Things to do in Rhode Island, United States: The Best Historic Walking Areas

January 15, 2022 Kelli Reichel

With the perfect combination of great seaside views, colorful local culture, and endless family activities, Rhode Island is a big vacation destination in a small package. Whether you are into art and culture, beautiful seaside sights, or great family-friendly activities, there is sure to be something for you in Rhode Island. If you're staying in Newport, try a breathtaking tour of the harbor in the Schooner Madeleine, or enjoy a bit of history at Fort Adams State Park. The Newport mansions are one of the most popular attractions around, and the nearby Cliff Walk is a great place for a hike. Narragansett is home to the lovely Narragansett Town Beach and Point Judith Lighthouse, and if you hop on the Block Island Ferry you are only a short trip away from Block Island, where you can enjoy the sights of the Mohegan Bluffs or party it up at Capt. Nick's Rock and Roll Bar. Take a drive up to Providence for some great shopping at Providence Place Mall and to visit the unforgettable Roger Williams Park Zoo.
Restaurants in Rhode Island

1. Photography on Foot

150 Forest Ave, Middletown, RI 02842-4671 +1 401-225-3553 [email protected]
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Learn how to take great vacation photos with any camera you have while seeing beautiful locations in Newport, RI. Tours include such locations as historic Cliff Walk, Downtown Newport, Fort Adams and the Norman Bird Sanctuary. Private tours and group tours available.

2. Dr. John Champlin Glacier Park

5 Kettle Close Intersection of Newbury Drive and Kettle Close, off Shore Road, Westerly, RI 02891-3696 http://westerlylandtrust.org
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5.0 based on 6 reviews

Dr. John Champlin Glacier Park

Reviewed By Strudel57 - Westerly, United States

This park has wide dirt paths. It is a little hilly. I have never seen it crowded. Dogs are allowed, but not their poop. Many dog owners seem to ignore that rule. As with any wooded area, spray for ticks...no matter what time of year. Skip this place in hot summer as it is filled with mosquitoes. In the Fall, the crisp smell of the changing seasons, the brilliance of the changing color of the leaves and if you listen carefully you can hear the ocean which is about 1 mile away

3. Cliff Walk

Newport, RI 02840-3659 401 849-8048 https://www.discovernewport.org/things-to-do/cliff-walk/
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4.5 based on 5,342 reviews

Cliff Walk

A scenic 3.5 mile walkway that borders the back lawn of The Breakers and many other Newport mansions.

Reviewed By Kirkpatd - Whitehead, United Kingdom

We parked at Easton beach (free) so you also get the benefit of the beach before you start the walk At this point the walk is pathed so very easy and on one side you get great views of the Atlantic Ocean and views back over the town. On the other side you get a view of the mansions and stately homes of the rich and famous About a mile into the walk the path becomes a little more challenging as you have to manoeuvre across rocks and uneven ground but this is not majorly difficult and you can pass with care. Make sure you have good soled shoes or trainers to give a bit more support The walk itself is about 3.5 miles and you end up at a small beach and from there you can get a trolley bus back into town if you don’t want to do the return leg Bring water, sun cream and a camera you won’t be disappointed

4. Ocean Drive

Newport, RI http://www.oceandrivenewport.com
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4.5 based on 2,924 reviews

Ocean Drive

The marked scenic route along the dramatic Atlantic shoreline that circles Newport.

Reviewed By 1973romabella - New York City, United States

It’s just a wonderful drive or you can stop and sun bathe , or just have a picnic , you can also fly a kite , lots of fun for the whole family

5. Benefit Street

Providence, RI http://www.visitrhodeisland.com/listing/benefit-streets-mile-of-history/97
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4.5 based on 217 reviews

Benefit Street

A mile of history is packed onto this cobblestone street lined with historic buildings. The Nightingale-Brown House, built in 1792, home to five generations of the Nicholas Brown Family (of Brown University) is a "must see" on the block.

Reviewed By MayLehmannNYC - New York City, United States

Shy of two miles long, Benefit street is a veritable "stroll" back in history as the street highlights 18th and 19th architecture. Modern street lights are replaced by faux gas lights which only add to the charm of this street. A walk at dusk when the lights come on is a must!

6. Historic Federal Hill

Providence, RI +1 401-453-6161 http://federalhillprov.com
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4.5 based on 668 reviews

Historic Federal Hill

Sip a strong espresso at an outdoor cafe, grab a quick pizza for lunch or dine in style at a gourmet Italian restaurant in this historic section of the city, also know as Little Italy. You'll know you have arrived by the huge arched gateway, with a bronzed pinecone, which marks the entry to the neighborhood.

Reviewed By TaLeOz - Providence, United States

Federal Hill is full of Italian Restaurants. In the summer you see a lot of people walking up and down Atwells Ave. There are so many restaurants to choose from, shops to visit or you can just sit on the square and enjoy the fountain. There is a little park that has checker/chess boards painted on the tables if you're interested in playing. You always see older Italian men sitting across from the square reminiscing & drinking coffee or smoking cigars. Along with a bunch of restaurants to choose from there are cigar bars if that's what you're craving. There are bakeries, steakhouses, Chinese food, hair salons, nail salons and places you can have your Tarot Cards read. If you are the dancing type come at night and you'll find a lot of Dance Clubs that are open until 2 in the morning. Back in the day there were Mafia all over the Hill but it's not like that today. There were even "hits" that made the front page of the Providence Journal Bulletin. Today it's a foodie's dream.

7. Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House

17 Broadway, Newport, RI 02840-2936 +1 401-846-3622
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4.5 based on 3 reviews

Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House

8. Mount Hope Farm

250 Metacom Ave, Bristol, RI 02809-5180 +1 401-254-1745 [email protected] http://www.mounthopefarm.org/
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

9. The Independence Trail

Providence, RI http://downtownprovidence.com/3157/
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2.0 based on 2 reviews

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