RHODE ISLAND
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It might be our nation’s smallest state, but Rhode Island definitely packs a punch all year round. Winter is a surprisingly rewarding time to visit. You can catch a Providence Bruins hockey game or learn about aquatic life at the Biomes Marine Biology Center or even go for a (chilly) walk on the beach without any crowds in sight. That being said, the warmer months are when this small-but-mighty state really shines. Come summertime, it’s all roads lead to Newport for its many festivals and boating events and, of course, tours of its many famous mansions and the scenic Cliff Walk. If you love sunshine and being near the ocean, you will love it here in Rhode Island.
To Year-Round Adventures!
It’s hard to believe there’s so much history in this tiny state — from First Nations groups to Colonial settlers to the Gilded Age elite and today’s summer sun-seekers. Today, that history lingers around every corner. There are so many adventures to discover in Rhode Island, whether it’s rubbing elbows with Newport society or going for a solitary beach walk in the quaint town of Westerly. You can even set sail on the Block Island Ferry and head 13 miles out to sea to explore the beauty of Rhode Island’s beloved Block Island. While most of the New England states boast a close relationship with the ocean, Rhode Island might just take first place for waterfront adventures — about 14% of the state is made up of water, with 35 islands and over 380 miles of shoreline within its borders. Don’t be afraid to bring the kids along, either — this is a family-friendly state if there ever was one.
DISCOVER
Thanks to the state’s location and size, you’re never too far from waterfront views in Rhode Island. The iconic Ocean House in Westerly will appeal to families and history buffs alike and commands sweeping views of the water from its storied location on Watch Hill. Staying in Newport is another popular option, with most hotels within walking distance to marinas, restaurants, shopping and other attractions. If you’re looking for a little more peace and quiet, the state is packed with B&Bs, vacation rentals and all sorts of private accommodations where the only sound you’ll hear at night is the ocean waters crashing on the shore.
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We hope you came hungry — this tiny state is bursting at the seams with fantastic foods to try. The jumbo-sized doughnut cake from Allie’s Donuts is an indulgent — and Instagrammable — treat, as are “Johnny Cakes,” cornmeal pancakes you’ll find at most diners around the state. Seafood lovers will be over the moon in Rhode Island. From fried calamari to stuffed clams to clam cakes and clam chowder, this is one state that has perfected the art of seafood. And if you’re coming in the warmer months, make sure to grab a tall, frosty Del’s lemonade — while this refreshing drink has expanded across the country, it all started here at a small lemonade stand in Cranston, Rhode Island.
FOOD
Obviously Rhode Island has a reputation for boating, for the Newport mansions and for seaside hikes — but would you be surprised to learn that it’s also New England’s surfing capital? From Narragansett Beach south to the Point Judith lighthouse, you’ll find mild waters, gentle waves and sandy beaches suited for experienced surfers and first-timers alike. Sign up for a lesson and you’ll be hanging ten in no time. Or hop a ferry over to Block Island, often called one of the best islands in the country for a family vacation. There, you’ll find historic Victorian architecture, uncrowded nature walks and oceanfront seclusion totally unique to anything else you’ll find in New England.
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Explore fun right here
in RHODE ISLAND
There are many places to enjoy the warmer months in New England, but none feel quite the same as Rhode Island, which has long served as our country’s summer playground. There are the well-worn spots like Newport, Providence and Narragansett, but more secluded locales like Westerly and Block Island also invite exploration. Nothing beats that oceanfront fresh air — it feels like every part of this state is a fantastic place to go for a long walk on the beach, explore the many bike paths or simply lay a blanket on the grass (or sand) and take a nap. And once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for a Del’s Lemonade and a big basket of fried clams.
But natural beauty is only one aspect of Rhode Island — this state offers numerous public art installations, music and cultural festivals, elegant mansions and historic architecture. Providence is often hailed as one of our most walkable cities and makes for an exciting day trip at any time of year. Very few parts of New England offer so much history and so many activities in such a small, accessible area. There are so many paths to choose from and things to experience in Rhode Island that it’s impossible to get to them all in a single visit — you might just find yourself coming back again and again to experience all this state has to offer.
FEATURED SECTIION
PARTNER
Partner
Block Island Ferry
The Block Island Ferry is your fastest link to Block Island, Rhode Island.
If your trip is for business, a family vacation, or an island weekend getaway, the Block Island Ferry will get you to Block Island quickly and easily. We are the only vehicle ferry service to Block Island.
Phone Info:
401-783-7996
866-783-7996 TOLL FREE
Contact Info:
304 Great Island Road
Narragansett, RI 02882
info@blockislandferry.com
Visit Website
PARTNER
FEATURED SECTION
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EXPLORE
ISLAND
It might be our nation’s smallest state, but Rhode Island definitely packs a punch all year round. Winter is a surprisingly rewarding time to visit. You can catch a Providence Bruins hockey game or learn about aquatic life at the Biomes Marine Biology Center or even go for a (chilly) walk on the beach without any crowds in sight. That being said, the warmer months are when this small-but-mighty state really shines. Come summertime, it’s all roads lead to Newport for its many festivals and boating events and, of course, tours of its many famous mansions and the scenic Cliff Walk. If you love sunshine and being near the ocean, you will love it here in Rhode Island.
