A Weekend in Rhode Island: Exploring New England

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A Weekend in Rhode Island: Exploring New England

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Rhode Island, the smallest state, also known as the Ocean State, is home to some of my favorite cities. A foodie city, Providence, is home to hundreds of unique restaurants, and Newport, home of the biggest homes in Rhode Island. Explore the Newport Mansions, and see the coast. Rhode Island is an essential stop on your New England road trip. Spend a weekend in Rhode Island with family, friends, or just go solo, it’s perfect for everyone.

Want to visit New England? Check out these 6 cities you must visit in New England!

Friday Night: Arrive in Providence to Start Your Weekend in Rhode Island

Providence is the best starting place to explore Rhode Island. It is central to all of the major spots, and has plenty of sites to see itself with some of my favorite restaurants.

Quick Bite & Take in the Sights from the Pedestrian Bridge

The Providence Pedestrian Bridge

There are tons of places to eat within walking distance of the pedestrian bridge, so I recommend grabbing something and eating on a bench or in the grass by the bridge. Some tasty places nearby are Plant City, a vegan, plant based restaurant, Dune Brothers Seafood, and a little bit farther, but my favorite, Umelt, a grilled cheese only establishment. One day I’ll write about all of my favorite Providence places to eat, but for now, you’ll have to read through for some of my favorites.

Now that you’ve got your lunch, stroll right on over to the new Pedestrian Bridge over the Providence River. Grab a spot to eat, and take in the views of the city. Definitely grab some insta pics before you head out. I didn’t and I definitely regret it.

Thayer Street or RISD Museum

Thayer Street is full of cool shops, and unique spots to grab a bite. There is even a small movie theatre, where they play indie movies and foreign films. You can find all of the RISD students there on Friday nights.

If you’re ready for dinner, you have a ton of options. A great quick stop, and a huge favorite among my friends is East Side Pockets. The hummus there is extraordinary. If you want a sit-down spot, then Den Den Korean Fried Chicken is delicious.

If you want to see the college town in action, head to Thayer Street. Looking for a more calm experience? Head to the RISD Museum.

The RISD Museum is a gorgeous museum and has everything from student works to ancient artifacts and modern art. It’s the perfect size for the city, and you can spend as much time here as you want. (And if you’re a student, it’s free!) For a college museum, it has a huge collection of artwork and historical objects, and you will definitely enjoy your time there.

Saturday: Continue Your Weekend in Rhode Island by Exploring Newport

Wake up & Head to PVDonuts

A French Toast donut from PVD donuts (eaten in my car because COVID)

Get ready for the best donut experience of your life. PVDonuts is a Providence staple. They make the tastiest, most unique donuts you’ll ever have. Be ready for a line, and to make a dent in your wallet. They’re on the pricier side and you’ll be tempted to buy a whole box, no matter the size of your travel group.

Drive to Newport & Visit the Newport Mansions

The drive to Newport is an easy 50 minute drive from Providence.

Whenever someone tells me they want to explore Rhode Island, I always recommend starting the day visiting the Newport Mansions. There are nine different homes, ranging in style and size that are preserved by the Newport County Preservation Society. Even if you’re not a history nerd like I am, these houses are definitely still worth a visit. You can pretend you live in luxury like these families, and walk the giant houses like you really live there. You can even get a Trolley Tour that includes admission to one of the houses from Viator.

Each house requires a ticket, and there are some special tours you can go on that also require a ticket. My favorite tour was the Servant Life Tour at The Elms because you got to see all of the behind the scenes rooms that you never get to see at houses like that. Strong Downton Abbey vibes.

“Hike” the Cliff Walk

Views from the Cliff Walk

The Cliff Walk definitely sounds more intimidating than it is, I promise. I wouldn’t really consider it a hike, but there are some rocky points that could be tough on you. The Cliff Walk runs along the coast, and winds behind many of the Newport mansions. It can get pretty crowded during the summer, but the views of the ocean are gorgeous, and it’s a great way to take in the coast. (And also a great way to get moving after having all that great food during your weekend in Rhode Island.)

