Rhode Island’s stunning coastline and rich history attract thousands of visitors each year. Still, locals have managed to keep dozens of amazing things secret. Here are 12 hidden gems in Rhode Island that deserve a spot on your bucket list.

1. Beavertail State Park
Flickr/Jack McLane
Our list of hidden gems in Rhode Island begins at Beavertail State Park. Spanning 153 beautiful acres on Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, Beavertail State Park is a truly magical hidden gem. It is fully equipped with its own secret beaches, hiking trails, and mid-1800s lighthouse.
2. Fort Wetherill
Ani Od Chai
Nathan Wood
Just a few miles from Beavertail and a quick walk through the woods is Fort Wetherill. The beautiful granite cliffs on the edges of the fort make for a breathtaking view of Narragansett Bay. This former Coast Guard artillery fort is not for the faint of heart with various dark and eerie tunnels stretching acres of land. Have you ever visited Fort Wetherill State Park in Rhode Island?
3. Scituate Art Festival
Flickr/PK Bentley
Scituate Art Festival is an annual Rhode Island tradition showcasing an array of skilled local artists and craftspeople.
4. Colt State Park
Flickr/Rachel Diep
Located in beautiful Bristol, RI, Colt State Park spans hundreds of acres on Poppasquash Neck. In fact, Colt State Park might just be the most beautiful state park in Rhode Island.
5. Pawtuxet Village
Flickr/Matt
A charming section of both Cranston and Warwick, Pawtuxet Village is built where both the Pawtuxet and Providence rivers meet the Narragansett Bay. Learn more about this highly underrated destination in Rhode Island.
6. The Umbrella Factory
Flickr/Josh Mcginn
From emus roaming around the property to vintage and local craft shops, the Umbrella Factory is a hidden gem featuring many fun attractions. When it comes to unique road trip destinations and hidden gems in Rhode Island, the Fantastic Umbrella Factory is at the top of the list.
7. So many hidden beaches!
Flickr/Jack McLane

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Flickr/Michael Levine-Clark
Just choosing one secret beach to name would not do the state justice. There are plenty of amazing hidden beaches all over the coastline! From Gooseberry Beach in Newport, to Blue Shutters Town Beach and Camp Cronin in South County, to the difficult to get to Sandy Point in Westerly, there are dozens. Each one is breathtaking in its own way. For more, check out our hidden beaches road trip in Rhode Island.
8. Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge
Flickr/USFWS
This is a great place for photographers to capture wildlife and for everyone to take in the beauty of nature. Plus, the hiking trails at Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge are simply breathtaing.
9. Kingscote
Flickr/Wally Gobetz
While the Newport Preservation Society owns and operates various breathtaking mansions, Kingscote is considered the most underrated by many locals. This beauty is a stunning example of Gothic Revival-style architecture.
10. Green Animals Topiary Garden
Flickr/Dhananjay Odhekar
Flickr/Christine Riggle
These magical gardens are located in Portsmouth and are also owned by the Newport Preservation society. It's easy to guess where the name comes from with over 80 pieces of unique topiary on the lands. Learn more about why the Green Animals Topiary Garden is a true work of art.
11. Newport Historical Society
Flickr/Lee Wright
Flickr/Lee Wright
Few cities have as rich of a history as Newport, Rhode Island. While there are hundreds of historical sites and attractions across the city, Newport Historical Society is one of the best ways to experience the history! Offerings include fun walking tours of its span of historical and architecturally rich properties, a unique museum, and exciting events like the Newport Antiques Show. The Newport Historical Society is a true hidden gem that more and more visitors are beginning to discover each year.
12. Neutaconkanut Park
Flickr/Ani Od Chai
Last but certainly not least on our list of hidden gems in Rhode Island is Neutaconkanut Park. These acres of wildlife habitat located in the capital city of Providence create a much needed escape into nature. Meadows, fields and forest and an amazing view of the city skyline make this a hidden gem to remember!

These hidden gems in Rhode Island all possess many wonders and are amazing secrets of our state. With so many spectacular beaches, museums, and attractions, it’s no wonder the people of the Ocean State would keep a few things to themselves.

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More to Explore

hidden gems in Rhode Island

Beth C. | July 06, 2021

What are some little-known parks in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island may be small in size, but that doesn't mean that the state isn't positively brimming with hidden places to explore. At the top of the list is Warwick City Park, a wonderful little-known park in Rhode Island. Referred to as "City Park" by the locals, this spot is perfect for an afternoon stroll, a bike ride, and even a walk with the dog. Catch it in the right light and you might believe you've been temporarily transported into a painting.

Are there any hidden beaches in Rhode Island?

So much of Rhode Island is on the coast, and therefore there are tons of beaches to enjoy. While some are famous, others fly a bit more under the radar. Here are some hidden beaches in Rhode Island that you'll want to explore: Mackerel Cove Town Beach in Jamestown, Goosewing Beach Preserve in Little Compton, Blue Shutters Town Beach in Charlestown, Gooseberry Beach in Newport, Third Beach in Middletown, Napatree Point Conservation Area in Westerly, and Fogland Beach in Tiverton. Learn more about these beautiful hidden beaches in Rhode Island.

Is there a secret garden in Rhode Island?

Sakonnet Garden is a breathtaking secret garden in Rhode Island that can be found in the scenic town of Little Compton. This private garden can be toured by the public and was established in the 1970s. Within the garden, you'll find thousands of rare and local plant species. Do you think you would plan a visit to Rhode Island's very own secret garden?

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Featured Addresses
Beavertail State Park, Beavertail Rd, Jamestown, RI 02835, USA
Fort Wetherill, Jamestown, RI 02835, USA
Scituate Art Festival, 554 W Greenville Rd, North Scituate, RI 02857, USA
Colt State Park, Bristol, RI 02809, USA
Pawtuxet Village, Warwick, RI 02888, USA
Fantastic Umbrella Factory, 4820 Old Post Rd, Charlestown, RI 02813, USA
Gooseberry Beach, Newport, RI 02840, USA
Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge, Charlestown, RI 02813, USA
Kingscote, 253 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA
Green Animals Topiary Garden, 380 Corys Ln, Portsmouth, RI 02871, USA
Newport Historical Society, 82 Touro St, Newport, RI 02840, USA
Neutaconkanut Road, Neutaconkanut Rd, Johnston, RI, USA