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51 reasons why you must visit Rhode Island in your lifetime

Rhode Island boasts of many picturesque beaches, including the renowned Narragansett Beach and East Beach.

Narragansett is a charming coastal town in Rhode Island, famous for its pristine beaches, historical landmarks and a bustling downtown area. Among the most popular beaches is the Narragansett Town Beach, a long stretch of immaculate white sand, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and surf fishing. For adventure seekers, Roger W. Wheelock State Beach is the perfect spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding.

The Narragansett Tower is a notable stone structure located in Narragansett, Rhode Island, built in the late 19th century. This iconic landmark sits on a hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding countryside. The tower was constructed by the Narragansett Pier Company, a group of wealthy Bostonians, with the aim of creating a seaside resort in Narragansett. The tower served various purposes, including as a lookout point and navigation aid for ships, summer home, and dance hall.

The Gilbert Stuart Birthplace and Museum is a restored 18th-century home located in Saunderstown, Rhode Island. This museum is dedicated to preserving the life, art and legacy of Gilbert Stuart, a renowned American portrait painter. Stuart was born in this house in 1755, and went on to become one of the most significant and successful portrait painters of his time. He is widely known for his portraits of George Washington, including the famous “Athenaeum Portrait,” featured on the US one-dollar bill.

Providence, the capital and largest city of Rhode Island, boasts of a rich history, cultural diversity and a thriving arts scene. A highlight of Providence is the Providence River Walk, a scenic promenade along the Providence River, offering views of the city’s skyline and the historic Waterplace Park. One can also take a leisurely walk through the historic East Side, home to many of the city’s oldest and most beautiful homes and buildings.

Rhode Island is renowned for its delectable seafood, including lobster, clams and quahogs.

The state is home to several historic sites and landmarks, including the Newport Mansions and the Roger Williams Park Zoo.

Rhode Island is proud of its cultural heritage, with numerous festivals and events that celebrate its diverse population.

The state is also home to several prestigious universities, including Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design.

Rhode Island is the perfect destination for water-lovers, as it boasts a plethora of marinas and boat rental opportunities, making it a haven for sailors and boaters alike.

With lush parks and green spaces such as Colt State Park and Lincoln Woods State Park, Rhode Island offers visitors the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and bask in the beauty of nature.

Rhode Island is also home to a number of museums and art galleries, including the Rhode Island School of Design Museum and the Newport Art Museum, making it a mecca for culture-seekers.

The music scene in Rhode Island is brimming with local and national acts, with a host of venues and festivals that are sure to have you tapping your toes in no time.

For foodies, Rhode Island is a veritable feast, with a plethora of acclaimed restaurants and farm-to-table eateries that are guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning of palates.

The state is a veritable cornucopia of fresh, locally-sourced produce, with many farmer’s markets and local food producers just waiting to be explored.

Rhode Island is also home to a number of historical sites and landmarks, including the Touro Synagogue and the RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery, so bring your walking shoes and a sense of adventure!

With a rich literary tradition, Rhode Island has been the birthplace of many an author and poet, so if you’re a book-lover, be sure to pack a good read.

Last but not least, Rhode Island is known for its stunning lighthouses, including the Point Judith Lighthouse and the Newport Lighthouse, so bring your camera and get ready to snap some breathtaking photos!

Rhode Island boasts a rich heritage of artisanship and craftsmanship, with skilled makers and creators dabbling in all sorts of mediums and materials.

In Rhode Island, you’ll find a wealth of stunning cycle trails and hiking paths to explore, from the East Bay Bike Path to the Blackstone River Bikeway. Whether you prefer a leisurely pedal or a strenuous trek, this state’s got you covered.

This state is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with ample opportunities for hunting, fishing, and camping. So don your best tweed and embrace the great outdoors!

Rhode Island is a family-friendly destination, with plenty of attractions to keep the little ones entertained. From the Roger Williams Park Zoo to the Providence Children’s Museum, there’s something for every member of the brood.

The state is a veritable feast for the eyes, with its stunning architecture, from the state capitol building to the First Baptist Church. Prepare to be wowed by the timeless beauty of Rhode Island’s buildings.

Rhode Island is host to a range of festivals and events throughout the year, from the Newport Folk Festival to the Rhode Island International Film Festival. So if you’re a fan of music, cinema, or both, this state is for you!

With a rich maritime history, Rhode Island offers a wealth of opportunities to explore its coastal towns and harbors. So why not channel your inner pirate and set sail on an adventure?

Golfers will be in their element in Rhode Island, with numerous courses and country clubs to choose from, such as the Misquamicut Club and the Point Judith Country Club. So why not work on your swing while taking in the picturesque surroundings?

Finally, Rhode Island has a thriving theater and live performance scene, with numerous venues and companies showcasing local and national acts. So why not take in a show and experience the magic of live performance?

Rhode Island is renowned for its lush state parks, such as the verdant Lincoln Woods and, dare I say it, the even more verdant Lincoln Woods.

This fair state is brimming with recreational opportunities, from thrilling water sports to the frosty delights of skiing.

Rhode Island is steeped in history, with numerous historic sites and landmarks to marvel at, such as the industrious Slater Mill and the scholarly Providence Athenaeum.

The state boasts a proud tradition of artisanal food and drink, with local breweries and wineries aplenty to tickle your taste buds.

Rhode Island is also a feast for the eyes, with many scenic drives to take in, such as the breathtaking Ocean Drive and the scenic Blackstone Valley Heritage Corridor.

This state is renowned for its beautiful gardens and arboretums, including the botanical wonder of the Roger Williams Park Botanical Center and the horticultural haven of the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum.

