Aerial view of historic Slater Mill and Wilkinson Mill in Pawtucket, RI, in the Blackstone River Valley.

Blackstone Valley

Northern Rhode Island is home to Blackstone Valley, the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. Blackstone Valley’s historical roots combined with ample arts offerings and festivals, authentic international restaurants, and varied outdoor attractions make it an ideal spot for a wide range of visitors.

Immerse yourself in history at one of Blackstone Valley’s museums and historic sites, including Slater Mill, a National Historic Landmark. Head over to Bally's Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort, the state’s largest gaming and entertainment venue. Tour the area by water on the Blackstone River Explorer, with rides offered throughout much of the spring, summer and fall. Or dine at any of the diverse restaurants found along the Blackstone Valley International Food Trail.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find many options for canoeing, kayaking, fishing and biking. Hikers and campers can explore the many parks, management areas and campgrounds in Blackstone Valley. And, for those looking for a hands-on experience, visit some of the many farms in the region where you can pick your own apples, pumpkins, berries and more. Come winter, hop aboard the Blackstone Valley Polar Express™ Train Ride, the longest-running of its kind, inspired by Chris Van Allsburg’s classic story. Blackstone Valley is a great place to visit year-round.

For more about Blackstone Valley, visit TourBlackstone.com. 

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Blackstone Valley Experiences

Recreated textile mill floor at the Museum of Work and Culture, with a life-size mannequin worker tending a wool spinning machine lined with spools, surrounded by vintage machinery, brick walls, and interpretive panels.
Historic Providence

Museum of Work and Culture

Children under 10 free Children under 10 free

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Recreated textile mill floor at the Museum of Work and Culture, with a life-size mannequin worker tending a wool spinning machine lined with spools, surrounded by vintage machinery, brick walls, and interpretive panels.
Historic Providence

Museum of Work and Culture

Children under 10 free

From: $11.63

Blackstone Valley Partners

Events In Blackstone Valley

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Denny Love
Blackstone Valley

Denny Love

Denny Love is a Los Angeles–based actor and comedian whose career seamlessly bridges prestige television, live comedy, and viral digital culture.A celebrated alumnus of DePaul University’s renowned Theatre School, Denny first broke through with a standout performance in Hulu’s Looking for Alaska. He went on to appear in two seasons of Taylor Sheridan’s hit Paramount+ drama Mayor of Kingstown, further solidifying his dramatic range.Beyond the screen, Denny is a commanding live performer who has shared stages with comedy heavyweights like Chris D’Elia and delivered memorable sets opening for Theo Von. As a key cast member of @KevinLangue’s viral YouTube and TikTok content, he has helped build a digital powerhouse of over 4.47 million subscribers and more than 2 billion views worldwide.He has performed at The Laugh Factory, The Comedy Store, Improv, HaHa Comedy Club, Comedy Chateau, Jam in the Van, Don’t Tell Comedy, and many more, and recently headlined at the Tokyo Comedy Bar in Tokyo and ROR Comedy Club in Osaka, Japan.In 2026, he takes the stage at Netflix Is A Joke and launches his first headlining tour, marking a major milestone as he steps fully into his own spotlight.

03/26/2027
Frank Caliendo
Blackstone Valley

Frank Caliendo

Comedian, actor, and impressionist Frank Caliendo’s impeccable comedic timing and spot-on impressions have been the center of fan-favorite viral video clips, TV shows, radio appearances and live shows for more than 20 years. With an enormous collection of impressions at his command, Frank creates extraordinary comedic situations for our culture’s most famous celebrities, sports figures and political leaders.Touring non-stop year-round, Frank’s live shows fill theaters with a high-energy blend of observations, impressions, characters and stories for fans of all ages. Frank had a three-year residency at The Monte Carlo Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, performed at the prestigious Radio-Television Correspondents Dinner in Washington D.C., and was featured in two Super Bowl pre-game shows.Frank was a regular on ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown and makes appearances on SportsCenter and other ESPN shows. Prior to working with ESPN, Frank spent 10 years on Fox NFL Sunday Pregame.He starred in his own TBS TV series, Frank TV, his own hour-long TBS special, Frank Caliendo: All Over The Place, and the half-hour Comedy Central Presents: Frank Caliendo. He was a cast member on the Fox TV series MADtv for five years, and has been a guest over 20 times combined on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Tonight Show and The Late Show.

02/26/2027
William Montgomery
Blackstone Valley

William Montgomery

William Flournoy Montgomery is an American comedian currently residing in Austin, Texas. He is known as the longest-running regular on the #1 live podcast in the world, Kill Tony, and regularly features around the United States for Tony Hinchcliffe and Duncan Trussell.The Memphis Strangler can be seen in Showtime’s Comedy Store documentary and has made numerous appearances at comedy festivals around the country. The Big Red Machine has his own podcast, the William Montgomery Show, available everywhere podcasts can be seen and heard.

01/29/2027
Martin Amini
Blackstone Valley

Martin Amini

Martin Amini is a stand-up comic based in Los Angeles, California and born and raised in Silver Spring, Maryland. Martin draws comedic inspiration from his diverse heritage, crafting a unique blend of humor that resonates universally. Growing up with an Iranian father and a Bolivian mother, Martin's multicultural background provides rich material for his stand-up routines.In addition to exploring his heritage, Martin infuses his comedy with insights from his own experiences of marriage, offering hilarious commentary on relationships that audiences can personally relate to. He also occasionally plays matchmaker on stage, helping audience members find love amidst the laughter.Beyond his work on stage, Martin is the founder of Room 808, a vibrant comedian-run comedy club in Washington DC. He is currently embarking on a three-continent tour, showcasing his distinctive brand of comedy to audiences worldwide.

