Have you ever stumbled into a park, a coffee shop, a garden, or a quirky store and thought “I’ve lived here for most of my life, how have I never seen this?” While it doesn’t happen often in a state as small as Rhode Island, the Ocean State does have some hidden gems. The spots on this list might not get as much attention as the state’s better known locales, but they’re all definitely worth checking out.
1. Touro Synagogue, Newport
Did you know the oldest remaining synagogue in North America is located right here in Rhode Island? You may have heard of Touro Synagogue or even spotted the building, but you owe it to yourself to go inside. This historic site dates all the way back to the 1760s, and you can tour it daily with the purchase of an $8 ticket.
Address: 85 Touro Street, Newport, RI, 02840
2. Prudence Island, Portsmouth
Prudence Island is one of the most off-the-beaten path spots you can possibly go in Rhode Island. Its main attraction is the Prudence Island Light, but the whole area is worth exploring. The Prudence Ferry operates daily.
3. Block Island National Wildlife Refuge
Speaking of islands, this little known refuge is peaceful, picturesque, and highly underrated. Hop on the Block Island Ferry and see for yourself.
4. Buttonwoods City Park & Beach, Warwick
This little beach park stays a hidden local secret, probably because it's not easy to find unless you're very familiar with the area. But when you do, you'll enjoy all day free beach access (and priceless peace and quiet). There are plenty of paved walking paths here, so this is the perfect spot for a beach run. Address: Asylum Road, Warwick, Rhode Island, 02889
5. Fantastic Umbrella Factory, Charlestown
Since 1968, this quirky market has been delighting the locals lucky enough to find it. Located in a 19th century farm yard, it's full of shops, boutiques, and cafes. Address: 4820 Old Post Road, Charlestown, RI, 02813
6. Musee Patamecanique, Bristol
Intrigued? You have to arrange a tour to see this truly hidden gem, whose exact location remains a mystery until then. However, guests who have explored it tend to have only positive things to say. It's a museum of sorts, filled with visual wonders.
7. Great Swamp Fight Monument, South Kingstown
It sounds like the title of a cheesy movie, but the Great Swamp Fight is a nearly forgotten part of Rhode Island's history. It took place in 1675, when Native American groups and colonial troops came to blows. Once the site of tremendous bloodshed, the monument is now just a series of small markers in a now peaceful hidden spot.
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Featured Addresses
Touro Synagogue National Historic Site, 85 Touro St, Newport, RI 02840, USA
Prudence Island, Portsmouth, RI, USA
Block Island National Wildlife Refuge, New Shoreham, RI 02807, USA
Asylum Rd, Warwick, RI, USA
Fantastic Umbrella Factory, 4820 Old Post Rd, Charlestown, RI 02813, USA