The Scenic Road Trip That Will Make You Fall In Love With The Beauty Of Rhode Island All Over Again
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on February 17, 2023(Originally published February 12, 2023)
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Natural beauty surrounds us wherever we go in Rhode Island. Sometimes, though, we can get so wrapped up in the busyness of life that we forget to stop and appreciate that beauty – and how lucky we are to live in a state as amazing as Rhode Island. This scenic road trip in Rhode Island will help reignite that love and appreciation with visits to some of the state’s most beautiful destinations.
Here are the Google Map directions for this road trip. You can easily customize the directions to add and remove stops to meet your timeframe and interests. Get ready to drink in some of the most breathtaking Rhode Island scenery.
This scenic Rhode Island road trip is short and sweet but packs a whole lot of fun and beauty in just over 100 miles. While drive time will hover less than two hours, the trip itself can take much longer, depending on how much time you spend at each stop. Don't forget your camera because you'll visit some of the most breathtaking Rhode Island scenery.
Whatever you do, have fun!
We'll kick off our scenic road trip in Newport. Slip on a pair of comfy shoes; bring plenty of water; and make sure your camera's battery is charged for the 3.5-mile stroll along the Cliff Walk. Start at one of the more than half of a dozen entrances to complete some or all of the walk that boasts absolutely stunning views of the ocean and of Newport's breathtaking mansions. Get a peek at some of the stunning beauty that awaits along this scenic path in Rhode Island in our previous article.
Find more information on the official website of Discover Newport.
Get a bird's eye view of the Cliff Walk, as shot by Tom Spurlock and shared on YouTube.
Our next stop takes us to even more gorgeous views, this time at Narragansett Beach. Whether you plan to go for a leisurely stroll along the water's edge or feel like sunbathing on the sandy beach, you'll rediscover just how relaxing and beautiful a day at the beach is in Rhode Island. Did you know that you can find some of the clearest water in Rhode Island at Narragansett Beach?
Visit the official website of Narragansett Town Beach for more information.
Lace up your hiking boots to explore one of the many trails that winds its way through Arcadia Management Area. An abundance of natural beauty, including quaint waterfalls and several ponds, awaits in the natural area. While you can't swim in Breakheart Pond, you can go fishing or boating. If you're up for a one-of-a-kind adventure, follow the trail in Rhode Island that leads to an abandoned summer camp.
Learn more on the official website of Arcadia Management Area.
4. Providence River Walk – Providence
Providence River Bridge, Providence, RI 02903, USA
Our next stop takes us to Providence for a leisurely stroll along the River Walk. Carve out plenty of time to check out the quaint shops and charming restaurants in the city. The entire walk spans just under 2.5 miles and is drenched in scenic beauty. Find out why Providence River Walk is one of the best river walks in the United States in our previous article.
Find more information on the official website of Go Providence.
Considered Rhode Island's "gem" of state parks, Colt State Park is perfect for a leisurely walk along one of its paved paths, or go for a scenic hike. (Bike riding is also popular.) Or, just sit on the lush lawn and admire the breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay. On a windy day, you might notice other Rhode Islanders flying kites. Join in on the fun by bringing a kite of your own. Discover why Colt State Park is widely called the best state park in Rhode Island.
Here's the official website of Colt State Park.
Take a peek at Colt State Park during a winter sunset. YouTube video by R.C.D. Creations.
6. Sakonnet Garden – Little Compton
Sakonnet Point Road, Sakonnet Point Rd, Little Compton, RI 02837, USA
Our final stop brings us to Sakonnet Garden. You might feel as though you've stepped into a fairy tale as you explore the lush gardens. Reservations are required. Learn more bout this gorgeous Rhode Island garden in our previous article.
Get more information on the official website of Sakonnet Garden.
Do you agree that these are some of the most scenic places in Rhode Island? What other stops would you add to this scenic Rhode Island road trip? Let us know in the comments! Then explore more of the state’s natural beauty on this road trip to five of Rhode Island’s least visited state parks.
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More to Explore
Day Trips In Rhode Island
Beth Price-Williams|February 17, 2023
What are some of the best day trips in Rhode Island?
Because of its compact size, Rhode Island is perfect for road trips and day trips. If you’ve only got a day, you can pack in a whole lot of fun on these day trips in Rhode Island.
Hop on a ferry for an unforgettable day on Block Island. While the island is brimming with things to do, make your first stop Mohegan Bluffs, perhaps the most stunning natural wonder in Rhode Island.
Tour the Newport Mansions and then take a stroll along the Newport Cliff Walk, which promises views of some of the best Rhode Island scenery.
Spend a leisurely day exploring the enchanting Downtown Newport, home to an impressive collection of shops and restaurants.
Meet some of the animals at Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence. You can even go ziplining for an epic adventure.
