Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the union, but that doesn’t mean that it has to be the most boring! There are many great times to be had here as long as you know where to go. Whether it be thrills, delicious food, or stunning natural beauty, the ocean state has something for every tourist (or native!) to enjoy and experience.
EIGHT GREAT RI Summer Destinations to Visit
BY CONNOR MCKAIG
Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the union, but that doesn’t mean that it has to be the most boring! There are many great times to be had here as long as you know where to go. Whether it be thrills, delicious food, or stunning natural beauty, the ocean state has something for every tourist (or native!) to enjoy and experience. In no particular order, here are eight of the best places to visit in Rhode Island this summer….
Located at the southeastern tip of Conanicut Island in Jamestown, Fort Wetherill is a popular spot for urban explorers, and for good reason. The fort is a relic of the early 20th century and has been slowly reclaimed by the surrounding wildlife (not to mention amateur graffiti artists). For those in a spelunking mood, the interior of the main structure is a labyrinth, filled with dozens of rooms and narrow tunnels. However, it can be extremely dark inside, so visitors should consider bringing a flashlight or headlamp. There is also a rocky beachfront, but care should be taken when exploring this area, as the rocks can become very slippery due to the algae and ocean spray.
- Beavertail State Park
Beavertail State Park is at the extreme southern tip of Conanicut Island in Jamestown, overlooking the shimmering expanse of Narragansett Bay. The most notable feature is the 64-foot lighthouse, which provides navigations for ships entering the bay (as well as a small museum for visitors). The park can be a quiet place for having picnics, fishing, or simply relaxing with a book during the summer. However, all visitors should consider staying until dusk, as Beavertail has some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the entire state of Rhode Island.
- The Umbrella Factory
While perhaps the strangest entry on this list, the Umbrella Factory is also one of the most entertaining. The property, despite the name, is not a factory at all. Instead, it hosts a variety of curious and unique attractions, such as artisan gift shops, a bamboo forest, and even several exotic species, such as emus and guinea hens. While it’s anybody’s guess as to whether umbrellas are manufactured in this whimsical place, one thing is for certain: it is an excellent choice for a place to visit on a sunny day. The Umbrella Factory is located at 4820 Old Post Road, in Charlestown.
- The Breakers Mansion
One of several historic mansions in Newport, RI, the Breakers is perhaps the most famous and popular to visit. It was once the property of Cornelius Vanderbilt, an uber-wealthy railroad baron during the late 1800s. Now, the luxurious property is open to the public, and it is quite the sight to see. The interior of the mansion is simply mammoth, with 70 rooms and close to 130,000 square feet of living space. There is wonderful artwork, exquisite architecture, and a rich history that can be learned through audio devices and guided tours. The property is also located right on the water and has an expansive lawn that stretches out into the salty sea air. The Breakers is an important landmark in Rhode Island and a must-visit for anyone interested in history or with an appreciation for the finer things in life.
After a long morning of touring the ocean state, what better place to stop for lunch than Iggy’s? Iggy’s Chowder House, as the name suggests, serves delicious white clam chowder, as well as a wide array of other New England favorites. The food is second to none, and my personal favorite is the fried clam-cakes. After you’ve eaten, you can wash it all down with some local Yacht Club soda, which comes in every flavor from classic cola to grapefruit. Iggy’s has two locations in Rhode Island: one in Warwick and one in Narragansett. There is always a line during the summer, so get there fast!
- Roger Williams Park and Zoo
Just outside the capital city of Providence, Roger Williams Park is a wide, scenic place ideal for picnics and family outings. There are several gardens and monuments to observe, and trees to bask under in the summer heat. Visitors can take a ride in the swan boats on the pond. Also, the Roger Williams Natural History Museum hosts a variety of exhibits year-round, such as animal specimens and a planetarium. And of course, no description of the park would be complete without mentioning the Roger Williams Zoo. The zoo holds majestic wildlife from all over the globe, from African elephants to South American lemurs. A day trip to this wonderful park is an essential part of any Rhode Islander’s summer of fun.
- Ninigret Park
Ninigret Park in Charlestown is a wide open space that features a playground, ball fields, a freshwater swimming pond, and even more. While being thoroughly enjoyable during the day, Ninigret Park is also a popular destination at nighttime, as it is home to the Frosty Drew Observatory, a state-of-the-art telescope that is often open to the public. Due to its rural location and lack of light pollution, Ninigret Park is one of the best locations in the state for stargazing, and within the last year, drew a massive crowd for lunar eclipse viewing.
Block Island, or New Shoreham, is perhaps Rhode Island’s premier tourist destination. Thirteen miles off the mainland, it is most commonly accessible by the Block Island ferry, or by plane for a higher cost. The island itself is well-known for its beaches and hiking trails, and plenty of restaurants in town, such as Ballard’s. Also, after a long summer day, it may be nice to spend the night in town in one of many inns. In all, Block Island offers the ultimate summer getaway in Rhode Island and is a must-visit for anyone looking for an unforgettable trip.
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