Things to Do in Rhode Island
There are plenty of things to do in Rhode Island. Whether you love the beach or prefer to stay on land, there are many activities to choose from during your stay. If you are looking for an active vacation, you might want to consider visiting the quaint town of Block Island, which is a mere boat ride from the mainland. Activities include surfing, fishing, biking, and even horseback riding. And for the culturally inclined, the city is home to dozens of world-class nightclubs and museums.
Historic Federal Hill
A walk through the cobblestone streets of the historic Federal Hill in Providence, Rhode Island, is a great way to soak up the atmosphere. There are lots of fine restaurants, boutiques and food markets in the area, as well as a few coffee shops, bakeries and professional services. Live music and performances are also often held in the area. The hill also extends to the areas of Westminster and Cranston Streets, and La Pigna, a traditional Italian symbol of welcome and abundance, welcomes visitors.
Originally settled by Italian immigrants, the streets of Federal Hill have been a thriving center for local and international culture. The neighborhood was also home to numerous early American churches and festivals. Today, it is a vibrant neighborhood known for its ambiance and hospitality. In addition to being a cultural hub, the neighborhood is also famous for its seasonal festivals and nightlife. And you can visit all of these sites, and more, without spending an arm and a leg.
The area around Federal Hill is located right next to downtown Providence. It is accessible by bus, car, or taxi. It is a popular spot for many events throughout the year, including an Italian Festival, parades around the holidays, and live music in DePasqual Square on weekends. There are plenty of places to sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds of the streets. You can spend an entire day exploring the area, or spend a few days just relaxing and enjoying the sights.
Italians settled on Federal Hill for similar reasons as Irish immigrants. They lived in cheap tenement housing near work, and many of them were men working in the textile mills. This industrialization eroded traditional family values, but Italian culture survived thanks to fraternal orders and community organizations. Despite their limited resources, they remained in the neighborhood for generations. Several protests occurred, but the riots ended up separating the Italians from the Irish.
While walking the streets of Providence, you can enjoy authentic Italian food in the Federal Hill neighborhood. The Italian neighborhood on Atwells Avenue has several excellent Italian restaurants and is also a great place for coffee shops and bars. You can also find Italian specialty groceries and shops. When you visit Providence, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a meal at one of these eateries. If you’re looking for a delicious meal, try Il Massimo, Cassarino’s, and Pastiche.
Museum of Natural History
The Museum of Natural History is located in the Roger Williams Park in Providence, Rhode Island, US. Visitors can explore the collection, as well as the planetarium. The museum is free, and admission is usually under $10. It features exhibits ranging from prehistoric artifacts to modern science. The museum features interactive exhibits, including a planetarium, to learn about the evolution of species. The museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm.
The Museum of Natural History is the only natural history museum and planetarium in the state. The museum houses over 250000 objects, but only a small portion of it is on display at any given time. These include fossils, plants and animals, minerals, and ethnographic objects. It is also home to the state’s only public planetarium. The museum has a planetarium, but admission for children under four is free.
Another attraction in the state is the Museum of Natural History, located in Providence. It features displays on local wildlife, fossils, and aboriginal artifacts. It also features a planetarium theater. The planetarium is open only during showtimes, so you’ll have to plan your visit around the museum’s schedule. There are planetarium shows every Saturday at 2pm, and daily during school vacation weeks.
Another place for a family to visit is the Providence Museum of Art. It was founded in 1896 by John Steere, a local landowner. He donated many of his privately amassed specimens to the museum, coinciding with the museum-building era of the late 19th century. The museum became a symbol of civic pride and a visionary monument to science, and the local community quickly welcomed it. The museum now houses over a quarter million objects, with about 85% natural history objects and 15% cultural materials.
Providence Children’s Museum
As part of their mission, the Providence Children’s Museum is dedicated to providing a positive educational experience for all children. With interactive exhibits, the museum believes that play is fundamental to learning. Various exhibits cater to different age groups. The museum has activities for all ages, including the “Water Ways” exhibit, where children can send water through tubes and mazes. Children can also climb a tree or explore a bear cave.
For young children, the museum offers interactive exhibits on marine animals from all over the world. Activities abound at the Providence Children’s Museum, and Ruby’s Play Center offers indoor play while parents can take in the exhibits. Educational programs, live demonstrations, and feedings are also regularly hosted. The museum also features a farm museum. This working farm was built in the 18th century. Families with children can explore it and learn about life on the farm.
