One great things about how small Rhode Island is is that it’s very easy to see many of our states important landmarks in only one day. If you are looking for a way to see some of the most historic and beautiful areas of Rhode Island in under twenty four hours, this road trip is the perfect fit for you. Follow our map to see 7 important Rhode Island landmarks with only an hour and 25 minutes of driving.
1. Fort Adams State Park, Newport
Fort Adams State Park, 80 Fort Adams Dr, Newport, RI 02840, USA
Your day begins at Fort Adams State park. As the largest coastal fortification in America, the Fort that the park is named after is fantastically fun to explore on tours in the warmer seasons. But even when it's cold out, a visit to this park and some sight seeing at the Fort will fill you with an incredible sense of state pride.
2. The Breakers Mansion, Newport
Your next stop is only ten minutes away. Newport is known for its summer mansions and the Breakers is by far the most grandiose of all of them. Take a self guided tour to learn all about the history about the mansion as you walk around it.
3. Artillery Park, Jamestown
Rhode Island Historical Cemetery, North Road and, 92 Narragansett Ave, Jamestown, RI 02835, USA
Just another quick 25 minute drive away in Jamestown is Artillery Park, also known as Churchyard Cemetery. Listed on the national register of historic places, this graveyard features important memorials to Rhode Island military history as well as many interesting older graves. The stop may seem a little morbid, but it is an important part of Rhode Island history.
4. Windmill Hill Historic District/Flickr
Windmill Hill Historic District, Jamestown, RI 02835, USA
Just ten minutes away from Artillery Park lies Windmill Hill historic district. This breathtaking collection of fields and hills is unbelievably idyllic. The old Dutch style windmill is definitely the highlight of this stop.
5. Gilbert Stuart Birthplace and Museum, Saunderstown
Gilbert Stuart Birthplace & Museum, 815 Gilbert Stuart Rd, Saunderstown, RI 02874, USA
At the shortest drive yet, it's only eight minutes to get to your next stop. The Gilbert Stuart birthplace is a pastoral 18th century home that features gardens, a gristmill, art exhibitions, and woodland trails to explore. Once the home of great painter Gilbert Stuart, this museum will make you feel like you've traveled back in time.
6. The Arcade, Providence
The Arcade Providence, 65 Weybosset St, Providence, RI 02903, USA
Buckle up for your longest drive of the trip, 36 minutes away from Gilbert Stuarts Birthplace is the Arcade. Built in 1828, the Arcade is Americas largest indoor mall. Not many shops remain, but the building is absolutely something to be marveled at with massive columns and old world grace.
7. Slater Mill, Pawtucket
Old Slater Mill National Historic Landmark, 67 Roosevelt Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860, USA
A quick 13 miles away from the Arcade is our last stop, Pawtucket's own Slater Mill. This National Historical Landmark is an old mill turned museum that will teach you the history of the textile industry in Rhode Island in the 18th and 19th century. The grounds include a waterfall and gorgeous park, so this is a great spot to maybe unpack a little picnic after your tour and discuss the days adventures.
This seems like an awesome way to spend the day seeing Rhode Island landmarks without burning out on driving. Which of these seven sites are you most excited to see? If you’re looking for other fun road trips in the state, this list is a great place to start!
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