You might’ve read that article title and laughed. After all, probably the most famous trait about Rhode Island is how small it is. You might be asking yourself how could there possibly be any Rhode Island hidden gems? We actually have a surprising number of little-known places in Rhode Island. It may not be possible to explore them all in a single day, but you can certainly make a fantastic day trip to check out some of the best. We’ve put together a nice, scenic route that will leave you feeling like you’ve just had a mini vacation — but you’ll still be home in time for dinner.

Google Maps
You can access the full road trip itinerary on Google Maps. It's customizable, so you can add or remove stops if you like.
1. Bristol, RI 02809
Bristol, RI 02809, USA
J. Stephen Conn / Flickr
Start your day off in Bristol, or as we like to call it, the most criminally overlooked town in Rhode Island. It also may very well be the most patriotic city in the country. Bristol puts on a 4th of July celebration like nowhere else! There are tons of attractions at any time of year, though. Grab a latte and pick up some breakfast as you enjoy window shopping down the quaint Main Street area.
2. Neutaconkanut Hill Park: 899 Plainfield St, Providence, RI 02909
899 Plainfield St, Providence, RI 02909, USA
Ani Odi Chai / Flickr
Head over to Providence and check out Neutaconkanut Hill Park, a hidden gem in Rhode Island that just happens to be located right in the middle of our state's largest city. The park spans 88 acres and offers some of the best trails in the state and also some of the prettiest views of Providence.

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3. Warwick City Park: Steven O' Connor Blvd, Warwick, RI 02889
Steven O' Connor Boulevard, Steven O' Connor Blvd, Warwick, RI 02889, USA
Mike Cardarelli/Google Maps
This quiet, peaceful beachfront park is a local favorite — but tourists tend to skip it. There are three miles of walking and biking paths here, perfect for stretching your legs after being in the car. It's also one the best beaches in Rhode Island.
4. Goddard Memorial State Park Beach, Warwick, RI 02818
Goddard Memorial State Park Beach, Warwick, RI 02818, USA
Marc Neary/Google Maps
You won't have to go far for your next stop, as it's also in the lovely town of Warwick. Goddard Memorial State Park is another beautiful local gathering spot. There's a lot to do here: you'll find spacious lawns, fields, forested areas, and a sandy beach.
5. Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge: Middletown, RI 02842
Sachuest Point, Middletown, RI 02842, USA
Rhododendrites/Wikimedia Commons
Located in the most southeasterly part of the town of Middletown, you'll find the gorgeous Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge. This hidden oasis spans 242 acres. It's home to over 150 bird species, so if you're a bird watcher, you'll be in luck here!
6. Colt State Park: Bristol, RI 02809
Colt State Park, Bristol, RI 02809, USA
Sudipta Talukdar/Google Maps
You'll end your journey where you started, in Bristol. This time, make sure to check out the beautiful Colt State Park. This historic state park is surrounded by water on three sides and it just so happens to be the perfect place to catch a sunset.

How many of these hidden gems in Rhode Island have you seen? Do you have any more suggestions you’d like to see added to a road trip? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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More to Explore

Hidden Gems In Rhode Island

Lisa Sammons | May 17, 2022

What are some of the best hiking trails in Rhode Island?

For such a small state, there are a surprising number of great hiking trails in Rhode Island. You won't want to miss the Cemetery Trail at Pardon Gray Preserve — it's a lovely walk through an old historic cemetery. Not only is the natural scenery incredibly gorgeous, but you'll also get to see some beautiful old graves.

What are some of the best state parks in Rhode Island?

There are so many great state parks in Rhode Island that it's hard to pick a favorite. We love Colt State Park, as mentioned in the above article. With 464 acres to explore, you could spend days there. It's surrounded by water on three sides, so there's plenty of beachy area to enjoy.

What are some great hidden attractions in Rhode Island?

We love Prudence Island! This little island is a true Rhode Island hidden gem. You have to take a ferry to access it, and since it's fairly remote, it isn't as crowded as many other beautiful places in the state.

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