street is Rose Larissa park, where you can take a stroll and enjoy the view of the Bay, and if you have time for a quick bite to eat, stop by Blount's Clam shack for some clam cakes and chowdah!
3. Roger Williams Park Zoo
Have you ever wanted to see Elephants up close? What about Giraffes? Roger Williams Park Zoo, located in Providence, Rhode Island, allows you to view a variety of animals from different regions all over the world. A favorite destination of many kids and adults alike, RWP Zoo is a fun family day trip, that can make anyone appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
4. Rustic Drive-In
Although this is not a summer day destination, the drive-in is a perfect place to sit under the stars in the bed of a pickup truck, for a night time adventure. With three large movie screens, and a center snack concession stand, the Rustic Drive-in is a fun place for any age to watch a movie in a way that they never have before! Located in North Smithfield, the drive-in is the last-standing drive-in in the area--check this place out to "travel back in time." (Tip: Each screen shows two movies so you get two for the price of one!)
5. Block Island
Off the southern coast of Rhode Island, Block Island is most easily accessible by ferry. This quaint, but busy island, is the perfect mini summer day getaway. Tour the Island by bike or moped, and check out the light houses that sit on the coasts. Walk down the main street where the ferries dock, grab a bite to eat, stop at all of the stores, and have some ice cream on a hot day. Don't forget to head to the Mohegan Bluffs for spectacular views, and if you're looking for a fun day at the beach, Ballard's Beach is always a great spot. Plus, it's right next to the ferry landing so you don't have to roam very far!
6. Pawtucket Red Sox
Also known as the Paw Sox, this minor league baseball team who plays at McCoy Stadium, located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, offers a fun day (or night) out at the field. Buy some peanuts and cracker jacks, and sing along to the baseball tunes for a typical baseball game experience. If you're lucky, a player from the Red Sox may even be sent down temporarily to the Paw Sox!
7. Colt State Park
This park, located in Bristol, Rhode Island, is a beautiful spot to sit by the water and relax. You can fish, fly kites, or even have cookouts at these grounds. If you are looking for more of a casual day, you can pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a quite day at the park. Sometimes, Rhode Island's famous Del's Lemonade, is even at the park, so you can enjoy a cold treat on a hot day.
8. Newport Cliff Walk
The name speaks for itself--the cliff walk, located in Newport, offers beautiful views that overlook the ocean from high up on a cliff. Don't worry, the cliff has a walking path that is entirely secure. Whether you are walking or jogging, the cliff walk is the perfect spot to breathe in the salty ocean air, while getting some exercise. You can even walk past parts of Salve Regina University, as well as parts of the Newport Mansions. After the cliff walk, head down to downtown Newport (Thames Street), and enjoy shopping and lunch or dinner off the water.
9. Thayer Street and Federal Hill
Both streets located in Providence, offer some amazing food and shops that you can't miss. Federal Hill, known for it's Italian food and heritage, is very similar to the North End in Boston. Any of the restaurants are a good choice to eat at, but make sure you stop by Pastiche after, for some amazing desserts. Thayer Street, which is located within the Brown University campus, is lively both day and night. If you are in the mood for pizza, check out Antonio's--they sell by the slice and have everything you can possibly think of. If you happen to be in the area during the night of Waterfire, make sure you check that out too! The atmosphere and vendors, along with the music playing throughout the city provide you with an experience you won't forget.
10. Newport Polo Games
These games are held at Glen Farm in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and are a fun family activity for all ages. Whether you tailgate before the games, or get there right before they start, the majestic horses and fast paced game is something you don't want to miss. Dress your best, or dress as casual as you please, these polo games are all about having fun! During the breaks in the game, you are even allowed to head out on to the playing field to stomp the divots!
11. Newport Vineyards
Calling all 21+! The Newport Vineyards, actually located in Middletown, is a fun day trip with a café and restaurant attached to it. Of course, the vineyard offers tastings and tours for a small fee. You can even get a souvenir logo glass from your trip. Whether you go alone, with a friend, or with a group, the views of the vineyard are breathtaking.
12. Brickley's Ice Cream
This ice cream is to die for, and is a must try. Located in both Gansett, (stop by after the beach) and Wakefield, Brickley's is a well known Rhode Island ice cream shop that has been open for twenty years. They make all of their ice cream on site, and have fresh made waffle cones. Cake batter is my favorite at this stop, but you can't go wrong with any of the flavors. The shop accepts cash only, so make sure you have money on you, because you seriously don't want to miss this!
Rhode Island offers some of the best day and night activities in the Eastern region. I may be biased, as I am from the Ocean State, but you can never go wrong visiting our beautiful state. There are so many amazing things to do if you are open to the new experiences this place has to offer!
