8 Great Road Trips to Take in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is one of the best states to embark on a road trip, and for valid reasons. The state boasts a sparkling ocean scenery and around 400 miles of gorgeous shoreline to explore and embark on adventures. History is also alive in the state, with historic mansions like the Breakers and Blithewold Manor on the front line. Add these attractions to the lighthouses, beaches, vineyards, bays, lakes, and lovely towns that line up on its scenic roads, and driving in the open becomes more inviting. Without further ado, embark on these eight great road trips and be blown away by the Ocean State's captivating scenery, history, and cultures.
Colonel Rodman Highway (Route 4)
Route 4 is an inland scenic drive that courses through the hearts of small towns and villages of Rhode Island. While it boycotts the coast, this drive still has the spice and thrill of a quintessential Rhode Island road trip, as it is packed with quaint settlements and their numerous iconic attractions. The short 30-minute route begins from North Kingston and runs for 10 miles to Warwick, stretching between South Kent and Washington Counties. Small towns along the route to visit and explore include North Kingston, Wickford, East Greenwich, Davisville, and Warwick. The Audubon Davis Memorial Wildlife Refuge in East Greenwich is a critical stop for nature buffs and animal lovers. In Warwick, travelers can spend time at the Goddard Memorial Park enjoying its saltwater beach, picnicking, and boating. Meanwhile, the Smith’s Castle near Wickford is a must-visit for history buffs as it is one of the oldest surviving plantation houses in America, built in 1678.
Route 3
Route 3, unlike many other popular routes, does not run along the ocean's shores or near it. Rather, it courses through a couple of small towns in Rhode Island, beginning from Westerly to West Warwick. Travelers looking to immerse themselves in Ocean State's small towns' amazing and rich cultural vibes will find this drive alluring. Stretching for 30 miles, this road trip promises to be fun as it takes travelers through towns like Hopkinton, Exeter, and West Greenwich. In Westerly, travelers can enjoy some beach fun at Misquamicut State Beach and later visit Long Pond and Canonchet Brook Preserve in Hopkinton for sightseeing, picnicking, and hiking activities. At Exeter, make time to visit the Wicked Tulips and Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge before heading back from this short-day trip.
Providence to Narragansett
Enjoy a scintillating road trip along Interstate 95 and Route 4 that runs out of Providence and southward to the quaint bay town of Narragansett, where beauty, peace, and tranquility reign. The road trip is short at approximately 30 miles but full of visual indulgences and historic stops that leave indelible marks in the heart. Along the route, travelers will bypass or make nearby detours in towns and cities such as Warwick, East Greenwich, and Exeter. In East Greenwich, be sure to stop for lunch at the Warwick Mall Food Court in Warwick or Dunkin Doughnuts in East Greenwich. Other points of interest worth checking out on the ride include the Conimicut Lighthouse in Warwick, Wickford Village in North Kingston, and the Towers and Point Judith Lighthouse in Narragansett.
Route 1A
Route 1A remains one of the finest and quintessential drives in Rhode Island, offering scintillating vistas of the Atlantic Ocean for most of its length. This 33.3-mile scenic drive begins from Westerly and stretches to North Kingston, entirely within Washington County. It bypasses four main towns - Westerly, South Kingston, Narragansett, and North Kingston. Along the route, travelers will be spoiled with numerous attractions, including the Winnapaug Pond in Westerly, the Pettaquamscut River, and the Ninigret Pond in Charlestown. The Ninigret Wildlife Refuge in Charlestown is also along the route and deserves a visit. However, the most beautiful stops on this trip are on the beaches along it, such as Narragansett, Misquamicut, Charlestown, and Green Hill Beaches. Travelers can stop by these beaches to stretch their feet by promenading, basking in the sun, or enjoying picnics on the sands. Moreover, if you want to grab a bite (or drink) along the route, Mews Tavern has craft beer and food in South Kingstown. That said, be sure to have a designated driver who won’t be drinking.
