Drive To 6 Incredible Summer Spots Throughout Rhode Island On This Scenic Weekend Road Trip

Weekends and road trips were made for each other, and they’re especially magical in the summer. And even though Rhode Island is small, you can still enjoy a beautiful weekend road trip without ever leaving the state…in fact, you’ll have plenty of time to experience the full bliss that is the Ocean State in the summertime.

Pack an overnight bag, map out some ice cream stops along the way, and prepare to play tourist at home for awhile.

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JJBers / Flickr

Start your weekend in beautiful Bristol, our deep-water seaport named after Bristol, England. Grab a latte from Empire Tea & Coffee and take a morning stroll down the waterfront.

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Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum / Google

Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum span about 30 acres, and you can take yourself on a self-guided tour beginning at 10 a.m. each day.

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You could easily spend a few days simply exploring Newport. But of you only have an afternoon, just take a walk at the Cliff Walk, enjoy some lunch at the Black Pearl or one of the other iconic eateries, and enjoy some shopping.

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Garen M / Flickr

There's so much to love about charming Jamestown. Named after James, the Duke of York, this little town played a big role in planning the American Revolution. The Beavertail Lighthouse Museum is a must-see.

Mr. Nixter / Flickr

Next, head over to Narragansett to enjoy some dinner and an incredible sunset. We don't know what it is about sunsets over Naragansett Bay, but they're absolutely enchanting. Spend the night at one of the little seaside hotels to get the full tourist experience.

Rawpixel LTD / Flickr

Before you leave Narragansett, you'll definitely want to check out the Point Judith Lighthouse. Located on the west side of the entrance to Narragansett Bay, this lighthouse dates all the way back to 1816. The original structure, which was destroyed by a hurricane, was built in 1810.

Kristy Lee / Google

Charlestown is home to Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge, which holds 858 acres of preserved wetlands. This is the perfect peaceful place to come on a warm summer day.

Where else would you go on a Rhode Island road trip like this?