This Road Trip Takes You To The 6 Most Fascinating Historical Sites In All Of Rhode Island
By Beth Price-Williams|Published October 04, 2022
×
Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
One of the best things about a road trip is we can go where everywhere want, and we can create whatever theme we want. If we love lighthouses, for example, we can travel to the best lighthouses in Rhode Island. The same goes for beaches, quirky destinations, and even pie shops. History buffs have so many historical sites in Rhode Island to visit that you’ll probably be able to create a few road trips. This road trip, however, will take you to some of Rhode Island’s most fascinating historical sites.
Here are the Google Map directions for this short but sweet road trip with a drive time of just over 2.5 hours.
Let's kick off our road trip to Smith's Castle in North Kingstown. Rich with history, the castle dates back to the 1600s and has a fascinating and tragic past. The original building burned down and was replaced by the "castle" visitors tour today. Read more about this historic Rhode Island castle in our previous article.
Advertisement
2. General Nathanael Greene Homestead – Coventry
General Nathanael Greene Homestead, 50 Taft St, Coventry, RI 02816, USA
Our next stop brings us to a historic home that's also said to be teeming with the paranormal. A Continental Army general during the American Revolution, Nathanael Green built the home before the war began. You can join a tour seasonally to learn more about the home's history. You might even experience something otherworldly during your visit. Learn more about this real haunted house in Rhode Island.
Powered by water, Slater Mill got its start in 1793. It produced cotton and became so successful that the mill became a model for manufacturers across the country. Today, you can tour the mill, which includes fascinating demonstrations and employees in period costumes. Plan your visit to the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution by reading our previous article.
4. Coggeshall Farm Museum – Bristol
Coggeshall Farm Museum, 1 Colt Dr, Bristol, RI 02809, USA
Living in Rhode Island truly allows us to journey to different eras. Our next stop at Coggeshall Farm Museum takes us back to the 1800s. Nestled in Colt State Park, this farm museum offers a glimpse into how the farm actually worked. Many of the buildings have been maintained, and you'll have the chance to see the resident farm animals, too. Read more about this unique
museum in Rhode Island in our previous article.
5. Fort Barton – Tiverton
Fort Barton and Ft. Barton Woods, 360 Highland Rd #340, Tiverton, RI 02878, USA
A fort during the American Revolution, Fort Barton is now a family-friendly park that boasts some of the prettiest views in all of Rhode Island. The best way to explore the park is on a picturesque path that's dripping with beauty - from fairy tale footbridges to tree-lined staircases. It even has a viewing tower that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Learn more about this historic hike in Rhode Island.
6. Fort Adams – Newport
Fort Adams Drive, Fort Adams Dr, Newport, RI 02840, USA
A day at Fort Adams State Park should start with a tour of the historic Fort Adams, which was in service for more than a century. Even if you happen to visit when the fort isn't open for tours, you'll find a ton to do at the state park, including picnicking and boating. Find out why Fort Adams State Park promises the most magnificient sunsets in Rhode Island.
What are your favorite historical sites in Rhode Island? Let us know in the comments! To soak up more of the state’s stunning beauty, follow Scenic Route 102 in Rhode Island.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