The museum was founded in 1976, and is the only children’s museum of its kind in the state. With interactive exhibits and programs, it encourages creative, active play. Children from birth to 11 are welcome to visit. The museum also features a maker space and an innovator’s lab with real tools. Visiting the museum is a memorable experience for the whole family. And it’s free!
For families in search of fun activities, the state of Rhode Island is a great choice. The city boasts beautiful parks, vibrant museums, and world-class restaurants. With so much to do, you’re sure to find something to entertain the whole family. Things to do in Rhode Island with children include visiting the Providence Children’s Museum, the Museum of Natural History, and Roger Williams Park Zoo.
WaterFire
The WaterFire sculpture is a public art phenomenon every year in downtown Providence, Rhode Island. It was created by Barnaby Evans in 1994 as part of the city’s First Night Providence celebration. It has since become an iconic piece of public art. Here’s what you can expect from the annual event:
First of all, it’s a massive street fair. Street vendors and performers line the walkways, and local restaurants offer specials to WaterFire visitors. The processional continues until the early hours, and the community is encouraged to donate. WaterFire offers a variety of donation options starting at $25. The community will be very happy to see the proceeds from their efforts. They will also be proud to support a local business or artist.
The process of restoring the site is complicated. Contaminants must be assessed, and a thorough clean-up must occur. Once the contamination is cleaned up, the site is rezoned. In 2013, the WaterFire team applied for direct EPA cleanup grant funding for three parcels. Luckily, the company received over $3 million from the state to help them make the restoration a reality.
The event lasts for three hours, beginning at sunset and lasting until 12:30am. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to support the arts. If you want to contribute, consider volunteering for Providence WaterFire. Be sure to wear a face mask, and don’t bring folding chairs or umbrellas near the fire. For a full schedule, visit the WaterFire website. So, what are you waiting for? Make your next Rhode Island US vacation a memorable experience.
The WaterFire festival is an amazing experience. It’s a must-see, and many past visitors said they wish they’d visited sooner! Although the event is popular, the crowds didn’t detract from the enjoyment. There is also a large festival atmosphere. There’s nothing like seeing the dazzling fire! And the music makes it all the more memorable. With so many people enjoying it, the WaterFire is sure to make your next vacation an unforgettable event.
The Best Sightseeing in Rhode Island
If you’re traveling to Rhode Island, you might want to spend some time in Newport to check out the Gilded Age mansion. There’s also the art museum in Providence and the beaches of Narragansett. There’s also plenty to see and do in Bristol, including the Blithewold Mansion and the Narragansett Historical Society. Here’s what you can do to make the most of your visit.
Newport’s Gilded Age mansion
One of the best sightseeing experiences in Rhode Island is to tour a magnificent Gilded Age mansion. The city’s opulent structures were once summer “cottages” for the rich and famous during the Gilded Age, when industrialism and the economy grew rapidly. As a result, the country’s wealthiest individuals grew even richer. Families like Vanderbilt, Morgan, and Astor poured money into their summer homes and flocked to Newport to enjoy their summers there. The architecture is still awe-inspiring, and you can imagine these families’ extravagant parties.
The mansion is an important historic home in Newport. Built in 1748, it was sold to Colonel Joseph Wanton Jr. in 1756. Eventually, it was converted into a formal Georgian mansion with a central hall. This mansion passed through many owners before being restored by the Preservation Society in the 1940s. Touring the mansion will give you a window into life in 18th century Newport.
If you’d like to get a better idea of the mansions in Newport, RI, you can rent a trolley and take a tour. There are tour guides and audio tours, which are available at many of the mansions. And you can get the inside scoop on the history of each one, too. The best time to visit these mansions is May through October. Some are open year-round, while others are open only on weekends. All the Newport mansions are maintained by the Preservation Society of Newport County, and tickets can be purchased in advance.
The Breakers, the grandest of the Newport mansions, is the most elaborate. The Vanderbilt family commissioned the building in 1893 and it served as a symbol of their wealth and prominence in society. The mansion is well-preserved and offers an insight into Newport’s rich history and beautiful architecture. It is also the location of the latest HBO show, “The Breakers.”