East Providence to Portsmouth
If you're in East Providence, the 25-mile drive to Portsmouth is an exciting experience. This drive is less than an hour long, but the beautiful and exciting attractions lined up on the way make spending hours on the adventure possible. This road trip begins from Warren Avenue, near KhaoSan Thai Street Food (a great pre-trip meal), and then merges into Interstate 195 before diverting into Route 114. On the way, make detours and relax at some beaches, including Barrington Town Beach, Warren Town Beach, and Bristol Town Beach. If you need to get anything during the drive, Barrington Shopping Center is an ideal place to stop, with food joints, Shaw’s, CVS Pharmacy, and an ATM. Upon arriving in Portsmouth, enjoy delicious Asian meals at Mindy's Restaurant and then explore some of the town's top attractions, such as the Newport Car Museum, Portsmouth Arts Guild, and Green Animals Topiary Garden.
Route 114 (Newport to Woonsocket)
Embark on a scenic journey along Route 114, beginning in the historic charm of Newport and winding north to Woonsocket. This 46-mile drive blends coastal beauty with small-town allure, offering a quintessential Rhode Island experience. Start your adventure in Newport, where the iconic mansions and bustling waterfront set the stage. As you head north, the route meanders through charming towns like Bristol, known for its tree-lined streets and vibrant harbor. Stop by Colt State Park for sweeping views of Narragansett Bay or explore the lush gardens of Blithewold Mansion. Continuing through Warren and Barrington, the drive offers glimpses of pastoral landscapes and quaint villages, perfect for leisurely stops. Similar to the previous route, Barrington’s Shopping Center offers plenty of options to eat, including Spaghetti Lane and Leon’s Cafe. The journey culminates in Woonsocket, a city rich in industrial history and cultural gems, including the Museum of Work and Culture.
Route 102
Route 102 offers one of the most scenic and extended drives in Rhode Island, perfect for those who enjoy spending time on the road. Stretching 44 miles, this picturesque route begins in North Smithfield and winds through charming small towns like Burrillville, Glocester, Scituate, Foster, Coventry, West Greenwich, and Exeter before concluding in the quaint village of Wickford in North Kingstown. The drive is a visual treat, with its dense forests, serene lakes, and rivers punctuated by two historic districts and a range of natural and cultural attractions.
In Foster, don’t miss the opportunity to see the Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge, the only covered bridge on a public road in the state. For a relaxing break, Scituate Reservoir provides a peaceful picnic area with breathtaking water views. Midway through the journey, consider stopping at The Village Bean in Glocester for a quick bite or coffee to keep you fueled.
Ocean Drive (New Port Loop)
The Ocean Drive, also known as the Newport Loop, is arguably the most iconic road trip in Rhode Island. It showcases the state’s coastal splendor and historic allure. Starting at Bellevue Avenue in Newport, this 10-mile scenic drive winds through some of the most stunning sights and landmarks before ending near Fort Adams. Despite its short length, this route has breathtaking ocean views, lush parks, and architectural gems.
A highlight of the journey is Brenton Point State Park, located at the island's southern edge, where travelers can enjoy a picnic while taking in sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Other notable stops include Gooseberry Beach, Bailey’s Beach, Kings Park, and Bannister’s Wharf, which offers shopping and dining options. For a glimpse into the opulence of the Gilded Age, don’t miss the grand mansions along the route, such as The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff. Midway through the drive, you can grab a bite or a drink at Castle Hill Inn, a historic spot with stunning water views.
Conclusion
From the Ocean Drive to Route 1A, Rhode Island presents a beautiful selection of scenic drives with arresting views. Since the state is small, some of these road trips are naturally short to complete but hard to forget. Also, the shorter distance makes it easier to experience two or more trips at once for more excitement. So get behind the wheel, wind down the windows, and hit the road to experience the best of Rhode Island on these road trips.
