Rhode Island is small — the smallest state in the United States, in fact. But Little Rhody will surprise you. From secret gardens to enchanting little villages, we’ve uncovered 9 hidden gems in Rhode Island only locals know about. In fact, even those who call its 1,214 square miles home may be surprised by some of these hidden gems.

1. Warwick City Park: The Park That's Rhode Island's Best Kept Secret
Joe C./Yelp
Warwick Park is colloquially referred to as "City Park" by the locals, and it is a hidden away so that only the locals really know where it is. This beautiful city park offers hiking trails, a paved bike path, a boardwalk and even a dog park. It's basically the platonic ideal of parks.
2. Bristol: The Most Criminally Overlooked Town In Rhode Island
Rick Payette/flickr
Bristol, RI, has a rich history, and is a charming little town with a pretty seaport and two lovely bays. You'll find plenty of shops and restaurants on Main Street, and the nearby Colt State Park is simply enchanting.
3. Neutaconkanut Park: Rhode Island's Best Kept Secret
Neutaconkanut Park/Facebook
Neutaconkanut Park is literally smack in the middle of Providence, but it's off the beaten path a bit so you can easily miss it. This hidden gem is 88 acres of trees, fields, and wild flowers, interspersed with valleys, ravines, glacial boulders, stone walls, fresh water springs, and, yes, even a babbling brook or two. It's pure magic.
4. Prudence Island: The Most Remote, Isolated Place In The State
Tomasz Krawczak/flickr
Prudence Island is remote and quiet -- it's truly a place to 'get away from it all.' You can take a ferry (with limited seating) to reach it, and once you get there, you can explore the lighthouse, hike along several trails, and enjoy the amazing views.

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5. The Umbrella Factory: A Secret Hidden Destination
luvzdolz/flickr
This little hidden gem in Charlestown offers boutiques, cafes, and some beautiful open spaces. Wander through the several acres here and find a special gift for a friend. Say hello to the emus, too.
6. Goddard Park: The Underrated Park That's So Beautiful
Ryan Blanding/flickr
Goddard Park encompasses 494 acres and includes some beautiful spaces. Spend the day here with a picnic, ride the carousel and play some golf.
7. Green Animals Topiary Garden: A Little Known Unique Garden
Christine Riggle/flickr
Green Animals Topiary Garden is so whimsical and charming! The seven-acre garden is located in Portsmouth, and you will be delighted by the larger-than-life animal topiaries here.
8. Block Island National Wildlife Refuge: A Little Known Natural Oasis
US Fish and Wildlife Service/flickr
Take the Block Island Ferry for the day of pure bliss. See the Mohegan Bluffs, stroll along the beaches and watch for wildlife. You're going to need your camera to capture all this natural beauty.
9. Navy Beach: The Hidden Beach That Will Take You A Million Miles Away From It All
US Fish and Wildlife Service/flickr
Also known as Third Beach, this lesser-known spot is truly gorgeous. Go windsurfing (or spend some time watching others) and enjoy this quiet little place.

Sometimes, the best places are those you have to search a bit to find. What are some of your favorite hidden gems in Rhode Island? Share them with us in the comments below! And Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but it’s full of wonderful places to explore. So get exploring! Take a look at these 7 natural wonders that don’t even require any hiking.

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More to Explore

Hidden Gems In Rhode Island

Sarah | January 28, 2021

Does Rhode Island have any secret gardens?

Rhode Island is an unassuming state that really sneaks up on you. Case in point: the first Zen Center in the United States was created in Rhode Island, and it's tucked away on 50 picture-perfect acres in Cumberland. Find your inner calm by joining in meditation or a retreat at this secluded spot. And if you're looking for a literal secret garden, well, Rhode Island has that, too. Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum in Bristol is a breathtaking 33-acre summer estate with scenic views of the Narragansett Bay. The estate has a 45-room mansion, but more stunning is its many gardens on the property. Lush greenery, roses in every hue, and butterflies await in these gardens, which are beautiful any time of the year, but especially stunning in the spring.

What are some fun Rhode Island road trips?

Rhode Island is such a fun place to explore. If you're feeling extra magical, this Fairytale Road Trip will take you to some of the state's most magical places, from stunning parks to castle-like lighthouses. For a more classic road trip experience, try one of these six road trips that will take you to some of Rhode Island's most beloved attractions and iconic spots.

What are some must-visit places to visit in Rhode Island?

While we love all the hidden gems in Rhode Island, there are some undeniably awesome attractions in the state that everyone loves to visit. Historical sites, super-cool museums, must-visit cities, insanely delicious food -- Rhode Island is kind of the best. We're not giving anything away, though -- you'll have to check them out for yourself!

 

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Featured Addresses
Park Ave, Warwick, RI 02889, USA
Bristol, RI 02809, USA
Neutaconkanut Park, 899 Plainfield St, Providence, RI 02909, USA
Prudence Island, Portsmouth, RI, USA
Fantastic Umbrella Factory, 4820 Old Post Rd, Charlestown, RI 02813, USA
Goddard Memorial State Park Beach, Warwick, RI 02818, USA
Green Animals Topiary Garden, 380 Corys Ln, Portsmouth, RI 02871, USA
Block Island National Wildlife Refuge, New Shoreham, RI 02807, USA
Aquidneck Island, Rhode Island, USA