Rhode Island is a go to tourist destination in the summer for so many reasons. Not only is it filled with gorgeous attractions, there are also a number of fantastic places to stay and dine. Though the whole state can be explored in little time, there are some destinations within the 401 area code that deserve a whole day of attention.
Rhode Island is a small state with huge coastal attractions! Block Island might just be the most memorable among them.
Your day will start by boarding the Block Island Ferry in Narragansett and enjoying a gorgeous boat ride to the island.
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Once there, you can rent a scooter, bike, or even bring your car on the ferry to explore two historic lighthouses.
Each lighthouse offers a unique sight and can be found at opposite ends of Block Island.
Just next to Southeast Light is the Mohegan Bluffs. These 150 foot clay cliffs are a true natural wonder to behold.
Spend the rest of your day by the beach, and dining at amazing restaurants throughout New Shoreham, the small town on the island with fantastic fresh seafood.
What a perfect summer spot! For more information on Block Island please visit www.blockislandinfo.com.
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Rhode Island, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
Discover Lincoln, a unique small town in Rhode Island. Explore nature, history, and family-friendly activities, all in one destination. Perfect for a day trip!
Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the US, but it's packed with charm and hidden gems. If you're looking for a quaint New England escape with a touch of history and a whole lot of nature, then Lincoln, RI should be at the top of your list. And if you only have one day to explore, you'll want to make the most of it! Here's your jam-packed itinerary for an unforgettable day trip in this small town in Rhode Island.
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Start your day off right by visiting Maria's Breakfast & Lunch. This popular spot serves up all your favorite breakfast classics, from fluffy pancakes and waffles to hearty omelets and breakfast sandwiches. Don't forget a side of crispy bacon, sausage, or home fries!
1. Lincoln Woods State Park
Next, head to Lincoln Woods State Park to experience Rhode Island's natural beauty. This historic 627-acre park offers a variety of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Hike or bike the wooded trails, cool off with a swim in Olney Pond or try fishing and boating. You can even rent a kayak and explore the pond at your own pace. If you're visiting in the winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland perfect for ice skating and ice fishing. Fun fact: parts of the movie Moonrise Kingdom were filmed right here in Lincoln Woods. You might even recognize some of the scenery as you explore.
2. Hearthside House Museum
Now, journey back to the early 19th century with a visit to the Hearthside House Museum. This beautifully preserved mansion offers a captivating glimpse into life in a bygone era. Take a guided tour led by costumed docents and explore the elegant rooms, each adorned with period furnishings and brimming with fascinating stories. You'll get a sense of how families lived and entertained and how the house itself evolved over time. Be sure to check the museum's calendar for special events, like candlelit tours and holiday celebrations, that offer a unique perspective on this historic gem.
3. R1 Indoor Karting
If you're traveling with family, R1 Indoor Karting is a must-visit. This entertainment complex has a thrilling indoor go-kart track where you can race your family and friends. Put your teamwork skills to the test in their escape room, where you'll have to solve puzzles and crack codes to escape. For the older kids and adults, there's even an Axe Bar where you can try your hand at axe throwing. They also have a huge arcade with all the latest games and interactive darts. With so much to do, R1 Indoor Karting guarantees a fun-filled experience for the whole family while visiting Lincoln.
When you're ready for dinner, head to Trattoria Romana Lincoln for a true taste of Italy. This charming restaurant, with its cozy dining space and refined bar, offers an excellent dining experience. Enjoy Roman specialties and classic Italian fare made with the finest and freshest ingredients - all served with warm hospitality in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
If you have a little extra time, consider checking out some of Lincoln's historical treasures. Take a drive along Great Road (Route 123), a designated scenic byway, and admire the variety of architectural styles on display in the Great Road Historic District. History buffs will also enjoy Chase Farm Park, home to the Pullen's Corner Schoolhouse, a charming one-room schoolhouse built in 1850.
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So, there you have it – a perfect day trip to Lincoln, Rhode Island, filled with natural beauty, historical charm, and exciting adventures. From exploring the trails of Lincoln Woods State Park to stepping back in time at the Hearthside House Museum, you'll discover the many treasures of this charming New England town.
With all the great things to do in Rhode Island, sometimes it's easy to forget our old favorites for family fun. Our very own Roger Williams Park Zoo is one of those gems that you should be coming back to again and again. There is so much wildlife to see it is almost impossible to get it all done in one day. This is one Wildlife Park that you need to bring your family to, or if it's been a while, to check it out again! It's one of the best day trips in RI you can take.
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Roger Williams Park Zoo RI is a beloved 40-acre wild animal park in Providence. It's also one of the best places for family day trips in RI.
Throughout the zoo, there are numerous exhibits that will take you through some of the major ecosystems, habitats, and animals of the world. From Africa to Asia, the Americas, and beyond, there are over 150 animal species that call this zoo home.
Pictured here are gorgeous Cheetahs that are part of the "Fabric of Africa" exhibit.
You can see the elephants enjoying a bath in the waterhole and interacting with each other at the Ivory Ella Elephant Yard.
Elephants are amazing creatures and my kids love watching them as much as I do!
The "Fabric of Africa" exhibit is a way to go on safari right here in Rhode Island and see beautiful animals like this Masai giraffe.
There are Plains Zebra here as well. Also native to Africa, each one's stripes is as unique as a human fingerprint.
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Find a variety of exotic birds such as this striking West African Crowned Crane.
On "Marco Polo's Adventure Trek" kids can see the animals the explorer might have encountered on his journey.
This beautiful Red Panda can also be spotted on the Adventure Trek.
If you're lucky, you may even spot the super secretive Snow Leopard.
In the "North America" exhibit, you can observe the magnificent creatures that call our continent home, like this Red Wolf.
A playful North American River Otter may come out to say hello.
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Did you know the Copperhead Snake's geographical region is the Florida Panhandle, north to Massachusetts, and west to Nebraska?? You can certainly learn a lot from the interpretive signs around the zoo while you're here.
This adorable Gibbon will greet you at the "World of Adaptations" exhibit, where visitors learn what it really takes for animals to survive in the wild.
You can even check out a Komodo Dragon without leaving the state! This is one of the animals I look forward to seeing the most whenever I visit. Absolutely fascinating!
One of our favorite parts of the zoo is the Alex & Ani Farmyard where visitors can interact with a variety of barnyard animals including goats, sheep, and alpacas.
(Picture here is my daughter getting ready to groom a goat in the farmyard. She had a blast and so will you!)
Roger Williams Park Zoo is open year-round though hours vary depending on the season. Active and retired military receive 50% off the ticket price, and you can become a member and visit the zoo for free all year. The first Saturday of the month is free to Providence residents with proof of residency as a "thank you" for their tax dollars which go to support the zoo.
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When visiting the 40-acre zoo, make sure you have a comfortable pair of walking shoes on. Trust me, you'll need them at this huge zoo!