01/21/2027
Shayne Smith
Blackstone Valley

Shayne Smith

Shayne Smith is a Utah-born comedian, writer, podcaster, and musician whose raw, story-driven comedy has earned him a devoted following.After launching his stand-up career in 2014, he quickly amassed accolades including runner-up in Wiseguys' 2015 “Funniest Person in Utah” contest and Best Alternative Comedian of 2016 by City Weekly. He went on to release a string of acclaimed specials: Prison for Wizards (2018), Alligator Boys (2019), The Animal (2021), Banned from Karate (2023), and most recently Ghosts Are Real (2025).Alongside his specials, Shayne contributes to One Blade Magazine and fronts the band Painted Devils, all while touring sold-out venues nationwide.

01/08/2027
Anthony Fuentes
Blackstone Valley

Anthony Fuentes

Anthony Fuentes is a high-energy stand-up comedian whose sharp storytelling has made him a standout both on stage and online. Drawing from his time in the United States military, family life, unique upbringing and observation, Fuentes delivers raw, relatable comedy that connects with diverse audiences.Fuentes has developed a strong digital following, amassing tens of millions of views across platforms, including more than 22 million on YouTube and over 2 million fans across social media. You may recognize him from his viral comedy clips or from opening for comedians such as Donnell Rawlings, Cipha Sounds, Russell Peters, and Mark Viera.

12/13/2026
Ryan Long
Blackstone Valley

Ryan Long

Ryan Long is a comedian, podcaster, and filmmaker originally from Toronto who has amassed billions of views across his viral sketches, street interviews, and stand-up specials. He is the host of the hit podcast The Boyscast with Ryan Long, and has been featured on Netflix, NBC, Just For Laughs, The Joe Rogan Experience, Bertcast, Flagrant, Matt and Shane’s Secret Podcast, and many more.Beyond his social media presence, Ryan was the creator, star, and showrunner of the acclaimed CBC Comedy series Torontopia and THAT GUY, as well as the TV series Ryan Long is Challenged (Bite TV) and Crown the Town with Ryan Long (Rogers TV).Based in New York City, Ryan is a regular at The Comedy Cellar, New York Comedy Club, and The Stand, and tours internationally performing his unique brand of sharp, satirical stand-up.

12/10/2026
Jerry Wayne Longmire
Blackstone Valley

Jerry Wayne Longmire

Jerry Wayne Longmire is a veteran stand-up comic, original viral content creator, and well-known internet personality. A seasoned performer based out of Houston, Jerry performs for the troops overseas and delivers dynamic sets in intimate comedy clubs and theater venues alike. His playful brand of storytelling and signature twang — reminiscent of an East Texas junkyard upbringing — effortlessly draws in audiences and captivates people worldwide.With over 1.5 million followers across his social media platforms, you may recognize Jerry from viral series like the witty, sometimes frighteningly insightful Truck Astrology roast series, or the carefully crafted garage antics of Shoptalk. His videos consistently reach nearly 300 million impressions across all platforms.Jerry also works alongside Mattel's premier brand, Hot Wheels, as a recurring judge for their annual custom car competition, the Hot Wheels Legends Tour. Fans also know the “real Jerry” from his hilariously relatable and refreshingly vulnerable podcast, The Reckon Yard, now in its fourth season.Jerry Wayne Longmire is the rare entertainer who can make a crowd of thousands feel like they're sitting around the fire with an old friend.

12/09/2026
Tommy Pope
Blackstone Valley

Tommy Pope

Tommy Pope is a comedian, writer and actor originally from Philadelphia, PA. He is a series regular on Netflix's TIRES, co-host of the podcast STUFF ISLAND, and host of the YouTube series LOOK AT DISH.He was a recurring character on the sketch comedy series GILLY & KEEVES and co-creator of the web comedy series DELCO PROPER, which was featured on Comedy Central. Most recently, he has voiced characters on the FOX animated series UNIVERSAL BASIC GUYS.

12/06/2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Blackstone Valley known for?

Blackstone Valley in northern Rhode Island is the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. Today it’s known for its history, arts and festivals, international restaurants along the Blackstone Valley International Food Trail, and outdoor recreation.

What historic sites can I visit in Blackstone Valley?

Start at Slater Mill in Pawtucket, a National Historic Landmark, then visit the Museum of Work and Culture in Woonsocket, where recreated mill floors tell the story of the region’s workers. Children under 10 get in free at the Museum of Work and Culture.

Can I take a boat tour on the Blackstone River?

Yes. The Blackstone River Explorer offers tours on the river throughout much of the spring, summer and fall.

What is the Blackstone Valley Polar Express Train Ride?

It’s a winter train ride inspired by Chris Van Allsburg’s classic story, and the longest-running ride of its kind. Book early, since it’s a popular holiday tradition.

What outdoor activities are in Blackstone Valley?

Visitors can canoe, kayak, fish, bike, hike and camp across the region’s parks and campgrounds. In season, local farms offer pick-your-own apples, pumpkins and berries.

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