5 Rhode Island Tourist Spots I Tried to Hate (But Ended Up Loving)

Rhode Island has much to offer, including its rugged coastline, white sand beaches, historic sites, and cities. I grew up here and have pretty much seen and experienced it all, whether the most touristy areas or lesser-known locales. Of course, there are numerous must-see attractions in Rhode Island, with the most popular residing in the cities of Newport and Providence, while others are scattered throughout the state. From childhood to adulthood, I was reluctantly brought along on family day trips to some of the most popular tourist spots in the state. I tried to dislike them, I really did, but the following places ended up being among my favorites in the state.

1. Thames Street, Newport

Teeming with tourists during the summer months, Newport's most famous road, Thames Street, can be overwhelmingly crowded, parking is a nightmare, and lines are out the door to the town's most popular restaurants. Once I overcame the few initial headaches at the start of my family's day trip, I realized why it's so popular. Not only are there excellent local restaurants, but also art galleries, shops, and historic buildings. And then there's the postcard-perfect waterfront with views of boats with white sails hoisted out on the harbor. While I prefer visiting in the uncrowded off-season, I'll make any excuse to come to Thames Street throughout the year.

2. Newport Mansions

Like most people who visit Newport, The Breakers was the first Gilded Age mansion I visited. When I first came here as a child to tour this famous historic summer "cottage" that belonged to Cornelius Vanderbilt II, I had low expectations. At that age, I found history to be dreadfully boring, and I didn't feel like taking a tour of some old mansion filled with antiques. As time passed and I got older, I appreciated touring The Breakers and several other historic mansions, like The Elms, Marble House, and Rosecliff, that line Bellevue Ave. I now find the history fascinating and the architecture alluring. Over the years, I've visited most of these exquisite homes of opulence, and I know I will return to visit them again.

3. East Bay Bike Path

My dad and I have biked on most of Rhode Island's scenic bike paths. For the longest time, my favorite was the South County Bike Path, 7.8 miles of starting at Kingston Station and ending in Narragansett. I couldn't get enough of the scenery, including villages, a river, parks, woodlands, and, eventually, the ocean. So when my dad wanted to bike the entire length of the East Bay Bike Path, nearly 30 miles roundtrip, I was reluctant. First, that's a long bike ride; second, I didn't think I'd like it almost as much as the bike path in South County. Boy, was I wrong! Starting at India Point Park in Providence, the trail leads through Riverside, Barrington, and Warren before terminating in Bristol. We would stop periodically to take in the scenery along the way, and I loved every second of this arduous yet stunning bike ride.

4. Colt State Park

There are so many wonderful Rhode Island state parks, why would I want to go to the most popular one? This may very well have been my thought upon my first-ever trip to Colt State Park, but when I saw how amazing it is, I realized the why behind its popularity. Yes, it's stunning. Yes, there are water views galore plus hiking, fishing, and biking. But furthermore, its vast lawns and picnic areas are where family gathering are held and memories made. I understand why it's the single best state park in Rhode Island, and if you have yet to visit, one day you'll understand, too.

5. Blithwold Mansion and Gardens

Another historic place I was not happy to be dragged to during my childhood was Blithewold Mansion and Gardens. I wasn't into history nor was I into gardens, but I had no choice but to try to make the best of it as my family explored the early 20th-century, 45-room home and its grounds. Honestly, it was a lovely day and, at this point in my life, one I would love to repeat. Visiting the property, which overlooks Narragansett Bay, is like being a tourist in a fairytale setting in Rhode Island, and I can certainly see why its such a popular attraction.

Rhode Island's Popular Tourist Spots

I reluctantly visited these popular attractions and locations, but walking away, I developed a deep appreciation and (dare I say?) love for each. While I moved away from Rhode Island years ago, I return often and, if there's time, I'll revisit at least one of these places that became so near and dear to my heart over the years. If you have a favorite tourist spot or attraction you'd like to share, please nominate it—we would love to hear from you!

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