Make sure you check out the smaller paths going off of the main trail to get great views and photos of the ocean.

Lunch and shopping at the Historic Newport Waterfront Shopping District

There are tons of places to eat and shop at the Waterfront Shopping District. Walk along the Wharf and down Thames Street to check out all of the local shops. There are some chain stores around, as well, but I definitely recommend checking out all the local artisans, like Shore Soap Co.

Like all coastal towns, there is plenty of seafood, but if that’s not your jam, there are definitely other options, too. It’s been a while since I’ve eaten at the Historic Waterfront, but when I was there, I ate at Busker’s Pub, which is a yummy Irish pub. If you’re a foodie, check out the Walking Food Tour from Viator.

If you’re looking for more activities in Newport, check out Viator’s experiences!

Italian Dinner Back at Providence’s Federal Hill

Drive under the acorn arch onto Historic Federal Hill, home to the most delicious Italian food in Providence (and also a great burger place, Harry’s). Whether you eat under the lights in DePasquale Square at Venda Ravioli (they have amazing pizza and pasta), or go for a modern Italian meal at Il Mossimo. Another favorite among my friends is Zooma. Be sure to have a cappuccino after dinner!

If you’re visiting Rhode Island in the summer or fall, be sure to make time for a Waterfire event (usually on Saturday nights). Waterfire is a gorgeous nighttime art display where they light bonfires on the river and have a festival alongside it.

Sunday: Last Day of Your Weekend in Rhode Island

Grab Some Brunch in Providence

Genuinely, home to my favorite restaurants, bunch is a city staple. The Duck & Bunny is a cool and eclectic creperie and tearoom built into an old stately home. I don’t remember if it’s a staple on the menu, but when I went I had a savory bread pudding with a poached egg on top, which was absolutely delicious. Whether it’s a staple or a special, the creativity that goes into their food is unmatched. Another great spot for brunch is Bayberry Beer Hall, a cafeteria style spot that has great beer and crafty cocktails. (And delicious pancakes.)

Visit the Roger Williams Zoo

The Roger Williams Park Zoo is one of my favorite Rhode Island activities, mainly because they have elephants, which I am obsessed with. Literally the most majestic animals. It’s a great zoo where you can easily spend a few hours with the family. If you visit close to Halloween, they will have their Jack O Lantern Spectacular, an awesome exhibit of extremely detailed carved pumpkins.

If you want a more historical experience, stay in Providence, and get a free tour of the State House, stop by the Providence Anatheum, where Edgar Allen Poe often visited, and tour the historic First Baptist Church. Maybe try a Walking Tour of Providence from Viator.

Rhode Island is the smallest state that packs the biggest punch. With delicious food, fascinating history, and a gorgeous coastline, Rhode Island is a perfect weekend getaway!

When you’re looking for somewhere to stay, Airbnb is a great option for the smallest state. From whole apartments to single rooms, there are plenty of great places to stay!

Be sure to share this article to Pinterest, so you don’t forget the highlights of spending a weekend in Rhode Island!

15 thoughts on “A Weekend in Rhode Island: Exploring New England

    1. Yes! It’s super cool! They light fires along the river while music plays and there are vendors around the river, as well! A super cool and unique experience.

  1. If nothing else, I need to visit for that donut. I’d love to explore more of the New England area but didn’t really know too much about Rhode Island so this was really helpful

  2. We supposed to road trip to New England last summer. Hopefully we can do it next year and I would like to grab something from Umelt and eat it on the Pedestrian Bridge while enjoying the views and people watching. The donut from PVD looks and sounds delicious. Of course it’s a must stop, too.

  3. I’ve briefly visited Rhode Island but there is so much to see and do I hope to go again one day!

  4. These are great suggestions! I really want to stay at The Dean hotel in Rhode Island one day.
    Thanks for the tips of things to do around the city!

  5. Lol I was seriously confused by the French toast doughnut! I thought it was a Japanese curry bread at first! That treat followed by the cliff top walk sounds like a great way to send a day on Rhode Island!!

  6. I will go to Rhode Island just for that donut shop!!! Looks like the state has a bit for everyone!

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