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Size doesn’t matter, huh?
Tell that to one of America’s trendiest getaways, known for its beauty and coastal charm, jam-packed in tight boundaries.
Exploring the Northeast no longer solely consists of ferry rides to Nantucket, fist-pumping on Jersey boardwalks, or immersing yourself in a number of clustered urban sprawls that realistically all kinda look the same.
America’s smallest state packs a punch, and there are a record 29.4 million visitors to back me up on that.
From the underrated capital city of Providence to the lesser-known (and surprisingly ritzy) shores of Westerly, the map-dot state of Rhode Island is the latest U.S. destination to break all-time tourism records.
Explore An Entire State In A Weekend
How often can you visit an entire state on a quick weekend getaway?
It’s impossible with America’s top dogs, but Rhode Island is the runt of the litter.
Whether it be city breaks to go bar-hopping and sightseeing or small coastal towns oozing charm and character for a quiet retreat, consider it done and done in Rhode Island.
Though, it’s important to note the state isn’t exactly an island itself, but one place travelers have been flocking to is indeed an island — and that would be Block Island, arguably the best spot for a classic New England beach escape.
No matter if you stay the night in Providence and make that your base or opt for a cozier stay in such places as the mansion-mania town of Newport, one thing tourists truly love about this state most of it can be traversed in an hour (if you don’t stop, of course).
As a visitor myself, I suggest making your base in Providence. It’s one of our favorite weekend getaways here at Travel Off Path. You’ll definitely want to check out this year’s WaterFire event.
Providence’s restaurant scene alone will have you coming back for more — that is unless you drank from the fountain at Brown University, where legend has it, you’re destined to come back anyway.
Venture Beyond Newport: Discover Rural Rhode Island
Don’t get me wrong — Newport is gorgeous. But it’s also one of those places that once you’ve seen it, you’ve seen it.
The main strip is clearly a draw for tourists and lacks the local feel it surely once had in its early days, but there’s no denying its beauty and impeccable seafood.
Many visit Newport to trek the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk for sweeping ocean views and to “ohh” and “ahh” at insanely massive mansions.
But don’t feel you have to be force-fed Newport as your Northern Star when there’s more to discover, even in such a small state.
Towns like Tiverton and Bristol boast quintessential small-town charm and tend to be overshadowed by Newport, the latter of which feels etched in time as it’s on the National Register of Historic Places as one of the most well-preserved New England towns.
Another Travel Off Path favorite is Narragansett, though you might want to hold off for warmer weather to fully enjoy the serene shores in the sunshine.
As you can probably tell by now, to truly experience Rhode Island the way it should be, you’ll want to rent a car, which can easily be done by flying into Providence (PVD), the state’s only major commercial airport.
Is Rhode Island Worth Visiting In Winter?
Rhode Island is undoubtedly most popular during the summer when beaches become packed to the gills.
But the state is very much a 4-season destination. Come wintertime, you can leave your swimwear at home.
From December to March, this is the state’s off-season, where you’ll experience fewer crowds, better prices, and if we’re being frank, occasionally snow-dusted shores you won’t want to swim in.
Still, there’s an undeniable coastal allure. You can score way better deals at one of many luxury beachfront hotels.
Plus, Providence becomes an underrated winter wonderland, and let’s just say Newport’s mansions don’t skimp on a Christmas budget — it’s one of the most festive spots in Rhode Island.
Make sure to check out the Holiday Light Show in the tiny town of Hope too.
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Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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