New year, new travels? If your calendar and wallet don’t allow for much jet-setting, we have great news: you can have an amazing year without leaving our state. We’ve compiled our list of the best day trips in Rhode Island for this year — and while you’re welcome to turn any of these into a weekend getaway, they can all be completed in a single day with proper planning.

1. January: Providence
Providence, RI, USA
The Providence Athenæum Facebook
Starting off our list of the best day trips in Rhode Island is beautiful Providence. There are all kinds of good reasons to visit the capital city in January. Between Restaurant Weeks and other events like the Rhode Island Brew Fest, you'll find plenty of things to do (and eat). But if nothing else, taking a day trip into the city just to spend hours exploring The Providence Athenæum is worth it. Read more about Providence.
2. February: Pawtucket
Pawtucket Wintertime Farmers Market Facebook
Pawtucket is pretty sleepy in the winter, but that only adds to its appeal. Just make sure you visit on a Saturday so you can check out the beloved Farm Fresh Winter Market at Hope Artiste Village. Learn more about Pawtucket.
3. March: Chariho
Charlestown, RI, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
The towns of Charlestown, Richmond, and Hopkinton, collectively referred to as Chariho, make for a memorable day trip indeed. These rural spots offer coastal and wooded scenery alike, and you can stop at some totally quirky spots (like the Fantastic Umbrella Factory) and see some historic gems, like this centuries-old pub. And if you can stick around past sunset, check out the Frosty Drew Observatory for nighttime stargazing. This is one of the most unique things to do in Rhode Island. Check out more about Charlestown.
4. April: Middletown
Middletown, RI, USA
management / TripAdvisor
Searching for "getaway spots near me?" Middletown is a perfect spring break destination -- it has quiet beaches, a beautiful bird sanctuary, and plenty of wine tasting. In fact, springtime is when Newport Vineyards and other area wine producers host their annual Wine and Tasting Tour. And if you're not a wine drinker, you can always stop by Brewski's -- but as with any day trip destination that involves alcohol, make sure you're the passenger and not the driver. Find out more about Middletown.
5. May: Woonsocket
Woonsocket, RI 02895, USA
David Wilson / Flickr
Why Woonsocket in May, you might be wondering? It's typically warm enough to explore the town on foot, and if you take the family, you can check out the Museum of Work and Culture or the Blackstone Gorge. Take an extra-close look at all the old buildings on Main Street, most of which date back to the mid-1800s. See more about Woonsocket.
6. June: Block Island
New Shoreham, RI 02807, USA
Jodi Grove / Flickr
If you find yourself searching for "getaways near me," we've found the right spot. Block Island is such a gem. Between the beachside bluffs, nature reserves, tasty restaurants, and other attractions, it's easy to spend an entire day enjoying life here ... and it's the perfect place to welcome summer. Read more about Block Island.

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7. July: Bristol
Bristol, RI 02809, USA
Explore Bristol Facebook
Bristol is well-known for its amazing Fourth of July festivities, which tend to start as early as July 2. But even if you're not a parade and fireworks kind of person, you'll love the summer vibes in this town. It's truly one of the best day trips in Rhode Island. Learn more about Bristol.
8. August: Narragansett
Narragansett, RI, USA
Susan Sermoneta / Flickr
Rhode Island's beachiest beach town is our top pick for an August day trip. Yes, it's when the beaches are the most crowded, but just look at the scenery. It's also home to two of our most iconic eateries: George’s of Galilee and Champlin’s Seafood. Check out more about Narragansett.
9. September: Rhode Island Seafood Festival
Providence, RI, USA
Rhode Island Seafood Festival Facebook
We're sending you back to Providence in September for a great cause. The annual Rhode Island Seafood Festival is a great spot for tasting some of the best seafood in New England, not to mention the live music and adult beverages. Find out more about the Rhode Island Seafood Festival.
10. October: Goddard Memorial State Park
Goddard Memorial State Park Beach, Warwick, RI 02818, USA
qofdnz / TripAdvisor
It's no secret that Rhode Island has some incredible fall foliage and nearly all of our state and local parks have plenty to offer. But Goddard Memorial State Park, which is located in East Greenwich, has hues from 62 deciduous and 19 evergreen tree species, plus 18 miles of bridle trails. See more about Goddard Memorial State Park.
11. November: Greenvale Vineyards
Greenvale Vineyards, 582 Wapping Rd, Portsmouth, RI 02871, USA
Travelingover50 / TripAdvisor
Head to Portsmouth in November and check out the annual harvest festival at Greenvale Vineyards. Aside from tastings of their award-winning wine, they'll have hard cider, live music, food, hayrides for the family, tractor rides, face painting, and plenty of games to ensure little ones have a great time as well. The event is typically held on the first or second weekend of November. Read more about Greenvale Vineyards.
12. December: Newport
Newport, RI, USA
Christmas in Newport/Facebook
Rounding out our list of the best day trips in Rhode Island is beautiful Newport. There's never a bad time to visit here, but the holiday season feels especially magical here. And while one could point the blame toward the seasonal ice skating rink or all the downtown decorations, it's safe to say that the amazing Newport Mansions are what causes the holiday cheer. Learn more about Newport, Rhode Island.

Enjoy your Rhode Island travels this year!

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Best Day Trips in Rhode Island

Danielle Schwartz | June 17, 2022

What are the most scenic towns in Rhode Island?

There are lots of scenic towns in Rhode Island for you to check out. Some of our favorites include New Shoreham, Jamestown, and Narragansett. New Shoreham is found on Block Island, so that already makes it lovely and unique. There are also plenty of charming shops and restaurants for you to enjoy. Pick one that overlooks the water! Jamestown is great if you are looking for nature and amazing food, and Narragansett is perfect for the architectural sightseers.

What are the most popular restaurants in Rhode Island?

When we think of popular restaurants in Rhode Island, there are always a couple of places that immediately come to mind. If you are a seafood fan, you should go to The Lobster Bar in Newport. It’s best known for its lobster, of course, as well as its location right on the ocean. You can’t go wrong with dining with a view. It’s clear why this place is much beloved by locals and visitors alike. CAV Restaurant in Providence is a great choice if you want to experience a cool atmosphere with amazing decor. It also features lots of antiques, so it’s no wonder that CAV is a place people want to come back again and again.

What are the best little-known attractions in Rhode Island?

Neutaconkanut Park is a great little-known attraction in Rhode Island. It’s filled with amazing natural features, including wildflowers, brooks, and lush greenery all around you. Hoping to really get away from it all? Head to Prudence Island, a small and isolated island that will really make you feel relaxed. It has gorgeous scenery too!

 

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