Rhode Island may be a small state, but it’s full of stunning scenery. And if you’ve ever taken the drive up Route 1 from Westerly to North Kingstown, you surely know how spectacular it is. And if you’re an Ocean State resident who has yet to take that route, you’re in luck — this easy 40-mile drive is beautiful in any season. Fuel up and prepare to wind around the outline of our state’s coves and inlets via beautiful Route 1 in Rhode Island.

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Route 1A is located in Washington County and offers a scenic alternative to U.S. Route 1.
Google Map
Although it parallels Route 1 for nearly its entirety, it does take a bit longer -- but it's well worth it. It won’t take long until you see why we say it is one of the best drives in Rhode Island.
You'll start in charming historic Westerly, which has roots dating back to 1661.
Doug Kerr / Flickr
Westerly is thought to be one of Rhode Island's best-kept secrets and offers a variety of beaches, bars, family-friendly attractions, and historic spots.
Next, you'll head to Charlestown, which was actually named after King Charles II.
Roger Williams / Flickr
Charlestown is best known for its seafood and lobster festival in August, but daily life here is quiet and peaceful.

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You'll definitely want to stop in South Kingstown, a warm, welcoming spot with a historic grist mill and long stretches of sandy beach.
JJBers / Flickr
There's even a little Theatre By The Sea that features performances all summer long. Stop by South Kingstown Town Beach for a nice seaside stroll.
Narragansett is the next spot you'll pass, a little town known for doubling its population every summer.
Josh McGinn / Flickr
Narragansett occupies a narrow piece of land along the eastern bank of the Pettaquamscutt River to the shore of Narragansett Bay, making for some seriously scenic views.
At last, you'll reach North Kingstown, which is part of the Providence metropolitan area.
Peter Rintels / Flickr
That being said, there are plenty of quiet, Rhode Island hidden gems, like Blue Beach. Time your trip right and enjoy the water views at dusk.

If you were to do a search for “scenic drives near me,” this one would most certainly pop up at the top of the list!

Have you driven this beautiful route yet? If so, which stops were your favorites? Would you agree that this route is one of the most beautiful Rhode Island scenic drives? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

If you’d like to explore hikes around any of these stops, you can find some great trails by going to the AllTrails website.

For those where backroads are more your style, check out this list of the 5 best backroads for ideas.

If you’re still in the mood for more Rhode Island adventures, take a look at this video:

 

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More to Explore

More to Love About Rhode Island

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | August 16, 2023

Where can we find lakes in Rhode Island?

  • Bowdish Lake in Chepachet is a 226-acre lake popular for fishing and swimming.
  • Wallum Lake in Burrillville is a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and boating.
  • Echo Lake (also known as the Pascoag Reservoir) is one of the best places for watersports and fishing.
  • Olney Pond at Lincoln Woods State Park in Lincoln has a boat ramp, beach area, and fishing dock.

Read on to learn more about the many wonderful lakes in Rhode Island.

Where can we find small towns in Rhode Island?

  • Foster is known for its wonderful hiking trails.
  • Hopkinton boasts an early history that dates back to the mid-1700s.
  • New Shoreham is a charming town on Block Island.

Read on to learn about some other great small towns in Rhode Island.

Where can we shop for antiques in Rhode Island?

  • Rocket To Mars in Providence features eclectic finds, some dating back to the 1920s.
  • The Fantastic Umbrella Factory in Charlestown calls itself “a 19th-century farmyard shoppers paradise and international bazaar.”
  • The Rhode Island Antiques Mall in Pawtucket draws a lot of collectors for its amazing offerings.

Read on to learn about other fantastic shops for antiques in Rhode Island.

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Westerly, RI, USA
North Kingstown, RI, USA