Rhode Island is home to many a delightful beach, such as the sunny Narragansett Beach and the picturesque East Beach.

The state is a hub of festivals and events, from the toe-tapping Newport Jazz Festival to the spine-tingling Rhode Island International Horror Film Festival.

Last but not least, Rhode Island is a sports-lover’s paradise, with several professional teams to root for, such as the Providence Bruins and the Rhode Island Reds.

Rhode Island boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues exhibiting the works of both local and national artists.

The state is renowned for its high-quality education system, boasting a number of esteemed universities and colleges, including Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design.

Rhode Island is home to a plethora of charming little villages and towns, such as Wickford and Little Compton, each with their own unique personalities.

The state is also famous for its scrumptious ice cream, with plenty of local creameries and ice cream shops dotted about.

The Rhode Island State House, located in Providence, is the very epicenter of the state and was built by architects McKim, Mead, and White, completed in 1904. It’s well-known for its awe-inspiring marble dome, one of the largest self-supporting marble domes in the world, and is home to a number of important government offices, including the Governor’s office and the General Assembly’s offices. Visitors can take a tour of the State House and admire the many historical artifacts and works of art on display, including the Rhode Island Charter signed in 1663. The State House is also home to a beautiful Governor’s Room, State Library, and State House Rotunda, which features murals by local artist William Morris Hunt. The State House is open for tours Monday to Friday, and the best part? It’s absolutely free!

The Cranston Street Armory, located in Providence, Rhode Island, is a historic armory built in 1894 and was once used as a training facility for the Rhode Island National Guard. With its fortress-like appearance and central drill hall, it was a popular military training ground until the 1960s. Since then, it’s had a few different uses, including a homeless shelter and recreational center, but has now undergone significant renovations and is used as a community and event space.

The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, a historic Catholic church located in Providence, Rhode Island, is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence. Completed in 1848 in the Gothic Revival style, it’s renowned for its impressive architecture, including its twin spires that can be seen from many parts of the city. The church’s interior is just as awe-inspiring, with beautifully painted frescoes, stained-glass windows, and intricate wood carvings. It’s also home to a number of beautiful works of art, such as statues of saints and altarpieces, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.

The Ocean State Oyster Festival, held annually in Providence, Rhode Island, celebrates the state’s rich oyster farming heritage. With live music, local food vendors, cooking demonstrations, and of course, oysters, it’s a fun and family-friendly event that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Visitors can sample a variety of oysters from local farmers and oyster purveyors, as well as other seafood like lobster, clams, and fish. There’s also a shucking contest, where professional and amateur shuckers compete to see who can shuck the most oysters in a given time. The festival is typically held in September, is a free outdoor event, and a joy for all seafood lovers!

Newport, a seaside city in Rhode Island, is renowned for its gorgeous beaches, historic mansions, and sailing culture. Located on Aquidneck Island in Narragansett Bay, one of its main attractions is the famous Cliff Walk. This 3.5-mile public access walkway offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the spectacular Newport mansions.

The Providence Public Library, or PPL, is a magnificent public library in the city of Providence, Rhode Island. Founded in 1875, the library boasts a beautiful Beaux-Arts-style building, completed in 1900, making it one of the oldest and most respected institutions in the state, and a central cultural hub in the city.

WaterFire is an extraordinary art installation, situated in Providence, Rhode Island, that showcases over 80 bonfires lit on the three rivers that flow through the city. Presented by WaterFire Providence, a non-profit organization that promotes the arts and culture of the city, the bonfires are lit on selected dates throughout the year, and the event runs from dusk until midnight, with accompanying music, performances and other activities both on land and on the water.

The Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, also known as the Roger Williams Park Museum of Natural History & Planetarium, is a museum and planetarium located within the grounds of Roger Williams Park in Providence, Rhode Island. The museum aims to promote understanding and appreciation of the natural world and the universe, and features various exhibits showcasing the natural history of Rhode Island and its surrounding regions. Exhibits include a collection of fossils, minerals, rocks, as well as live animals such as turtles, snakes, and fish, with interactive exhibits enabling visitors to learn about the water cycle, the human body and more.

The Trinity Repertory Company, established in 1963, is a highly respected professional theater company located in Providence, Rhode Island. One of the most well-regarded regional theaters in the United States, the company produces an array of plays, including classics, contemporary dramas, and new works. With its own theater, the Dowling Theater, that can seat up to 600 people, Trinity Rep is known for its high production values and talented performances. The theater is equipped with a state-of-the-art facility and a thrust stage that allows the audience to be surrounded by the action.

The Providence Performing Arts Center, or PPAC, is a historic theater in Providence, Rhode Island. Dating back to 1928, the theater has undergone several renovations and upgrades and now boasts a seating capacity of 3,090, making it one of the largest theaters in New England. As a multi-purpose theater, the PPAC hosts a wide range of events and performances, from Broadway shows and concerts, to comedy shows and special events, with notable productions such as The Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables and Hamilton being staged at the theater.

The First Baptist Church in America is an historic church, located in Providence, Rhode Island. Founded in 1638 by religious leader and advocate for religious freedom, Roger Williams, who had been banished from the Massachusetts Bay Colony, the church was established as a haven for religious dissenters and became the first Baptist church in the American colonies. Today, the current building, dating back to 1775, is a National Historic Landmark and is considered to be one of the oldest standing Baptist church buildings in the United States. With its Georgian architecture and original architectural elements, including a pulpit dating back to the 18th century, the First Baptist Church in America is a stunning example of historical preservation.