11 Things To Do In Rhode Island When You Thought You've Done Everything
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Jessica Medeiros
Author
When you’ve lived in and explored Rhode Island for an extended amount of time, it can be easy to look around this tiny state and think that you need to go elsewhere for entertainment and stimulation. Think again! With all of the industry, attractions, and new developments in Rhode Island, you can stay right here and still have new, challenging, and enjoyable experiences. I always seem to discover something new here. Here are 11 unique things to do in Rhode Island when you feel like you’ve already done and seen it all!
Hope Artiste Village, 1005 Main St #1201, Pawtucket, RI 02860, USA
Even if you have been to Hope Artiste Village in Pawtucket, chances are it is not the same as the last time that you saw it. The old mill that houses the various shops, restaurants, studios, and workshops, as well as an indoor farmers market (Saturdays from November through April), is adding new businesses and artists all of the time. Be sure to check out BreakTime Bowl for a drink, snack, and duckpin bowling! It's one of the most interesting hidden gems in Rhode Island.
Cliff Walk, Newport, RI 02840, USA
Anyone who says that they have "done it all" in Rhode Island has surely spent some time on the Cliff Walk in Newport. But how many people can say that they have walked this 3.5 mile path from start to finish? Join the elite club of those who have conquered the Cliff Walk, even if you do it one section at a time. The terrain and views change so much between Memorial Boulevard and Bailey’s Beach that you truly are missing out if you have not had this experience yet. Keep in mind that while the majority is easy walking on a paved or dirt path, at times you may find yourself scrambling over small boulders and rocks, so dress accordingly. If you are attempting to do it all in one shot, make sure that you arrange transportation once you make it to the other end. Calling for a Lyft wouldn’t be a bad idea.
Looking for more gorgeous places to walk? Check out these Rhode Island hikes.
Be sure to also check out this video by @Wedgenbigg:
Looking for more gorgeous places to walk? Check out these Rhode Island hikes.
Be sure to also check out this video by @Wedgenbigg:
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East Bay Bike Path, East Providence, RI 02914, USA
After you’ve checked the Cliff Walk off your list of accomplishments, how about taking on the East Bay bike path? This 13.8 mile path stretches from India Point in Providence to Independence Park in Bristol, and allows you to experience the beauty of four Rhode Island towns up close.
Take a look at this drone video of the East Bay bike path in the winter by @baddreams1436:
Take a look at this drone video of the East Bay bike path in the winter by @baddreams1436:
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If you still haven’t had enough biking, the Blackstone River Bike Path is 16.5 miles long, with a continuous path from Cumberland to Woonsocket and 4.7 miles of slightly more fragmented bikeway from Pawtucket to Providence. This path sticks close to the Blackstone River, and there is beautiful scenery throughout this route.
654 Thames St, Newport, RI 02840, USA
186 Broadway, Providence, RI 02903, USA
After all of that exercise, you should definitely take some time and treat yourself to a spa day. While this can often be a solo or couples activity, the Bodhi Spa with locations in both Providence and Newport offers the Water Journey, a series of pools, saunas, and steam rooms of varying temperatures meant to relax and detoxify. It’s the perfect place to relax with a group of friends, that special someone, or just on your own.
585 Blackstone Blvd, Providence, RI 02906, USA
This historic cemetery located on the East Side of Providence is beautifully kept, with winding roads shaded by tall trees (many of which are labeled for the would-be botanists out there!). Although a cemetery may not have been high on your list of places to walk or bike, it is the largest green space in Providence, and it provides a nice respite from daily life. And spending some time here is one of the most unique things to do in Rhode Island.
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While new restaurants are popping up all over the state, Providence is really booming. Artisan doughnut and bagel shops, beer gardens, Korean cuisine, gastropubs...If you haven’t checked out some of the new, hot restaurants as well as the established ones, you’re missing out. Looking for some tried-and-true dining options? Here are the most highly rated Rhode Island restaurants.
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Even if you really have done everything there is to do in Rhode Island (we still doubt it), chances are the majority of the food on your table at dinner comes from all across the country, or even farther. Give yourself the local challenge: try to make a meal (or even a week of meals!), with only Rhode Island-grown/produced/raised ingredients. Head to your farmers market to stock up for the week, and get creative. You will come across some awesome products, meet some wonderful, hardworking vendors, eat fresh, seasonal food, and learn a little more about your state in the process.
39 Warren Ave, East Providence, RI 02914, USA
Rhode Island has a surprising and thriving comedy and improv scene. No matter where you live, you are never too far away from a great show that will have you in stitches. The Bit Players in Newport, Comedy Connection in East Providence, Providence Improv Guild...the list goes on.
Rhode Island has about a dozen colleges and universities, and the events aren’t just for the students playing ultimate frisbee out on the quad. Check out the university websites for upcoming speakers and events. Many are open to the public, free, and interesting. These are some of the best places to visit in Rhode Island.
Take a look at this drone tour of Brown University by @BrownUBears:
Take a look at this drone tour of Brown University by @BrownUBears:
Everyone loves to get away, and if your getaway is in Rhode Island, chances are it won’t take you long to get there! Pick a town that you haven’t spent much time in and book an Airbnb or Vrbo or make other sleeping arrangements (you can stay in Tiverton’s historic schoolhouse, pictured above!). Choose a location that has features that appeal to you (close to the beach, great restaurants, vineyards, shopping, etc), and then go explore! It will be one of the most fun things to do in Rhode Island.
If getting away sounds like just the thing for you, check out these Rhode Island rentals with a water view!
If getting away sounds like just the thing for you, check out these Rhode Island rentals with a water view!
Are you ready to find some unique things to do in Rhode Island? What are some of your favorite places to visit around the state? Let us know! For more out-of-the-ordinary destinations, check out The 5 Coolest Attractions In Rhode Island That Not Enough People Visit.
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More to Explore
Unique Things To Do In Rhode Island
What hidden gems in Rhode Island can I visit?
Some of the most interesting hidden gems in Rhode Island include:
- Warwick City Park
- Neutaconkanut Park in Providence
- Prudence Island
- Green Animals Topiary Garden in Bristol
- Fantastic Umbrella Factory in Charlestown
- Big River Management Area in West Greenwich
- South Kingstown Sculpture Trail in South Kingstown
- Norman Bird Sanctuary in Middletown
- Pawtuxet Village
- Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge
Check out these hidden gems in Rhode Island for more.
What are some of the best hidden gem restaurants in Rhode Island?
The state offers some of the best restaurants in the country yet remains an underrated foodie destination. Here are some of the best hidden gem restaurants in Rhode Island:
- Beef Barn in North Smithfield
- CAV Restaurant in Providence (one of my personal favorites)
- The Slow Rhode in Providence
- Lindy’s Tavern in Providence
- Our Table in Jamestown
- The Shanty in Warwick
- Besos Tapas & Wine Bar in East Greenwich
- Treehouse Tavern in Warwick
There’s an endless supply of delicious food throughout the state and for that we are lucky. Our restaurant scene is simply the best! What other incredible hole-in-the-wall hidden gem restaurants would you add?