Providence’s art museum
The art museum in Providence is one of the best attractions in the city, but it isn’t the only thing worth seeing in the city. Its collection of sculptures, mosaics, and Greek coins is second to none. The museum also has a strong collection of textiles, dating back to 1500 BCE. Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings are also notable sections of the museum. The museum is relatively small, making it a manageable size while still allowing you to walk around the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
If you have time, visit the historic Stephen Hopkins House, a historical landmark. Nearby, visit the Atheneum, home to Edgar Allen Poe. The Providence Preservation Society has a walking tour booklet that features classics in the city. Visit RISD, the art museum at the Rhode Island School of Design for art lovers. Located in a gorgeous Victorian mansion, the museum is free to view on Sundays.
A museum dedicated to indigenous cultures is also a great way to see the local art scene. The RISD Museum, located at 20 N Main Street, is a great place to experience the city’s diverse culture. RISD is an abbreviation for the Rhode Island School of Design, a private institution that aims to represent the creative community in Providence. The museum’s five buildings house nearly 100,000 pieces of art worldwide. The art museum is handicapped accessible and part of the Avenue Concept, a public art project that encourages local artists to create works that are accessible for everyone.
For kids, there is Ruby’s Play Center, an indoor playground where they can play while you’re touring. Families can enjoy the museum’s educational programs and live demonstrations. The museum also has an excellent website that is full of details. Its free admission policy also makes it a good choice for families with young children. In addition to the art museum, the BMBC offers year-round open tours and private VIP tours.
Bristol’s Blithewold Mansion
For an incredible day trip in Bristol, Rhode Island, visit the estate of Blithewold Mansion. Set on 33 acres, this estate features a mansion and vast gardens filled with rare plants. It is also open to the public for group tours. While you’re here, be sure to check out the mansion’s extensive art collection. There’s something for everyone in this historical landmark.
Not the largest mansion in the country, Blithewold Mansion is an incredible place to spend the day. The 33-acre estate is home to more than 500 varieties of trees and shrubs, including giant Sequoias, a bamboo grove, and many other beautiful species. Visitors can also enjoy a guided tour of the mansion, which takes about 90 minutes.
While the Blithewold Mansion is not as grand as its sister in Newport, it’s a wonderful place to spend the afternoon. The historic mansion is surrounded by stunning gardens and an arboretum. The view of the Narragansett Bay from Blithewold Mansion is absolutely breathtaking. While there, you can also visit the Coggeshall Farm Museum, which is an immersive look into life as a tenant farmer in 1799. The mansion is home to rare breed livestock, heirloom vegetables, woods, and salt marsh.
Located on the historic downtown area of Bristol, Blithewold Mansion is an enchanting home built in 1810. Visitors can tour the beautiful interiors, view the grounds, and enjoy a picnic lunch in the garden. Blithewold Mansion is a must-see for any vacation in Bristol, Rhode Island. And if you love architecture and history, you should visit Blithewold Mansion.
Narragansett’s beaches
The best way to experience the history of Narragansett is to explore the area’s historical landmarks. The 174-acre Canochet Farm is the site of the Narragansett Museum of History. You can also check out its many events and workshops in blacksmithing, printing, and more. While you’re in Narragansett, you should make sure to check out the beaches as well.
One of the best things about this coastal town is its beaches. Narragansett has several pristine beaches and an excellent selection of seafood. The Matunuck Oyster Bar is a favorite of locals and features outdoor seating and a scenic Potter Pond view. Try the raw bar oysters, the famous Rockefeller, or the bourbon oyster. You can even try their main course menu with wine pairing options.
Another great thing to do in Narragansett is check out the point Judith Lighthouse. This is the third lighthouse built in the colonial era and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the area. Its rotating foghorn plays every 30 seconds and rotates six times a day. Less than 16,000 people are living in Narragansett year-round. There are four outstanding beaches in Narragansett, including the award-winning Sally Brine Beach, named after a local radio personality.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and recharge from the city’s hustle and bustle, Narragansett’s beaches are one of the best places to visit. This charming little town is situated on the coast of Rhode Island, and has a quaint charm that draws tourists from around the world. And with such a wonderful natural setting and so many things to do, Narragansett is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Beavertail Lighthouse Museum
The Beavertail Lighthouse Museum is a must-see attraction for travelers to Rhode Island. This historic landmark signals ships entering Narragansett Bay. The museum features maritime science and an exhibit dedicated to the lighthouse’s history. Visiting this attraction is free; you can climb its tower for a small donation. The museum is open to the public from June through September. The history of maritime events in Rhode Island is fascinating.