To Year-Round Adventures!
SCroll down to explore
DISCOVER
Options abound in the Bay State. There are elegant city hotels in Boston, such as the glamorous waterfront Boston Harbor Hotel (where you can park your boat and order dinner delivered to the pier) and the intimate Eliot Hotel nestled on tree-lined Commonwealth. “Down the Cape,” as locals say, it’s all about being near the water at the historic Chatham Bars Inn or Wequassett Resort and Golf Club (make sure to stop in for a nightcap at the Chatham Squire if you’re in the area). And if it’s a cozy Berkshires retreat you’re after, look no farther than the historic Red Lion Inn, located just minutes from antique shops and walking trails as well as Tanglewood, the iconic summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
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Red Jacket Resorts
Red Jacket Resorts, located in the heart of Cape Cod, offers something for everyone including private beaches, breathtaking views, refreshing indoor and outdoor pools, and exclusive golf offers at our Blue Rock Golf Course. Enjoy ocean or golf front accommodations or private cottages. Create endless family
moments to be treasured forever.
Contact Number (Reservations): 800-227-3263
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New England’s fresh seafood and pasture-raised meats combine with cosmopolitan crosscurrents to make Boston one of the most sophisticated food scenes on the East Coast. Nobody does old-school steakhouses quite like Boston, with Grill 23 leading the pack — it’s been a Boston institution for over 30 years and was the first Boston restaurant to receive Wine Spectator’s coveted Grand Award. There are also great spots for French, Japanese, Afghan, Lithuanian, Irish, you name it — just make sure you don’t leave town before trying out handmade pastas and cannoli in the North End and corned beef and cabbage in Southie.
FOOD
Options abound in the Bay State. There are elegant city hotels in Boston, such as the glamorous waterfront Boston Harbor Hotel (where you can park your boat and order dinner delivered to the pier) and the intimate Eliot Hotel nestled on tree-lined Commonwealth. “Down the Cape,” as locals say, it’s all about being near the water at the historic Chatham Bars Inn or Wequassett Resort and Golf Club (make sure to stop in for a nightcap at the Chatham Squire if you’re in the area). And if it’s a cozy Berkshires retreat you’re after, look no farther than the historic Red Lion Inn, located just minutes from antique shops and walking trails as well as Tanglewood, the iconic summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
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Southwick's Zoo
Experience a whole new adventure at Southwick’s Zoo with our Zoofari Drive Thru!
Wednesdays and Mondays Entry Times:
4:30pm, 5:30pm, & 6:30pm
Open Daily (including holidays)
Mon: 10:00 am to 3:30 pm
Tuesday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Wed: 10:00 am to 3:30 pm
Thurs-Sun: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info:
Southwick’s Zoo
2 Southwick St
Mendon, MA
1-800-258-9182
Visit Website
DISCOVER
DISCOVER
STAY
STAY
FOOD
FOOD
PLAY
PLAY
It’s hard to believe there’s so much history in this tiny state — from First Nations groups to Colonial settlers to the Gilded Age elite and today’s summer sun-seekers. Today, that history lingers around every corner. There are so many adventures to discover in Rhode Island, whether it’s rubbing elbows with Newport society or going for a solitary beach walk in the quaint town of Westerly. You can even set sail on the Block Island Ferry and head 13 miles out to sea to explore the beauty of Rhode Island’s beloved Block Island. While most of the New England states boast a close relationship with the ocean, Rhode Island might just take first place for waterfront adventures — about 14% of the state is made up of water, with 35 islands and over 380 miles of shoreline within its borders. Don’t be afraid to bring the kids along, either — this is a family-friendly state if there ever was one.
There are many places to enjoy the warmer months in New England, but none feel quite the same as Rhode Island, which has long served as our country’s summer playground. There are the well-worn spots like Newport, Providence and Narragansett, but more secluded locales like Westerly and Block Island also invite exploration. Nothing beats that oceanfront fresh air — it feels like every part of this state is a fantastic place to go for a long walk on the beach, explore the many bike paths or simply lay a blanket on the grass (or sand) and take a nap. And once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for a Del’s Lemonade and a big basket of fried clams.
But natural beauty is only one aspect of Rhode Island — this state offers numerous public art installations, music and cultural festivals, elegant mansions and historic architecture. Providence is often hailed as one of our most walkable cities and makes for an exciting day trip at any time of year. Very few parts of New England offer so much history and so many activities in such a small, accessible area. There are so many paths to choose from and things to experience in Rhode Island that it’s impossible to get to them all in a single visit — you might just find yourself coming back again and again to experience all this state has to offer.
Partner
Block Island Ferry
The Block Island Ferry is your fastest link to Block Island, Rhode Island.
If your trip is for business, a family vacation, or an island weekend getaway, the Block Island Ferry will get you to Block Island quickly and easily. We are the only vehicle ferry service to Block Island.
Phone Info:
401-783-7996
866-783-7996 TOLL FREE
Contact Info:
304 Great Island Road
Narragansett, RI 02882
info@blockislandferry.com
Visit Website
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VISIT THE STAY & PLAY HOMEPAGE
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