Explore Rhode Island
The smallest state in the U.S., Rhode Island packs plenty of excitement into its borders. Explore Rhode Island's diverse tourism regions, where you'll find bustling cities, historic landmarks, vibrant arts and culture, vast stretches of pristine coastline and beaches, and some of the most acclaimed restaurants in the country.
Regions
Newport & Bristol Counties
For nearly 400 years, Newport has been welcoming visitors from near and far, which is how this charming coastal enclave earned its moniker “America’s First Resort.”
Southeastern Massachusetts
Southeastern Mass. is just a quick drive from Providence and home to additional hotels, attractions, shops and restaurants.
Cranston
Head to nearby Cranston and choose from a variety of great restaurants like Twin Oaks and Circe Prime, then stroll through the open-air shopping village at Garden City Center, or catch a show at the Historic Park Theatre.
West Warwick
Centrally located in the heart of Rhode Island, West Warwick is convenient for visitors, with easy highway access to Providence, the beaches of South County, and everything in between.
Warwick
South County
Experience South County’s good nature, where you are invited to unplug and unwind, South County style.
Providence
Providence, The Creative Capital, combines the accessibility and friendliness of a small town with the culture and sophistication of a big city.
North Providence
North Providence is home to family-run eateries and bakeries, and Governor Notte Park, where you can stroll, picnic or fish.
Block Island
Block Island, an 11-square-mile seaside resort located 12 miles off the Rhode Island coast, has been heralded as "One of the Last Twelve Great Places in the Western Hemisphere."
Blackstone Valley
Northern Rhode Island is home to Blackstone Valley, the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What areas near Providence can I visit?
The Providence area includes nearby communities like Warwick, Cranston, Johnston, North Providence, and West Warwick, along with South County, Block Island, the Blackstone Valley, and Southeastern Massachusetts, all within easy reach of the city.
- How far is Warwick from Providence?
Warwick is about 15 minutes south of Downtown Providence and is home to Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport, along with hotels, restaurants, and waterfront parks.
- How do I get to Block Island?
Block Island is about 12 miles off the Rhode Island coast and is reached by ferry, with year-round service from Point Judith in Narragansett and seasonal ferries from other ports.
- How far is Newport from Providence?
Newport is about a 40-minute drive from Downtown Providence, making it an easy day trip.
- What is there to do in the Blackstone Valley?
The Blackstone Valley in northern Rhode Island is the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. Visitors can explore Slater Mill in Pawtucket, bike or walk along the Blackstone River Bikeway, and discover historic mill villages, local restaurants, and parks.
- Where are the best beaches in Rhode Island?
South County is home to about 20 sandy beaches, and Newport, Block Island, and other coastal towns offer even more ocean views.
- How big is Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is the smallest state in the U.S., about 48 miles long and 37 miles wide, so most destinations are within an hour’s drive of Providence
- Can I visit Rhode Island in a day?
Yes. Because the state is so compact, you can see beaches, historic towns, and Newport’s mansions in a single day. Guided options like Rhode Island in a Day tours make it easy.
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