12 Rhode Island Day Trips, One for Every Month

New year, new travels? If your calendar and wallet don't allow for much jet-setting, we have great news: you can have an amazing year without leaving our state. We've compiled our list of the best day trips in Rhode Island for this year, and while you're welcome to turn any of these into a weekend getaway, you can complete them all in a single day with proper planning.

1. January - Providence

Starting off our list of the best day trips in Rhode Island is the beautiful city of Providence. There are all kinds of good reasons to visit the capital city in January. Between Restaurant Weeks and other events like the Rhode Island Brew Fest, you'll find plenty of things to do (and eat). But if nothing else, taking a day trip into the city just to spend hours exploring The Providence Athenæum is worth it, and is one of the most unique Rhode Island trip ideas.

2. February - Pawtucket

Pawtucket is pretty sleepy in the winter, but that only adds to its appeal. Just make sure you visit on a Saturday to check out the beloved Farm Fresh Winter Market at Hope Artiste Village.

3. March - Chariho

The towns of Charlestown, Richmond, and Hopkinton, collectively referred to as Chariho, make for a memorable day trip indeed. These rural spots offer coastal and wooded scenery alike, and you can stop at some totally quirky spots (like the Fantastic Umbrella Factory) and see some historic gems, like this centuries-old pub. And if you can stick around past sunset, check out the Frosty Drew Observatory for nighttime stargazing. This is one of the most unique things to do in Rhode Island.

4. April - Middletown

Searching for "getaway spots near me?" Middletown is a perfect spring break destination—it has quiet beaches, a beautiful bird sanctuary, and plenty of wine tasting. In fact, springtime is when Newport Vineyards and other area wine producers host their annual Wine and Tasting Tour. And if you're not a wine drinker, you can always stop by Rejects Beer Co.—but as with any day trip destination that involves alcohol, make sure you're the passenger and not the driver. Or, take an Uber or Lyft back to your accommodations, like this tiny cozy home on the coast, if you plan on turning this day trip into one of the best weekend trips in Rhode Island.

5. May - Woonsocket

Why Woonsocket in May, you might be wondering? It's typically warm enough to explore the town on foot, and if you take the family, you can check out the Museum of Work and Culture or the Blackstone Gorge. Take an extra-close look at all the old buildings on Main Street, most of which date back to the mid-1800s.

6. June - Block Island

If you find yourself searching for "getaways near me," we've found the right spot. Block Island is such a gem. Between the beachside bluffs, nature reserves, tasty restaurants, and other attractions, it's easy to spend an entire day enjoying life here... and it's the perfect place to welcome summer. Not only is it one of the best places for day trips in Rhode Island, but you also stay the night at one of the island's many inns. Booking a night or two at the charming 1661 Inn, which has a garden and an on-site restaurant, would be perfect for a weekend getaway on Block Island.

7. July - Bristol

Bristol is well-known for its amazing Fourth of July festivities, which tend to start as early as July 2. But even if you're not a parade and fireworks kind of person, you'll love the summer vibes in this town. It's truly one of the best one-day trips in Rhode Island.

8. August - Narragansett

Rhode Island's beachiest beach town is our top pick for an August day trip. Yes, it's when the beaches are the most crowded, but just look at the scenery in Narragansett! It's also home to two of our most iconic eateries: George’s of Galilee (my personal favorite) and Champlin’s Seafood.

9. September - Rhode Island Seafood Festival

We're sending you back to Providence in September for a great cause. The annual Rhode Island Seafood Festival is a great spot for tasting some of the best seafood in New England, not to mention the live music and adult beverages.

10. October - Goddard Memorial State Park

It's no secret that Rhode Island has some incredible fall foliage and nearly all of our state and local parks have plenty to offer. But Goddard Memorial State Park, which is located in East Greenwich, has hues from 62 deciduous and 19 evergreen tree species, plus 18 miles of bridle trails. While there is no fee to enter the park, there are fees for the golf course, picnic sites, shelters, and gazebos.

11. November - Greenvale Vineyards

Head to Portsmouth in November and check out the annual harvest festival at Greenvale Vineyards. Aside from tastings of their award-winning wine, they'll have hard cider, live music, food, hayrides for the family, tractor rides, face painting, and plenty of games to ensure little ones have a great time, as well. The event is typically held on the first or second weekend of November.

12. December - Newport

Rounding out our list of the best day trips in Rhode Island is beautiful Newport. There's never a bad time to visit here, but the holiday season feels especially magical here. And while one could point the blame toward the seasonal ice skating rink or all the downtown decorations, it's safe to say that the amazing Newport Mansions are what causes the holiday cheer. Would you like to turn this day trip into an overnight getaway? Book a stay at the iconic Hotel Viking.

Which of these day trips in Rhode Island are you most excited about? You can't go wrong with any of them—I have done most of these day trips myself. Enjoy your Rhode Island travels this year!

Use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to find even more amazing destinations in the Ocean State.