The museum offers a unique perspective on maritime history and is one of the top destinations in Rhode Island. The museum features the state’s premier historic lighthouse, which was built in the early eighteenth century. The lighthouse marks the entrance to Narragansett Bay, and is 64 feet high. It provides navigational assistance to ships entering Narragansett Bay, and it was first lit in 1712. The Beavertail Lighthouse Museum is overseen by the nonprofit Beavertail Lighthouse Museum Association, and is a living history museum that features a unique perspective on maritime history.
Located in Jamestown, RI, the Beavertail Lighthouse Museum offers breathtaking views and a museum full of information. While visiting the museum, visitors can picnic and kite-fly on expansive fields. Beavertail State Park is also a great spot for families. The park offers ample space for children to run around and enjoy a picnic or a family day. You can also enjoy the lighthouse and the surrounding state parks.
Another great place to visit while visiting Rhode Island is the Herreshoff Marine Museum. This museum specializes in the history of yachting in Rhode Island. It features a dedicated America’s Cup Hall of Fame and exhibits of boats and artifacts. The museum has exhibits of historical ships and artifacts of the American Navy. It is a great place for family outings or romantic dates.
Places to Visit in Rhode Island For Families
There are many beautiful places to visit in Rhode Island, but which ones are the best for families? This article will give you a few suggestions: Mohegan Bluffs, Touro Synagogue, Slater Mill, and RISD Museum. It will give you an overview of places to visit in Rhode Island, and hopefully inspire you to go there yourself. We hope this article has been useful for you! Let us know what you think of our choices in the comments section below!
Mohegan Bluffs
For those who are looking for a place to spend the afternoon, you may want to visit the secluded beach at Mohegan Bluffs. This beach is rocky and secluded, and you will have to hike 141 steps to reach the sand. Once you get there, you will be treated to dramatic views of the Atlantic and Montauk on Long Island. The secluded beach offers great views, but the hike up to it can be challenging.
The Mohegan Bluffs in Rhode Island are a great place for a day trip. The cliffs are over 200 feet high, and they are a popular tourist attraction. The cliffs are home to a historical battle between the Mohegan and Niantic tribes, and visitors can see it up close. This battle is believed to have been in the mid-16th century. The battle was so fierce that the Niantic tribe drove the Mohegans off the cliff.
Once upon a time, Mohegan Bluffs was home to Safe Harbor Bay Lighthouse, a light station on the Mohegan Bluffs in Rhode Island. The building included a signal light and a foghorn, and was reached by a stone stairway. Sailors and small ships often took refuge in this house during dangerous times. Although the lighthouse still stands today, it is no longer in operation.
Touro Synagogue
The Touro Synagogue, also known as Congregation Jeshuat Israel, is an historic building located in Newport, Rhode Island. The synagogue was originally built in 1763. The building is the oldest Jewish institution in Rhode Island and is considered a national landmark. The building has been open to the public since its founding in Newport. The building’s original design is described here.
The oldest synagogue in the United States is the Touro Synagogue, which was built in colonial times. Its design and exquisite beauty are rooted in history, and it is considered the most important architectural masterpiece of the 18th century. The original congregation of this congregation was Sephardic Jews who fled religious persecution in Spain and Portugal. They believed that Rhode Island was a place where religious freedom was widely practiced.
In 1828, two synagogues in Newport, Rhode Island, were merged to form the Touro Synagogue. This merger strengthened the Jewish community in the city. The two congregations were struggling financially, and the Yellow Fever epidemic swept the city. When the new congregation incorporated, they named themselves Congregation Jeshuat Israel. Because they had different rites, the name Jeshuat Israel was chosen to distinguish it from the older, more conservative, Temple.
RISD Museum
The RISD Museum is a place to see art. It is one of the foremost museums of American contemporary craft and studio furniture. Many of the artists represented in its collection are connected to RISD. It has a unique collection of works by modern artists. There are four exhibition halls and a cafe. Visitors can purchase items and enjoy refreshments while exploring the museum. The RISD Museum is a place to visit in Rhode Island.
