Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about going on vacation to Rhode Island. While it is the smallest state in the nation, there are still lots of cool places to visit in Rhode Island. As with any travel destination, there were many surprises in store for us. If you’re thinking about visiting Rhode Island, don’t be surprised at these “shocks.”
Driving in Rhode Island
Rhode Island was actually voted one of the worst states for driving in the U.S. The signage is really bad, and the drivers aren’t that great, either! We could blame it on the Connecticut and Massachusetts drivers passing through, or the distracting scenery, but regardless; expect some frustration on your Rhode Island road trip.
Coffee Milk
Coffee Milk is the official drink of Rhode Island. As someone who hates coffee, I was shocked to learn that I actually like coffee milk. It’s milk with a hint of coffee syrup in it. You’ll see it sold everywhere, from single-size cups to a full gallon jug. It’s definitely worth trying when you visit Rhode Island; even if you don’t normally like coffee. Del’s frozen lemonade is another must-have drink in Rhode Island.
Clams in Rhode Island
If you only eat one thing in Rhode Island, make sure you try some clams. Clam chowder, clam strips, or clam cakes: they’re all the best things to eat in Rhode Island. Clam cakes are my favorite; they look more like a hush puppy than a cake, but they are delicious! Whole bellied clams are really good, too!
Simply Jocelyn Shares What to Eat in Rhode Island
Portuguese Food in Rhode Island
We were truly shocked at how much great Portuguese food we found in Rhode Island, specifically Providence. After living in Portugal, I make a point to stop in Providence for Portuguese food anytime I’m in the area. There are many great Portuguese restaurants to choose from. You’ll also find fantastic Italian food in Providence.
Newport, Rhode Island
Everything about Newport is a shock…in a good way! It is one of the best places to visit in Rhode Island. Newport is probably best known for the mansions from the Gilded Age of the Vanderbilts, Morgans, and the Astors. There are a lot of mansions you can tour, but I recommend The Breakers above all others. This Vanderbilt home is quite stunning. There’s also the Cliff Walk, which is a 3 ½ mile walk along the shore, with views of the mansions and the oceans. If you’re looking for a beach, East End Beach is a true beach on the ocean.
Plan you Newport Vacation at Discover Newport!
Hidden Gems in Rhode Island
For being such a small state, you would think it’s easy to see “all of Rhode Island” in one trip. But there are so many small towns to explore. From Providence to Newport to Block Island, and all kinds of coastal towns, there are a lot of hidden gems in Rhode Island. Make sure you don’t just zoom through on I-95!
Size of Rhode Island
Yeah, we know it’s the smallest state in the union, but it’s still shocking how small Rhode Island actually is! It’s only 1200 square miles; 48 miles long and 37 miles across! You can get almost anywhere in about an hour. This makes it easy to explore the state from one home base without having to move hotels every day.
Providence Waterfire
If you’re in Providence at the right time, you can catch the dancing fire of Waterfire. This art installation takes place on the river in the summer months. It’s like a bunch of little bonfires on the river, and it’s really cool to see. Especially if you just stumble upon it; it’s a nice surprise. It turns into a whole festival with live music and food trucks.
Gas Prices in Rhode Island
The gas prices are way cheaper in Rhode Island than in Connecticut. Gas is so expensive in Connecticut, that I was pleasantly surprised to see much cheaper prices in Rhode Island. If you’re just passing through en route to Connecticut, make sure you stop for gas!
Rhode Island Beaches
While the beaches are part of what drove the New York society set to build summer homes here, the water is shockingly cold. There are great things to do along the beach, including hiking and bike rides, but I don’t recommend swimming in the ocean…it’s just too cold!
Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!
Don’t let these “shocks” keep you from planning a Rhode Island getaway. It’s a small state that really packs a lot in and it’s in close proximity to other great New England destinations like Massachusetts and Connecticut. Want more of our New England travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts: