How To See Rhode Island in 5 Days

Rhode Island may be America's smallest state, but with 400 miles of coastline and 20 percent of the country's National Historic Landmarks, it packs a wallop. Here are suggestions for seeing the best of the Ocean State in five days.

Difficulty: N/A

Time Required: 5 days

Here's How:

Begin your Rhode Island visit with a relaxing day at Misquamicut Beach in Westerly. The family will enjoy the surf and the games and amusements.

On day two, head east to Newport and spend the morning viewing the magnificent mansions from the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk. Venture inside to tour one or two of your favorites. Or take a short trip to Portsmouth and visit Green Animals Topiary Garden.
In the morning, take the ferry from Newport to Block Island, and rent a bicycle to tour the island's spectacular scenery. Make reservations in advance at one of these Block Island hotels if you'd like to spend the night.
Return to Newport via ferry on day four, then drive toward Providence, stopping along the way to see the historic yachts at the Herreshoff Marine Museum in Bristol and Bristol's Blithewold Mansion and Gardens: home to the tallest Giant Sequoia tree east of the Rockies.
Take an evening gondola ride on the Woonasquatucket River in Providence from the urban park, Waterplace, which is at the hub of Rhode Island's capital city. If you can, time your visit to coincide with a WaterFire evening in Providence.
Before you say goodbye to Rhode Island, visit the country's third oldest zoo, Roger Williams Park Zoo, in Providence. In the afternoon, ride one of the country's preeminent antique carousels, the Crescent Park Carousel, in East Providence.

Tips:

If you're interested in a quieter beach than Misquamicut, South County's seaside towns provide plenty of other options.
Request your free Rhode Island Travel Guide online or by calling toll free, 800-556-2484.
Visit one of these Rhode Island Tourist Information Centers to pick up brochures, learn about local points of interest and seek additional guidance for your stay in the Ocean State.

What You Need: