The Most Affordable Rhode Island Road Trip Takes You To 7 Stunning Sites For Under $100
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A road trip doesn’t necessarily mean spending a ton of cash or taking time you simply don’t have. This affordable Rhode Island road trip, for example, takes just a single day, although you can space it out over several days, if you want. Even better? The majority of the destinations are free, so you’ll just have to pay for food and gas along the way. Ready for a fun and affordable road trip in Rhode Island? Let’s go!
Here are the Google Map directions for this road trip. Customize them to meet your needs, timeframe, and interests.
The Providence Athenaeum, 251 Benefit St, Providence, RI 02903, USA
Let's kick off our affordable Rhode Island road trip at The Providence Athenaeum, a gorgeous library that's a must-visit at least once. (Chances are you'll be back again and again.) This historic destination dates back to 1836. A self-guided tour (unless you're with a group) is the best way to soak in the sheer beauty of the library. Even better? Admission is free.
Read more about this beautiful library in Rhode Island in our previous article.
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Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge, 105A Central Pike, Foster, RI 02825, USA
Did you know that Rhode Island's home to a single covered bridge? That's our next stop on this affordable road trip in Rhode Island. While you don't need cash for our next stop, you'll probably want to bring a camera. Pull over to the side of the road to marvel at this manmade wonder, and stroll through it. However, it sits next to a house, so be respectful of the homeowners, and move out of the way for any traffic. Take a peek at this covered bridge in Rhode Island in our previous article.
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Exeter Scrap Metal Inc, 405 Nooseneck Hill Rd, Exeter, RI 02822, USA
We've got some downright unique roadside attractions in Rhode Island, and we're heading to just one of them on our next stop. Signaling you've arrived at Exeter Scrap Metal, this larger-than-life-scorpion demands a visit. Stop to say hi and snap some photos. Maybe even a selfie or two? Learn more about this one-of-a-kind roadside attraction in Rhode Island.
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Cliff Walk, Newport, RI, USA
Bring a pair of comfy shoes - and make sure your phone or camera is charged - for your stroll along the Cliff Walk in Newport. The path spans just 3.5 miles. You can explore some or all of it, but you'll likely want to see it all. From the ocean to the Newport Mansions, this walk promises stunning beauty. Get a glimpse of the natural beauty that awaits on this breathtaking walk in Rhode Island.
Curious to learn more? Check out this video from YouTube user Scottsdale Travel Chick:
Curious to learn more? Check out this video from YouTube user Scottsdale Travel Chick:
Audubon Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge, 116 Seapowet Ave, Tiverton, RI 02878, USA
Rhode Island's brimming with natural beauty, so it's only fitting that we include a few outdoor destinations that showcase that beauty. This is another free natural attraction that offers an ideal opportunity, no matter the season, to go on a beautiful hike. You've got a pretty good shot of coming across local wildlife during your visit. Read more about this natural wonder in Rhode Island in our previous article.
Colt State Park, Bristol, RI 02809, USA
Colt State Park earns the honor of being known as the "gem of the Rhode Island state park system." If you need a breather by now, sit along the shore, and gaze out over the water. The park is picture-perfect for flying a kite, taking a stroll, and having a picnic. But...save your appetite for our final stop. Read more about this Rhode Island gem.
Mare Rooftop, 229 Waterman St, Providence, RI 02906, USA
For the first time on our road trip - except if you stopped for gas or snacks - we'll open our wallet for a delightful meal and amazing views. If you time it right, you might even catch a glorious Rhode Island sunset. Mare Rooftop boasts stunning views and rooftop dining all year around. You'll find everything from pizza and pasta to short rips and scallops on the menu, too, a delicious way to cap off the day. Learn more about the tallest rooftop restaurant in Rhode Island.
What’s your favorite affordable Rhode Island road trip? Let us know in the comments! When you’re up for more exploring, visit these charming small towns in Rhode Island.
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More to Explore
Affordable Things to do in Rhode Island
What are some other affordable things to do in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is a tiny state that packs a big punch! In addition to the above road trip adventures, here are some other affordable things to do in Rhode Island:
- Mohegan Bluffs. While you will have to pay for the Block Island Ferry to reach the Mohegan Bluffs, the attraction itself is free. These clay cliffs are about 150 feet tall, and they are truly majestic. You're also welcome to explore the beach below.
- Beavertail State Park. Located at the southern end of Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, Beavertail State Park has one of the most photographed lighthouses in New England. But there's a lot more to see at this 153-acre park. Here you'll find some of the most beautiful vistas along the New England coastline and a history that goes back to 1749.
- Arcadia Management Area. The Arcadia Management Area is Rhode Island's largest recreational area, spanning about 14,000 mostly forested acres. The area is co-managed by DEM’s Divisions of Forest Environment and Fish & Wildlife, and it's the perfect place for hiking, fishing, and horseback riding, just to name a few.
- Trustom Pond Wildlife Refuge. The trails at Trustom Pond are second to none. They're open daily from sunrise - sunset, and we highly recommend ending your day here for obvious reasons.
- Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology. History buffs, this one's for you! This tiny treasure is located on the campus of Brown University in Providence. Interesting artifacts will catch your eye in every exhibit. Worthy of a short visit, pair this free museum with one of many other activities in the city for a full day trip.
- Jamestown Memorial Fire Museum. Another fun Rhode Island day trip for history lovers, this charming gem of a museum is loaded with vintage firefighting equipment. Take a step back in time as you enjoy the historic engines, photos, and other memorabilia. Volunteer firefighters staff the museum and are extremely knowledgeable!