Just Two Hours From Newport, New Shoreham Is The Perfect Rhode Island Day Trip Destination
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on April 29, 2024(Originally published April 08, 2022)
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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.
A day trip provides an ideal opportunity to get away, especially if you don’t have a lot of time or the funds for a longer vacation. Fortunately, we have an abundance of spots all across the state that make the perfect day trips in Rhode Island – like New Shoreham on Block Island. The enchanting small town provides an idyllic backdrop for a day of relaxation and exploration.
Grab a ride aboard one of the ferries that shuttle visitors from one of several small towns in Rhode Island, including Newport, for the leisurely journey to New Shoreham on Block Island.
If you want to take your car, you’ll have to take the ferry from Port Judith, and reservations are required. Find a list of ferry transportation.
With a population of just over 1,000, the darling small town earns props as the smallest town in the United States’ smallest state. However, Block Island can get incredibly busy during the summer – drawing upwards of 20,000 visitors each day.
You'll just have to see for yourself why this is such a popular island for Rhode Island day trips.
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You’ll find plenty to do in this small town that’s drenched in natural beauty. Drink in some of the most beautiful views in Rhode Island with a visit to Mohegan Bluffs.
Stroll down 141 steps to reach the sandy beach. It’s a bit of a trek, but it’s well-worth it for the dramatic views that await.
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One of the best ways to explore Block Island is on one of its more than a half of a dozen hiking trails, that range from easy to moderate and will take you all over the island.
For more outdoor fun, plan to spend an hour or two at Lewis-Dickens Farm Wildlife Refuge, a 120-acre natural area that boasts two trails, gorgeous views of the ocean, and the chance to spot local wildlife, including deer.
If you have the time, soak up the sun on one of the sandy beaches on the island. Go swimming at Fred Benson Town Beach; hunt for sea glass at West Beach, or go snorkeling at Surf Beach.
The town also features a generous selection of restaurants and eclectic shops. If one day just isn’t enough time to soak up the charm of this small town, check into one of its hotels or beach houses.
Start planning your visit on the official website of the Block Island Tourism Council. New Shoreham is one of the best day trips in Rhode Island you can take.
What are some of your favorite day trips in Rhode Island? Is it New Shoreham or another small Rhode Island town? Let us know in the comments! Day-tripping is so much fun – and so easy – in Rhode Island. Here are 12 unforgettable Rhode Island day trips, one for each month of the year.
If you’re planning to spend the night on Block Island, book a stay at The Atlantic Inn.
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