Best Places to View Sunrise or Sunset in Rhode Island
Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but we’re still packed with plenty of amazing places to take photos. One of the most photographed things we’ve seen on Instagram are sunrises and sunsets, so we decided to curate a list of some of the best locations in Rhode Island to capture your own stunning shots.
Providence Pedestrian Bridge
Completed in 2019, the Providence Pedestrian Bridge (officially named the Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Bridge) connects Providence's East Side, full of shops and dining options, to the Innovation District, with its bustling businesses and facilities like the Wexford Innovation Center. From this bridge, you can catch sweeping sunsets with the Providence skyline as a backdrop.
Prospect Park
Prospect Terrace Park is a beautiful piece of greenery tucked in the hills of the East Side of Providence. With a huge statue of the state’s founder Roger Williams as its centerpiece, this park overlooks Downtown Providence's skyline and the Rhode Island State House.
Mount Hope Bridge & Newport Pell Bridge
Bridges are always a great focal point for photography, and luckily, we have a few. Both the Mount Hope Bridge in Bristol and the Claiborne Pell Bridge in Newport have great views from either side. Check out these photos.
Lighthouses
With more than 20 different lighthouses throughout Rhode Island, there’s bound to be one that you’ll love! Check out Beavertail Lighthouse in Jamestown or Castle Hill Lighthouse in Newport, both the subject of many photos on Instagram.
Rocky Point State Park
Located on the shores of Narragansett Bay in Warwick, Rocky Point State Park is a spectacular spot to capture some photos. Rocky Point was once an amusement park filled with lots of rides enjoyed by many generations of Rhode Islanders. Now people can come to the park to enjoy the views and nature trails.
Block Island
You can find a breathtaking sunset scene anywhere on Block Island. Check out Mohegan Bluffs, Great Salt Pond and, of course, the Block Island Southeast Lighthouse.
Beaches
With 400 miles of shoreline in Rhode Island, there are plenty of ocean views to be had. And most will have amazing spots to see the sunrise. Just point your car to the east or south and you'll be sure to find the perfect view.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where can I watch the sunset in Providence?
The Providence Pedestrian Bridge and Prospect Terrace Park both offer sunset views over the downtown skyline. Prospect Terrace also overlooks the Rhode Island State House.
- Where is the best place to see the sunrise in Rhode Island?
East- and south-facing beaches along Rhode Island's coastline are ideal for sunrise. With about 400 miles of shoreline, there are plenty of options.
- Can I visit Rhode Island lighthouses at sunrise or sunset?
Yes. Beavertail Lighthouse in Jamestown and Castle Hill Lighthouse in Newport are both popular for sunset photos. Rhode Island state parks are generally open from sunrise to sunset.
- Is it free to visit these sunrise and sunset spots?
Most are free, including Prospect Terrace Park, the Pedestrian Bridge, and Rocky Point State Park. Some state beaches charge a parking fee in summer.
- What can I do at Rocky Point State Park?
The former amusement park in Warwick now offers walking trails and open views of Narragansett Bay.
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