The RISD Museum is housed in five buildings on the historic East Side of Providence. It houses nearly 100,000 pieces of art. The collection includes works by ancient art, modern and contemporary art, costume and textiles, painting, sculpture, prints, and decorative arts. Visitors can also tune in to its radio station to hear interviews with artists and students. The museum also has an excellent website. Whether you’re looking for a museum in Rhode Island or just looking for a unique experience in art, the RISD Museum is a great place to visit.
The RISD Museum is located between Benefit and Main Street. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Thursdays are extended hours for free admission. Admission is $15 for adults and $8 for children under 18. There are also free admission on the third Thursday evening of every month and on Sundays. However, if you visit on a day when the museum is not open, it’s best to avoid it.
Slater Mill
The Slater Mill is an interesting textile mill complex that stands on the banks of the Blackstone River in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. This historical textile mill is modeled after the cotton spinning mills that were first established in England. You can learn about how cotton fiber was spun and its importance to the textile industry. You can also learn about the lives of textile workers, including their daily routines.
This place is a national historic landmark, and the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. Inside, you’ll find two water-powered mills, built in 1758 and 1810, as well as a museum that showcases textile machinery. You can even tour a 1758 colonial home. The Slater Mill is open from March through October, and there are several special events throughout the year.
The Old Slater Mill is a unique place to visit, as it’s located on the banks of the Blackstone River. It’s a fascinating look at the beginnings of industrialization. The founders of the mill, Samuel Slater and Richard Arkwright, implemented water-powered cotton spinning technology to bring American workers the benefits of the modern industrial world. The result was a new way to earn a living, and the introduction of hourly wages and machine-made goods brought about a major change in American life.
Watch Hill Carousel
If you’re visiting the Watch Hill area, you should take the time to visit the carousel. This iconic attraction can be found just off of Bay Street in the city of Watch Hill. The carousel itself is housed in a ten-sided wood-frame pavilion with a hipped roof. In the past, the roof was canvas. The carousel consists of twenty horses of various sizes, with larger ones on the outer ring. Each horse is suspended by sweepings radiating from the center. The chains are attached to the horse’s pommel and rump.
The carousel was once part of a traveling circus. It was eventually abandoned by the traveling carnival and reopened as a permanent attraction in Watch Hill. The carousel has been running since 1883 and is one of the oldest continuously operating carousels in the United States. The carousel has been renovated and restored several times over the years and is operated by the Watch Hill Improvement Society.
If you want to enjoy the Carousel, you should also visit the beach. This quaint town offers beautiful beaches, and the 1883 Carousel is one of the places to visit in Rhode Island. The carousel is the country’s oldest merry-go-round, and it’s always fun to watch the children on it. Watch Hill also has many family-friendly attractions, including the Watch Hill Bathhouse.
College Hill Park
If you have never visited College Hill Park, you’re in for a treat! This shady park sits on the edge of New England’s College Hill neighborhood, just minutes from the University of Rhode Island. It has been designated a Great Place to Visit by the American Planning Association. And if you’re looking for a more urban area, there are several options for you in Providence.
A stroll through College Hill is an amazing experience, and it is the perfect way to experience the historic district’s history and culture. The area’s beautiful architecture has been preserved from the 18th century, with many impressive mansions lining Benefit Street. The Athenaeum Row, which consists of five historic 1845 Greek Revival townhouses, is another popular attraction. It is one of the few places in Rhode Island where you can rent an apartment. No new developments are allowed in this historic district, and it has strict preservation societies.
Located at the base of the hill, College Hill is home to the Providence County Courthouse, the state’s highest court and other government buildings. The courthouse houses the Rhode Island Supreme Court, the Superior Court of Providence County, and the Office of the Attorney General. Several blocks north, on Benefit Street, is the Old State House, originally a Colony House built in 1762. In the city’s downtown, you can also find the State Arsenal, a historic building designed by the legendary architect Russell Warren.
NMAI
When you’re visiting Providence, you might as well head to the National Museum of American Illustration (NMAI). This museum is a masterpiece, with its replica 1800s French chateau setting, complemented by lush gardens and a small gift shop. Its extensive art collection includes the Golden Age and World War I paintings. You can tour the museum, see a demonstration and learn about the area’s history.
When dining in Newport, don’t miss the renowned OneWay Gallery. This contemporary art gallery juxtaposes edgy and bold works with more conservative beach art. House artists include glassblowers, painters, and even a tattoo artist. Visitors are welcome to purchase a piece from their favorite artist, and you can even enjoy a meal while you’re there.
