Rhode Island boasts about 400 miles of coastline, which includes the legendary city of Newport; award-winning Providence; and beautiful Block Island. Whether you’re looking for pristine beaches, historical landmarks, or a little bit of American history, there is something exciting for everyone. Make memories to last a lifetime and book your Rhode Island vacation rental today. Also, don’t forget to partake in a good, old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration, or even throw your own BBQ party. Here are the top Rhode Island cities and towns to visit this upcoming Independence Day.
1. Providence
With a thriving arts community, vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, and so many things to do, Providence combines the accessibility and friendliness of a small town with the culture and sophistication of a big city. Submerge yourself in Providence’s fascinating history while being able to explore on your own time with a self-guided historic walking tour. You’ll see the historic east side, the reinvention of downtown, and the rich culture of the west side. For some kid-friendly activities, try the Providence Children’s Museum, and hands-on museum that adults will love too. Another great option is the Roger Williams Park Zoo which has over 100 species of rare and fascinating animals.
2. Narragansett
Narragansett Town Beach Seawall, located in the center of town, has been recognized as one of the best free attractions in Rhode Island, and it’s no wonder why. Take a stroll, or just sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views. If you’d rather take a dip, Narragansett is one of the best and cleanest beaches in new England. To kick up the adrenaline factor of your vacation, Adventureland is the perfect destination. You and your kids will love spending the afternoon testing your skills in the batting cages, racing state-of-the-art go-carts, or relaxing on the 18 hole mini-golf course.
3. Pawtucket
In Pawtucket, you can discover how Samuel Slater started the Industrial Revolution! Over 200 years ago, he created a machine to spin cotton thread, which was usually spun by hand. Visit Slater Mill, where you can get a glimpse into a 19th-century industrial village and relive the evolution from handcrafting to machine production. If the kids are already yawning at this idea, they’ll love Slater Memorial Park. This park is full of outdoor fun with tennis courts, thirteen picnic sites, biking trails, and the Looff Carousel. This carousel was built in 1894 and is the oldest Looff “stander carousel” in the world.
4. Block Island
Block Island features 17 miles of pristine beaches, protected by lighthouses and spectacular bluffs, and surrounded by rolling roads and winding paths. With two full-scale harbors and several marinas, you can explore even more of the ocean by renting a boat. Block Island Maritime Institute also provides marine science and maritime activities for children and adults alike. A great way for landlubbers to see the sights of Block Island is by taking a bicycle tour or visiting Abram’s Animal Farm. This small farm is home to exotic and domestic animals like lemurs, kangaroos, llamas, emus, sheep, donkeys, goats, swans, ducks, even camels! You can even purchase feed for the hungry goats and emus.
5. Westerly
Here comes another great carousel! The Flying Horse Carousel in Westerly was made in 1876, making it the oldest in America. The 20 horses aren’t attached to the floor but rather suspended from the center frame, making them swing out of fly when the carousel is in motion. It’s the only surviving flying horse carousel in the country. Sorry parents, this ride is for kids only. For even more family fun, visit Atlantic Beach Park which has kiddy rides along with a family beach, batting cages, bumper boats, water slides and more!
6. Newport
Newport, known as America’s First Resort, has been welcoming visitors to its unspoiled beaches, scenic trails, distinctive shops, and renowned restaurants for over 375 years. Your first stop should be the anchor of Newport, Bowen’s Wharf. Arrive here by car, boat, or plane, for premiere shopping and dining. Chomp on some delicious seafood, pick up a little something for your friends back home, and then finish the day with a harbor cruise. If you don’t find anything that tickles your fancy at the Wharf, hit the shops and restaurants at Brick Market Place. They have everything from frozen yogurt to handmade gifts and souvenirs.
7. Cranston
We know your kids want to spend their vacation playing, so how about a visit to Mulligan’s Island? This golf range is basically an outdoor sports playground paradise with two 18-hole mini golf courses, 10 batting cages, a 60 stall golf driving range, and two state-of-the-art beach volleyball courts. There’s even a fun and challenging USGA-rated 18 hole pitch and putt short course for mom and dad to enjoy. Cranston was also named one of the “100 Best Places to Live” in the United States by Money magazine and is among the top 25 safest cities in the country, so you won’t have to worry about traveling with young ones.
8.Warwick
Whether you’re interested in boating or learning about colonial America, Warwick is a great place. Even if you don’t want to make any plans at all, you can enjoy Warwick’s 39 miles of coastline and some of the best views of Narragansett Bay. A place that’s fun for the whole family is C and L Stables/Goddard Park. They offer horseback riding on 18 miles of scenic trails in beautiful historical Goddard Park. For something, we know the kids will love, go to Launch Trampoline Park or imPOSSIBLE Dream Playground. Launch Trampoline Park has over 10,000 Sq. Ft. of connected trampolines forming one giant jumping surface and angled trampoline walls to bounce off of. There’s also a foam pit and dodge-ball court. At imPOSSIBLE Dream Playground, there is swings, slides, merry-go-rounds, basketball, see-saws, a fort, a life-size doll house, a castle and miniature golf. This place is awesome because it’s designed so children with disabilities can play alongside able-bodied children. Your kids will never want to leave.
9. Ashaway
Ashaway may not be the most visited town in Rhode Island, but it earned a spot on our list thanks to an attraction we know your kids will love. Heck, we know adults will love it too! Uncle Buck’s Sugar House, run by none other than Uncle Buck himself, offers tours and demonstrations of maple productions including maple cream, maple syrup, maple candy, and kettle corn. You’re definitely going to want to bring home some delicious syrup and maybe some candies, so the shop has you covered with anything and everything maple syrup.
10. Charlestown
Another beautiful coastal town in Rhode Island? Finishing off our list of 10 best 4th of July family vacations is Charlestown. Spend some time at the beach, or maybe even try some beach camping at the Charlestown Breachway Campground. Visit the Frosty Drew Nature Center & Observatory for a unique hands-on experience in observational astronomy. Still, want to stay outdoors? Rent a boat from at Ocean House Marina. Smiles and fun times are guaranteed!